Just for Him

Beer Whisperers Candle, £25, Red Candy

Barbour Striped Top, £99.95, www.barbour.com

WOLF Cub Watch Winder, £269, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Thomas Sabo Bracelet, £79, John Lewis

Sheepskin Slippers, £36, Soak & Sleep

Valentine’s isn’t just for her, how about treating the man in your life a gift he’ll love

Montblanc Turn Down Cufflinks, £220, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Cashmere Scarf, £145, Heating & Plumbing London

Jersey Boys are Beggin’ to Entertain Us

Jersey Boys are ‘working their way back’ to Milton Keynes this February and we were lucky enough to catch up with Michael Pickering (Frankie Valli), Lewis Griffiths (Nick Massi), Blair Gibson (Bob Gaudio), and Dalton Wood (Tommy DeVito) who talk nostalgia, gambling and Covid.

What can audiences expect when they come to see the show?

Dalton: They’re in for a fun-filled night with amazing music, on top of which, there’s a true and gritty story. It’s all-round entertainment.

Michael: It’s one of those shows where if someone says ‘My husband won’t come see a musical’ this is the one you bring them to because they’re going to love musicals after seeing it. Sometimes men get dragged along to it and they leave going ‘Oh my God that was amazing’. It’s a wonderful night out.

Is it just what audiences are craving right now, after all the lockdowns and restrictions?

Michael: Absolutely. It’s got such a great story, everyone loves the music, and it kind of relates to the world we’re living in at the moment because the Four Seasons went through such hard times yet they kept going. It’s an inspiring story and we all need that at the moment.

Lewis: With the greatest respect to Jersey Boys I think faithful theatre audiences are craving anything they can get their hands on. But Jersey Boys just happens to be one of those shows that puts life into perspective and makes you smile at the same time.

Why do you think there’s still such nostalgia for the music?

Michael: No-one has come close to touching it since. They had the four-part harmonies and Frankie’s unique falsetto, and they were a group - they were a team and a family, not some manufactured band. They loved what they did and they worked hard to get to the top.

Dalton: Frankie is still out there and still going strong, which helps keep the music alive as does the show. Beggin’ is a hit all over again, which is amazing, and all their music is just incredible. That’s why it keeps coming back round again and again.

Blair: The songs are classics. As Dalton says, Beggin’ is now one of the bestselling songs around the world and it originally came out in 1967. Their music is timeless.

How would you describe your respective characters in the show?

Michael: Frankie Valli has the biggest heart and a wonderful talent. What he lacks in stature he makes up for in heart and I think he falls on hard times because of how much he gives to his family and friends.

genius and the strong, silent type. He’s incredibly enigmatic, with his quirks and his isms, and he’s dealing with his demons - which really resonates in this day and age where there’s more awareness of mental health.

Blair: Bob is the composer who wrote all the songs for the Four Seasons as well as for other artists. He also had a role in the production side of things, especially later on in their careers. He’s very pragmatic and very logic-driven, which is what the group needed at the time, and it’s part of the reason they’re still big and still successful today.

Dalton: Tommy is the one who started the band. He has his issues; he’s a big gambler and gets into money troubles. But he’s the one that brought them all together and he’s such a big character to play.

There are so many great songs in the show. Do you have any favourites to perform?

Dalton: I love the big three, so that’s Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry and Walk Like a Man. Those were the group’s first big hits. We perform them one after another. The dance moves and the harmonies come out - they’re such fun to perform.

Michael: For me it’s Cry for Me, which comes quite early in the show. It shows the boys coming together one by one and it’s the first time they hit their harmonies and go ‘This is it’.

Lewis: Beggin’ is so infectious. It’s groovy but it’s dark and gritty. It’s an uplifting pop song but with a deep meaning to it in terms of the lyrics and where it falls in the story. I also love Stay because it comes after a really intense, explosive scene and it shows them lacing up their shoes, straightening their ties and stepping out in front of a crowd. It’s like ‘We’re still here, we’re thriving, and we love what we do’ and that’s kind of a metaphor for myself and people who are striving to work in the theatre industry at the moment. Kudos to anyone that’s doing it. Blair: I love Let’s Hang On because it’s when they’ve come out of a period of darkness and angst and it’s all about the

It’s not just a jukebox musical, is it?

Lewis: Absolutely not. It can easily, mistakenly be labelled a jukebox musical by people who aren’t familiar with the terminology but it’s actually a play. Jersey Boys has always been a play where this incredible back catalogue of music is interwoven through the story chronologically.

Dalton: It’s a play with songs because it tells their story. You get all the music everyone still loves and wants but you also get a gripping true story.

Blair: People come expecting the songs they know and love but they go away having learned something because not everyone knows the ins and outs of the plot. It’s almost like a documentary told by the band themselves. You get different points of view on the same story from these four people who are four very different guys. It’s a very dramatic narrative but also has that feel-good element. I feel good just doing it.

How have audiences been so far?

Lewis: It’s been such a pleasant surprise. Theatre has been a long-suffering victim of the pandemic and there’s some apprehension but they’re coming back to theatres in droves and loving it. They’re showing their approval by having a great time.

Dalton: We’ve had standing ovations every night so far and fingers crossed that carries on. The reaction has been so positive and for us as performers it’s just nice to be back out there again after so long.

What do you hope people will feel when they leave the theatre?

Dalton: We end the show with such joyous numbers everyone knows, even if they weren’t around at the time they first came out. They’ll leave upbeat and happy. They’ll have had a fun, energising evening whilst learning a bit more about the

Four Seasons’ story along the way.

Blair: It has peaks and valleys, with fun moments and some really dramatic ones. It gives you feel-good moments then brings you back down to earth before ending with Who Loves You – a song that everyone knows and which has everyone on their feet. I think they’ll leave feeling ecstatic but also surprised by what they’ve learned. We’ve had so many people say ‘We had no idea about the story, we just came for the music’. There’s a lot of appreciation, which is always nice to hear.

Jersey Boys is at Milton Keynes Theatre from

Wednesday 23rd February to Saturday 5th March. For tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes.

TRAVEL

The Maldives

The Fellows HoUSE A Cultivated Retreat

T

here’s something for everyone when it comes to Cambridge, whether it’s history or culture, coffee shops or boutiques, idyllic streets and of course punting. The choice is endless it is a city that some even say ‘changed the world!’

And now amongst the many places to stay, there’s a new kid on the block, located a short walk from the city centre, and a stone’s throw from the River Cam and Jesus Green, is The Fellows House part of the Hilton Hotels ‘Curio Collection’ and the perfect base to explore and unlock the history of this famed city.

From outside, the building is unassuming, but walk through the doors and you are met with a unique luxury and distinctive combination of contemporary and classic elements all inspired by the city’s colleges, specifically of course, the fellows.

A rich, deep colour palette of walnut, burgundy and metallic tones intertwined with artwork that includes a stunning oil painting of Dr Davidson Nicol (the first black African fellow at Cambridge) and you know that a lot of thought has gone into creating an ambient, historic aura.

Behind the Cipollino Ondulato Rosso marble reception desk is a floor to ceiling wooden pigeon hole cabinet (the kind once popular in colleges). Each pigeon hole is labelled with a word in an old typewriter font, which on their own are meaningless, but put them all together and they form a poem by a Cambridge fellow. The Fellows House houses 131 rooms from standard through to apartments and duplexes. The majority though are apartment-style rooms and of course they are named after influential Cambridge graduates.

We were staying in one of the apartments – A large space with a fully kitted out attention to detail kitchen with fridge, hob, dishwasher, pans, crockery, cutlery, even a cookbook, in case you feel like becoming the next Nigella Lawson during your stay!

Adjacent to the kitchen is the living and dining space, where earthy grey tones, muted neutrals and sleek furnishings create a relaxing, luxurious ambience.

There’s a Flat screen TV in both the living area and bedroom, with a King- Sized bed, soft pillows, crisp white sheets and the fluffiest of gowns.

The little details are what makes a stay extra special, a gift bag of goodies that included bottles of fruit juice, gin, tonic water and a copy of Thomas Hardy’s ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ were all a welcome treat and the White Company toiletries in the bathroom were the icing on the cake. You can’t have all these treats and not indulge, so after an invigorating rainfinity shower it was time to curl up in the corner wrapped in a fluffy gown, slowly sipping a Gin & Tonic!

Before getting too comfortable and not moving from my spot it was time to explore the pool. The lift takes you directly down to pool level so no need to change out of your

fluffy gown. The pool is small and intimate surrounded by comfy loungers with a sauna and steam room off of it. There’s even a separate gym if you’re feeling energetic – I wasn’t - chilling by the pool was enough for me.

Dinner was served in The Folio Kitchen, a combination of contemporary and classic décor within a fresh and invigorating colour palette. Walls and columns are clad in whitewashed brick with original artworks adorning them, there’s even a romantic poem written nearly 100 years ago by a Chinese student and a leader of China’s New Culture. With splashes of burnt orange, sage green and brown leather upholstery set against antiqued mirrors and a geometric black and white tiled floor, The Folio Kitchen is another nod towards the fellows and their history.

The cocktail menu is a dream, it has all the classics along with specially themed cocktails, all encapsulating the theme of the hotel through their names and ingredients ‘The Day Dream’ Alfred Tennyson (Linden Leaf 8 Gin, rhubarb syrup, lime, strawberry and soda) and ‘The Enigma’ after Alan Turning’s Biography (Dark and White Rums, pineapple, passion fruit, tikki bitters and absinth) were our choices and what great choices they were, our taste buds were suitably tempted and we were ready to dine.

The menu was full of tempting dishes but after much deliberation we opted for the Avocado accompanied with a Rice Bowl and Scallops with Celeriac, both dishes were impeccably presented and were infused with flavours and textures that had our taste buds wanting more.

The mains consisted of Lamb served with vegetables, spiced cous cous, lamb jus and a tomato & mint relish creating a real explosion of tastes - perfection on the palette. Rib eye served with all the trimmings was another treat, cooked exactly as requested and well rested it literally melted in the mouth.

Dessert was an indulgence too far for me, I was full, but hubby had no such problem and delved into the Berries & Meringue, light and refreshing and the perfect way to end a delightful dining experience.

But the evening didn’t end here, it would have been sacrilege not to indulge in another cocktail at ‘The Folio Bar’ and soak up the atmosphere of what can only be described as a ‘Private Members Club’ that surrounds itself with soft low lighting, sumptuous sofas and armchairs (Sherlock Holmes wouldn’t look out of place here), a cosy log fire and a pool table that just sat perfectly within the curios and history of this unique hotel.

After a peaceful and restful night sleep breakfast the next morning was a laid back relaxed affair, which set us up perfectly for a full day of exploring.

The Fellows House is a treasure trove of hidden artwork, history and architecture, around every corner there’s something new to discover, a cultivated retreat for business or pleasure and guaranteed to have you wanting to return time and time again.

BOOK IT

Rooms at The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton, start from £170 per night for 2 people staying in a Kipling King room on a B&B basis.

For more information, or to book visit

www.thefellowshousecambridge.curiocollection.com

Celebrating a Month of Love at Shangri-La The Shard, London

This February, Shangri-La The Shard is conjuring up new and unforgettable ways to show appreciation to all the loves in your life, whether it’s a partner, parent or friend, in one of London’s most iconic settings. Ensuring no one is missed by Cupid’s arrow this year, Shangri-La The Shard has created an array of special experiences, with heart, to mark the month of love.

Pulling out all the stops for a luxurious getaway in the clouds, rooms and suites can be transformed with heartshaped balloons, bouquets of flowers, hand-made chocolates, caviar and rosé champagne to sip against the backdrop of the capital’s skyline – from sweeping daytime views to romantic sunsets and twinkling evening lights of the city below.

During the month of love, spend quality relaxation time at Western Europe’s highest Sky Pool, gym and sauna, with unique views over landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, topped off with a blissful Neal’s Yard Remedies Valentine’s couples’ aromatherapy massage performed either in one of the hotel’s serene treatment rooms, or in the comfort of your own room.

Priced from £745 per night, the Love is in the Air package includes:

A one-night stay in a luxurious room or suite, with breakfast for two at TĪNG A bottle of chilled rosé champagne in your room A bouquet of flowers and hand-made chocolate Use of the Sky Gym, infinity Sky Pool and sauna

couples’ massages by selecting from our Valentine’s experience menu when booking.

Throughout February, foodies will also find special loveinspired culinary creations at Shangri-La The Shard’s spectacular restaurants and bars:

The ultimate date night at TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge

TĪNG, on Level 35, is offering a decadent Valentine’s Day menu featuring Maldon oysters with rose and passionfruit, camembert ‘fondue’ with asparagus and truffle, and heartshaped chocolate mousse. With the option to pair each course with wines selected by the hotel’s expert sommelier, and a signature Midnight Delight cocktail, there’s no better way to enjoy your special moment.

Availability: Valentine’s Day set menu available 11th-28th February 2022, priced from £150 per person. To book, visit: ting-shangri-la.com

Take love sky high at GŎNG Bar

Revel in London’s best views at the highest hotel bar in Western Europe this Valentine’s Day. Your front row seat to the city skyline comes with a bottle of Louis Roederer Rosé Champagne, an Asian sharing platter, and delicious dessert in the most romantic of settings.

For the month of love, GŎNG’s extensive cocktail menu will feature the fragrant Pink Azul, made with Ocho Blanco tequila, Campari, rose and lavender. Continue your celebrations at home with an Asian-inspired Love Potion bottled cocktail, which includes Courvoisier cognac, Havana rum, Sake and a flash of gold.

@seachiic @seachiic

Availability: Available from 11th – 14th February 2022, with rosé champagne and platter priced from £295. The Pink Azul cocktail will be served until the end of February 2022.

To book, visit: gong-shangri-la.com

Cosy up with love cocktails at Hütte 31

At ground floor Hütte 31, Valentine’s visitors will find cosy outdoor wooden chalets with soft blankets and guaranteed ‘snow’; a wintry hideaway to enjoy a selection of cocktails created by mixologists for the month of love, alongside traditional Austrian delicacies from Nuernberger Sausage Rolls and Chicken Schnitzel. Try the Flamey Viola, with watermelon liqueur, Ketel one vodka, fresh apple and prosecco, or the Mr Wild, with Wild Turkey rye whiskey, Maker’s Mark bourbon, fresh orange, lime and honey.

Availability: Love Cocktails available from 11th – 28th February 2022, from £11 each, or two for £20. Chalets seat up to four people.

To book, visit: bar31.com

For more information, visit

shangri-la.com/london/shangrila