Zoie Golding - Producer
"I am now the UK Producer for the Rock Challenge. It all began for me in 1996 when I performed in the first-ever UK Rock Challenge. I performed for a further two years at school, then carried on to compete at college. I volunteered for a couple of years, and was then offered a part-time job as Production Assistant, which quickly became a full time post! I was then promoted to Event Manager, and now I am running GRC (UK) Ltd.
It?s a great job! I really enjoy meeting the students and teachers taking part. I love seeing what each school comes up with year after year, but mostly I love seeing so many young people enjoying themselves and knowing that we create so much happiness around the UK! That's the most enjoyable part of Rock Challenge - seeing the kids getting a drug-free high and the chance to perform on stage!" |
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David Beal - Stage Manager and Foundation General Manager
"I've been involved in Rock Challenge since it started (10th year now!). I performed for two years at school and did another two years at college. I then had one year as Assistant Stage Manager before becoming Stage Manager four years ago. Currently I am also the General Manager of the Be Your Best Foundation.
"Within the next two years I would like to see 20,000 students involved with Rock Challenge every year. I also have a personal aim to do every job in Rock Challenge: Event Manager, Compere, Judge etc etc. (Would also like to see Olly off the team ;o) I would also like to see RC ?in the round? style. If not ... "Rock Challenge on Ice!
"I think Rock Challenge is a great way to improve self-esteem and teamwork skills. If just one participant a year quits smoking, drinking or taking drugs then it?s worth all the effort." |
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Dan McCready - Crew
"I was stage crew for my school from 1997 to 1999, then performed at college in 2000. Promotion in 2001...I was the Liaison Teacher, choreographer AND a performer!
"I volunteered for some events in 2002 and 2003 and I?ve volunteered at pretty much the whole tour this year (and am in training to be a Propsmaster). I love working for Rock Challenge because I remember how much fun it was when I was performing so I love giving the kids the same opportunity. (Plus it?s twice as much fun working for the company - I love being on the road and meeting loads of new people!).
It would a dream come true for UK Rock Challenge finally to get TV coverage - I think there will be no stopping us once we achieve that.
In the next ten years I aim to have worked for every Rock Challenge across the globe." |
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Mark Wickham - Crew
"I have been involved with Rock Challenge for eight years, and am currently Props Master. I enjoy the morning and afternoon warm ups and the fun of the day in particular but I also particularly enjoy small sets as they mean I have to do less work!
I'm thrilled about my new pay rise (up to two cans of Irn Bru instead of the regular one!)
I eventually hope to see a Mark Wickham themed entry with costumes so bright you can't stare directly at them for more than 5 seconds." |
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Max - Crew
"2004 was my third year of volunteering for Rocka (and first year of employment ... tho' hopefully not the last ... :)
I loved my first Rocka show with all its energy, music, costume and flair, plus the whole day is just one big laugh. The ethics behind Rock Challenge are quite close to home for me, so I fully support it from that angle as well.
I am doing what I enjoy and seeing so many young people put on some amazing performances that really wow audiences nationwide, with such a high standard and professionalism - it all really makes it worth while.
I would like to see Rocka expand more in the UK and further into Europe but we can?t do this without more money so until that comes we will have to stay as we are.
Being on the road with the crew is an experience to say the least and one I really enjoy. They are all great and such a laugh. Quality times!
My worst bit is "performing" the Mosh - dancing is not my thing, as Zoie will tell you. I don?t care, though - it's all part of the fun!" |
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Olly Ashman - Stage Manager/Props Master
"I am currently a Stage Manager/Props Master. I am now in my fifth year working for Rocka and am one of the only crew who have never performed in a Rock Challenge entry.
My favourite parts of the day are the bits the audience don?t get to see (which is a shame) and also getting to work with some brilliant crews.
I hope to see a lot more shows all across the UK (enough that I can work full time!) and more international shows too. My dream for Rocka would be to have a National Final." |
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Stuart "Ruddy" McGregor - Crew
"2006 was my first year. I volunteered for the whole tour. I think I ran for most teams and forced most of them to listen to my hilarious attempts at holding bay talks. I enjoyed every minute and am hoping to do it again next year if I get the chance. Unfortunately I never had the chance to perform in a Rock Challenge when I was younger but this year I did manage to do the junior finale at Southampton...and forgot half of it!" |
