Ted Hope and Christine Vachon in Digbeth

In one of those unexpected speaker/venue combinations (see also Crispin Glover at the Light House), American producers Ted Hope and Christine Vachon are guests of honour at a special networking evening at the Spotted Dog on Warwick St in Digbeth this Thursday 7th April, from 6pm. Between them they've been responsible for a big chunk of interesting American cinema over the past couple of decades, including the likes of American Splendor, Kids, Boys Don't Cry, Hedwig and the Angry Inch as well as assorted movies by Ang Lee, Todd Haynes, Todd Solondz and many others. The evening is supported by Staffordshire University and Swish Productions, and costs £10 or £7 concessions. [via Film Birmingham]

Kicking off the same night and continuing until Saturday, Ikon Gallery are hosting their first music festival: Rites of Spring. Featuring the likes of Modified Toy Orchestra, epic45, Fyfe Dangerfield, Matmos and Martin Creed, this is your last chance to say farewell to much-loved gallery space (and Flatpack venue) Ikon Eastside.