Newspaper of the students of the University of Surrey

Union elections
NEWS More on DGL Security featured in Issues 42 and 43. Page 2... OPINION & ANALYSIS Who should be stopped: Kony or Russell? Page 8... FEATURES See the highlights of IFestival, including the wonderful Ifashion show on page 11... SCIENCE AND TECH Do woodpeckers get headaches? Find out on Page 14... MUSIC Rubix vs The Living Room Shervin Hejazi contemplates Surreys music scene. Page 33... FILM Reviews of the latest films, including Safe House and Detatchment on page 39 LITERATURE International Womens Day 2012 and the underrepresentation of women in literature. Page 42... SPORT GU2 Radio challenges the Syrians at Ifestival. Page 48...

Contenders release their manifestos for the 2012 Elections. See them all here in The Stag, starting on page 17.

Vote!

Issue 44 Tuesday 20th March 2012

26/3 till 30/3

UNION vs UNIVERSITY SHOWDOWN OVER PAY

National Union of Students joins with UNISON trade union to battle unfair wages. Surrey Vice-Chancellor Sir Christopher Snowden earns 313,000pa plus 43,000pa pension.
By John Kavanagh. News Team
The union duo said that all staff employed by universities or by private sub-contractors on campuses should be paid at least the national Living Wage of 7.20 an hour or 8.30 in London. The NUS and UNISON said that they will aim to identify those universities which fail to award the Living Wage to the lowest paid staff. This is proposed to take the form of a league table whereby universities will be ranked according to pay rate for those employed by universities and sub contractors on campus. This table will also show the gap

(L) Dannie Grufferty, NUS VP Society & Citizenship has launched a campaign for the Living Wage. (R) Surrey Vice-Chancellor Sir Christopher Snowden earns 356,000 a year, but has yet to sign up to pay all University workers a minimum of just 14,000 a year.

ast Week the National Union of Students and UNISON came together to launch a new campaign to name and shame universities that fail to award all staff the Living Wage.

between the lowest and highest paid staff employed at universities. NUS VP for Society & Citizenship, Dannie Grufferty said: There is clearly an inherent injustice in the average vice-chancellor getting paid Continued on page 3...

NEWS

The Stag |

20th March 2012

news@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Editor | Jack White editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk Editor-in-Chief | Bakita Kasadha ussu.communications@ussu.co.uk Deputy Editor (Design) | Hollie Rowe-Roberts design@thestagsurrey.co.uk Design Team | Ellie Brodie, Paul A Richmond, Hannah Roberts-Owen, Christina Morman, Louisa White and Alexandra Wilks Deputy Editor (Marketing) | Tom Goulding marketing@thestagsurrey.co.uk Marketing Team | Shervin Hejazi, Imogen Jones, Eleanor Pearson and Genevieve Webb News News Editor | Jyoti Rambhai news@thestagsurrey.co.uk News Team | Kathryn Braid, Sophie Howard, John Kavanagh, Jyoti Rambhai, Melissa Raske and David Williams Features Features Editor | Nicole Vassell features@thestagsurrey.co.uk Features Team | Peter Bailey, Ellie Brodie, Chris Thomas, Hannah Wann, Becky Powell, Stephen Cartwright, Louisa White, Ellis Taylor and Sophie Vickery Science and Technology Science and Technology Editor | Nathanael Roome sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk Science and Technology Team | Lawrence Finn, Dave Holcombe, Shourya Khanna, Kate McAtamney, Melissa Raske, Alex Smith and Ruth Smithers. Societies Societies Editor | Chris Dighton societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk Arts Dance and Theatre Editor | Hannah Jelliman dancetheatre@thestagsurrey.co.uk Dance and Theatre Team | Emily Bourne, Sarah McDowell, Beth Hedges, Lucy Jarvis, Tiffany Stoneman and Lexi Sutton Film Editor | Tiffany Tucker film@thestagsurrey.co.uk Film Team | Laura Howard, Caroline James, Kristie Marchant, Christina Maria Webb and Louisa White Music Editor | Sophia Field music@thestagsurrey.co.uk Music Team | James Campbell, Liam Conroy, Dan Davidson, Amy McGivern, Tanya Noronha and Elliot Tyres Literature Editor | Alexandra Wilks literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk Literature Team | Rachel Burgess, Stephanie Davies, Tessa Heenan, Candice Ritchie, Emily Smart, Emma Thomas, Sophie Vickery and Rebecca Worley Sport Sport Editor | Jordan Vine sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk Sport Team | Douglas Elder, Arabella Gilby, George Gigney and Sam Limbert Copy Editors | Megan Barnacle, Michaela Fulton, Emma Giles, Candice Ritchie and Louisa White copyteam@thestagsurrey.co.uk Webmaster | Andrew Smith webmaster@thestagsurrey.co.uk Photo Editor | Tessa Morgan photos@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The
I
Jack White Editor

Grapevine
Nothing but the finest Surrey opinion, rumour and conjecture
n the print version of this edition of The Stag we reported the existence of a rumour circulating the University relating to a senior member of the University staff. We accept this should not have been published and would like to apologise for publishing the rumour which we accept to be untrue. On a personal level, I apologise to both the individual concerned and the University for any distress and inconvenience caused.

What does a DGL Security job entail?

By Jyoti Rambhai, News Editor

nce again, several student societies have had their budgets frozen after failing to attend Societies Standing: InvestSoc Asian Soc Cypriot Soc Hellenic Soc Polish Soc Russian Speakers Tamil Soc Conservative Soc

Accounting & Finance Soc Maths Soc Sociology Soc Orthodox Soc ARCS Chess Soc Entrepreneurs

Do>More and the Students Union bring you the Annual Celebration of Volunteering
By the Union

ave you been part of a club or society, been a Freshers Angel, worked in Stage Crew, fundraised for RAG or volunteered with Do>More, been a part of Societies Exec or Sports Exec or even Part-Time Union Exec or taken part in Sport Relief 2012? If so, come along to the Celebration of Volunteering to recognise all the good work done this year by Surrey students. Join us from 6pm in Rubix for food, drink, photos with Steve the Stag and much more.

ecently the DGL Security Services at the University of Surrey has been criticised about the way they have handled certain situations. The Stag even had an article about allegations made by Societies at events in the living room. DGL usually offer a continued professional development training on a voluntary basis, once every three months. However, due to the number of complaints received recently, a Refresher Training a the Students Union was held on March 9 and 16. The DGL staffs are there to keep students, staff and members of the public safe. It is known that alcohol can make people not care about the consequences, therefore, it is the DGL staffs job to guide those who have consumed a bit too much to safety and remind them of the consequences of their actions. This can often mean escorting drunken people off the premises. When escorting people out, it can take up four DGLs: two to guide the individual out, and two to ensure they have a way out through the crowds and to prevent any unnecessary situations. It is mostly for the safety of the individual involved and others. All members of DGL are trained to recognise the warning and danger signs of given situations. They call this The Ladder of Violence and will react in accordingly in an aid to prevent

these events turn into aggressive or violent outbursts. One of the complaints DGL received was in regards to bag searches. DGL door supervisor has the right to make a citizen search if they have asked permission from the person whom they want to search. The individual does have the right to refuse, and if they are still searched, then it becomes a committed offence. These same laws apply to any citizen of the UK. The same applies for arrest, DGL are allowed to make a citizens arrest only. Violence or any force against someone is only to be used by DGL in self-defence; if there is potential harm to themselves or others around them. However, this should be proportionate and only used if necessary. The DGL are an important service at the University of Surrey that helps keeps students safe. General Manager of DGL Services, Gio, stated: DGL Services recognises that in todays business environment quality, consistency and professionalism are very important to our customers. We are committed to delivering an excellent service that exceeds the industry standard, so apart from the more practical and serious side to security; we add style, a smile and good public relations skills to complement our service. DGL Services can be contacted either on 01428608818 or by email on info@dglservices.com.

Question of quotas for womens engagement dominates 2012 Labour Students conference
By Leia Achampong, Contributor

The Stag is a newspaper editorially dependent on and published by the University of Surrey Students Union. The views expressed in the paper are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the educational team, the whole Students Union or the University of Surrey. Trinity Mirror (South) 8 Tessa Road, Reading RG1 8NS The Stag reserves the right to edit all submissions and the right to decide which articles are published.

he 2012 Labour Students National Conference, commenced in Manchester last week on the 25th February. It was a creative affair, with elections, delegates, candidates, motions on everything from one person, one vote to whether or not to support 6K student tuition fees. The event started on Saturday morning, and began with a talk from then Chair Olivia Bailey, swiftly moving into a series of elections for various full and part time positions on the council, to motions and caucuses on the four liberations LGBT, BAME, Women, and Disabled.

One person who stood out was Phil Pocknee, a candidate from Hull University, who gallantly stood down due to the requirement of at least one female needing to be elected into a Vice-Chair position. He stood down, to allow for the swift passing of Bex Bailey as Vice-Chair, Communications & Policy. It was a show of understanding, and respect for the process and each individual candidate an event I was happy to be representing the University of Surrey at. Pocknees actions led to questions being raised over the fairness of this, questions of legalised discriminations against men, in favour of women. Which led to the most important

questions of all: Why arent more women more interested in high power positions? Shouldnt we be addressing this issue, instead of changing the law to accommodate for the few women who do want high powered jobs, thus alienating men? This is a discussion that has been prevalent in the news this week, as the EU plans a new quota, to push through more women in the workroom into high powered positions. There were plenty of interesting questions raised, and interesting discussions at the conference, some of the more notable speakers were Estelle Hart, and Danielle Grufferty, both exceptional young women, who made the conference very enjoyable.

News Editor: Jyoti Rambhai | Copy Editor: Emma Giles

The Stag |

20th March 2012

NEWS

Showdown with unions over University helping victims pay for low paid employees of prostate cancer to cope
...Continued from front page more than 17 times more than a minimum wage employee on their campus. Colleges and universities are a community and everyone within that community needs to be treated with dignity and that means paying them a wage they can live on for their work. The difference between minimum wage and a living wage is the difference between constant money worries and being able to make ends meet. It also makes sense for employers wholl see a rise in productivity and greater retention of staff. Employers at colleges and universities have six months to get their house in order before we name and shame those that allow such shocking disparities to continue. The NUS and UNISON are set to launch the Living Wage Campaign this month which will be supporting students and student unions with developing their own local level campaigns to achieve living wage status for the low paid employees of universities. Recently Manchester University became the first institution to achieve success from the campaign, By David Williams, News Team

The difference between minimum wage and a living wage is the difference between constant money worries and being able to make ends meet.
winning the living wage for all full time staff on campus. To find out more visit www. alivingwage.co.uk where resources are available to help with a campaign for the living wage at university.

Students take action in Come Clean campaign

their feelings about the increased marketisation of higher education as well as encouraging universities to give fee waivers rather than bursaries to vulnerable students. It also focused on the shortfall in funding compared to the costs of being at university which are estimated to be more than 8000 outside London, for the academic year 2011 to 2012. This figure is based on an average cost of 16,279 for course costs including fees, travel costs and books as well as the cost of living which includes rent, food, insurance, travel and other expenditures. From this number an income (excluding part time job income) of 8,242, estimated by the National Union of Students, is subtracted to give the shortfall. The final aim of the week was to protest the hidden costs including the cost of books, trips and essential equipment like lab coats. NUS president Liam Burns spoke about the week stating: We need a national debate on changes to higher education and this week we will remind ministers that we are watching what theyre doing. Students, parents, lecturers and anyone with a stake in education wants to know what the government and our institutions have in store for higher education and demand that they come clean.

The campaign urges the government and univerisities to come clean about higher education funding By Melissa Raske, News Team protests, rallies, teach-ins and discussions. University of Warwick students presented receipts stating the amount spent on hidden course costs along with pictures of students caged by costs to their Vice-Chancellor. Kings College students organised a big day out in which they hosted teach-ins, other stunts and attached price tags filled out by students to a giant pound sign. More than 30 universities, colleges and organisations had their own events. The main event was a national walk out held on Wednesday 14 March. The aim of the protests was to allow students to demonstrate

onday 12th March marked the start of a week of rallying by students across the country in an effort to get universities and the government to Come Clean about their financial plans for higher education. Prior to the 2010 elections 52,000 students marched together in protest to the planned increase of tuition fees. Since then the fight has continued, with a number of protests taking place including thousands of students marching through London last November. Last week it continued, with campuses all around the country holding different events including

new video has been launched by the University of Surrey to help men suffering from prostate cancer. The film, titled Getting Down to Coping, is intended to accompany a self management program for cancer sufferers. The video was made available via the University of Surrey Website and Youtube on March 1 at the request of its participants. The video contains personal stories from fellow sufferers of the disease who speak frankly on the difficulties faced by themselves and their families in overcoming prostate cancer. University of Surrey Research Fellow Jane Cockle-Hearne said she hoped showing how other men have coped with their lives will motivate men in the self management program to have self belief and confidence. Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men with an estimated 250,000 people living with the disease in the UK. A diagnosis of prostate cancer along with the side effects of treatment can have intense psychological effects on men suffering from the illness. The new program from the Universitys Faculty of Health and Social Care hopes that having previous sufferers talk informally but directly on the implications of treatment will help remove the feeling of isolation and uncertainty that comes with any major illness diagnosis. The self management program, spearheaded by Professor Sarah Faithful, works to teach men practical, physical and cognitive techniques to overcome the side effects of radiotherapy. While trials are still under way an informal appraisal has already been given by men currently suffering from the disease. 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, mostly effecting the over 50s, and it is estimated that one man dies of prostate cancer

every hour. A new video has been launched by the University of Surrey to help men suffering from prostate cancer. The film, titled Getting Down to Coping, is intended to accompany a self management program for cancer sufferers. The video was made available via the University of Surrey Website and Youtube on March 1 at the request of its participants. The video contains personal stories from fellow sufferers of the disease who speak frankly on the difficulties faced by themselves and their families in overcoming prostate cancer. University of Surrey Research Fellow Jane Cockle-Hearne said she hoped showing how other men have coped with their lives will motivate men in the self management program to have self belief and confidence. Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men with an estimated 250,000 people living with the disease in the UK. A diagnosis of prostate cancer along with the side effects of treatment can have intense psychological effects on men suffering from the illness. The new program from the Universitys Faculty of Health and Social Care hopes that having previous sufferers talk informally but directly on the implications of treatment will help remove the feeling of isolation and uncertainty that comes with any major illness diagnosis. The self management program, spearheaded by Professor Sarah Faithful, works to teach men practical, physical and cognitive techniques to overcome the side effects of radiotherapy. While trials are still under way, an informal appraisal has already been given by current sufferers of the disease. One in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, mostly effecting the over-50s, and it is estimated that one man dies of prostate cancer every hour.

To find out more go to:

www.

prostate-cancer.org.uk

NEWS

The Stag |

20th March 2012

news@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Man at bus station Surrey and National Physical has laptop snatched Laboratory to work together
By Kathryn Braid, News Team

urrey police have arrested two people for the theft of a mans laptop, which was snatched from him, whilst he was sitting at the Guildford Bus Station, adjoined to the Friary shopping centre. The incident occurred last month between the hours 8 to 9:30pm. The man, aged 20, was approached by another man and a woman asking for a cigarette. He was then pushed by the offenders, his tobacco taken and his laptop stolen. Both are said to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the theft. Surrey Polices Detective Constable Mike Taylor is investigating the offence and has released this statement on the Surrey Police website: This was a brazen offence in which two suspects subjected the

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victim, who was going about his everyday business in a public place to a frightening experience. I would urge anyone who was in the vicinity and witnessed the crime or who may have seen the two suspects in or around the bus station leading up to the robbery, to contact officers. A 25-year-old woman from Guildford was arrested earlier this month, and a 30 year man, also from Guildford was arrested. They were both interviewed and have now been released on bail, pending further enquiries. They are to return to Guildford Police station on the 12th April. The Surrey police would be grateful for any information as to the whereabouts of the two assailants and ask that they either be contacted on 101 quoting the reference number: GD/12/1132 or ask that you contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

on Earth observation craft

By Sophie Howard, News Team t has been announced that the University of Surrey will be working closely with The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in the area of Earth Observation. The signing of this agreement not only strengthens the UKs leading role in space technology, but also brings together two leading institutions in this sector. One of the key issues this partnership will address is the huge potential for increased use of Earth observation from space. It is thought that through doing this, not only will the impact of climate be steadily monitored, but it will also enable more consumer-focused services to be developed. In turn this will build on the existing success in this field of work, ensuring the UK maintains its current position as a strong innovator in this sector. Dean of Surreys Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Professor Jonathan Seville said: Surrey is the leading UK University in the engineering of satellites, and a rapidly growing presence in the application of satellite observation techniques. This agreement marries Surreys capability in space with NPLs internationally leading measurement capability. Low cost earth observation will revolutionise many areas of industry and commerce. We aim to be pioneers in establishing whats possible. This agreement will build on an already successful partnership

between NPL and the University of Surrey and their first-rate research facilities.

OPINION & ANALYSIS

The Stag |

20th March 2012

opinion@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Opinion & Analysis

BUSINESS
Trinity of electronic success
By Peter Bailey The Trinity of Electronic Success Peter Bailey Tap your pockets, glance around the room. Chances are you will register a few modern electronic devices. They are big business, with smartphones alone shipping 491.4m units in 2011. We revel in the availability of wellintegrated electronic solutions to everyday challenges and would likely be socially disadvantaged without them. But what makes a successful device? Be it tablet computer, desktop, laptop or mobile handset, its no simple task for retailers to shoe-horn devices into a crowded market. For a device to be successful it needs to lean firmly on a triangle of factors. The first is the hardware: consumers are sharp on comparison of the numbers (even if they dont know what they mean). Processor speeds for phones, pixel volumes for screens; contrast ratios for TVs are all now bartering benchmarks which not long ago were solely the reserve of geeks and technicians. It really is crucial to build a device with appropriate hardware. Over spec-ing will price you out of the market, and underperforming hardware gets little sympathy from the consumer. Many early smartphones were loaded with features that their frail processor just couldnt handle, and some still argue the inflated price of Apple hardware is due largely to the choice of high grade hardware of questionable suitability. The second pillar of importance for businesses in the electronics sector is the software. When the shiny brick falls out of the block, the wide-eyed consumer is waiting for the moment when it lights up and starts to perform. At this point proper testing of software preinstalled on the device is crucial with usability and reliability being instantly scrutinised by the proud owner. If businesses get this wrong then it doesnt matter how shiny the device, it will likely end up going through a window or on eBay. The HP TouchPad had what many considered a good software deployment, but it just turned people off. Something about the function of the operating system just never flew. On the flipside deployments of the Android platform on suitable tablet hardware have taken the market by storm and brought many outsiders into the mobile computing fold. Finally, businesses who want to stay the current maelstrom of electronics retail need to get their after-sales support together. Arguably the most important of the three, its not just about what you sit around a development table and build in at the factory any more. Users dont want to feel out in the cold once they have bought your product. They want to feel like they are just beginning on a journey of fun and productivity by buying it. To give them a great experience and secure a future for the next product businesses must consider updates after the sale. The Blackberry PlayBook is a greatvalue bit of kit with solid hardware and a good initial software setup, but its likely to be strangled off the shelves because its app store will never get up to speed. Alternatively staunch advocates of Apple products profess that they will forever retain unsurpassed access to apps and support because of the companys continued commitment to after-sales engagement. Depending on the chosen positioning strategy it is of course appropriate to lean on these three in varying degrees, but I challenge any manufacturer to ignore any one of them and still deliver a successful device.

Worthy of the boardroom, but stuck behind a chopping-board

Alex Wilks
either women simply dont aspire to heady boardroom heights in the same quantity as men, or that these statistical anomalies (which showed in 2010 that only 12.5% of FTSE100 board members were female) are the result of a mere co-incidence whereby male candidates were more commonly better equipped to fulfil the role than their fairer counterparts. This co-incidence, no doubt, can be used to explain why in 300 years of Parliament there has only been one female Prime Minister and none further since the last one resigned 20 years ago, even in a time when girls are consistently outperforming boys in secondary education and filling up university places at an equal pace. Likewise Im sure the lack of ambition argument will not wash with this universitys own business degree undergraduates who consist proportionately of women who, in light of the given evidence, may have resigned to the fact that their careers would eventually stall half way up the ladder were it not for this course of intervention. Opponents may write off this action as a hindrance to more competent candidates, but in reality the corporate top brass need to be dragged out of their comfort zones and given a nudge in the direction of statistical sensibility. As Reding herself concedes, I am not a fan of quotashowever I like the results they bring.

ositive discrimination, along with Health & Safety legislation and political correctness, has long been the target of many a political snobs knee-jerk attacks as a poster-child of the illogical policy that creates a bigger problem than it fixes. When EU Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding last week set targets for EU boardrooms to be made up of at least 30% female members by 2015, the deafening outcry from meritocrats threatened to drown out the hurrahs from progressives and feminists who, in light of the statistics which consistently manage to elude their detractors, were glad to see affirmative action taking precedent where merit-based demand should (but still fails to) work. The arguments regularly posed by the disparagers are that

American militarism and the drive to start yet another war with Iran
Jack White
be critical of Irans authoritarian government but we should also be willing to engage Iran peacefully on its own terms. When you look over at the US, it can hardly be said to be a bastion of fairness either: since the 1979 revolution Iran has only made war during the Iraqi invasion, but the US has fought in Grenada, Libya (several times), Panama, Iraq (twice), Somalia, Serbia, Haiti (twice), Afghanistan, Sudan, the Phillippines, the Sahara, Pakistan, Yemen and Liberia. It has supplied advisors and equipment in many other conflicts. Furthermore, the US has a poor track record both in terms of the human rights of foreign combatants and its domestic treatment of its own citizens: shutting down trade union actions, domestic spying and denying basic healthcare to the public. Its high time to take a more measured view of Iran and begin holding America to account, starting with leaving the Iranians to their peaceful nuclear power activities and tackling the US on its sinister global network of almost 800 military bases the strategic legacy of its wars. When you look at the situation in these terms, the US looks many times as dangerous to world peace as Iran does. So is democracy backed by an out-of-control militaryindustrial complex really much worse than democracy backed by theocracy? The ghosts of Americas victims dont say so. And now look! We havent even touched on the fact that only the US has ever used an atomic bomb in conflict...

ver the last few months there has been a ramping-up of Western verbal attacks against the Government of Iran, with particularly Obama, Cameron and Netenyahu using more aggressive rhetoric and talking up military action against the country. Nothing but pernicious propaganda! Im no apologist for the Iranian regime, but looking at the international picture, Iran is a relatively inoffensive state. It is also a rock of stability in a part of the world which has been torn to shreds by American-led war in the last decade. The West can

Got an opinion or analysis to share? Email us!

Send ideas and articles to: editor@thestagsurrey

Editor: Jack White

The Stag |

20th March 2012

OPINION & ANALYSIS

Stop Kony or Letters to the Editor stop Russell?

Dear Sir,

Alexandra Wilks
ason Russells Kony 2012 30-minute film currently has 53 million YouTube views. Russell is founder of the Invisible Children campaign. His film details the mass murder and child abduction conducted by Joseph Kony and his Lords Resistance Army in Uganda. Jacob, a North Ugandan man, features heavily in the video. Russell met Jacob ten years ago when Jacob was trying to escape the clutches of the LRA. The film begins by invoking an inspirational view of the world. The importance of social networking in the modern world is also highlighted. Russell states that sites such as Facebook have changed the way the world works. The film is undeniably emotive. Russell is shrewd; he has realised that to make a campaign successful it has to go viral. Russell promotes making Kony famous in order to stop him and bring him to justice. Since October 2011, American military advisors have been helping the Ugandan army track Kony. Russell stipulates that, If the government doesnt believe the people dont care about arresting Kony, the mission will be cancelled. However, there has not even been a murmur that the Americans will be removing their support, which makes the urgency of Invisible Childrens campaign seen rather odd (the video expires on 31st December 2012). Kony is number one on the International Criminal Courts (ICC) list of most-wanted criminals. Yet, despite the shocking nature of Konys crimes, Invisible Children has been met with criticism.

Michael Wilkerson, a freelance journalist who has lived and worked in Uganda, states that Kony has not been in Uganda for six years. It is believed Kony left Uganda in 2006 for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This fact, although mentioned briefly in Russells video, is ultimately glossed over. This is no way detracts from the horror that the LRA have inflicted. However, it calls into question Invisible Childrens reliability. One of my biggest criticisms of the video was the lack of African voices. Aside from Jacob, the video largely focused on middle-class, white, North American teenagers. Ethiopian writer Solome Lemma stated that Invisible Childrens depiction of Uganda, paints the people as lacking agency, voice, will or power. It calls upon... American students to liberate. Musa Okwonga, a poet of Ugandan descent, stipulated that he was concerned at the simplicity of [Invisible Childrens] approach. Perhaps most disturbingly, the allies Invisible Children have made are less than ideal. The Ugandan army is also (along with Joseph Kony) under investigation by the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity. Wilkerson states in The Guardian that Uganda has many serious problems along with the terror of the LRA. Many Ugandan journalists are concerned about the image of Uganda that is being portrayed by Russell and his video. Invisible Children and its video are far from flawless. Criticism should be met with concern. Konys crimes are horrific and bringing him to justice could never be a bad thing. However, watching a 30-minute video and sharing it does not give the viewer a full understanding of Uganda.

In response to the article on University fines which appeared in your last issue, I would like to point out that we welcome comments from students using the Library, especially views on how to ensure that books are returned on time while keeping fines at a minimum. We dont like fining students but like most libraries we use a balance between fines and blocks on further borrowing to encourage return of overdue books to keep books circulating in response to demand. Library staff know that students live busy lives and that it is not always easy to keep track

of return dates or to get to the Library to renew. We send out email reminders usually the day before the book is due for return as an alert to help students avoid building up fines. We also make it as easy as possible to renew online or by phone as well as in person. The Library uses all money from fines to strengthen the book collections. Fines money is spent on additional copies of titles in heavy use, on back up in the form of e-books and to replace items on reading lists which are not returned. Some university libraries choose to deal with the problem of unreturned books by blocking students from further borrowing

at a much earlier stage. We want to work with students so that they are not fined and use the librarys resources in a way that is fair to other users. We would welcome your readers views on this matter, especially ideas for alternative ways to keep our books circulating and your views on the use of blocking those who fail to return books as an alternative to use of fines. Feedback on this or any other Library issues may be sent to librarycomments@surrey.ac.uk. Yours sincerely, Jane Savidge Director of Library and Learning Support Services

Court Life Mentoring

A Rebuttal
By David Pugh, Court Life Mentor

Got an opinion or analysis to share?

Send ideas and articles to: editor@thestagsurrey

n the last issue of The Stag (dated 7th March 2012) you may have read an article brandishing the Court Life Mentoring (CLM) scheme not worth the cash and stating quite explicitly the author thought the scheme should be scrapped altogether. I do not doubt that there are many of you out there that feel the same way, but before you decide that the money that goes into CLM would be better spent on another Starbucks, let me tell you what court life mentoring actually does, and why we shouldnt cast it off just yet. For those of you that dont know, every student in Uni accommodation (campus, Manor Park, Bellerby Court and Hazel Farm) is assigned a mentor, who will visit their flat once a week between 18:00-20:00. Mentors deal with all manner of issues, ranging from the mundane, such as where is Griffiths Lecture Theatre to the much more severe: A family member is really ill and Im worried. I would very much hope that you came to Surrey, had a lovely time in halls and never required anything more than the occasional hello from your mentor, and for many students, this is the mentoring relationship they have, however when an issue does arise

mentors are there, whether that is to help you on to the right path, give you information that can help or just be someone to listen. Mentors play the role of friend, advisor and confidant(e). Within my mentoring team alone, over the last year mentors have dealt with bereavements, broken bones, missed exams, stress, drugs, robberies and homesickness. The mentors responsible for such mentees have contacted appropriate bodies within the University and ensure that significant improvements will be made. Look out for some serious security changes to be made in Bellerby Court over the coming months! The flip side of this is the benefit of being a mentor; all mentors are students themselves, often final-years. When a student has a problem, the mentor has usually been there themselves. This is a job very different to working in a shop or pulling pints in Chancellors, and it gives 91 students the chance to make a difference and earn a bit of money. Often students who earn this money couldnt afford to be here otherwise due to rising living costs. Surrey continues to be the number 1 university in the UK for graduate employment, largely due to the schemes that its students can get involved in. In a recent University wide

survey, residents gave CLM a 96% approval rating, stating that their mentors were either very satisfied or satisfied. Other options in the survey included very dissatisfied, satisfied and indifferent. It has been suggested that the 260,000 spent on Mentoring would be better spent on the bursary scheme or the hardship fund. The University hardship fund, administrated by Student Advice is accessed on a case by case basis, meaning that those who really need financial help are able to get it. Nobody has ever been rejected from access to the hardship fund based on there being no money in the pot. The fact that the author considers this to be a viable and more worthwhile way to spend the money shows a very worrying misunderstanding of the concept of welfare. Court Life Mentoring provides a vital service to the entire community. Whilst not every resident needs their mentor every week, the option is always there and mentors are always only a phone call away. Surrey prides itself on being a welcoming and caring university and without services like mentors and the mentoring scheme, students risk feeling isolated and alone. CLM may cost the University 260,000, but the service it provides to many students is priceless.

Features Editor: Nicole Vassell | Copy Editor: Michaela Fulton

The Stag |

20th March 2012

FEATURES

Sport Relief
By Tom Goulding, Deputy Editor

Features

port Relief is a charity event that takes place every other year in the UK. Comic Relief and BBC Sport team up, to mix the sporting and entertainment communities, in the name of essential fundraising. The last Sport Relief event, held in 2010, raised over 44 million for the cause. There are three main issues that Sport Relief is focusing their efforts on to help people in the UK and the worlds poorest countries Firstly there is the issue of keeping children safe in the UK. The money raised will help build projects that keep children safe from bullying, physical harm and gang conflict. Secondly, there is the issue of clean water in developing countries. Its hard to believe in this day and age, but around 900 million people do not have access to clean water. The money raised will help build wells supplying clean water helping to save entire communities. Thirdly, there is the issue of disease

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prevention. Vaccinations are the best form of protection; however millions of children die every year of pneumonia and diarrhoea. Money raised could save at least 1 million children. The main idea of Sports Relief is to help those communities in the UK who are in poverty and social exclusion. Sport is used as a tool for change to bring people together and stop isolation. The cash raised helps children who are addicted to drugs and alcohol, children who are sexually exploited and trafficked, and child carers. In addition one aim of the cause is to help older people feel less alone and get their voices heard. Furthermore, every year people are forced to leave their homes because of domestic violence, many women also flee to the UK and seek refuge from rape and torture and the money raised helps women move on and create better lives for themselves. Sport Relief invests in organisations that use sport to help children in Africa, Asia and Latin America. This helps children to develop new skills, gives them support and access to health and education. Money raised also helps people in urban slums improve the basic necessities like running water, access to toilets and healthcare.

2 3 4 5 10 20 50 100

How is the money spent?

provides a safe environment for young people after school. can give one person living in slums access to clean water. provides a vaccination against deadly diseases. could buy children new clothes. could give advice to the elderly living in the UK with dementia. pays for medicine to children in Uganda suffering from malaria. could feed 100 children who work on the streets in India. can run a school in Kenya for a week, educating more than 300 hundred children. provides a young carer in the UK with support for a year. can give a whole town in Kenya access to running water.

500 1,000

conditions destroy crops and rising temperatures increase the risk of diseases. Projects that are set up help support the people affected by climate change and also help promote fair trade to help farmers and workers.

So what can I do to help?

Its an urban myth that a lot of the money collected from charity projects doesnt actually help anyone: for example, money raised from the last Sport Relief actually helped our own community. 4,296 was given to the Surrey Alcohol and Drug Advisory Service (SADAS). This helped provide people

As well as supporting healthcare and education, Sport Relief aims to improve the lives of children living with HIV. The effects of climate change are severe over Africa, adverse weather

recovering from alcohol and drug addictions with access to fitness activities to encourage them to live a healthy lifestyle. On Sunday 25th March, runners from across the county will be coming to the University to run the Guildford mile. Runners can choose to run 1, 3 or 6 miles in aid of Sports Relief. If you dont want to run, you can show your support by volunteering on the day or buying Sport Relief merchandise. Sport Relief t-shirts and socks are available at Sainsburys. You can also contribute on the day through the cake sales, face painting and more. Come along and show your support for this amazing cause!

Darwawrickphotography

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10 FEATURES

The Stag |

20th March 2012

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

iFashion Show
Ellis Taylor

ometimes its easy to get stuck in a little rut of your own wardrobe, but fashion is not restricted to your daily wear. Instead it is something that varies throughout different cultures acting as a reflection of tradition, celebration and homelands. However, we never get to really see these other looks. Cue the iFashion Show. As part of the iFestival, we were given a taste of what we never normally get, so the models opened up their wardrobes and represented their own countries of origin. Thank you models! Now, I always find it weird being in Rubix on non-Citrus/Flirt events but the conversion from club to catwalk was successful; I didnt once have the feeling that I was too sober! The music and the coloured lights, not to mention the paper decorations, created a sense of anticipation and excitement as we waited for the show to start, and your favourite student newspaper was placed on seats to

amuse during the wait. AH MY GOD THE LIGHTS ARE DIMMING. The show was about to start, and the wonderful Bakita Masala Kasadha and Lorna Salmon were there to host us and provide quirky little facts for each country (I do love a good fact). First, we were taken to South America. The clothes were full of vibrant colours; Brazil had carnival style, Caribbean used a colour scheme of the national flag and Trinidad and Tobago rounded up the continents section with some original dancing and flag-wearing. Next up was Europe, with the UK kicking things off punk style. Host Lorna whipped off her trench coat, revealing a Sex Pistols top. Turkey then had her turn on the catwalk in a traditional bellydancing and a lot of hip waggling (Ive tried it in my room, but for me its more of a oh no I knocked my cup of tea over than sexy). Spain had such a cool dress! Colour coordination of yellow and purple with a lot of skirt flicking created a fierce but fun, traditional look, a contrast to France who presented us with a sweet stripped dress, an elegant outfit accompanied by some very elegant ballet (I havent tried that dance yet).

The Third continent was Asia, starting with Japan and a geisha in a lovely pink and purple outfit, blowing little paper petal-y things that made me blink a lot. Nepal then took its turn and gave us 10 looks! There was a floral skirt which was beautiful, and it was interesting to see a range of outfits from one culture. Also, to the Nepal female models, I absolutely loved your shoes. Pakistan and India showed us some of their traditional outfits to finish the penultimate continent

off, and once again we saw colour and sparkly bits that make you go oooh. Then, we saw Africas style through Mauritius, Mozambique, Nigeria and Uganda. Mauritius wore a brightly patterned dress, which host Bakita described as beautiful. Mozambique and Nigeria also gave us some awesome patterns, and some even better dancing, before Bakita modelled a lush dress for Uganda. Finally, a statue of Liberty

walked a lap of the catwalk, followed by the other models all dancing away. I normally hate audience participation, but there was so much life and excitement going on onstage that even I waved my American flag. So the iFashion show was a success. It was a chance to experience styles from around the globe and learn some useless facts. My favourites? Lornas trench coat and Nepals looks. But I also learnt not to belly dance. Ever.

Spice Girls hype heightens Too much sex!

By Sophie Vickery, Features Team

Girl power!

google images

he Spice Girls undoubtedly hold a special place in the hearts of many here at Surrey. Being the defining force of 1990s pop music, they were ever-present in those important childhood years for current students. Forming in 1994, the band reached success in 1996 with their debut single Wannabe which reached number one in over thirty countries. Having sold 75 million records across the globe they have been the best selling female group of all time. Their tracks dominated school discos and cassette tapes crowded the shelves in thousands of teenage bedrooms. However, in 1998 Geri Halliwell suddenly left the band following her exhaustion and pursuit of a solo career. The four remaining girls continued to tour and release records and in 1998 Goodbye was recorded as tribute to Geri and became their third consecutive Christmas number one. In 2000 the group remained adamant that they were not splitting up yet announced they would be taking a break to allow them to concentrate on building their solo careers.

After, much demand, the Spice Girls reformed in 2007 and launched a reunion tour which took in $100 million. Therefore its unsurprising that the Girls would perhaps be interested in a subsequent tour. Sure enough, this year has seen the arrival of more optimistic rumours that the girls will be reuniting and there has even been speculation of a performance at the London 2012 Olympic Games. However, on the 19th of February fans were disheartened as Victoria Beckham confirmed the proposed reunion for the forthcoming concert in celebration of the Queens diamond jubilee isnt going to happen because they are too busy. She said that we have lots on our plates and we are all

so focused on the end of the year and Viva Forever, the musical. The Jubilee isnt going to happen. But the musical is going to be really great and were focusing on that. It seems Victoria hopes that her reference to the eagerly anticipated musical will make up for the disappointing news that the band wont be performing at the jubilee. The musical itself takes the name of their 1998 single Viva Forever and has been written by Jenifer Saunders and produced by Judy Craymer, also producer of Mamma Mia! The musical will be ready for launch later in the year and tickets are expected to sell quickly as fans crave to enjoy Who Do You Think You Are, and Stop once more.

By Sophie Vickery, Features Team

ex, sex, sex, its all we hear about. In the news recently, there was a feature introducing a new advertising campaign to raise awareness of sexual abuse among teens. They aim to help boys, aged 13-18, recognise sexual violence as rape and to encourage girls to have the confidence to refuse unwanted sexual persuasion. The campaign was launched following research carried out by the NSPCC, revealing that 250,000 teenage girls have been the victim of rape, but have not reported it. I began to write this article about the adverts and sexual violence among young people, but as I turned on the television my article began to take a new direction. I didnt pay much attention to what programme was on but as I was writing I became aware that I was not only writing about sex, I was hearing it too. This was because Loose Women were also discussing sex among teenagers. Coincidental, I thought, but continued to write. Later, during the evening,

I returned to my article and was promptly made aware that yet again I was hearing sex as well as writing about it. This time, it came from just down the corridor of my flat! Once again, Coincidence, I thought, but continued to write. I then went into the kitchen and peered over the shoulder of my flatmate to read the magazine she was flicking through. The page she had paused on displayed a feature about, you guessed it, sex! At this point I couldnt blame chance or odd timing any longer. Instead I acknowledged the fact that in todays culture, the topic of sex (and the act itself) is a huge part of our lives. It clutters our television programmes, magazines, films, gossip, song lyrics. Nick Clegg has even described our culture as highly sexualised; affairs, sex toys, sexual health, sex education; all have become everyday aspects of society. Its recurrence cannot be labelled as merely ironic or coincidental, but to highlight my point further, sex has ironically even become dominant in this article! We simply cannot escape it!

Features Editor: Nicole Vassell | Copy Editor: Michaela Fulton

The Stag |

20th March 2012

FEATURES

11

My fortnight of culture
By Louisa White, Features Team

Yknow what really grinds my gears?

like to think Im quite cultured I enjoy going to see plays and Im interested by different art forms such as music and dance. I know a little about other cultures apart from my own, but there are certainly huge gaps in my knowledge. Surreys iFestival helped to fill some of those gaps for me. I was pleased to hear what this years line-up comprised of and would have attended much more of it had I been able to! iExhibition: 27th February

Sushi making in the Student Union in a while. This event was meant to be held in Rubix but owing to a technical fault a last minute move to The Living Room was deemed necessary. On the way in we were handed a feathered mask to help get us in the right mood! It was quite quiet at first but it soon filled out a bit more with the arrival of some extraordinary fancy dressclad party-goers. Despite the impressive performance from the Rio Carnival dancers, we called it a night embarrassingly early I think Im getting old! Fashion Show: 6th March Moving on from world food to world fashion, students were treated to a variety of fashions from around the globe with a few of The Stags very own team even putting in an appearance! Stretching from Mauritius and Uganda in Africa, to France and Turkey in Europe, a great insight was gained and it was refreshing to witness a number of male models taking part in a typically female form of entertainment. No one could say that they didnt learn something new cue Bakita and Lorna, who were on hand with trivia-style facts! The choice of accompanying music was well chosen to really give the audience a feel for the country whose clothing was on display. A great night was had by all who attended. iGala: Friday 9th March This was the grand finale of Surreys iFestival and definitely the highlight of the fortnight. There was a great turnout and the audience were treated to an array of performances from across the world personal favourites of mine being the Bhangra dancing and the Guys and Dolls taster. A truly great finish to an exciting fortnight. We have a lot to be thankful for here at the University of Surrey. So much is going on around campus that we probably wont get the chance to experience it all, but make sure you make the most of as many opportunities to learn about another culture you may never get the chance again!

This event was completely free and if you werent there, you certainly missed out. An array of societies were present, offering students the chance to try a wide selection of different foods from all around the globe, ranging from Iranian cuisine to Bruneian. I definitely shouldnt have eaten tea before I went! It was really inspiring to try new flavours despite not being able to handle the heat of some of the spicier dishes! Thank goodness for Rubixs water machine! Hannah Wann from the last issue of The Stag certainly had a point with those chickpeas they were tasty! The animals also proved very popular as students got to meet various exotic creatures including a boa constrictor and a skunk! Unfortunately I didnt get to spend as much time with the animals as I would have liked the food was too much of a temptation and distracted me quite a bit! Rio Carnival Night: 5th March I was really up for a good night out as I hadnt been out properly

Not saying the right thing, in the right moment, at the right time
By Bakita Kasadha, Editor-in-Chief

Situation 1:

Students from Brunei were a particularly friendly bunch, offering their simply delicious dry beef snacks.

So youre having an argument, which youre clearly losing. You dont really know how because normally youre quite good at the whole heated debate thing. Its happening though: the other person is destroying you with each word, whilst you are pretending that youre not saying anything because youre respecting the other persons right to talk until its your turn - so here goes... You may come back with a swear word or two (then you know all is lost), or try to open your statement with Fresh Princes your mamas... to get your point started or maybe theres just the silence. Which is the worse, if silence falls, always swear. In films, as the main character (work with this theory for just a second) youd get the opportunity to redeem yourself; at a later time, in the not too distant future, youd engage in another battle of wit and win the argument by insulting their mum, their brother AS WELL AS them and all with sophisticated terminology and wordsmanship that even the queen would struggle to decipher. But this isnt a film. Why is it that your best material comes after the argument, when youre away from the person and most of the time on your own? You play the situation out over and over again in your head and with each replay the comebacks get better and better (borderline art). The time when you anticipate (and maybe even want) the situation but still dont have the words even though youve prepared for said situation. Say for example hoping that this will be the evening when you tell that person that you like them. Not just like, like like. Maybe in Rubix on a cheeky Citrus night or... I dont know, maybe you want the romance to begin in a more intellectual environment like outside amigos so you can pretend that you were taking a break from revision or writing an essay or solving an equation or something? The words, however, dont come out as youd like, you stumble over them, insult the other person accidentally and humiliate yourself despite knowing what you were going to say! Next time just say it, exactly as youve rehearsed. Do it. Go on. (Im such a hypocrite). Why be like me and tell loads of people that wont care instead of the person that actually does? Im totally making my next Stag piece an agony aunts bit. Feel free to write to me with any issues. I swear Im not a moany mare all the time; its just that expressing myself on paper is proving much easier than in real life and it just really grinds my gears!

Situation 2:

Courtesy of the Students Union

12 FEATURES

The Stag |

20th March 2012

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Games
Answers in the next edition of The Stag. Send correct answers to letters@thestagsurrey.co.uk to get a mention in the paper.

Sudoku
2 7 5 6 1 2 8 8 6 9 3 4 2 3 3 7 1 5 2 7 6 3 2 5 3 4 3 5 4 9

Wordsearch
S S F U R L P E I A S T E P P U M Z E L H A N N A H G L E N I L K C A B F O B G A I A T Y A I O A V I N S K H R S L A P U O O A A N A G B A M N K M A L A R I A Y
The words to find are: IGALA MALARIA BACKLINE MUPPETS STALIN MARIO BUS KONy FLEAS

Issue 42s answers:

Sudoku
4 8 9 2 1 6 3 5 7 5 7 2 9 3 4 6 1 8 3 1 6 8 7 5 2 4 9 9 2 5 6 8 3 4 7 1 8 6 7 1 4 9 5 3 2 1 4 3 5 2 7 9 8 6 6 9 1 3 5 8 7 2 4 2 5 4 7 9 1 8 6 3 7 3 8 4 6 2 1 9 5

Wordsearch
A C G F E N V T D I M N A L O Y C L E A I C E S D A C Y H X E C W G R R N P O B T A H T K K R B O I L X N S R U Y O O P X O T L B B K N B N C Z G R A P E V I N E
The words to find are: CONTRACT BURPHAM LAWSON BOxING ELECTION FACEBOOK GRAPEVINE

14 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

The Stag |

20th March 2012

sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Who finished the pi? I

Pi: Mathematical constant. 3.142 to four significant figures. Defined as the ratio of a circles circumference to its diameter. Famously irrational. Until now...

Science & Technology

By Ruth Smithers, Science & Tech Team n February of this year, a team of Yale University mathematicians published a groundbreaking research paper detailing their most recent findings. Most notably, this paper entitled A Brief Yet Detailed Insight Into the Work of a Yale University Layabout included the jaw-dropping declaration that the group, led by Dr. Robert Robertson, had computed the absolute, final, last digit of pi. It was a three. The 2.7124377 trillionth decimal place was computed at midday on February 29th, after a record eighteen hours of calculations. The program subsequently stopped running, fading the screen to black, with Joanna Lumleys smoky tones bidding the scientists goodbye. Three repetitions of the method yielded the same results. Adding insult to the already potentially controversial injury is the knowledge that the calculations were computed on a Macbook Pro. What could this mean for the past the present the future of mathematics? Well, probably not a great deal. The head of Americas Mathematical Research Council is still keen to keep the finding quiet, however, probably preferring to use it as an atomic bomb of information against the Japanese at a later date. Speaking to Dr. Robertson, he had the following to say: Honestly? I dont see what all the fuss is about. Pi is a constant like any other; it just has a few trillion more decimal places. Surely this should have a positive effect on the lives of mathematicians the world over? They can finally, literally, give up and go home.

Do woodpeckers get headaches?

By Melissa Raske, Science & Tech Team

Dog fleas jump higher than cat fleas

By Melissa Raske, Science & Tech Team
armed forces pest management board Mateus

Jailbreak apps respect New type of defence dog with porcupine spikes you more than Apple?
By Melissa Raske, Science & Tech Team By Ellie Brodie, Science & Tech Team

A is for Angie

his is a question that scientists writing for the British Journal of Ophthalmology felt compelled to answer. The woodpecker is estimated to hit a tree 20 times a second, which equates to about 12,000 times a day, with a force equal to hitting a wall head first at 16 miles per hour. At this rate, it is difficult

to imagine them not suffering severe brain damage; however the woodpecker manages it thanks to a few evolutionary adaptations. These include an extra thick cushioned skull to soften the blow and a relatively small brain with a small weight to surface area ratio allowing the force from the impact to spread out over a large surface area, minimising the concussion.

study to compare the jumping ability of Ctenocephalides canis (dog flea) vs Ctenocephalides felis felis (cat flea) has been completed. Results showed that the average cat flea was able to jump 19.9cm while a dog flea managed 30.4cm. The maximum jump height was similar for both with 48cm and 50cm respectively.

ecent research indicates that unauthorized, jail broken apps are

better at respecting private information than Apple-approved apps. The research, conducted by the University of California examined how and where user data was transmitted by iOS apps. According to the research, one in five free official apps sent information back to the developers that could possibly be used to identify a user. Researchers compared Cydia, the unofficial app market place, and official apps by building a tool that observed the information being transmitted by several hundred Apple Store and Cydia apps. 21% of the authorized Apple apps uploaded, at the least, the unique phone identifier, compared to only 4% of the Cydia apps. It is true that those who access jailbreak apps tend to be more tech-savvy; so is Apple exploiting their wider market base? Are standard customers of shiny Apple products happy with Apple invading their privacy?

new hybrid defence dog has been bred in the USA to have porcupine spikes instead of fur. Scientists took German shepherd embryos and then used a genetic model of a porcupine to modify the dogs genetics so they encoded for spikes. The spikes work in a similar way to those on a porcupine - when the dog gets angry or

scared it raises them in an attempt to look more threatening in order to scare off the threat. When the dog is relaxed the spines lay down flat against the dogs skin and are not at all dangerous, in fact they look very similar to the dogs natural fur. Although only a handful of these animals have been bred so far, the company who designed them are aiming to trial them in police and defence work.

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Sci/Tech Editor: Nathanael Roome | Copy Editor: Louisa White

The Stag |

20th March 2012

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

15

Even your kitchen appliances will soon be able to communicate...

By Ellie Brodie Science & Tech Team

Sun storms and your health

By Nathanael Roome, Science & Tech Editor

Science & Technology Quiz

See if you can pick out the real science and technology research and which are our April fools articles out of these:
1) Sunstorms and your health, 2) Jailbreak apps, 3) Talking kitchen appliances, 4) Gene splicing new defences for dogs, 5) Who finished the pi, 6) Which fleas jump highest, 7) Do woodpeckers get headaches.
Answers from last issue:

Selenium intake could be harmful

By Melissa Raske, Science & Tech Team

In order of most regularly used technology:

(Based upon US adults; Forrester report, 2008) 73% Mobile phone (any type) 58% A desktop PC 56% A printer 55% DVD Player 53% Digital camera 40% Laptop PC 29% MP3 Player 28% Games console 23% GPS/Navigation device

This weeks Answers:

Jailbreak apps Real, Talking kitchen appliances Real, Gene splicing new defences for dogs April fools, Which fleas jump highest? Real, Do woodpeckers get headaches Real, Sunstorms and your health April fools, Who finished the pi - Real

t has been found that a high intake of selenium could have negative effects on health and can lead to an increased risk of the development of Type 2 Diabetes. A recent review of a paper published Online First in the Lancet discusses the potentially harmful effects excess dietary selenium could have on health. Whilst having an adequate selenium intake is beneficial, for those who take additional supplements or have a high intake, selenium could have negative effects on health and can lead to an increased risk of the development of Type 2 Diabetes. Selenium is a naturally occurring element that can be found in trace amounts in a variety of foods including Brazil nuts, tuna and eggs. The selenium content of food depends on the levels of the mineral that can be found in the soil. Professor of Nutritional Medicine at the University of Surrey, Margaret Rayman who gained a doctorate in organic chemistry from the University Oxford states: The intake of selenium varies hugely worldwide. Intakes are high in Venezuela, Canada, the USA, and Japan, but lower in Europe. Selenium is essential and low levels have been shown to lower immune function and decrease cognitive function. On the other hand, levels within the therapeutic range have been linked to a number of benefits including improved male fertility and protection against some cancers like those of the lung, bladder and prostate. The use of selenium supplements has increased over the past decade due to beliefs about its health benefits. However, there have been mixed results from studies trying to confirm these theories. The Review on the Lancet paper shows how the results from trials vary depending on the selenium

status of a population as well as their genetic background. Professor Rayman explains that the results show that taking selenium supplements is only beneficial when normal intake is insufficient. Most of the trials relating to supplementation have been carried out in populations that have adequate intake such as the USA and Professor Rayman believes more studies need to be carried out on populations with lower intakes such as Europe. The Review also presents the idea that there may be a link between a persons genetics and the level of positive effect supplements could have. Professor Rayman goes on to say that if the levels of selenium in the blood are higher than a threshold of 122g/L, extra selenium should not be taken. However if the levels in the blood are lower, taking supplements could prove to be beneficial.

Selenium, found in eggs, tuna and brazil nuts, can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes

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any modern products are becoming smart; we already have smart phones, which can connect to iPads and computers remotely, so what about the rest of our appliances? Smart hometechnology is a way for ordinary electronics and appliances to communicate with each other, consumers and even manufacturers. Fridges, microwaves and stoves will soon be utilising this technology; for example people will be able to log what food items are in the fridge, get recipe suggestions and then the kitchen will turn itself on; picking the correct temperatures and timings to suit the dish. Look out Chitty Chitty Bang Bang kitchen the nerds have taken over.

his week saw sun storms reach our headlines in a big way. Worries about our power and navigation networks chief amongst them; but what about the effects on our health? Roughly every 11 years the sun goes through a great increase in solar activity resulting in huge amounts of high energy radiation being spewed out into the solar system and towards earth, aka solar flares or sun sneezes. These particles of sun snot can penetrate the earths atmosphere and ultimately any human in their way.

Cancer Research UK record incidences of skin cancer and they seem to show an 11 year cycle in frequency. Warnings about the threats posed by solar flares have been highlighted by James A. Marusek (2007) and include potential cardiac arrest and dementia, as well as cancer. It is high time that we collated this evidence and provided adequate umbrellas for high risk groups. Protection against high energy particles is a matter of procedure for most laboratories on campus so it can easily be done for the protection of human life.

Sabbatical Elections 2012

#elect12 - vote.ussu.co.uk - Voting opens 26th March - Results 30th March

Sabbatical Elections 2012

#elect12 - vote.ussu.co.uk - Voting opens 26th March - Results 30th March

Music Editor: Sophia Field | Copy Editor: Megan Barnacle

The Stag |

20th March 2012

MUSIC

19

Covering the White Stripes:

Music

Brave or Stupid?
By Tanya Noronha, Music Team

ost people who regularly listen to Radio 1 or similar will by now have heard that Marcus Collins, who had the debatable honour of achieving second place on the prolific xFactor, has opted to release a cover as his debut single. He has decided to attempt the White Stripes classic, Seven Nation Army. Now, I, along with many, many others, am a huge fan of the White Stripes, and Seven Nation Army is perhaps one of their best known songs, so therefore this tune is close to many peoples hearts. Evidence? It was voted number six on Rolling Stone's 2009 list of the 50 Best Songs of the Decade. The original video, in my opinion, summed up everything that is great about the White Stripes its not about the hot girls in bikinis and the depiction of a wild house party. Instead, it features three colours red, white and black, only two people Jack and Meg White, and the idea is straight forward, but

unusual, with the tunnel effect of shots of Jack and Meg playing their instruments. In short, the video is good, but fairly simple, and it does what a music video is meant to. It showcases a fantastic tune. At the end of the day, I like the White Stripes because theyre all about the music, and theyre really good at what they do. However, I didnt want to join the hordes of White Stripes fans rising up in loud protest at Collinss transgression until I watched the video and heard the song. Although the thought of some x-Factor contestant taking a classic and potentially destroying it was a little unnerving, I could kind of see why he would want to cover such a classic. Firstly, a move that brave gets people talking. Yes, it may get peoples backs up, but it also gets your name out there, and if he was the runner-up in a show that is in its eighth season, the most important thing he needs if he wants a career in the music industry is something to set him apart from all the others. Its not

enough to have got that far in the competition any more. How many of us can actually remember who came second in the last season? Secondly, how different is this move from the Live Lounge, the regular feature on Radio One? Stars regularly cover each others songs on this feature, often putting their own spin on it, and sometimes even highlighting a different aspect of the tune, really making it their own. Think Leona Lewis and her cover of Snow Patrols Run. Yes, its highly unlikely Collins will make something better than the White Stripes did, but when I finally heard the tune and watched the video, I was at least able to give him grudging credit for the fact that he did change it completely, rather than trying to redo what the White Stripes did. The video ending seemed hugely tedious, as four women in skin-tight cat suits pranced over to him and dragged him away. The song was not meant to be over sexualised. Save it for your own material Marcus!

Singer/guitartist Jack White originally wrote 7 Nation Army in the White Stripes.

Rubix vs. the Living Room

By Shervin Althem Hejazi, Music Team re you tired of hearing Taio Cruz brag about the seemingly endless amounts of women labelling him a bad boy? Or Sias determined claims of her being made out of Titanium? Or Usher confirming the worthlessness of his life Without U? No? Well, how about Akons failed attempts to describe girls without being disrespectful? If youre a regular Rubix partygoer like I am, then chances are youre probably not tired at all. Lets face it: David Guetta is the current king of catchy commercial music; not many can rival his ability to create so simple a melody that you couldve sworn youd accidentally written it yourself at

My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary. Martin Luther.

some point. Its the kind of melody that will get you singing along after a first listen (and dancing along without the need of a VodkaRedbull to provide false assurance that your dance moves really dont suck. This isnt just me, right?) And dont get me wrong; I have nothing but admiration for David Guettas entrepreneurial ability to consistently draw in massive crowds of drunken clubbers ready to liquorise (word?) their souls and sell it to the mouth of the closest person of opposite gender (or same gender, if youre into that). But when it comes to Rubix the University of Surreys much loved clubbing venue theres a younger brother thats been undeservingly living in its shadow. That is, the intimate downstairs venue,

fittingly labelled The Living Room. The Living Room is known for hosting a number of alternative nights and alternative vibes most notably through its Filtered and Electro Night events run by the Dance Music Society, as well as the mass assortment of drum & bass and dubstep material organised by the PRESHA Bass Music crew. What separates the music of The Living Room from the music of Rubix is its ability to exert an experience. Indeed, DJing is or at least should be all about creating a musical narrative and taking the dancing spectators on a memorable journey of physical and psychological twists and turns through groundbreaking, stimulating music. Unfortunately, the choice of Guetta-like music played by the

Did you know . . .

that Pete Townshend of The Who has claimed ABBAs SOS (1975) to be the best pop song ever written?
regular DJs of upstairs Rubix is so consistently shallow in depth, texture and variety that it offers no potential to enlighten the cognitive brain waves within us. The music regularly played in The Living Room, on the other hand, is much more innovative, interesting, and fresh at least for those of us who go to clubs for the music more than anything else. From my three years experience of clubbing at the Union, the latter choice of venue has always provided a richer, more unique experience. So, the next time you enter the University of Surrey Union on a Thursday or Friday night, dont be shy to try out The Living Room for a slightly different taste of frequencies that are guaranteed to ignite your relationship with drums, bass, and everything else thats cool about contemporary electronic music.

Dena Flows

20 MUSIC

The Stag |

20th March 2012

music@thestagsurrey.co.uk

We Were Evergreen bring their sunshine to Guildford

By Tanya Noronha, Music Team

ts been a long winter, but spring came early to Guildford, in the form of French indie-pop trio We Were Evergreen. They played at the Boileroom on the 9th of March, supporting headliner King Charles, and it was a cheery, uplifting affair. If youre feeling weighed down by accommodation issues, an increasing workload, or just generally stressed, check them out on Youtube as they are sure to lift your mood. Their lyrics about butterscotch and staying in when it rains are just the breath of fresh air the music scene needs and you know when a song is called Penguins and Moonboots, its got to be fairly light-hearted. Sure enough, their performance was the definition of fun. Fabienne, Michael and William were at home on the stage, harmonising and switching from instrument to instrument with a carefree attitude, widely smiling throughout, and the audience relaxed into it, creating a wonderful atmosphere of swaying, smiling people. The range of instruments used ranged from the standard drums and vocals all the way to a ukulele and a banjo, meaning that the melodies are layered in a way which accentuates their evident talent. More importantly, it lent a unique quality to the performance. I can hand on heart say that before the performance I would have never thought that a glockenspiel could fit in a pop song so well. I also got the chance to talk to them beforehand, in an attempt to learn a little more about them and their music...

The Stag: So hows the tour been going for you? All three: Really great actually! Fabienne: We have done thirteen days with King Charles, and its been really fantastic. TS: Do you find that you become nervous before you perform live? Michael: I think its getting better and better, because we enjoy it. We know the songs really well now. Fabienne: We know the lyrics now! (laughs) But sometimes we are nervous for technical reasons. You dont know what to expect in terms of sound. William: And its the same for the audience. We dont know what to expect. Sometimes its really quiet, and sometimes its really dancey... so sometimes were still a bit nervous. TS: Do you prefer smaller venues like this one, or do you prefer the larger audiences in larger venues? Fabienne: When they are crowded, both are good (laughs) Michael: Yeah, you can have a good audience in either so it does depend. The audience is more important than the venue. And its also a question of sound, and The Boileroom sounds really good. Its fun to play in that sort of room. When youre having a lot of difficulty with the sound, regardless of the size, its always hard. TS: I could imagine! Have you always been interested in going into music as a career? William: (promptly) I was. Since I was young.

Fabienne: Not as a career, initially. I was dreaming of it. Seeing it as a real possibility? This is great! TS: How have you found being in so many different places? Where have you been on the tour so far? Fabienne: Weve been to Tunbridge Wells... to Newcastle... William: York, Stoke On Trent... Michael: Glasgow, Durham. Were doing Cambridge next. TS: Youve got a big London date coming up in May, are you excited? Michael: yeah, definitely excited! Its a big venue! Bush Hall in London... Fabienne: Its really good to have a headline show. Its great to support

people, but an audience coming just for you... William: Come along, its very nice! TS: Haha! London is very close... so, what are your inspirations, musically? Anyone in particular? Michael: We have so many... William: We do listen to many different genres and many different things. We do listen to everything thats coming out nowadays, but we also keep listening to really old stuff. TS: Whats been your best live experience? William: Secret Garden Party was a great festival last summer. Michael: We did a few festivals last summer, and each one was great,

because its really friendly, and the ambience is great. But I think our first headline show was an amazing feeling. TS: And finally, have you got any major future plans, like an album? Michael: We do have an EP coming out in the summer sometime hopefully, and again, hopefully an album sometime at the end of the year. William: We have begun to go into studios and tried to work on some songs. We have had a few problems, but the aim of the year will be to do an album.

REVIEW: Michael Maclennan Wolves

By Sophia Field, Music Editor

ichael Maclennans debut album Wolves is a breath of fresh air and I really urge you to inhale. Here is a man who has made an album with, for the most part, just the sheer talent of his song writing skills, vocal performance and abilities as a pianist. Having attended the Royal College of Music, at times he has performed 7 days a week and written 2 songs a day and this determination and passion really shines through in Wolves. Some tracks including Fall Down On Me have the upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics that you find yourself singing along to and could imagine hearing on an album by The Fray. Whilst others, such as The Old Tree are a chillingly

beautiful combination of raw and heartfelt lyrics and just a gentle piano, reminiscent of the emotion Damien Rice brings to his music. It is in these tracks that Michael Maclennan really proves his versatility and intense talent.

upon one of his performances and slipped him a 50 pound note in congratulations for his excellent performance! If you are a fan of artists with real, raw talent, or someone who always complains about the

The blissful vocals of Keep the Light on create the perfect track for a sunny afternoon.
Keep The Light on is one of the star tracks of the album as Maclennan cleverly uses a 5 beats in a bar time signature, creating an unusual and interesting sound. This combined with the blissful vocals creates the sort of track perfect for a sunny afternoon. This Scottish sensation has all the ability to go a long way in 2012, he has even been previously spotted by Rod Stewart, who happened rubbish of todays music scene, support Michael Maclennan. He will provide you with music that makes you smile, assists your tears and creates the perfect background to your everyday adventures. Check out the album now!

Phil Rogers

Music Editor: Sophia Field | Copy Editor: Megan Barnacle

The Stag |

20th March 2012

MUSIC

21

Old Dogs, New Tricks:

William Shatner Has Been
By Dan Davison, Music Team

Introducing Backline
A live music venue in Guildford you may not have heard about yet!
By Hannah Roberts-Owen, Music Team

f someone were to ask you what was in Guildfords train station car park, youd look at them weirdly and reply, Probably cars!?. But it is in fact home to Guildfords Backline Live, a semi underground rehearsal studio and live music venue. Backline is Guildfords answer to the more alternative music scene, ranging from their packed out dubstep, house or drum and bass nights to their popular Mutiny events featuring heavy metal and hard rock acts. It offers a change from the usual chart blaring clubs that Guildford and dont get me wrong, us students too! seem to be so fond of. I first visited the venue for an event called Reggae Skank Breaks, where a group of us marvelled at the bar-tops (see through with built in microphones, money, plectrums and posters) and bottleshaped light features. It sounds tame now, but after a few drinks it seemed pretty unusual, as did the graffiti style decor and insane amounts of dry ice! From my live music experiences, Backline hosted probably the most intimate gig Id ever been to. Its pocket-sized stage gave the live performances from Mr. Basista and Will and the People (as played on SubTV and Radio 1) an exhilarating but completely different atmosphere to one Id

ever experienced before not least because I had the chance to rub shoulders with the artists after the gig! Fans of extensive cocktail menus or the odd G&T; youll have to tone down your taste buds, as Fosters cans and jagerbombs are the favoured drinks. But what Backline possibly lacks in glamour is certainly made up for by its understated coolness and the quality of the vibes and music it provides. Since Reggae Skank Breaks, resident Fabric DJs and UK dance chart toppers The Brookes Brothers have made hugely successful appearances alongside similar acts, ensuring nights crammed full of euphoric dance floor drum and bass beats through a fantastic sound system. Heart in Hand, support band for Lower Than Atlantis and Gallows, have also headlined one of Backlines Mutiny events the biggest rock name to have played at the venue this year so far. The next up and coming weekly event is Backline Mondays, and with indie DJs, cheap entry and 6 jagerbombs for 10, you cant go wrong! So if you fancy a change of scene, you know where to head to: below the railway bridge in the train station car park. For more information, find Backline Live on Facebook.

f one were to name individuals with the most bizarre contributions in music to popular culture, chances are that Mr Shatner would be among those mentioned. Whilst known primarily for his screen acting, in particular in his role as Captain Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, Shatner is also infamous for such musical projects as 1968s The Transformed Man. These often take the form of spoken word interpretations of popular songs; an approach that has been parodied on countless occasions. In spite of the notoriety of his best known musical experiments, the Canadian actors ambitions have not waned. It was this drive that brought us a curious collaboration with American musician Ben Folds, the result of which was Has Been (2004). Whilst one would be forgiven for believing this LP would simply follow the same vein as his earlier, lampooned works, Has Been departs from expectations in several significant respects. Firstly, the majority of its tracks are original pieces. Secondly, whilst it is debateable in retrospect whether Shatners previous efforts were intentionally hilarious, by this stage it is starkly evident that he is in on the joke. Consequently, Shatners comedic skills are exploited to the fullest, encouraged by Folds own sense of wit. Perhaps the shining example of this is the albums opening track Common People, a distinct

interpretation of the Pulp classic and the only cover on the LP. With his talents as a producer and arranger, Folds augments the intensity of Shatners recital, which is backed by 70s veteran Joe Jackson. Other comedic highlights include Youll Have Time a tonguein-cheek track featuring Shatner bluntly reminding the audience of deaths inevitability in the style of a sermon, complete with a gospel choir. Meanwhile, Shatner and Henry Rollins exchange eyewatering rants at a frantic pace on I Cant Get Behind That, which includes a wonderful knowing wink to the listener: I can't get behind so-called singers that can't carry a tune, get paid for talking, how easy is that? well, maybe I could get behind that! Yet what is perhaps most surprising about Has Been is that for all the goodhumoured laughs Shatner gains from the listener, there are plenty of genuinely serious moments

that can be appreciated without irony. For example, the verses of the heart-wrenching Thats Me Trying take the form of letters from a man attempting to reach his estranged daughter, with a wistful chorus provided by Folds and Aimee Mann. All in all, Has Been represents a unique creation of the past decade. Gone is the pretension of The Transformed Man; instead listeners are offered a collection of spirited laughs, melancholic insights and everything in between which one can appreciate as the artist intended. In other words, between Shatners realisation of his strengths, Folds top-notch production and the contributions of several notable guests, Has Been succeeds in being a spoken word album that carries legitimacy as a solid pop record. It may not wholly vindicate the low points of Shatners career, but it certainly comes close.

Had an unforgettable live experience?!

Email music@thestagsurrey.co.uk and tell us who? when? and why? for your chance to have your say about an incredible live performance in the next issue!

James Vaughan

22 DANCE & THEATRE

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20th March 2012

dancetheatre@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Exposure at the ROHs Linbury Studio Theatre

Dance & Theatre

By Lucy Jarvis, Dance & Theatre Team xposure, at the Royal Opera Houses Linbury Studio Theatre this February 24th, promised an evening of emerging choreographers endorsed by one of Britains iconic dance venues. However, despite a diverse programme of aerial performance, comedy and sport inspired movement, the evening didnt quite reach the dizzying heights many had expected. That said, the first work of the evening Handspun, a collaboration between choreographer and performer Ilona Jntti and composer Luke Styles, did reach an epic height of sorts as Jntti spun her way up and down the thick ropes spanning from floor to ceiling. An aerial performer come contemporary dancer, Jntti creates an intricate performance; grappling, winding and weaving along the ropes. As Jntti soars high above, a knot begins to form in our stomachs, which only tightens further when she suddenly drops down the rope accompanied by the twang of a cello string. Jnttis performance set the evening off to a positive start, but despite her obvious skill and precision I felt there was little content beyond her expertise. Next up: Suits on, trousers off and in matching socks and pants, New Art Clubs Tom Roden and Pete Shenton take a seat centre-stage to begin Gary Clarks deadpan duet 2 Men and a Michael. Working

primarily with movement, they parody comedy conventions of light entertainment and lapse into general loopiness. The two perform a cabaret style routine, slinking across a chair and splitting their legs, and bellow the tunes from popular soaps. Roden and Shenton made the best of the material but, perhaps due to lack of speech, the comic effect of this piece didnt nearly match up to that of their own work. As the second half of the evening progressed, I was searching for something to really

...the evening didnt quite reach the dizzying heights many had expected.
capture my attention. This only partially arrived in the final work of the evening, 36, choreographed by Jorge Crecis. Here, the fourteen dancers push themselves to the limits. They engage in games of endurance, speed and agility, throwing bottles back and forth and shouting numbers, in a sport where only they seem to know the rules. 36 provided a lively end to the evening; however, the piece seemed to lack intention and ended somewhat abruptly. The dancers were engaging and committed, like all of the performers in Exposure, yet the content and purpose felt lacking something which to some extent could be said of all the works this evening.

Theatre Society: The Red Rose Murders

By Emily Bourne, Dance & Theatre Team

have just been to see the Theatre Societys latest production, The Red Rose Murders, an exciting murder-mystery adaption where the audience helps to discover the murderer from a group of suspects in a 1950s setting. Led by a detective, the accused group are questioned by both the audience and their peers, before the criminal is finally revealed at the end of the show. The play was a small, intimate affair, with characters sitting amongst and talking directly to the audience, which really helped the public to engage with the story and events. In addition

the script was well-written, giving great variation to the characters and their lifestyles as famous Hollywood celebrities. The actors did a great job of creating humour and emotion at the right moments, which was emphasised by authentic costume, make-up and set. Overall the production was a success, achieving an entertaining and light-hearted evening for all who went. Whilst the Theatre Society is still in its early days, the quality of its productions are always high and I sense that in the future, particularly with its version of Dennis Kellys Orphans coming to campus this spring, there can only be bigger and better things to come...

Dance/Theatre Editor: Hannah Jelliman | Copy Editor: Candice Ritchie

The Stag |

20th March 2012

DANCE & THEATRE

23

Stalins Favourite 29/2/12 Ivy Arts Centre

By Tiffany Stoneman, Dance & Theatre Team

fter a run at the National Theatre, Stalins Favourite came to the Ivy Arts Centre on the 29th February. Theatre Unlimited presented its audience with a history lesson in everyday life in Soviet Russia, from the perspective of Konstantin Simonov, whose poem Wait for Me became one of the dictators favourite pieces, and projected him from exile into the inner circle of Russias elite. The one-man play was adapted from Orlando Figes The Whisperers by Rupert Wickham, who also plays Simonov. Portraying a man conflicted by moral realisation, and the whirlwind life he led when discovered by Stalin, Wickham was equal parts despair and pride. Despite a false start, he proved to be an eloquent speaker who engaged with his audience through a depth of contextual understanding and vocal clarity.

Peter Symonds direction is straightforward, breaking up the text with lighting changes and music to enhance the atmosphere and give a little theatricality to the monologue. The set is similarly unobtrusive, designed by Michael Folkard, and features the well-worn furnishings of an old mans home dusty chandeliers, a winged chair, and a writing desk complete with type-writer. The only piece that places itself outside of the Stanislavskian realism is the large gold medallion featuring Stalins profile, which hovers above the stage throughout; a permanent reminder of the force behind Simonovs life. This play is not, however, one for those looking for excitement and action at seventy minutes with no interval, it takes quite a lot of concentration. Nevertheless, its historical content is informative and personal, providing an emotional account of the regime and the personal clash of duty and morality.

Three Spring Awakenings

By Tiffany Stoneman, Dance & Theatre Team

n 2006, the 1892 play Spring Awakening by Frank Wedekind was reawakened as a rocky, rebellious Broadway musical. It ran for three years, and in 2009, Londons West End was treated to four months of raucous laughter, unexpected sentimentality, and an incredible soundtrack. I was instantly captured by the brash, confident nature of the play and its actors. It broke many theatrical conventions by providing the soloists with hand-held microphones and using audience blinder-lights on the sides of the stage to give a bizarre, concert spin on the German play. The adaptation by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik was relevant to a 21st Century audience, and

tree were the perfect back drop in the more intimate venue. As well as this, the action revolved around various brick walls which the actors moved to create rooms, benches, and platforms. For a company who cannot rival the resources of the West End, their production was no less impressive, and carried a closer emotional energy that really connected with its audience. This year, the 3rd Year Musical Theatre Students of the Guildford School of Acting put on the play in the Ivy Arts Centre. This was the only production to use an actual interior set, complete with black-and-white checked flooring, ceiling lamps, and cleverly gauzed windows that gave us a glimpse of the spectacular orchestra. With harmonies

With harmonies that could easily rival any professional company ... this production was fresh and inspired.
had me humming to rather naughty lyrics all the way home. It was big, bold, and utterly breathtaking like no musical Id ever seen before. Jump forward to 2011, and the small but spirited Greenwich Theatre. Sell A Door theatre company tackled the ambitious musical score and true spectacle of Saters version with an incredibly limited budget, but with real heart and understanding of Wedekinds words. The set did not have the multiple picture frames and ceiling of light bulbs like its predecessor, but the simple image of window frames, swings, and a that could easily rival any professional company, and the use of blackboards as scenery to express the child within Spring Awakening, this production was fresh and inspired. Upon first read, the original play can be considered a little dry and political, with its comically named teachers and obvious moral statements. But the rockmusical adaptation transforms it into an accessible and moving production, which has been taken on by actors from all parts of the professional spectrum. Any performance is a must-see.

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dancetheatre@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Sense and Sensibility The Mill Studio

By Julie Foord, Dance & Theatre Team

his stage adaption of two sisters search for love in a money led society is charming and moving. The acting was generally very good and, aside from a dangerously wobbly screen, the limited set was utilised to great effect on the tiny stage. Particularly notable was the picture frame leitmotif used successfully from beginning to end. The original score was applied effectively giving the play a filmic quality; only at one point was it nuisance when it played too loudly over the final words of Aunt Jennings speech. The first half worked well as a setting for the characters to develop their relationships and for the audience to become accustomed to their personalities. However, the supposedly humorous moments failed to amuse and the acting was occasionally over-the-top. Fortunately, the interval seemed to refresh the play into a whirlwind of laughter, heartbreak and revelation with an engaging and quickpaced script. Any previous misgivings were thoroughly made-up for. Bobbi O Callaghan was initially rather annoying as the brash, fast talking

Marianne, but she grew into a mature and lovelorn woman. Her relationship with Emma Finneys Elinor was portrayed well and convincingly. Lainey Shaw as Aunt Jennings was a friendly gossip whose occasional, innocent insensitiveness to her nieces plights were painful but amusing to watch. An abstract movement scene portraying Mariannes heartbreak was nice but rather random; it could have made a good transition scene but continued rather too long. A stumble over words and an early entry at the start of the second act led to a rather embarrassing and awkward couple of minutes, but these were the only obvious mistakes in the production. The costumes were fine, though I am unsure as to why the sisters were always costumed in the same white dresses with the occasional overcoat thrown in. It would have been nice to see some variation. Unashamedly romantic, this soppy and uplifting play has an underlying simple message that love can be found anywhere, and the audience leaves the theatre carrying this heartening feeling with them.

By Hannah Jelliman, Dance & Theatre Editor

Igala 2012
A

Emma Fenney as Elinor and Bobbi OCallaghan as Marianne.

Blanca Li, more like Blanca-li Boring

By Hannah Jelliman, Dance & Theatre Editor

he diversity of styles available in the professional dance world is ever-growing, yet hiphop and street-dance seem to be under-represented, especially considering their popularity in the media and with young people. In fact, Blanca Li Dance Companys Elektro Kif is the first piece of professional street-dance that I have seen. Being far from an expert in Electro dance, my expectations were quite high with anticipation of what the piece might reveal when I arrived at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Southbank, London, on 2nd March. Unfortunately, despite some impressive technique and astounding energy from the eight male dancers, the choreography was a disappointment. Blanca Li seems to have an impressively long rsum, yet her choreographic choices are amateur and predictable. The piece starts with confidence; each dancer enters the stage individually,

immediately establishing a character drawn from teenage stereotypes: a rocker, a geek and the leader. The dancers overthe-top theatrical representation of these characters determines the setting of eight teenage schoolboys; however, these strong personas are quickly lost. The themes explored are absurdly clich: a basketball game, eating breakfast and playing video games, the execution of which portrays something expected from A-Level choreography. The breakfast section is an unfortunately fantastic example of this. Li introduces the theme with plainly literal gestures; the dancers sit at a long table, simultaneously miming cutting food, shaking salt, and wiping their mouths. This slowly and obviously progresses, utilising simple choreographic techniques such as canon, or introducing electro vogue arm movements. The dancers stand, continuing the same gestures. Then, to make

it even more (un)interesting, they step away from the tables and start to move with these gestures, bringing in more recognisable street-dance movements. The aural accompaniment is also painfully obvious, with the sounds of eating and gulping. Elektro Kif was largely an impressive display of electro technique and energy, which was overshadowed by repetitive, predictable choreography and music with an excruciatingly

consistent beat; the defining moment of which was the inevitable dance-off towards the end. Each dancer has a turn at showing-off their skills, which all seem agonisingly similar. I was almost waiting for someone to break into the robot! It is disappointing, considering the obvious skill of the dancers, that the choreography lacked aptitude. Perhaps Li should leave Electro dance to the Electro dancers

Jellimans Gems
When you are on stage you are having an affair with three thousand people. - Gelsey Kirkland

s we all know, our University is incredibly culturally diverse, with students from all over the world. Once a year, the unions International Festival gives students from countries worldwide an opportunity to display their precious nations to the rest of the University. The finale of this event, Igala, is a onenight-only show, this year taking place on Friday 9th March and giving several societies an opportunity to show off their talents, including many national dances. It is somewhat refreshing to see that traditional dances are being preserved within our fast-moving, technologydriven world. Despite the show being extremely long, with an overall running time of three hours and fifteen minutes, and many societies providing their own mini-show, which could easily have been shortened to make it slightly less tedious, the acts are to a relatively high standard. Many of the dances are well rehearsed and give an insight into the unique techniques produced in the varying countries. The Sri Lankan society have arguably the most extravagant traditional dress, with two males wearing tribal-looking outfits with their chests covered in bells and sporting elaborate head dresses. The pair perform a unison dance involving twisting hands and heavy steps in second, giving an interesting display of a far-from-popularised dance style. The Hellenic and Cypriot societies give an extended joint performance. Their set lasts almost half an hour, possibly longer than needed, showing several different traditional Greek dances. The pieces include the wellknown aspects of Greek dance such as dancing in circles at increasing speeds. However, the diverse array of dances gave a wider view of their valued traditions, including a partner dance with white scarves and an all-female dance. For me, the Indian societys performance is the most memorable, giving a display of just some of the many dances stemming from India. They display styles including Kathak, Bollywood and Bhangra with lots of energy, enthusiasm and skill. Although the show wasnt exactly to professional level, everyone involved appeared to be enjoying showing off their cultures. With such a diverse university, its a shame there isnt more opportunity for our students from such varied cultures to display their talents. However, iGala gave an elaborate insight into what our many international students have to offer.

Film Editor: Tiffany Tucker | Copy Editor: Candice Ritchie

The Stag |

20th March 2012

FILM

25

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (2012)

By Lousia White, Film Team

Film

Tongues on Fire: feel the flame of Bollywood!

By Tiffany Tucker, Film Editor

f Im going to be completely honest here, had I not studied the book in which this film is an adaptation for one of my level two English Literature modules, I probably wouldnt have looked twice at it. However, I recognised the title as soon as I heard it was due to be released, and made sure I got round to seeing it. I really enjoyed reading the Jonathan Safran Foer novel, so thought the film would be well worth a watch, and it certainly was. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a film that deals with the actual event and the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre, as seen through the eyes of a young male protagonist. I dont recall the book provoking that much emotion in me when I read it, but the film, Ill admit, had me in tears! The plight of young

Oscar Schell, whose father (played by Tom Hanks) dies in the attacks, is thoroughly heart-wrenching. Around a year after his fathers death, in amongst his possessions, Oscar stumbles across a key and makes it his mission to find the lock that fits the key. His search takes him all over New York on a journey that he hopes will bring him closer to his dad. Unfortunately, that which seems to bring him closer to his dad, drives him and his mother (played by Sandra Bullock) further and further apart. After everything the characters go through it is thoroughly satisfying that the film ends on a positive note. Overall I would highly recommend this film I challenge you, Stag readers, to get to the end of it without shedding a tear, or at least without finding yourself having to hold them back!

ongues on Fire are delighted to announce their fourteenth annual London Asian Film Festival, which will run from the 16th24th March. The event will be hosted at various locations such as BFI Southbank, Apollo Cinema Piccadilly, BAFTA, The Mayfair Hotel, The Nehru Centre and many more. Tongues on Fire celebrate South Asian culture to its fullest, rejoicing nationalism, new and emerging artists and raising awareness of political and social issues, which are perceptible through the art of storytelling and film; all the while, placing a great emphasis on the art of entertainment. This years London Asian Film Festival promises to deliver all of this and more! The festival will be the host this year to a wide variety of South Asian stars and directors and will finish with a Closing Night Awards Ceremony on the 24th at BAFTA. It certainly will be a magnificent Festival with an abundance of fantastic events. Highlights include the wildly anticipated Bollywood films of the year such as Trishna, an adaptation of Thomas Hardys classic novel Tess of

the DUrbervilles, but with a vibrant, cultural twang, starring the beautiful Freida Pinto. Set in India, it follows the tragic relationship of Jay, the son of a wealthy property developer, and Trishna (Pinto), the daughter of a rickshaw driver. Tongues on Fire are proud to provide a platform for emerging talents from the South Asian film industry through their short film competition, which will take place on 17th March at Apollo, Piccadilly. The London Asian Film Festival, therefore, is not just an event to be entertained and educated; its the chance for new talent to be recognised in the world of Bollywood. Some of the film screenings include The Stitches Speak: Nina Sabnani, Words: Anup Bhandari and Islam aint that scary: Oliver Zimmerman. There is also the exciting opportunity to observe and participate in a Q&A session with film stars and critically acclaimed directors. There will also be a fascinating lecture given by Sanjan Leela Bhanasli on 24th March at BAFTA, which focuses on film-making and disabilities. He will be honoured with an award in recognition of his work,

which focuses on disability in Indian Cinema, and will also be delivering the Nargis Dutt lecture at the University of Westminster (Regent Street campus) on 22nd March. Above all this, Tongues on Fire have also announced that Bollywood actor and our Patron Abhishek Bachchan is confirmed to attend the Opening Night of the 14th London Asian Film Festival. They add that Were also privileged to have Meherjaan from Bangladesh, a project across Pakistan, India and Bangladesh starring Jaya Bachchan. We are honoured to have the director Rubaiyat Hossain with us for a Q&A after the screening If you wish to gain further information, grab some tickets or get involved, visit www. tonguesonfire.com With all this and much, much more, the London Asian Film Festival is an opportunity to offer a networking occasion, with industry leaders and specialists who will no-doubt influence and inspire. This is an educational, entertaining event, filled with film showings, talks and workshops; there is undoubtedly something for everyone!

Detachment (2011)
If you can do, teach
By Tiffany Tucker, Film Editor

ver thought about teaching? Well, Detachment might make you think again, or enlighten you in such a magnificent way that you too will seek to help make a change, even when that change looks impossible. Detachment is delivered to audiences from the award winning producer of The Hurt Locker and acclaimed director of American History X. A winner at the Tribeca, Closing Night Woodstock, Tokyo and Deauville Film Festivals, Detachment is a fascinating exploration into the demanding world of teaching in contemporary American highschools: a place where the teenagers have all grown-up too fast and have little or no regard for authority.

Its down to one moral substituteteacher to fight back against the system which oppresses them in their day-to-day lives. The parents-evening scene was the part of the film which really hit home: the scene in which the entire message of the film became clear. Its not entirely the system that fails societies generation of tomorrow, its the lack of care, affection and general acknowledgement from parents The films main character is the wonderful Arien Brody, who also starred in The Pianist, King Kong and The Village. Brody plays the substitute Henry Barthes, who roams from school-to-school communicating alternative methods of teaching, which initially appears as an alien concept to the teenagers. I would like to say as little

as possible about the general plot, because you honestly have to watch the entire film in order to appreciate the wisdom in which it produces. There is depression, mental illness, prostitution and a profusion of other themes which all combine to expose the film as a great-big metaphor for life. With ups and downs, different people handle the hardships of life in different ways, and sadly, not all methods of coping are the most successful. Detachment is nevertheless hopeful: underneath all of the dreariness and misery there is a message for every viewer, but each moral message is captured differently by different people. So, I advise you to watch it and be the judge for yourself, and hopefully learn a thing or two about life along the way.

26 FILM

The Stag |

20th March 2012

film@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The Muppets live on! (2012)

By Candice Ritchie, Film Team

ere only just into March, and already a number of fantastic sequels have graced our screens such as Underworld: Awakening, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance and Journey 2: The Mysterious Island. The new, revamped Muppets movie has only just been released in cinemas, and it is already set for another sequel! The revamp has already gained a staggering $158m at the Global Box Office, and has just spent its third week

in the upper levels of the UK Box Office. Not only that, but the movie, which brings the Muppets back to our screens after a long-awaited twelve years, has also just received an award at the Oscars for Best Song. It is no doubt a success! The new sequel, however, will not be written by James Segel who has been said by many to be the man who brought the Muppets back to the limelight though he hasnt ruled out starring in it! Director James Bobin will instead be accompanied by Nicholas

Stoller, who acted as a co-writer for the recent release. There is no news of the plot outline as of yet, but Im certain that its going to contain just as much music, laughter and endless optimism as the last! This time, however, I dont think the Muppets need to regain their fame! The world of sequels is already looking to be promising for 2012. With follow-ups such as: Men in Black 3 3D; Ice Age: Continental Drift; The Dark Knight Rises and American Pie: Reunion, Im more than excited. Bring it on!

Safe House (2012)

By Sophia Field, Music Editor

o, who would have thought it? Ryan Reynolds is more than just a pretty face! With appearances in films like X-Men Origins: Wolverine and The Green Lantern, it seems Reynolds has been trying to get out of the romantic comedy pigeon hole, and Safe House has finally proven that he really is pretty badass after all. Safe House was predicted to be your standard corrupt F.B.I versus good guy film, but actually it was much more captivating than anticipated. The high standard of this film is partly down to

the excellent performances by both Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds. Washington (as Tobin Frost), as always, played his role as rouge agent with fierce intensity and total believability. However, it was Reynolds (as Matt Weston) who was the most pleasant surprise. His fight scenes were brutally realistic, he even managed to give Washington the first real black eye of his life, but it is the heart-breaking scenes with his girlfriend that really proved Reynolds true potential as an actor. On the whole Safe House presented an excellent and

diverse take on a subject that has been reconstructed many times in cinema history. It captivated the viewers, not allowing any lapses in concentration, or moments to check your watch. The film created a constant tension and uneasiness as you debated whose side you were on, but that just added to the appeal. This film has its moments of romance but is definitely for fans of action films and is certainly not short of gun combat, fist fights and explosions. I wholly recommend you go and see it!

Lit Editor: Alexandra Wilks | Copy Editor: Candice Ritchie

The Stag |

20th March 2012

LITERATURE

27

SELECTED POEMS AT THE V&A READING ROOMS

By Alexandra Wilks, Literature Editor and Emily Smart, Literature Team

Literature

electedPoems began as a blog to champion emerging poetry in the UK; it has since become an exciting monthly poetry-reading event at the V & A Reading Rooms in South Kensington. SelectedPoems at the V&A Reading Rooms focuses on the best poetry from independent poetry publications. It is an excellent chance to hear the freshest poetry from current magazines and anthologies. Emily Smart and I were lucky enough to attend SelectedPoems on the 21st February. This particular reading featured writers from Fuselit and Sidekick Books publications. Fuselit, founded by UEA graduates Kirsten Irving and Jon Stone, is described on their website as half magazine, half collaborative project. The result is a gorgeous A6 hand-cut booklet containing new poetry by a showcase of English and International writers, inspired by one particular word. Sidekick books, also founded by Irving and Stone, publishes collaborative books of poetry and art such as the Confronting the Danger of Art pamphlet written by the

Stags favourite poet Ian McLachlan (who I interviewed a few issues back) and drawn by Phil Cooper. SelectedPoems at the V&A Reading Rooms with Fuselit and Sidekick books was a brilliant success. The line-up of readers included Kirsten Irving, Jon Stone, Ian McLachlan, Chrissy Williams and M.P Dean. Fuselit have a new anthology of poems coming out this year: Birdbook Freshwater Habitats. M.P Dean and Chrissy Williams both read their bird poems and Emily and I were amazed with what can come out of a seemingly dull species of bird. Jon Stone and Kirsten Irving read a highlight of the best poetry from Fuselit, including some of their own work, which was of an impressive standard and spanned a wide range of topics. My particular favourite was one of Kirstens poems inspired by a video game. The highlight of the evening, however, was Ians reading. He read confidently and his poetry was innovative and completely different to anything Ive heard before. Emily and I had a great evening at SelectedPoems at the V&A Reading Rooms. Its a free monthly event, so I would encourage anyone to go along.

For more information on SelectedPoems please visit: selectedpoems.wordpress.com/ For more information regarding Fuselit or Sidekick please visit: www.fuselit.co.uk or www.drfulminare.com

JK Rowling says Avada Kedavra to Potter series

By Rebecca Worley, Literature Team

rguments have been sparked in the literary world with the announcement of J.K Rowlings impending book. Rowling announced: Although Ive enjoyed writing it every bit as much, my next book will be very different to the Harry Potter series The freedom to explore new territory is a gift that Harrys success has brought me, and with that new territory it seemed a logical progression to have a new publisher. I am delighted to have a second publishing home in Little Brown, and a publishing team that will be a great partner in this new phase of my writing life. The book is to be aimed at an adult audience, but that is the only information let slip by

Rowling and her publishers. This announcement has caused a rift on forums and comments sections between those who admire Rowlings writing and those who despise the Harry Potter franchise completely. The success of the Harry Potter series puts Rowling at an extreme advantage, as many readers are likely to purchase the novel out of sheer curiosity of what she will produce next. With that name on the front cover, it seems likely to fly off the shelves. However, Rowling does now have a very high standard to keep up with, and the book is likely to meet much criticism from those unsure about the change. Either way, at the thought of their surge in profits, Im sure booksellers will be laughing all the way to Gringotts.

Web comic jack-of-all-trades Rich Burlew made 1m in fan funds to print The Order of the Stick.

Rich Burlews self-publishing success

By Emily Smart, Literature Team

ich Burlew, author and illustrator, was recently able to raise over $1 million to re-publish his web comic book The Order of the Stick. This comic, known as OOTS by his avid fans, celebrates and mocks role-playing games and medieval fantasy through the tale of the adventurous stickfigure heroes. Although this genre of fiction may not appeal to all, the comics journey to becoming published is one to be admired. Following the creation of this comic in 2005, Burlew set up a small press publishing company

named the Giant in the Playground Games where his books were widely distributed to comic book retailers. However, due to being self-published, they had to stop being printed because of a lack of capital. Seven years later, after writing seven comic books, Burlew became determined to launch a campaign to get The Order of the Stick: War and XPs back into print. With the aid of Kickstarter, an online crowdfunded website, he was able to raise $1,254,120 for the project. Kickstarter stated that this is the most funded creative work in Kickstarter history in any medium,

ever as well as being the most funded project by a single person, ever. This is a huge achievement for Burlew and the many fans that stuck by him along the way and donated in his time of need. Burlew recently stated that Im still shocked, I was tragically unprepared. I never thought wed get anywhere near the response weve gotten. The 14,952 backers who donated seem to believe that these comics are worthy of their money, so why not check out The Order of the Stick for yourself?

28 LITERATURE

The Stag |

20th March 2012

literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Women still very underrepresented in literature

By Alexandra Wilks, Literature Editor

tudies by Vida, an American organisation supporting Women in the Arts, reveal that press reviews of books are still by and about mainly male writers. Vida complied statistics from 2011s editions of publications such as the London Review of Books and The New Yorker to name but a few (for full details please visit http://www.vidaweb.org/the-2011-count) and the results were shocking. For example, at the London Review of Books only 16% of reviewers were female and only 26% of authors. Across the pond was not much better with 21% of reviews written by women and only 17 of 92 authors reviewed female in The New Yorker. Jodi Picoult, author of bestselling My Sisters Keeper, said she found Vidas results mystifying as so much great fiction is written by women. Picoult previously caused controversy in 2010 by describing The New York Times as only concerned with white male literary darlings. Vidas findings support this theory, with Picoult expanding that readers and writers are well

aware of the gender gap and that she challenged [national newspapers] to fix it. Lisa Allardice, The Guardians reviews editor, said as a woman she felt particularly strongly about the issue. Allardice furthered this with her claim that the gender imbalance was particularly prevalent in non-fiction, with women making up only 26% of the non-fiction reviewers at The Guardian and The Observer. To further Allardices claim, The Guardian contacted leading publishers in the UK (such as Random House, Penguin, and Simon & Schuster amongst others) to find out the percentage of non-fiction titles published by women. The results were equally disheartening. Out of all the non-fiction published by Penguin in 2011, perhaps one of the most well recognised UK publishers, only 26% was authored by women. Here on The Stags literature team we are a huge female majority, with only one male writer! So as John Freeman, editor of Granta magazine, is calling for publishers to start filling a gender quota, I am calling for more men to send in their articles!

Something Sweet, Poet-tweets

By Tessa Heenan, Literature Team

READING IS GREAT!
Books are good. Im sure of it. So my lovely Lit Team are going to tell you each issue, why books are good, what books to read and how to fit reading in around everything else. In other words, a new column written by the wonderful Literature Team about their love for all things wordy. Love from your Literature Editor, Alexandra.

nline publishing is becoming more and more popular. Prose is everywhere: blogs; fiction sites and even your Facebook wall. Poetry, however, is a little harder to find. Venture over to Twitter though, and it shouldnt take you long. New writers are now using Twitter as a brilliant starting point for honing their writing skills. The 140 character limit does not allow for careless word choices or poor phrasing. A poet-tweet aims to pack as much punch in as few words as possible. For the same reason, Twitter poetry is much more accessible to those who have not had a previous interest in poetry. One of the more popular tweeters is @Twaiku_ Poetry, Twaiku being the conglomeration of Twitter

and haiku. Each tweet is a separate haiku or a sample of micro-poetry: Love/Is a foreign country/Ive yet to visit, Vegetarians/Think that tofu really sucks/ Disappointing lunch, proving that poetry can be short and sweet. Its even easy to start writing your own poet-tweets. Head over to twittermagnets.com, a site that combines fridge-magnet poetry and Twitter with wonderful results; it even plays music whilst you write! If you dont want to write your own Twitter poetry, you can still inject a daily dose of poetry into your life by following some Twitter poets. Or, if micro-poetry really isnt your scene, @PoetryArchive acts as an online collection of poetry readings which you can listen to instead. One things for sure, you wont find many other works written in 140 characters!

@Twaiku_Poetry:

Drape my shoulders / In shattered glass -- well speak / In the broken fragments/ of bending light My words / Are far to fiery, too restless / for book cover cages Sometimes my words / are damp, are limp / Like sauteed onions, flavourless / Sparkless, and often / Meaningless

ello readers! My name is Sophie and Im going to tell you why I love reading. Reading is regarded among too many of us as boring, a chore, something we should do. But for me, reading takes me to places I have never been and perhaps may never get the opportunity to explore. Through books, I discover people I will never know and situations

which I can easily transfer to my own life, and suddenly I am magically captivated. Yes, films and TV are gripping, but reading is personal. Its just me, immersed in a world that I have created, and the result is one of such exhilaration and suspense; effects I never experience from the screen. But do not panic, reading does not necessarily mean the lengthy endurance of heavy novels with complicated words. There really is something on the bookshelf for everyone. It doesnt matter if you want to read something which might make a librarian cringe or a lecturer lose sleep, what is important is that you gain something from reading, be it humour, thrill, thought or knowledge. Reading is a fantastic way to spark debate, inspire and provoke ideas. So, why not start with The Stag? Grab a coffee, and absorb yourself in a turbulent journey of heated discussion and contemplation.

Lit Editor: Alexandra Wilks | Copy Editor: Candice Ritchie

The Stag |

20th March 2012

LITERATURE

29

Charlotte Bront: a long lost story

By Rachel Burgess, Literature Team

harlotte Bront is perhaps best known for her brilliant Victorian novel Jane Eyre. Bronts heroine, the books name sake, is one of the most loved, powerful female figures in English Literature. It is understandable then, that many readers are bustling with excitement over the publication of Bronts long-lost story LIngratitude. The tale vanished in 1913 and is thought to have been given to a wealthy collector. It was discovered in a Belgium museum recently, almost a century after it was last heard of. It is written in grammatically incorrect French and is believed to have been the first piece of homework set for Bront by her Belgian tutor Constantin Heger. Heger taught Charlotte and her younger sister Emily during their stay in Brussels in 1839, and the early years of the 1840s. Brian Bracken, a Brusselsbased archivist and Bront expert, is the man responsible for uncovering the manuscript in

the Muse Royal de Mariemont. It was finished a month after Charlotte arrived in Brussels, and is the first known devoir [piece of homework] of the thirty the sisters would write for Heger writes Bracken in the London Review of Books, which have published the tale in full on their website, both in English and the original French text. The story, dated 16th March 1842, centres around a reckless young rat who escapes his fathers protective care, yearning instead for a life of adventure in the countryside. He encounters woodland creatures on his journey and agricultural farming. The tale juxtaposes the affection of the father with the thoughtlessness of the ungrateful rat, who eventually comes to an unfortunate end. Bracken writes; It contains a number of mistakes, mainly misspellings and incorrect tenses he [Heger] often returned their essays drastically revised sadly, there are no comments on this copy of LIngratitude. The sisters returned to England in 1842 after the death

of their Aunt Branwell. However, Charlotte revisited Brussels in 1843, deeply in love with her former tutor, despite the fact he was married. Her feelings for Heger were made public in 1913, when the love letters she wrote to him after leaving Brussels permanently in 1844 were published for the first time. One of the letters written by Charlotte claimed; you showed a little interest in me when I was your pupil in Brussels and I cling to the preservation of this little interest I cling to it as I would cling on to life. Bracken also suggested that this relationship provided Charlotte with inspiration for her later novels, Charlottes novel Villette, published in 1853, reworks her experiences in Brussels, with the difference that the teacher returns the heroines love. Bronts novel, The Professor, which was written shortly after her return from Belgium, also highlights the affiliation between teacher and pupil. In contrast to her own experience, the novel ends happily.

The future of our bookstores

By Stephanie Davies, Literature Team

Mario, Pacman and Pokemon battle our bedtime favourites

By Sophie Vickery, Literature Team

n the face of the cuts, we have heard a lot about the value of libraries. However, there is also an argument for the cultural (and educational) influence of booksellers. Though it may seem at times of distress that the usefulness of bookstores is directly related to their proximity to your exam room, bookstores are invaluable in promoting literacy.

Booksellers [in particular] have found the going tough these last few years. In the last six years, the number of independent bookshops has fallen by 26%. As well as facing competition from online retail, these booksellers are combating factors such as high business rates and competition from larger chain stores. Not only this, they are faced with competition from charity shops, which are given many fiscal

ccording to Mintel research in 2011, seventeen per-cent of children under the age of four had a television in their bedroom. Ofcom studies also found that one in four children below thirteen have profiles on social networking sites. Scarily, nine in ten pupils own a mobile phone, whilst less than three quarters own a book, according to the National Literacy Trust. The National Literacy Trust ran Tell me a Story campaign to raise awareness of the dangerous fading of Biff and Chip, and all of the other great literature for young children. Jonathan Douglas, director of the National Literacy Trust, stated that one in six children in the UK will

grow up without the literacy skills they need to fulfil their potential. A subsequent American study found that just twenty books in the home could boost childrens chances of doing well at school. But can the Jolly Postman really compete with the likes of Mario, Pacman and Pokemon? Its horrible to think of Peter Rabbit and all his friends gathering cobwebs beneath the bed, but the screen seems to be crushing the page. Hopefully, the work of the National Literacy Trust will do something to change this; watch this space for more details.

What I say is, a town isnt a town without a bookstore. It may call itself a town, but unless its got a bookstore it knows its not fooling a soul. Neil Gaiman
In the wake of the publication of Mary Portas Review into the Future of our High Streets and a recent six-hour debate in the House of Commons on The Future of our Town Centres and High Streets, The Booksellers Association of the UK and Ireland (BA) sent out a letter to the CEOs of almost 400 councils. The letter urged them to remember bookshops when developing any strategies for their town centres. Portas Review found that far too many local shops were closing, to the ultimate detriment of their communities. According to BA, benefits that commercial retailers are unable to obtain. The event of e-readers, such as the Kindle, also endangers the status of the humble bookstore, as the physical book faces a new age of redundancy. But when you shop at an independent bookstore, you keep money in the local economy, nurture community and embrace uniqueness. Bookshops build community character, help create local jobs, and provide the public with reliable and informed personal advice. Isnt it time you picked up a new book?

30 SOCIETIES

The Stag |

20th March 2012

societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Societies
Special Standings allow election candidates to air their manifestos
By Alexandra Wilks, Literature Editor

n Tuesday 13th March Societies Standing saw a new society become ratified: Can you Solve This? seeks to raise awareness for students who are being denied the right to university education. A noble cause and very deserving of society status! Union VP Societies Jake Willis also announced that he was hoping for a budget review, as a large proportion of societies have been unhappy with their budget this year. The Standing also saw a small question and answer with those running for VP Sport & Recreation and those running for VP Societies & Individual Development in the imminent Union election. The candidates for VP Sport all introduced themselves and their central ideas. Running for VP Sport & Recreation are Arabella Gilby, Leon Hon Wei, Natalie Nabi, Josh ONeill, Simon Rowland and Marios Vyrides. All candidates spoke

impressively and had strengths lying in different areas. The general consensus was to continue the legacy left by current VP Sport & Recreation, Trung, but to also develop this and enhance the TeamSurrey brand. The candidates were also keen on promoting minority sports and encouraging more social and recreational sport playing. Each candidate seemed more than equipped for the role but Natalie Nabis answers shone out as particularly insightful. After Sports Standing, the VP Societies & Individual Development candidates took the floor. Standing candidates are: James Bale, Katie-Jane Beaven, Em Bollon, Chris Dighton, Mazin Hussien, Jade Roberts and Steven Salazar. Each candidate again skilfully and confidently answered tough questions such as describe in three words why youd be good for the role? Em Bollons answer I love people got a lot of laughs. The controversial Societies Grading scheme started by current

VP Societies Jake Willis, was reviewed by the candidates. Most wished to develop this further so that it could work better for societies and their different needs. However Chris Dighton wanted to re-structure the scheme entirely. Three candidates stood out as having particularly impressive ideas. Firstly, Katie-Jane Beaven answered all the questions thoroughly and confidently; her ideas relating to what a society can do for your CV were particularly enlightened. Secondly, Maz Hussien had similar ideas related to employability and his current role as Events & Trading Officer for the Union puts him in good stead. Thirdly, Jade Roberts, a nursing student, gave impressive answers and proved her dedication through her organisation of Nursing Freshers Week, which was a huge success. Full manifestos can be found in the centre of this issue of The Stag.

Annual General Meetings

hat time of the year has arrived again when student societies get together for their Annual General Meeting, where next years committee members are elected and the most important business is discussed. YOU can be one of those committee members by being elected at a society AGM. All societies have at least three positions open: President, Secretary and Treasurer. Many societies have a range of other positions available too. So get stuck in and have a go! We are all just ordinary students when we start and if you work hard, you might well become extraordinary.

The Stag AGM

Up for election: Editor, Deputy Editor (Design), Deputy Editor (Marketing), Section Editors (News, Opinion & Analysis, Features, Science & Tech, International, Dance & Theatre, Film, Literature, Music, Societies and Sport), Copy Editors and Photo Editors.

Tuesday 8th April @ 6pm Venue to be confirmed

Date
17th March 19th March 20th March 20th March 21st March 21st March 21st March 21st March 21st March 21st March 21st March 22nd March 22nd March 22nd March 23rd March 23rd March 27th March 28th March 28th March 29th March 29th March 29th March 29th March 29th March 2nd April

Society
Mens Football LawSoc SIFE LGBT American Football Ultimate (Frisbee) BioSoc Portuguese CompSoc Iranian MADTV Christian Union MechSoc Jazz Orchestra Go Green Do More Netball Orthodox Presha Nigerian Society Islamic Society Culinary Society Photographic Society Debating Society Dance (Jazz and Modern)

Time
5.30pm 6.00pm 6.00pm 7.30pm 2.00pm 4.30pm 1.00pm 3.00pm 5.00pm 6.00pm 6.30pm 6.00pm 6.00pm 6.30pm 5.30pm 6.00pm 11.00am 6.00pm 6.00pm 5.00pm 6.00pm 6.00pm 6.00pm 7.00pm 6.00pm

Room
Team Room B, SSP AP1 35AC01 TB11 Students' Union Students' Union TBC Committee Room 09AC03 TBC LTF TB18 LTG PATs LTJ TBC Students' Union TBC Committee Room LTL LTG LTB TB02 TBC Students' Union

32 SPORT

The Stag |

20th March 2012

sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk

BUCS Sports Results

Badminton
Surrey Mens 1st Surrey Womens 1st 3 8 vs vs 5 0 Royal Holloway Mens 1st Royal Holloway Womens 1st

Hockey
Surrey Mens 1st Reading Mens 4th Surrey Womens 1st Surrey Womens 2nd 0 5 5 4 vs vs vs vs 2 0 3 2 RUMS Mens 1st Sussey Mens 2nd LSE Mens 1st Bucks New Womens 1st

Netball
Surrey 1st Kingston 2nd Surrey 3rd 50 27 31 vs vs vs 52 55 21 Brunel 2nd Surrey 2nd Reading 3rd

Basketball
Surrey Mens 1st 66 vs 57 Brunel Mens 2nd

Fencing
Surrey Mens 2nd Sussex Womens 1st 132 106 vs vs 109 Royal Holloway Mens 1st 127 Surrey Womens 1st

Rugby Union
Roehampton Mens 1st 22 vs 41 Surrey Mens 1st

Football
Surrey Mens 1st Royal Holloway Mens 2nd Kingston Mens 1st Surrey Womens 1st 0 2 0 5 vs vs vs vs 2 5 2 2 Reading Mens 1st Surrey Mens 2nd Surrey Mens 1st Roehampton Womens 1st

Squash
Portsmouth Mens 2nd 2 vs 1 Surrey Mens 2nd

Table Tennis
Surrey Mens 1st 13 vs 4 Portsmouth Mens 1st

Golf
Brunel Mens 1st 1 vs 5 Surrey Mens 1st

Tennis
Surrey Mens 2nd 12 vs 0 Roehampton Mens 2nd

Surrey Jitsu Club

By Matt Wyard, Sports Team

was fairly apprehensive before my first ever Jiu Jitsu session this year; having done a few sessions of Tae Kwon Do in my first year in the same venue I had seen them perform what looked like terrifying, gravity defying flips and rolls that somewhere in the back of my mind I had decided I would never be able to do. However, upon entering the dojo (training hall) we were given a friendly greeting by Sensei Chris James and the rest of the club. This eased us into the atmosphere of the club which, having done 15 years of Karate and a few months of Muay Thai, still proved to be very unique with emphasis on a very high standard of discipline across all grade levels, whilst also maintaining a hard work ethic and friendly atmosphere. Integration into the art of Jitsu was enjoyable, learning in the first lesson practical ways of escaping from a crushing handshake. This not only gave us as pupils an insight into Jitsu techniques but also showed us how practical

Jitsu is in focusing on the human body's weaknesses. When it finally came to the inevitable and we had to do the 'flips and rolls,' otherwise known as breakfalling, surprisingly it wasn't as terrifying as it first looked. It proved, in fact, to be fairly simple in comparison to other techniques taught and just took a bit of confidence to pull off. I would recommend Jitsu as a martial art to anyone as it is by far the most practical and useful art you could learn, teaching you a combination of throws, joint locks and weapon disarms that translate into the modern day world very well. Surrey University Jitsu Club is at the forefront of Jitsu in the South East of England, one of the largest and a highly sociable club combining fantastic, and at times highly sarcastic, teaching by Sensei Chris James with the hard work ethos of his students and a friendly atmosphere that makes the club a perfect place for beginners or more experienced grades alike. A big thank you to Chris James and the rest of Surrey Jitsu club for all their help and hard work this semester.

VP Societies ussu.education@surrey.ac.uk ussu.welfare@surrey.ac.uk ussu.societies@surrey.ac.uk & Individual Development ussu.sports@surrey.ac.uk

DAVE Your Sabbaticals VP Osama Welfare Jake ussu.president@surrey.ac.uk Trung

President

Jake

DAVE

VP Societies & Individual Development

VP Welfare

Trung

VP Sports & Recreation VP Education President VP Education

Osama

Sam

VP Sports & Recreation

Sam

34 SPORT

The Stag |

20th March 2012

sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Syrians beat the radio stars at football

By Douglas Elder, Sports Team

Sport

n Wednesday 7th March, societies at the University of Surrey were offered the chance to represent a country of their choosing for the iFestival football competition at the Surrey Sports Park. Ten teams, representing a number of countries, took part and the event was a great success except for my team. Being a member of both The Stag and GU2 Radio, I was in fear of being coerced into choosing which society to play for. Fortunately for me, The Stag, being a paper which aims to maximise intellectual debate (absent at the tournament) and one with no credible competition (abundant at the tournament), I was free to play for GU2 Radio. Through our infinite wisdom/ wittiness, we decided to represent Chad, thus giving us the moniker

Chads on Tour. We were given a tough draw for our first match; we had to overcome the mighty Syria or face elimination. Anyone who has met me or most of my teammates will tell you that GU2 Radio presenters are not known for their stamina or technique, sitting as we do on our bottoms for hours at a time, babbling into a microphone well I do anyway. Nevertheless, what we lacked in talent, we more than made up for with witty jokes and puns about Chad and the countries we could have played against. Walking not so much on the road to Damascus as the Manor Park roundabout, we prepared to take on Syria, and nerves were jangling from the off. Luckily, the incessant rain made for slippery conditions, which we benefitted from when a shot from Ryan Hardy somehow flew in. Twenty seconds in and GU2 Radio held an unlikely

lead, from there on in, we basically decided to defend as Syria kept on attacking. However, with yours truly in goal, we resisted wave after wave of Syrian attacks and got through to half-time still in front. The second half was much the same, as GU2 fought admirably to keep Syria at bay, Richard Blackburn contributor to the Stag - helping James Bale and Sam Limbert win tackle after tackle, basically by throwing themselves at the ball. With five minutes to go, the GU2 defence parted for just a moment and Syria capitalised, with the subsequent shot headed right for the bottom corner. DENIED! yelled Elder (probably) in goal, as he plunged to his right to pull off a truly mediocre save. However, GU2 could not hang on; finally conceding just three (or so) minutes from the end of the game, as Syria equalised. However, despite their almost embarrassing inferiority,

GU2 took the game to penalties. Ahhh penalties, I hate you so much. After two penalties each, the scores were level at 1-1 and the tension reached new levels of mildness. After Blackburn converted his penalty, I pulled off a pretty (not bragging) awesome save. However, a Limbert penalty which is probably still in orbit let Syria back into the shoot-out. That miss, coupled with my inability to dive to my left and fear of the football hitting me in my beautiful face allowed Syria to take a 3-2 victory in the shoot-out. I wont lie; I have no idea who won the tournament, as we decided to play a team representing Nepal in a friendly. They beat us too by the way. The one thing that struck me apart from the occasional football to the groin - about the tournament was the competition not just

between people from different societies, but different cultures as well. Students from Pakistan, Cyprus and Sussex all took part; you must agree that thats quite an eclectic mix! So, a Chad day at the office for myself but all jokes aside, the competition reminded me that both university and football has both huge responsibility and huge influence in bringing people from all over the planet together. My team may have had faces for Radio, but for one day, people from all over the world were united by the beautiful game. Feel free to listen to GU2 Radio, your campus radio station, on 1350AM. If you like my sporting musings, have a listen from noon on Mondays...I wont let you down, no listener gets left behind.

Surrey Mountaineering Club

USMC Annual Dinner Peaks, Pints, and Party Dresses

By Tiffany Stoneman, Sports Team

he weekend of the 3rd-4th March was the Mountaineering Clubs Annual Dinner, held in the beautiful (if a little soggy) Peak District. After a night of camping in Chesterfield in which tents were shared and many a pint had at the local pub, the club awoke to classic Sheffield rain. However, undeterred, many ventured to The Climbing Works an indoor bouldering centre. Others headed to the climbers comfort of the tearoom, and one adventurous carload managed to get in some outdoor climbs on Burbage North, enjoying a few hours of rare, tentative sunshine that gave some great views and dry rock. Relocating to the fantastic 4 Star DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, we were treated to saunas, Jacuzzis, swimming, and luxury bedrooms a change from the tents and bunkers that we are so fond of. It proved a welcome reward half way through the year, and was a way for old members to come back and catch up after years of participation with this crazy, sociable, adrenaline-

fuelled society. As is tradition of the club, Secretary Kilian Collender arrived sporting a rather fetching, oneshoulder dress, complete with tights and black plimsolls, and was undoubtedly the belle of the ball. Other customary activities included the infamous Total Immersion in which all desserts are consumed without cutlery in a three-round race the bemused waiters dutifully removed all forks and spoons whilst tuxedo-clad climbers stuck their faces into profiteroles and lemon meringue. The Chairmans Pint (which was also given to those whose birthdays were soon) was finished in good time by current chairman David Windle Comer, and the dancing commenced in full force. Amidst the dubious moves and overzealous singing, we were given the pleasure of a special performance by Mikey Spoons Barton, our resident spoon-player and all round musical prodigy. It was definitely a weekend not to be missed the group of 60 members, past and present, all looked fabulous in attire a

little more upper-class than our usual chalk covered t-shirts, and even those who spent the evening getting cosy with the toilets left on Sunday with a big grin and some rather interesting

(if patchy) memories. We were given a beautiful Saturday, a lot of laughter, and on Sunday awoke to Sheffield snow, convincing all to head to pubs and cafes for yet more tea and plenty of stories.

The University Mountaineering Club has it all extreme sports, great people, a fondness for parties, and the result is a year full of bizarre and memorable trips. Make sure you dont miss out next year...

Simon Cox