When we posted a sketch of Smaug, little did we know the passion it would unleash. One of the great mysteries about “The Hobbit” films will be the design of Smaug, one of the most influential dragons in all of popular culture. Many have an idea of what the great worm should look like but only people behind the scenes know for sure and they aren’t talking. Thanks to forum member and Ringer Blueman for emailing us his sketch (on the right) to get the party started.  The sketch that gets the most ‘Likes’ will win a copy of the BBC Lord of the Rings radio play! Good luck to you all! [TORN Facebook]

The folks behind the ‘One Man LOTR’ show in Oz have launched a new website to accompany the tour which is taking in all capital cities throughout March and April. Visit www.onemanlordoftherings.com.au for booking details plus a whole load of other info, videos and links about the show as well. (Check out the interactive map of the LOTR journey).

Focalor writes: On 4 and 5 June 2011 the Rotterdam Philharmonic will play in the Netherlands, a true spectacle be heard. In the Great Hall of de Doelen a giant screen showing the film version of Tolkien’s epic The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The music that Howard Shore composed for the film is simultaneously performed live on stage, by the Rotterdam Philharmonic, the Netherlands Radio Choir and the National Youth Choir. Nearly 200 musicians and singers bring Middle Earth to life with the music of one of the best known and most enchanting soundtracks ever. Following the success at the Royal Albert Hall (London) and Radio City Music Hall (New York) now exclusively in the Doelen in Rotterdam, Netherlands. More..

linuxelf sends this in: Sir Peter Jackson was admitted to Wellington Hospital last night with acute stomach pains, and underwent surgery for a perforated stomach ulcer, Sir Peter’s surgery is not expected to impact on his directing commitment to The Hobbit beyond a slight delay to the start of filming.