Culture crew

Culturepool came on the blower last Thursday. A chap called Vinny. It was all a bit exciting when he called. Owing to popular demand from you lot, our Goliathian server was starting to throb and glow that strange Dulux shade called Confidential-Yellow. Something it does before it falls over.

We mumbled something about this to Vinny, but he persisted by calling us back. Twice. And we're very glad he did.

Vinny, or Mr Lawrenson Woods to you, runs Culturepool with his partner, Luan.

What does it do? It is the biggest independent members’ group for culture in Liverpool, just celebrating its first birthday. Run with no official funding - yes, that's right - no big wodges of cash and not an 08 badge in sight, it relies on the support of venues and has enlisted more than 500 members. Culturepool, say the organisers, was set up to bring everything that’s great about Liverpool to the people who live in the city and beyond.

The way it works is this: A cultural event is earmarked for members to go to, at least once a month, usually for free or at a discounted rate. And there always a little extra, be it a discussion with dancers, actors, choreographers or artists, or workshops and heated debates in Liverpool pubs were you can invite people outside (if only for a fag).

It's like networking. But with thinking.

Catherine Curtin, a member, says: “I feel every city should have a Culturepool. It was a gateway for me into the city and it’s cultural offerings as I was introduced to events I wouldn’t otherwise have chosen, and often in the most wonderful and unusual venues.

“The care and attention that Luan and Vinny bring to the group makes everyone feel at ease and, as an offshoot, I’ve met so many interesting people!”

Excited? Want to know where will this lot be showing up next? Try the Liverpool Shakespeare Festival next week at the Anglican Cathedral, where the Culturepool crew will be getting their teeth into the Scottish play from 16th August.

And speaking of which, we couldn't let you go without a peep at the Shakespeare Festival's magnificent promo trailer, made in and around the city centre, that does a great job of making you want to go Click here.

You WILL need your speakers/headphones, though, otherwise it just looks like a crazy goth lady wandering through town.

For more information on Culturepool events, see www.culturepool.org.uk