Ugly Duckling 25/02/2023

Clusk, Boyce, Davidson, all the DJ's, Producers, Technicians and crew members put on the first Ugly Duckling Event in Cheltenham at the Swan. The show was in support of Mind Charity and by 7pm was sold out and reached capacity for the venue which was 350 people. The Bar made £10,500 from the whole event, Everything went very smoothly and was a very successful night. 

What I loved was the fact that it started off with HipHop locals, Farai, Sketchster, Catchy P, with Liam Boyce Djing for them. These HipHoppers are part of a nine man group that I have become quite close with through photography in the years past. This event was the first for about a year since I last saw them perform. The fact that they come out and put on events motivates me to capture it for them so that they are getting photographs that they will be happy with. Most of the crew are quite uncomfortable with getting actual portraits and allowing the photographer up close and in their face, but because I have built that connection with them I have full access, enabling me to move freely and to try and be creative with their images.

Clusk is one of many DJ's I have met in the years I have been in Cheltenham, He started during lockdown and has committed himself since making one of the most eclectic DnB DJ's I know. He brings a very fresh style to the local scene, he has a focused mind on the decks and hates making mistakes, showing me that he has a passion through his perfectionist attitude. He takes it seriously and comes across as a very professional guy. This is his first event that he has created, it has all been in support of good causes such as MIND MENTAL HEALTH CHARITY, The SWAN, Local Business etc. This motivated attitude towards creating events for the people around us is something I recognise as an important value to have when it comes to the music scene but also life in general. Klusk is actively working towards another event in April. 

Alex and Chez, 19 years old, holding down public events with 350 people plus is inspirational and shows that this field/ world isn't too saturated at the moment. Together they are a really lively duo who the local scene love. Fresh sounds and confident attitudes towards the game.