Edinburgh International Book Festival Logo Mark writes: Just want to say a big thank you to theonering.net for posting the article about John Howe attending the Edinburgh Book Festival. I was lucky enough to attend the event last night, at which Mr. Howe spoke about his work illustrating for various projects, including of course The Trilogy. The interviewer did ask if he was involved in The Hobbit films in any way, but he only said (understandably) that it was too early to discuss it. We saw a slide show of concept art from the Trilogy in which there were pictures yet unseen in even the “Art of…” book series or DVD special features. The talk was fascinating, and Mr. Howe was not only very open and in-depth about his work, but had a great sense of humour too. A few members of the audience had the opportunity to ask questions as well, and there was even time for autographs and photos at the end. Overall, it was just a great night! Any more posts for events happening in Scotland or in the UK are most welcome!

Astrid Nielsch Musician ‘Asni‘ sends this along: I’ve been working hard promoting my CD launch in the last few weeks. For those interested, below is my media release. I have finally managed to do a little work on my “Travelguide to Middle-earth” section, at least the photos and the info in this press release are online now, and it looks a wee bit nicer.

If you live anywhere near enough Wellington, please do note the date of the launch in your calendar! It is intended to be a bit of a farewell gig, since I plan to focus on things other than performing in the future – it may be quite a while until you get another chance to see and hear me live! So, do come – and don’t say you haven’t been warned. 🙂 Continue reading “New Tolkien Themed CD to Launch in Wellington”

TORN  Cruise Garfeimao writes: Celebrity Cruises is having a big sale this week to celebrate the upcoming Labor Day Holiday. The November 23 departure on the Millennium, the ship carrying our Cruise to Middle earth group, is one of the eligible sailings. This particular sale includes on board credit of $150 per cabin to be spent on pretty much anything you want on the ship. This particular promotion is only valid for new bookings.

But there are other promotions going on right now as well. Celebrity is now pushing to fill up their sailings down to New Zealand and have a whole host of other price codes available to the discerning Hobbit looking for a last minute vacation. You may qualify for a Regional Sale (depending on your state of residence), a Senior Discount (begins at age 55) or an Discounted Air Promotion (only certain cabin categories on the ship qualify). With all these various promotions going on, the only way to know if the Cruise to Middle earth is doable for you is to call me and get a quote for your specific situation. I’ve already applied many of these discounts to my existing group, where applicable, so now it’s your turn. [More Info]

erlakeshot07Our good friends Emerald Rose sent this email along today for those Ringers going to DragonCon 2008:

Emerald Rose are seeking Hobbits, Dwarves, Elves and Humans to perform in a new part of the Evening at Bree Party at DragonCon on Friday night.  The ‘bit’ will be called ‘Stupid Hobbit Tricks’ and well, that probably says enough right there.  If you have a silly (but not dangerous) Tolkien-related thing that you do, email the guys at band@emeraldrose.com or see them Thursday or Friday before Bree at their band table in the Hyatt Concourse.  Also seeking representatives from the Dwarven and Hobbit races for the first ever Middle Earth Quaffing Contest!  No elves, though.  Elves don’t quaff – they sip.  One representative over the age of 21 from the desired races only please.  Quaffing will be done with a non-alcoholic beer substitute of great quality!  Excitement! Danger! Prizes!

Sounds like a great time! Check out Emerald Rose’s official website and learn more about their appearances at the DragonCon official website. [Emerald Rose] [DragonCon]

Ringer Diedye brings us another great FLASHBACK! This week’s flashback details the events that took place in the Tolkien universe between August 17th-23rd. This is a weekly feature that Diedye posts in the forum, so if there is ever a time we don’t post it on the homepage of TORn, make sure to check the Main board in our forums. Click on the link below to transported in time!
Continue reading “Tolkien Flashback August 17th-23rd”

Guillermo Del Toro 2In an interview with Independent Television News (ITN) Limited, Guillermo Del Toro shared his thoughts on how enormous a task directing “The Hobbit” will be.

Del Toro said, “I am very excited, very nervous.  It is very daunting.  I think it is a responsibility.  It is like being handed the keys to the nuclear button.”

Del Toro also talks more about how he’ll work with Peter Jackson and will continue to respect the LOTR world that has already been created.  There’s also a video interview attached to the site.  ITN Limited