Exploring Manchester in Spring

Hello from Manchester!

As the warmth of spring unfolds here in the north of England, there's a noticeable shift in the air. Surprisingly, my allergies seem to be less of a nuisance this year, with fewer sneezes and sniffles disrupting my day.

With this newfound sense of ease, I've joyfully shed my winter jacket (some days anyway) and embarked on a journey of exploration, eager to immerse myself in the beauty and wonder of the season.

Exploring North England, especially the Manchester area, is like diving into a storybook filled with charm and history. From Manchester's bustling streets to the serene countryside, there's endless discovery and delight awaiting.

Peel Tower

On a gorgeous spring day, I took a trip to Bury, a historic market town nestled in the heart of Greater Manchester once known for its textile mills.

The destination: Holcombe Hill, home to the magnificent Peel Tower, also known as Peel Monument, paying tribute to Robert Peel, a former UK Prime Minister born in Bury. The tower was built in 1852 at a cost of £1000, and stands 128-feet tall

The climb takes roughly 30 minutes, a relatively straightforward cobblestone path, before transitioning to gravel and rocks, presenting a steeper challenge. Along the way, you pass by picturesque landscapes, grazing goats, and a gradual unveiling of breathtaking views as we ascend.

Upon reaching the top, a panoramic view unfolds, revealing the charming villages of Bury, with clear days offering glimpses of Manchester and even Wales in the distance. While the tower typically remains closed, occasional Sunday openings provide a chance to explore its interior and ascend higher for an unparalleled view.

This was a beautiful day, blending a scenic hike with captivating history, leaving me with memories of a truly enriching experience in Bury.

Confession - Student Film

I'm thrilled to unveil this delightful short film! It's a heartwarming tale, and I had an absolute blast portraying a kind-hearted dad. Without further ado, allow me to introduce you to the story:

Confession begins within the stark confines of a police interrogation room, with a bewildered teenage boy at its center, grappling with uncertainty. As the tension mounts under the relentless scrutiny of the interrogation, a curious realization dawns upon him - perhaps this sterile room isn't what it seems. With a surge of imagination, he dares to envision the unthinkable: could this interrogation room be a figment of his own vivid imagination? Amidst this revelation, he contemplates the daunting prospect of confessing his academic struggles to his parents, only to find that reality may be kinder than his fears.

Did You Get That? - Student Film

The memory of creating this short film will forever linger in my mind, like an indelible mark etched in the fabric of my being. From the eerie chill of a damp forest late at night to the surreal sensation of being devoured by a monster adorned with Hollywood-grade makeup, every moment of this experience is seared into my memory. As the film takes shape, it exceeds all expectations, evoking a sense of pride and satisfaction within me. I'm thrilled to announce that it's being submitted to several prestigious horror film festivals, a testament to the hard work and dedication poured into its creation. While I'm unable to share the full film just yet, I'm excited to offer a tantalizing glimpse through its trailer, a mere taste of the chilling journey that awaits. Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling cinematic venture!

Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast

For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Finally...

As of June 1st, I've made my way to Leeds! It's just a quick train ride away, but the vibe here is definitely different from the bustling "more metropolitan" city life of Manchester.

The last couple of months in Manchester were incredibly exciting. I got new actor headshots done and wrapped up two short films. There are a few more projects in the works, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for more film opportunities. I'm sure there will be plenty more exploratory day trips by train here in northern England in the near future.

Now, it's time to embrace the summer months. I'm hoping for the usual cool climate we've had in recent years—just a few warm days, perfect without air conditioning!

Stay tuned for more updates and enjoy the start of summer!

I really appreciate those who have been reading this blog. Thanks for following along!

ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER

Bob Tapper

actorbobtapper@gmail.com

www.bobtapper.com

Outside US: +01 9494846275

Inside US: (949) 484-6275

Embracing Manchester, UK

Hello from Manchester!

Back in Manchester, folks! Portugal was a blast, but there's no place like being back in north England—especially when it's a quick hop away. The flight was a breeze, and before I knew it, I was back in my element.

My cozy Airbnb is conveniently close to the metro, making my jaunts to the City Center a breeze. Speaking of hustle, I hit the ground running with not one but two student film gigs—one is a horror film that was shot at night in the cold, damp wet forest; and the other is a goofy dad character - talk about range!

Plus, I got those fresh headshots done, so I'm feeling like a whole new me. But it's not all work; England's history, train rides, and scenic countryside have got me buzzing with excitement.

So much to explore, and this adventure is just getting started!

Manchester Cathedral

Manchester Cathedral, a beacon of history and spirituality in the heart of the city, stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of the past. The cathedral's exterior boasts intricate Gothic, while the interior offers a sense of tranquility and reverence with stunning stained glass windows and ornate ceilings.

Adjacent to this grand structure is the striking Gandhi statue, a symbol of peace and resilience. It was unveiled in 2019 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Gandhi's birth in 1869. The statue marks Gandhi's visit to the city in 1931 en route to visit mill workers in Lancashire.

Together, these landmarks create a harmonious blend of culture, art, and spirituality, inviting all who visit to pause and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them in the bustling city of Manchester.

The Royal Exchange Theater

The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester opened in 1976, and is housed in a historic building famous for its circular "in the round" theater design. This unique setup offers an immersive and intimate experience for audiences, complemented by the grandeur of the iconic domed ceiling. The theatre hosts a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary works, making it a significant cultural hub in Manchester. Additionally, the adjacent Royals restaurant provides a stylish dining experience, perfect for enhancing a day or evening at the theatre.

Did You Get That? - Student Film

I had the incredible opportunity to join a student film project through Salford University here in Manchester. Being a part of their three-year film school program was a privilege, especially collaborating with these talented second-year students on a horror film. From the moment I met the director, I had full confidence in the project's potential for excellence. Crafting a horror film involves intricate special effects work, but the team's dedication to detail truly paid off—the film, from its visuals to its sound design and effects, exceeded expectations. While the film is complete, it's currently being submitted to various horror film festivals, so it's not yet available to the public. Although it may take some time before it's widely shared, I'm excited to offer a glimpse behind the scenes with some of my favorite snapshots from the production process!

"Did You Get That?" - Synopsis: Ross begins to question the morality of having a narcissistic non-believer as a co-host on his supernatural investigation show. When they learn rumors of a demonic force in the woods are true, they must flee from the creature they sought out.

Actor Headshots

It's headshot update time again! Yup, that's right—I recently headed back to my go-to photographer for a fresh round of snaps. And let me tell you, actor headshots are like our secret weapon in the biz! They're our first chance to dazzle casting directors and agents, showcasing our vibe and talent in one killer shot. From the soft smirk to the full-on intensity, each expression paints a picture of the characters we can become and the tales we're itching to share. So here's to another year of capturing our essence and chasing those dreams!

Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast

For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Finally...

This is my fourth year here in the north of England, and I've noticed a trend – March and April seem to be prime months for snagging acting gigs in student films. With Manchester being a hotspot for creative types at the many schools and universities here, there's no shortage of opportunities for filmmakers to cut their teeth. From first year to graduates, everyone's scrambling to wrap up their projects before May hits. That means plenty of chances for actors to get in on the action, especially if they've got an American English accent like mine.

But as we head into May and the summer months, things tend to quiet down. Schools are out, and the pace slows. So while I'll still be on the lookout for work, it's probably a good idea to find other ways to fill the time. Up here in the north of England, there's plenty to explore – maybe it's time to hit the road and see what this beautiful landscape has to offer.

I really appreciate those who have been reading this blog. Thanks for following along!

ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER

Bob Tapper

actorbobtapper@gmail.com

www.bobtapper.com

Outside US: +01 9494846275

Inside US: (949) 484-6275

Lisbon and Beyond

Hello from Lisbon!

Welcome to March in Lisbon! As the calendar flips to its final page, I find myself determined to make the most of every moment in this vibrant city before my departure. While the weather has been teasing us with the promise of warmer days ahead, intermittent rain showers remind us that spring is still in its early stages. Despite the unpredictable weather, there's an undeniable energy in the air as tourists begin to trickle in, eager to explore Lisbon's charms.

In between dodging raindrops, I've been seizing every opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of this enchanting city. From wandering through cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings to savoring the flavors of Portuguese cuisine, each day brings new adventures. And amidst the exploration, I've also found time to indulge my creative side, delving into some exciting film projects that capture the essence of Lisbon's allure.

The Funicular da Graca

The Funicular da Graça here in Lisbon dates back over a century. This iconic cable railway whisks you away to the enchanting Graça neighborhood, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Lisbon's rich history. I took in the Baroque architecture of the Church of Graça, and from its upper station, soaked in the panoramic vistas of Lisbon's skyline, capturing its timeless beauty!

Lost in Lisbon: The Final Film

Our filmmaking group issued a creative challenge: craft a film incorporating a minimum of three items from a selection of 15 props, while seamlessly integrating two designated lines into the script. In total, nine entries were submitted for consideration. Among them, mine stood out for its brevity—clocking in at around three minutes—and its comedic tone. While I'm uncertain if my entry will clinch an award, the true victory lies in eliciting laughter from the audience.

Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast

For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Finally...

As I mentioned last month, developing friendships and professional relationships can be hard. But saying goodbye for now is always bittersweet.

I'm happy with what I accomplished during these past few months: A group came together to film a Christmas movie with me called The Christmas Market. To me, this film will be something I view every December along with other Christmas classics 🤶. Wonderful holiday memories.

It was an amazing experience to film a Portugese film called Delicious Assortment of 5 Chcolates with some talented actors, and playing my ukulele was so much fun. It's being entered in a film festival here, so any exposure is always good.

I entered my film called Lost in Lisbon into a film challenge. Making this film was a good learning experience and really enjoyable to do. I hope it gives people a chuckle.

I shared laughs and drinks with old friends, some new ones on Friday nights. Overall, it was a sucessful time and I can't wait to return. I'm not sure when, but I know I'll be back.

But next up is the north of England and the city of Manchester!

I really appreciate those who have been reading this blog. Thanks for following along!

ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER

Bob Tapper

actorbobtapper@gmail.com

www.bobtapper.com

Outside US: +01 9494846275

Inside US: (949) 484-6275