About Nu Century Arts
Nu Century Arts combines established world-class names with the new and unknown through theatre and live music. We are always looking for new talent in every area and encourage people to get in touch. Please contact us and share your thoughts through our our multipurpose feedback form.
The Alternative
In addition to programming reputable artists, the Live Box has also developed its own unique performance events. ‘The Battle in the Box’ is a Hip Hop, MC battle with a difference. Rappers perform against a backdrop of live music. Rather than giving way to usual patterns of bad language and bravado, improvising lyrics along with live jazz has brought out the comical, political and often intensely creative elements of Hip Hop that often escape notice.
The Battle in the Box, legitimately claims to be the only Hip Hop, open mic event of its kind in the city: MCs have given impromptu lyrics on Tony Blair’s foreign policy alongside comical critiques of celebrity dress sense. The rappers aren’t direct adversaries but all perform to sharpen their skills, and test their powers of improvising with the finest young jazz musicians.
Similarly, in October 2005, Griotology (an established spoken word event) combined with The Live Box to host an evening of poetry with jazz music. The fluidity of the poetry fused with improvised accompaniment from jazz musicians, has produces new art.
