BN1 Magazine April 2024

FIND HOUSEPLANTS & HAPPINESS

Have you visited Brighton’s green lane?

Explore our vibrant retail, culture and foodie hotspot in the heart of the Lanes. Our pedestrian Lane adorned with iconic art murals and green wall is home to makers, designers, food artisans and pioneers. Breathe in some fresh air and step into Spring at Hanningtons Brighton.

Hugo & Green new to Hanningtons

Win TGE Tickets

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WAKEHURST CHAMPIONS

THREATENED HABITAT IN NEW SUMMER ART PROGRAMME

Forming the most ambitious summer programme to date for RBG Kew’s wild botanic garden, Meadowland at Wakehurst presents a series of bespoke art installations. Running on Fri 14 June – Tues 10 Sept, this new show features works specially commissioned for the 535-acre site to give voice to one of Britain’s most critically threatened habitats – the meadow. Meadowland forms both a celebration of the diverse wildflowers, grasses and wildlife that form these precious ecosystems, and a rallying cry to unite people in protecting the rare habitat for future generations.

Wakehurst is home to a range of beautiful biodiverse meadows – from the ancient Hanging Meadow in the Loder Valley Nature Reserve to Coronation Meadow created in 2015 as a response to the then Prince of

Wales’ call for new wildflower meadows marking 60 years of the late Queen’s reign. Across the country, it is today estimated that only 1% of species-rich meadows survive in active management and continue to be lost at an alarming rate. The scale and speed of this decline represents a conservation catastrophe. Responding to this critical state, Wakehurst has developed Meadowland to champion this threatened habitat in its time of great need.

Working in collaboration with leading artists on four new installations, Wakehurst hopes to connect visitors with the grasslands that serve such an important role for both the environment and society. Nestled across the landscapes, the bespoke commissions will draw explorers down new paths through Wakehurst’s vibrant meadows. Taking inspiration from swishing grasses, buzzing pollinators, bursts of colour, and hidden voices, the artworks span a multitude of creative mediums from audio and film to sculpture and textile.

For the first time in a summer programme, Wakehurst’s own horticulturalists will also explore their creative side, as the meadows themselves become a canvas for important stories, illustrating the symbiotic relationship between humans and grassland.

Highlights include five 3.5m tall wooden gateways decked in multicoloured prayer flags form a shrine to the plants and pollinators of meadows in The Wings Flutter, Grasslands are Alive from artist Saroj Patel. There’s also a giant steel gramophone, which gives nature a voice, projecting a series of interviews with meadow wildlife recorded onsite at Wakehurst, from audio producer Annabel Ross, composer and sound artist Alice Boyd and sculptor Donnacha Cahill.

Elsewhere, a portal to a parallel world reveals what life might be like from a bee’s perspective in Beeline, a bespoke audio-visual piece from Heinrich & Palmer. A circle of colourful woven chairs handmade in Dakar will offer a peaceful haven to slow down and enjoy the natural surrounds of the Asian Heath Garden, all designed by Tord Boontje and inspired by traditional Senegalese weaving practices. A multitude of mown paths through Wakehurst’s Coronation Meadow will afford visitors an intimate audience with plants and wildlife – complete with quotes from inspirational figures carved into ash saved from the gardens.

Wakehurst’s 40-acre ancient parkland, South Park, is opening to the public for the very first time. To accompany the sights, there’s a series of events planned, which will offer activities for all ages

throughout the summer months, from music, aerial performances and fire dancing in Wanderwild, to the next plant-saving mission for young planet protectors in Nature Heroes: Flower Power.

For more information and tickets, head over to: www.kew.org/ wakehurst

Wakehurst’s

For more information and tickets, head over to: www.kew.org/wakehurst

Bloomers Valley at Wakehurst, Jim Holden © RBG Kew

Hanging Meadow, Jim Holden © RBG Kew 2019

Millennium Seed Bank Meadow at Wakehurst, Jim Holden © RBG Kew

Towner Eastbourne will present an ambitious solo exhibition by Emma Stibbon that explores the beauty and fragility of our planet. Melting Ice / Rising Tides is Stibbon’s first large-scale show at a major UK institution and will look at the warming environment of the polar regions and the impact this is ultimately having on the changing UK coastline, focusing on the Sussex shoreline local to Towner. For a number of years she has been observing and recording the precariousness of the polar ice sheets and glaciers and the profound effect that ice melt is having on global sea level rise. Melting Ice / Rising Tides will be a culmination of this work, making important connections between the apparent remote extremes of our planet and our local environment.

The exhibition will feature as its centrepiece Cliff Fall, 2023, a monumental and ambitious wall drawing and installation representing the rock falls that are an increasingly common occurrence on the UK coastline. Alongside it will be shown a

selection of Stibbon’s large-scale drawings and prints depicting vast ice fields and towering bergs, made in response to recent field trips to Svalbard in the High Arctic, and the Weddell Sea, Antarctica. The exhibition’s narrative around coastal movement, change and erosion, will be completed with a range of new drawings of the sea and coastline of Sussex.

Stibbon’s work is provoked by the wonder and drama of nature but underpinned by contemporary anxieties about our precarious future. Her work is grounded in research gathered ‘in the field’; recording observations through drawing, photography and film, which is then developed into larger scale works in her studio. The physical materials of site such as chalk, carbon and sea water, are often brought into her drawings or used as her drawing media, evoking the elusiveness of the subject in the material fabric of her work.

The show will create an immersive experience for the viewer, aiming

to act as a stark reminder that the seemingly remote events of polar ice sheet melt is directly connected with the changes that we are witnessing in our local, more familiar UK landscape.

“As an artist I am a witness to what is happening in my lifetime - the challenge is how to render this uncertain future to audiences. Whilst scientific data clearly demonstrates dramatic increases in global warming is leading to Polar ice melt and rising sea levels, there is this growing gap between our understanding and our willingness to change our behaviour. I believe and

hope that creative methods of communication can engage our emotions and help galvanize us into action” said Emma Stibbon

“We are delighted to open our 2024 summer season with a new show by Emma Stibbon, revealing her newest works for the first time to the public. Emma’s work is a perfect fit for our galleries, talking to our unique place between the South Downs and the coast, and our wider interest in exhibiting work that sheds new light on the natural world, landscape or climate change” said Sara Cooper, Head of Exhibitions and Collections, Towner Eastbourne

REGISTER TO VOTE

There’s elections fast approaching all over Sussex, and we might be faced with a General Election sooner rather than later. But are you able to participate? Will you voce be heard when millions of people go out and choose their representatives, or can those who the big decisions ignore the needs of you and your community?

Registering to vote has never been easier. In the time it takes to make and upload a TikTok video, you can give yourself an opportunity to take part in the democratic process. Yet a lot of people simply don’t bother. Around 44 million people are estimated to be eligible to vote at this year’s May elections in England and Wales. Yet as many as 7 million people are either incorrectly registered or missing from the register entirely.

While it’s not as interesting as watching cat videos, we need to celebrate and take pride in our ability to be part of the democratic process celebrate and take pride in being on the electoral register. Amongst those becoming voluntarily disenfranchised are young people, ethnic minorities, and the disabled

– coincidentally the groups most frequently overlooked by politicians. So, elections are an important opportunity for people to have a say on issues which impact them. In these uncertain times, it’s becoming more important than ever that people are registered. Anyone who wants to cast a ballot in the May elections has until the deadline on 16 April to register.

There’s also a new voter identification requirement. Voters will need to show photographic ID at polling stations, which include passports and driving licences. If you don’t own an acceptable documentation, free voter ID is easily available from your local council. The deadline to apply for free voter ID for the elections on Thurs 2 May is 5pm on Weds 24 April. No matter who you vote for, make sure you can still take part.

Discover more at: www. electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-andelections

Register to vote today. It’s quick and easy, just go to gov.uk/register-to-vote

CHICHESTER GETS ENERGISED FOR EASTER

Chichester is full of family-friendly activities and charming places to discover. Whether you're moving to the music at the CFT, unleashing your creativity at Pallant House Gallery or stepping back in time at The Novium Museum, there's plenty of choice for everyone.

Chichester’s Family Arts Network is made up of six welcoming organisations from across the city. These have collaborated to enhance the city's vibrant family offering, aiming to provide engaging events and experiences for all ages. As the Easter holidays approach, we've selected some of the best events for children over the two weeks!

EASTER BOAT TRIPS @

Chichester Canal

Fri 29 March – Sun 7 April

The Chichester Ship Canal runs four miles from the Southgate basin in the heart of Chichester to the Chichester Harbour at Birdham. An area of outstanding natural beauty, the canal offers visitors opportunities for activities such as boat trips, canoeing, fishing, walking and rowing. Some of the boat trips you can take on the canal are the Fish & Chips Cruise, the Cream Tea Cruise, Easter Boat trips, Education on the Canal and more. Perfect for all the family the canal trust is run by volunteers and is a registered charity. Currently promoting Boat Trips for Easter.

£15

www.chichestercanal.org.uk

EXPLORE CHICHESTER CATHEDRAL THIS EASTER @ Chichester Cathedral, Mon – Sat (9am-5pm) & Sunday (12.30-2.30pm)

Step back in time to explore over 949 years of English history as you wander through the Cathedral. From mediaeval marvels to awesome architecture, there’s something for all the family to enjoy. After your exciting exploration of the Cathedral, head over to Cloisters Kitchen & Garden to refuel with some hearty meals or scrumptious cakes. www.chichestercathedral.org.uk

THE BRICK PEOPLE @ Chichester Festival Theatre,

Tues 2 April (10am – 4pm)

Love LEGO®? The BRICK People are coming to CFT with loads of LEGO® and Duplo® activities and we’re super excited. Come along to build mosaics and towers, take part in speed challenges, and get your name on the leaderboard. Plus lots of amazing creations. www.cft.org.uk

EARLY YEARS FAMILY JAMBOREE @ Chichester Festival Theatre, Sun 7 April (10am – 4pm)

A fun-filled day for children under 5 and their families. Music, shows, dance, arts and crafts, toys, colouring-in, fancy dress, face painting and books. www.cft.org.uk

CREATION STATION @ Chichester Festival Theatre

Tues 9 April (10am & 11am)

More fun-filled craft sessions are coming! Creation Station Chichester returns to CFT

with their award-winning classes designed to nurture and inspire creative skills and spark curiosity. www.cft.org.uk

FAMILY FUN @ Chichester Festival Theatre, Mon - Sat during Easter holidays. (9am to 5pm)

An expansion of CFT’s family friendly spaces which invite you to bring your preschoolers and catch up with some parent pals. Next to the welcoming Café on the Park, children can discover toys, colouring-in and chalkboards, fancy dress and books in our nooks, while grown-ups can indulge in delicious coffees and cakes - healthy snacks and drinks are available for little ones.

www.cft.org.uk

EASTER MONDAY SPECIAL ENTRY @ Pallant House Gallery

Mon 1 April

Enjoy discounted adult Gallery entry at just £5, when accompanying a child. Children (under 18) always enter for free! The Ways of Looking bags and goat trail will be available as fun ways for children to engage with artworks. www.pallant.org.uk

SEASCAPES & SHAPES @ Pallant House Gallery

Tues 2 April (1-3pm)

Join us for a workshop where young artists will dive into the world of art inspired by the sea. Drawing on the work of John Craxton, kids will cut, layer, and overlap shapes to craft their own unique coastal scene. Using vibrant papers and cards, we’ll fashion buildings, mountains, beaches, and oceans that pop with clear, bold colours. To personalise the artworks, we invite children to bring images of their favourite places.

www.pallant.org.uk

CARDBOARD FACES @ Pallant House

Gallery

Weds 3 April (1-3pm)

This fun-filled workshop will explore the world of Cubism where children will create unique layered masks inspired by John Craxton’s cubist portraits. They can unleash their imagination as they exaggerate facial features and play with proportions to design their very own cardboard masks. Whether it’s bold patterns, funky designs, or a burst of colour, your child’s mask will be a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that reflects their individuality.

www.pallant.org.uk

CREATE YOUR OWN BOOK COVER @ Pallant House Gallery

Thurs 4 April (1-3pm)

Taking inspiration from the innovative book jackets of John Craxton, we’ll delve into the world of modern book cover design. Children are invited to bring their favourite book along. Whether it’s a fairytale, a tale of adventure, or friendship, these beloved stories will be reimagined and brought to life in a visual form.

www.pallant.org.uk

FREE FAMILY OPEN DAY @ Pallant House Gallery

Sat 6 April (10am-5pm)

Visit Pallant House Gallery for free! The Gallery will be open to the public, offering an array of activities for children and families, from creating your own Craxton-inspired goat puppets to trying an informal still life drawing session. Learn more about Modern British art with tours led by Gallery Guides, activity packs and discovery tools in place to help youngsters explore the Gallery in a fun and engaging way.

www.pallant.org.uk

MAY THE TOYS BE WITH YOU @ The Novium Museum,

Until 20 April

Don’t miss your last chance to visit our Star Wars exhibition before it closes on Saturday, 20 April! Showcasing one of the UK’s finest collections of vintage Star Wars toys and original cinema posters, May The Toys Be With You is both a celebration of the highly collectable vintage toy line and of the iconic design work and art of the original Star Wars movies. Dress up as your favourite character, explore our vintage-inspired toy box and discover our interactive drawers!

www.thenovium.org

EASTER TRAIL @ The Novium Museum

Fri 29 March - Sat 13 April

A team of dinosaurs have stolen the museum’s Easter eggs! Help us to find out which dinosaur is the ringleader by finding all the eggs and cracking the case!

www.thenovium.org

Pallant House Gallery Creative Sessions

Photo Chris Ison

SPRING LIVE! HEADS TO SOUTH OF ENGLAND SHOWGROUND

This month offers a unique opportunity to get outside and experience live and interactive entertainment, hundreds of shopping stalls, a food hall, and artisan treats from independent producers. Spring Live! Is a twoday event coming to Ardingly’s South of England Showground on Sat 22 - Sun 23 April

“Spring Live! 2023 promises to be an exciting and unforgettable event,” said Corrie Ince, Show Director at the South of England Agricultural Society. “We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the arrival of spring and to enjoy some fantastic outdoor fun.“

Younger visitors can participate in various activities, including milking Buttercup - the life-sized dairy cow in the Countryside Hub, and have the chance to meet and learn about a variety of other animals, such as sheep, pigs, pygmy goats, rabbits, and reptiles. They can also participate in seed planting, chocolate and circus skills workshops, have a go at wand making, and enjoy the thrill of the funfair, segway course, and a mobile caving experience.

The weekend event is also packed with exciting competitions and activities, including the Alpaca Show,

Sheep Show, flyball, Morris dancing, a fun dog show, Gardener’s Q&A, archery, and axe throwing. This is a great opportunity for families, including their four-legged members, to come together and celebrate the arrival of spring.

For those who enjoy flower arranging, there’s a new workshop available at the 2023 show - visitors can try their hand at creating a Coronation Tea Cup display full of red, white, and blue blooms in celebration of King Charles’ upcoming coronation.

Working across Berkshire, East Sussex, Hampshire & the Isle of Wight, Kent, Surrey and West Sussex, the Society’s aims are to showcase agriculture, horticulture and the countryside through annual shows which also raise funds that help serve the community through the provision of education, grants, awards, and bursaries for people with an interest or involvement in agriculture, horticulture and landbased industries.

For tickets and further information about, head to: www. seas.org.uk

WORK BEGINS ON RESTORATION OF NEWHAVEN FORT

Construction workers have arrived on site to begin a milestone restoration project to transform Newhaven Fort - including opening hidden areas never seen by the public before. The £7.5 million project, which is taking place throughout 2024, means the Fort will remain closed to the public until a grand reopening in early 2025.

The team at the Fort have been busy assessing and preparing for works to begin. These include areas which have never been previously open to the public, including a selection of hidden tunnels.

Lindsay Lawrence, general manager, said: “Since the Fort’s closure to the public and our final school visits, we’ve been working tirelessly to prepare for its transformation - emptying out the casemates, removing old exhibits and carefully moving artefacts into safe storage.

“Our collections custodian Frankie and I have been delving into the history of the Fort, Newhaven and Sussex to research stories for our new exhibits. It’s been a fascinating journey and we’ve uncovered many secrets within the Fort’s walls – including a hidden tunnel revealed in the original 1871 plans.

“Working closely with our design team, we’re creating new exhibits to bring these untold stories to life, with a focus on personal histories to give an insight into ordinary Sussex folk’s lives and experiences.

“We’re so excited to be opening new areas and building brand

new interactive experiences and displays. Our aim is to ensure Newhaven Fort is an exciting visitor attraction which Sussex can be proud of.”

New areas visitors will be able to explore following the Fort’s restoration include its Battery Observation Post, providing a new space to enjoy panoramic views of the Sussex coastline. The Fort’s scenic gun positions will also be reopened after a period of inaccessibility.

Pilbeam Construction, the delivery partner for the project, has revealed the timeline of works, starting with a complete restoration of the Fort’s iconic Romney Hut.

As well as essential works to protect the longevity of the Fort, including structural and drainage works, the restoration project will include improving access and signage across the attraction, to maximise the experience for as many people as possible.

Re-cladding and insulating the Romney Hut in the Fort’s parade square will allow for better yearround access, and a second casemate will be refurbished and open for venue hire. These spaces will be available for weddings, parties, meetings, school groups, community events and more. For younger visitors, the current play area is set to be replaced with a new much larger adventure playground.

To find out more about Newhaven Fort and its restoration project, please visit: www.newhavenfort. org.uk

Restoration begins at Newhaven Fort - Romney Hut.sm

All Images by Beth Mecer

BRIGHTON MUSIC CONFERENCE GETS READY FOR MAY

Brighton Music Conference (BMC) is returning to the i360 complex and various venues around the city on Weds 22 – Sat 25 May. It once again brings together Industry-leading professionals and a programme of insightful talks, workshops and networking events.

The UK’s leading electronic music and networking event, BMC is now in its 11th edition. Amongst the names for BMC 2024 programme are; Adam Carter (Exclusive Promo), A Guy Called Gerald, Alex Grey (Cavendish Music), Alex Branson (ABC Music Podcast/Beatport), Amber Jolene (Defected/DVINE Sounds), Bill Brewster (DJ History), Brandon Block, Caroline the DJ, Chris Goss (Hospital Records), Danny Byrd, Danielle Moore (Crazy P), Dave Pearce, Dave Philpot (Republic of Sync), DJ Paulette, Dominic Hughes (Shogun Audio), Dr. Janek Meyn (AIDAR), Duncan King (Skiddle), Ed Brew (Beatport), Ellie Talebian (DJ/Presenter), Evl Tom (Evil Nine), Hannah Warnes (One House), Heiko Hoffmann (The Orchard), Ian Baird (Brighton & Hove City Council), J-Felix (Tru-Thoughts), James Wiltshire (Freemasons/F9), Johnny Scratchley (Gentleman’s Dub Club), Matt Johnson (The Pool London), Michael Grierson (The House Poet), Michael

Kill (CEO NTIA), Mickey Jukes (1BTN), Mikee Hollywood, Nikki McNeill (Global Publicity), Paul Wells (Elite Music Management), Stanley Li (Point Blank), Tom Shea (Defected) and Wildblood & Queenie.

The award-winning conference (BMC) focuses on innovation, education & the key issues facing the electronic dance music sector. It brings together Industry-leading delegates and speakers at over 60 talks, seminars, workshops, alongside networking events, along with experienced music industry professionals, the next generation of DJs and producers.

Last year the 10th anniversary edition welcomed a record number of attendees and as BMC moves into its next decade, the team are dedicated to creating a friendly and welcoming environment for professionals and enthusiasts in the electronic music industry to learn, network and create business opportunities. BMC is the perfect summer warm up event for industry professionals and music lovers alike.

For more information and tickets, visit: www.brightonmusicconference. co.uk

BMC by James Allam

28 Mar - 4 Aug 2024

ABBA in Brighton, 1974 © Photoshot/Topfoto

PARABLE DANCE CIC RELEASE POWERFUL SHORT FILM

A short film has just been released which shows the story of Artistic Director Natasha Britton BCA and the origins and aspirations for Brighton-based Parable Dance. Launched five years ago, this inclusive company is now leading the way in the inclusive dance industry in the UK.

The film explores Britton’s passion for supporting the learningdisabled community in Brighton and dancers with and without disabilities nationally, through her company. “If I can touch the lives of a few then great,” she says. “If I can support change for many then that is the ultimate goal”.

As Parable Dance nears their fifth birthday, the company has much to celebrate. Recent success with The Arts Council will enable their national networks and training programme to continue, as well as the launch of a new inclusive dance directory, connecting inclusive dance companies and projects all around the UK. They also received support from the National Lottery, who are funding their Brighton based classes for the next year and have been commissioned by Brighton and Hove Council as one of seven companies for SEND holiday club provision in the city.

“I’m incredibly passionate about creating opportunities for people to succeed in dance and for people to have the chance to progress, both for fun and as a career. Training and employing dance artists with learning disabilities on our team is integral to our work and ensuring we’re inclusive in all that we do.”

“I love the varied work we do at Parable Dance. For example in these past few weeks, I have been on an advisory board for a new ISTD community dance teaching qualification, have led sessions for for the Critical Dance Pedagogy Network at Canterbury Christ Church University and have danced in sequins on stage with our Brighton classes at The Dome. We are enthusiastic about connecting with our local community and supporting the wider dance sector, using dance to change lives.”

Much of this is covered in the new 2.5 minute film, made by disruptivmedia.com, which can be found at: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=UZ2JinS79CM

www.parabledance.co.uk

Parable Dance at The Dance SpaceBy Disruptivmedia

Natasha Britton

Still from the new film

Still from the new film

Beryl BTN Bike Sustainable Travel Offer

Beryl BTN Bike riders can now save money by paying for their journeys up to a year in advance by using the new Minute Bundle offer.

Available through the Beryl app, the offer allows riders to buy 100 minutes for £15, but waives the £1 unlock fee every time they ride. It’s designed to help make sustainable transport even more affordable

The Minute Bundles can also be used any time within 12 months of purchase, which maximises convenience and flexibility for customers.

The offer runs alongside existing payment options, including the Pay As You Ride tariff as well as the 30Day, 7-Day and 2-Day Passes.

The Beryl Annual Rider Report for 2023 showed that convenience and cost were the two most important factors to riders when deciding whether or not to use the Beryl BTN Bikes scheme. Of all the Beryl riders asked in Brighton, 97% said convenience and 92% said cost was either somewhat important or very important to them when using Beryl BTN Bikes.

The Rider Report data also showed that, of the riders asked in Brighton that said there was a barrier to riding more often, cost was the most common reason and cited by 63%. Of those that had signed up to use Beryl but had not yet taken a

ride, 47% said that the cost was the barrier to them taking their first ride.

Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis, said: “Our schemes are all about breaking down the barriers to active travel and encouraging as many people as possible out of their cars and onto two wheels.

“By doing this we get people more active, improving mental and physical health across the area, while also contributing towards reducing traffic congestion and cutting the amount of carbon emissions.

“To encourage people to adopt more sustainable travel habits, we need to ensure our schemes are delivered in the best and most user-friendly way possible. We listen to our riders and know, from speaking directly to them, just how much value they place on the costeffectiveness and convenience of our bikes and e-bikes.

“When compared to private car ownership in particular, our BTN Bikes remove the costs associated with fuel, parking, insurance, maintenance, storage, tax and MOT - a significant saving in the current economic climate.”

Since the Beryl BTN Bikes scheme launched on Friday 31 March 2023, it has been very well received. The bikes have generated over 140,000 journeys across more

than 460,000km - the equivalent of around 11.5 journeys around the Earth.

According to direct feedback from riders, around 35,000 of these journeys have directly replaced car, van, taxi or motorbike journeys. According to industry calculations, this has saved nearly five tonnes of carbon emissions - a significant contribution to reducing traffic congestion and improving regional air quality.

With the launch of the Minute Bundle, along with the warmer weather and longer days on the horizon, now could be an excellent time to give the BTN Bikes a try according to Phil.

“We design and build our own bikes right here in the UK. That gives us autonomy over their quality and comfort, so we know they’re accessible and good to ride.

“Riders in Brighton also have the option of e-bikes, a really fun and versatile way to travel. Their extra power can really open up areas, enabling riders to tackle hills and undertake longer journeys. They’re also great for commuting, allowing people to arrive at work clean and ready to go, and for carrying heavier loads such as shopping.”

The Beryl BTN Bikes scheme is operated by Beryl in partnership with Brighton and Hove City Council.

A B-Corp registered company, Beryl is recognised for meeting exceptional standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

Beryl also designs and assembles its own products and industryleading technology in the UK. This contributes to national industry by creating jobs, apprenticeships and opportunities and maintains Beryl’s autonomy over the quality and durability of its products. It also removes the need for mass transportation from abroad, reducing the company’s carbon footprint.

You can hire a Beryl e-bike through the Beryl app, available for free download on the App Store for iOS, and the Google Play Store for Android users.

Once you have registered, simply use the app to find your nearest bike, tap to unlock it and off you go!

When you’re finished, make sure you park up in one of our designated Beryl bays and get on with the rest of your day. During the first phase, bikes must be returned to active bays. You may incur a charge if bikes are left at bays which are currently not in use.

For more information, visit beryl.cc/ brighton

Images by Jake Baggaley

Deafkidz needs your support

Deafness, affecting 466 million worldwide, is the third largest disability, yet remains under-resourced. Deaf children are three times more likely to be abused than hearing children, lacking adequate protection networks. They face barriers accessing essential services due to professionals’ lack of deaf awareness and resources. In lowmiddle income countries, many deaf children aren’t diagnosed, increasing their risk and limiting support. DeafKidz International aims to bridge these gaps by safeguarding deaf children, reducing vulnerability, and ensuring equal access to health, education, and employment.

In their efforts, DeafKidz International focuses on preventing and mitigating the abuse of deaf children, young people, and vulnerable adults. They are currently developing DeafKidz Defenders interactive games to educate and empower deaf children on online safety. Additionally, their Signing Safe Futures project in Jamaica raises awareness of Gender Based Violence (GBV) among deaf women and girls, utilising martial arts and dance workshops led by trained deaf coaches.

They also work to reduce risk and vulnerability by ensuring accessibility

and removing communication barriers for deaf individuals. For instance, their DeafKidz Goal! project in India provides life skills training for deaf children through football coaching, alongside deaf awareness and sign language training for Slum Soccer staff. In Zambia, they deliver Zambian Sign Language training to teachers and parents/guardians of deaf students to enhance communication and inclusion at home and in schools.

Moreover, DeafKidz International ensures equal access to health, education, and economic opportunities for deaf individuals. Their projects in Sub-Saharan Africa and Pakistan focus on increasing access to ear and hearing care services, including outreach screenings in local communities and schools. In Pakistan, their Signing Safe Futures project with Deaf Reach provides educational and parenting support videos in Pakistani Sign Language and Urdu.

Furthermore, they prioritise enhancing deaf-led representation and advocacy, empowering international, regional, national, and local deaf organisations to advocate for the rights of the communities they serve.

Oh hello, Lyndsey here, your friendly City Concierge!

Get your party hats on people, it’s Connected Brighton’s THIRD birthday this month and we are celebrating in style at T@Hove. We’ve got Ruffles the Drag Queen and DJ Lola ready to get us on the dance floor!

I can’t believe we are THREE. Setting up in lockdown to help people make new friends by supporting local has grown into a City Concierge service that provides individuals with a Social Concierge service with small group hosted dinners, experiences and activities.

Now we have expanded and launched our new Business Club, the Connected100, championing local brands and hosting networking events for business owners.

It’s been an amazing journey!

And it’s all because I needed new friends as a Brighton girl born and bred and I wanted to give back to Brighton’s independent hospitality after lockdown almost destroyed the industry. This business really is so personal to me, because this is my home town.

I have LOVED watching new friendships form, relationships blossom and businesses benefit from our love of Brighton. Showcasing the best, hosting bespoke experiences and putting our pound into local.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of Connected Brighton, it takes a village (or in this case a city) to bring a business to life and make it work, and I’m so grateful to have this brilliant City Concierge service. Giving back to my city, the community and making a difference.

This Easter we are all about enjoying the sun (please let there be more sunshine), getting outside and soaking up the Spring vibes. We are taking our members for a Bloody Mary Mastercall with Bloody Ben himself at The Joker, getting our B12 shots at 3D Lipo and Foraging with Brighton Cookery School PLUS our Birthday Party of course!

Quick tip - remember to check out the Abba celebrations as we cheer the 50th anniversary of their iconic Eurovision

win in Brighton, be sure to check out the program of events with Brighton & Hove museums to recognise this milestone in the city’s historic crown.

Stay connected with us - check out our weekly events and give us a follow on Instagram to keep up to

date with what’s happening across the city.

SATURDAY 3RD AUGUST

UK FESTIVAL EXCLUSIVE

BILLY PORTER

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR

HOUSE GOSPEL CHOIR

BETH MCCARTHY

SUNDAY 4TH AUGUST

SPECIAL GUESTS

S CLUB

GABRIELLE

BJÖRN AGAIN

DANNY BEARD

PEACHES

FAT TONY KEVIN AVIANCE

PRINCESS SUPERSTAR

DJ PAULETTE LYNKS HORSE MEAT DISCO

GIRLI UOKHUN MICHELLE MANETTI JENN GETZ & ALFIE

STEPHANI B DJ SAMMY ALISON LIMERICK K-KLASS

DAVE PEARCE DANCE ANTHEMS LIVIN’ JOY FEAT LUZAHNN

THE BITTEN PEACH ROZALLA THE ENBY SHOW

QUEERDOS HÄUS OF DONS JONNY WOO

PRIDE DANCE TENT BEEFMINCE DANCE TENT CABARET BIG TOP DIVA DANCE TENT

POLYGLAMOROUS THE COCOA BUTTER CLUB STAGE INTRODUCING QUEER/ALT STAGE

SOBER BRIGHT’HUNS WITH TONIC TENT QUEERTOWN SHEILA MCWATTIE PERFORMANCE TENT

NOUGHTY 90S BIG TOP TRAUMFRAU ENGLISH DISCO LOVERS

AFFY GO BANG • AL START

CACTUSHEAD

FOXGLUVV

CHRISTAVIE

AMITY MILLER

DJ BARRONESS

AMRICK CHANNA

DJ GAYLORD

HOEDOWN HUNNIES • IAN FARRELL

MASSIMO PARAMOUR

ROSIE BERGONZI

CAPALDI

BOGARD

SEKINUE

ANEESA CHAUDHRY

DJ MIMI

JAMES INDIGO

RODEN

GOLD

FAMILY PRIDE AREA • STREET FOOD VILLAGE

DJ STDAVID

BEE & JACKRABBIT

LANNIE CAMPER

ENGLISH

BILLIE GOLD

EMMA LOVE

IKAMBA

FUN FAIR • COMMUNITY VILLAGE

IVY

'Level Up' Soft Play Centre Arrives at Withdean Sports Complex

With the imminent arrival of "Level Up," the latest addition to the Withdean Sports Complex, Brighton and Hove are gearing up for an exciting new era of family entertainment and healthy recreation. Scheduled to open its doors at the end of April 2024, this joint venture between the Brighton and Hove City Council and Freedom Leisure, promises to be a vibrant hub of activity, catering to the energetic needs of children and families alike.

Designed to address the growing demand for indoor soft play facilities in the area, "Level Up" represents a significant milestone in the city's ongoing efforts to promote health and well-being among its residents. Councillor Alan Robins, chairman of the Culture, Heritage, Sport, Tourism, and Economic Development committee, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to provide a safe, fun, and stimulating environment for youngsters to explore and enjoy.

Beyond its entertainment value, the new centre aims to serve as a platform for social interaction and cognitive development. Through carefully curated play experiences, children will have the opportunity to engage in activities that challenge them both mentally and physically, all within a supervised environment that prioritises safety and inclusivity.

One standout feature of "Level Up" is its provision of supervised play sessions, allowing parents to engage in their own fitness routines while their children are actively engaged in play. With trained staff overseeing these sessions, parents can rest assured that their

little ones are in capable hands, fostering a sense of trust and confidence in the facility.

In addition to its commitment to family fitness, "Level Up" will also host Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) sessions. These dedicated sessions are designed to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for children with special needs, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate and thrive. By tailoring activities to accommodate diverse abilities and offering additional support where needed, "Level Up" strives to create a welcoming space where every child feels valued and included.

As anticipation mounts within the local community, the soon-to-launch soft play centre at Withdean Sports Complex is poised to become a beloved destination for families in search of wholesome recreational activities in Brighton and Hove. Emphasising safety, enjoyment, and inclusivity, the forthcoming establishment represents a beacon of fun, fitness, and family-friendly entertainment in the area.

The imminent debut of this new recreational facility marks an exciting development in the city's leisure landscape, generating considerable enthusiasm among residents.

WIN

WIN an invite for your kids and their friends to the exclusive launch party! Just visit BN1 Magazine to enter! Hurry, entries close on April 10th. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Key Features of Level Up

• Game Element - Tag/Treasure Hunt within the soft play

• Toddler Sensory Zone for the little ones with supervised sessions so you can enjoy the gym!

• Rope Bridges and Web Climbers

• Slides and Spinning Doors

• Big Balls and Bash Bags

• Party Packages available at Weekends

• SEND special Sessions

COSTS

3yrs+: £6.50 / 1 - 3yrs: £5.50 / Under 1yrs: FREE (Parent/Guardian: £1) Parties start at £12 per head

To join the waiting list for the FIRST tickets available please jump on the website at www.freedom-leisure. co.uk/centres/withdean-sportscomplex/level-up-soft-play

Mega Fun Family Fest comes to Haywards Heath

In the heart of Haywards Heath, the Mega Fun Family Fest is poised to transform the South of England Event Centre into a hub of joy and entertainment for families over the weekend of May 11th and 12th, 2024. From 11:00 AM onwards, attendees are invited to immerse themselves in a world brimming with activities, live shows, culinary delights, and a plethora of games designed to foster unforgettable moments among family members.

The festival boasts an impressive array of over 30 inflatables and attractions, ensuring that visitors are spoilt for choice. Among the highlights are colossal obstacle courses, a realm-themed bouncy castle sprawling over 650 feet, and a laser tag arena that promises competitive fun. Exclusive designs of mega bouncy castles and slides, alongside Total Wipeout games, sports zones covering everything from football to golf, and action-packed areas with Nerf wars and surf simulators, guarantee entertainment for all ages. For the younger guests, a dedicated toddler zone offers soft play areas, slides, and more.

Adding to the excitement, the festival will feature a unique dinosaur interactive experience, where families can engage with life-sized prehistoric creatures, offering both educational insights and photo opportunities. The Sea-TACULAR adventure with Junk Jodie and Wanda Whale introduces children to the importance of ocean conservation through creative play and sing-alongs.

A circus workshop invites attendees to learn new skills such as juggling and plate spinning, complemented by the enchantment of giant bubbles and the whimsy of stilt walkers greeting guests in the morning.

The organisers have promised to keep the public updated with more details as the event approaches, urging potential visitors to follow their social media channels for announcements. The inclusive ticketing system allows unlimited access to all attractions (excluding food and drink) for a single price, with a reduced rate for adults and free entry for non-participants, emphasising the festival's commitment to familyfriendly fun.

With attractions tailored to all family members, the Mega Fun Family Fest also addresses adult participation with specially priced wristbands. The event poses a playful challenge to families: who will conquer the obstacle courses or triumph in the soccer challenge?

Encouraging advance booking to secure participation, the festival also offers free parking, making it an accessible day out for families looking to create lasting memories. The Mega Fun Family Fest in Haywards Heath promises a weekend of laughter, adventure, and family bonding, encapsulating the essence of community and entertainment.

For tickets visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mega-fun-family-festhaywards-heath-tickets-795353031327

Here are just a few of the great attractions appearing at Haywards Heath:

• Huge Obstacle Courses

• The Realm Themed Castle – over 650 ft of bouncy fun and slides!

• Laser Tag Arena – Capture the flag and many more games…

• Mega Bouncy Castles and Slides – Many bespoke designs that are exclusive

• Total Wipeout Games – Last Man Standing, Giant Stepping Stones, Warrior Challenge…

• Sports Zones – Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Golf…

• Action Zones – Nerf Wars, Wrecking Ball, Surf Simulator…

• Toddler Zone – Soft Play, Bouncy Castles, Slides, Unicorn Rockers…

Spring into Success with BN1 Magazine! As the blossoms bloom and Brighton comes alive, there's no better time or place to showcase your brand. BN1 Magazine, at the heart of Brighton's vibrant community, offers unparalleled access to a diverse, engaged audience ready to discover what you have to offer. From local events to culture, lifestyle, and entertainment, our content captivates and inspires. This spring, let BN1 Magazine be the canvas for your brand's story, reaching thousands of readers eager for new experiences. Advertise with us and watch your business grow alongside the season. Don't just take our word for it; let your success this spring be our shared story. Choose BN1 Magazine – where your brand meets Brighton's best.

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www.bn1magazine.co.uk

“We believe The Seasons is more than just a local shop. The Seasons embodies a philosophy rooted in organic and biodynamic principles, serving as a hub for vegan, vegetarian, and ecoconscious consumers. We are a sustainable and eco conscious family-run business.”

The Story Of Where It Began

The Seasons was born back in 1971 when a local Quaker, Diana Phillips, recognised a real need in the community for healthy organic foods. Since then the shop has grown and gone from strength to Strength.

In 2012 John Walden, a longstanding director of the shop, bought the business and was joined by his son Robin a few years later…and he has taken the business well and truly into the 21 st century! By the autumn of 2017 they moved out of the premises on the Hartfield Road and created a whole new shop on the site of the old vegetable shop in Medway House. They have been able to offer an even greater range of high quality organic foods all under one roof whilst maintaining their community spirit !

The Seasons Whole foods

Their Green Stance

At the core of their values is a commitment to offering customers an extraordinary range of Organic and Biodynamic Foods. They believe that the way to a healthy society is through healthy foods.

They are a member of the Organic Farmers & Growers Association. Organic means working with nature, not against it. It means higher levels of animal welfare, lower levels of pesticides, no manufactured herbicides or artificial fertilisers and more environmentally sustainable management of the land and natural environment.

By partnering with local farms such as Cherry Gardens, Balcombe Nurseries, Laines Farm and Emerson Gardens, they ensure a bountiful supply of fresh, pesticide-free produce. From vibrant vegetables to succulent fruits, each item reflects a dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Moreover, The Seasons pioneers eco-friendly solutions, offering refill stations and zerowaste products to minimise packaging waste. By promoting conscious consumption and supporting ethical suppliers, they strive to create a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Suppliers

With over 4000 carefully curated products, The Seasons celebrates the craftsmanship of local artisans and makers. Through partnerships with like-minded producers, they source high-quality goods that resonate with their values, who also believe passionately in quality products that don’t cost the earth.

At both of the shops they offer weekly Taster Days & Meet the Maker days, they invite the suppliers to come and talk with the customers and try some of their products. By bridging the gap between producers and consumers, The Seasons fosters a sense of community and appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship. Events for both stores can be found on their social media platforms and in store.

Community

Beyond being a place to shop, The Seasons is deeply involved in the local community. From sponsoring events to supporting charities, they believe in giving back and building connections. Whether you're attending a workshop or simply popping in for groceries, you'll always be greeted with a warm smile and a sense of belonging.

Ready to embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle? Visit The Seasons in Forest Row or Lewes, or take advantage of their delivery and Get bikery (Lewes) services. With their dedication to wellness and community, they're more than just a store—they're a beacon of hope for a brighter, greener future.

The Seasons Kitchen

Just a stone's throw away from the Forest Row shop lies The Seasons Kitchen. A space where you can eat Organic Vegetarian and Vegan food. Using the best local, seasonal and Organic produce they are open for Breakfast, Lunch, Teas & Coffees and freshly made Juices. Stay tuned for some exciting new changes that are currently in the works, promising even more delights for all customers.

Find The Seasons at:

The Seasons Forest Row

1-2, Medway House, Lower Rd, Forest Row, RH18 5HE

The Seasons Lewes: 16-17 Cliffe High St, Lewes, BN7 2AH

They offer delivery services across Sussex. In Lewes they have partnered with Get Biker, where you can get your food delivered for free on a bike.

www.seasonswholefoods.co.uk

Instagram:

@seasonnswholefoods

@theseasonslewes

@theseasonskitchen

Image by Kirsty Grant

The Three Pillars of Sustainability

Take Good Care Wellness Shop

We have never been more aware of the impact we make on our environment – but the responsibility to shop more consciously cannot be solely put on customers. Businesses in East Sussex also need to step up and ensure they are operating sustainably.

take good care is a wellness lifestyle brand based in Lewes, and we make sure we address the three pillars of sustainability in everything we do:

• Economic

• Environmental

• Societal

Our founder, Barbara Rowe, is passionate about making a positive impact on the world. She uses the take good care shop in the Needlemakers to provide a meeting space for the community, while also selling sustainable, eco-friendly and fair-trade gifts.

The idea, says Barbara, is to provide a one stop shop for all your selfcare and sustainable needs “show people how to take good care of our environment and ourselves when we shop”. You can shop conciously knowing that the research has already been done for you.

Sustainable shopping goes beyond asking people to reuse plastic bags!

Our sales of pre-loved clothing have raised over £350 for local charities since we launched our Lewes shop 8 months ago, and we have recently donated £150 to a Sussex Counselling Service.

take good care is now one of the leading eco-friendly shopping brands in East Sussex. Here’s what we do to maintain corporate social responsibility.

Environmental Sustainability

take good care’s ethos is based on sustainability. Since launching in 2020 we have strived to be environmentally conscious in every decision we make.

That means recycled or compostable packaging, vegan friendly products and using locally sourced suppliers.

At take good care you will find new and pre-loved clothing, gifts hampers handbags and accessories made from recycled or vegan friendly materials, sustainable homewares, Yoga Equipment, fairtrade jewellery, gifts, a book exchange as well as range of self-care books.

All of this helps reduce our carbon footprint and makes us as environmentally friendly as possible.

Economic Sustainability

We want to make eco shopping economically viable for producers and consumers at an affordable price.

Barbara works with a range of female entrepreneurs local to Sussex. They include a soap maker in Hastings, an African homeware accessories producer in Eastbourne, and a soft furnishings designer in Ringmer.

Barbara also goes out of her way to meet with other local businesses in person to encourage them with their businesses. She attends local networking events and gives talks on being a social entrepreneur.

Societal Sustainability

Here at take good care we love to give back. Barbara is a diversity trainer and knows the value of strong communities. We regularly donate to good causes within East Sussex and founded the take good care awards scheme.

We can all make a difference

One company cannot change the world. However, we believe our community, as a collective, can help make the world a better place to live in. Whether it be sourcing local products and working with Sussexbased enterprises or championing local heroes. www.takegoodcare. co.uk

Discover their eco shop and wellness community at Take Good Care: www.takegoodcare.co.uk

Shop: The Needlemakers, West St, Lewes, BN7 2NZ

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ABBA: ONE WEEK IN BRIGHTON

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

On Sat 6 April 1974, a slightly ludicrous-looking Swedish band stepped onstage at Brighton Dome. In front of a huge international television audience, they performed a song which blended baroque pop, European folk traditions and references to an Anglo-French battle – and the face of modern music was changed forever. ABBA were never the most orthodox of acts, but they’ve become the most famous winners ever of the Eurovision song Contest.

Now, 50 years later, Brighton Museums celebrates this extraordinary moment in music history with an extraordinary exhibition. Running until Sun 4 Aug, ABBA: One Week In Brighton draws together photographs, film, memories, and memorabilia, to relive the excitement of the week that catapulted the band to fame. The exhibition shares personal stories, from the backstage crew and people in the audience, to autograph hunters who rushed to the stage door to meet the Swedish superstars

During that week in 1974, Brighton was burning with Eurovision fever, flags from different countries lined the streets, contestants were photographed exploring the town, and excitement was building. ABBA’s eye-catching outfits ensured that people noticed them even before they stepped on stage. Waterloo, their winning song, became the band’s international breakthrough (despite the UK judges giving them ‘nul points’). The exhibition allows us to hear from the international journalists who enjoyed Brighton's pubs so much they missed the show, the man blamed for cutting off Terry Wogan’s electricity supply, and the taxi driver ABBA treated to a private performance of the winning song.

Other exhibits include the drumkit which sounded the first beats of Waterloo, the spangly costume which toured the world with the singer inspired to perform by watching the contest on TV as a child, a feather plucked from presenter Katie Boyle’s evening gown, and an autographed viewer score sheet pulled from the pages of the Evening Argus. Plus local musician Bobby Ward's encounter with ABBA at the Grand Hotel after party.

By Stuart Rolt

Visitors will be encouraged to share memories of when the Eurovision circus came to town, explore their own favourite ABBA moments, and try on some glam fashions.

As Brighton Museum gets ready to celebrate this historic musical event, We spoke to the exhibition’s curator, Jody East, about that night’s impact…

Nowadays we know what each nation’s song will sound like for weeks in advance, but this obviously wasn’t the case in 1974. Do you think the audience were prepared for ABBA’s performance or realise the impact they would subsequently have on contemporary music?

It’s really interesting. Most people I have spoken to have said ABBA immediately stood out and it was obvious ABBA were going to win. They were described as ‘outrageously dressed’, with ‘amazing vocals’ and ‘completely different to anything we’d seen before’. The Eurovision songs were played on radios in the lead up to the contest though, so they weren’t a complete surprise. We have a clip from BBC Radio Brighton in the exhibition where Björn from ABBA and Olivia Newton John were interviewed in the week leading up to the contest and their songs were played on air. But I don’t think people were prepared for the performance, combined with the outfits, and the whole ‘ABBA’ effect on the night.

What was the best aspect of putting this exhibition together?

It has been such a joyful exhibition to put together. The best aspect has definitely been meeting all the people in Brighton & Hove who worked on the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974, or who were at the contest. Even though it was 50 years ago, the ephemera people have in their personal collections is just amazing, from signed programmes, to copies of the Radio Times, to BBC schedules and letters, to a feather from Katie Boyle’s dress! And then hearing their stories and memories that go with each and every object. It has also shown how much of a community Brighton & Hove is. Again, even though it was 50 years ago, people have recognised each other. We have a brilliant story of

William Sansom, who’s dad was a policeman on the Dome stage door and got him a ticket. So many other people who feature in the exhibition remember policeman Bill Sansom, he was known as the Kemptown Bobby, and was a really popular local figure. It’s been wonderful to share that with William, his son.

Did anything unusual reveal itself in your research?

It was fascinating visiting the BBC Written Archives and reading through the correspondence between BBC and European Broadcasting Union executives. There is a trail of correspondence about the last-minute change in the voting procedure, when the BBC realised it would take over an hour to broadcast all the votes based on the new process, so they made a decision to switch it back, which they then had to explain to European Broadcasting Union managers!

There is a memo showing which countries were allocated which Brighton hotel, and the cost that the BBC had secured for the stays. Interestingly, Sweden were allocated Bedford Towers hotel, yet most memories (and even ABBA themselves) recall them staying (and certainly partying) in the Grand Hotel. Perhaps there was a last-minute switch?

Why was Brighton Dome selected to host Eurovision that year? We’re more used to seeing the event broadcast from capital cities.

Looking through correspondence at the BBC Written Archives, there is a note from the BBC explaining that they have had ‘considerable difficulty in finding an appropriate venue at the right date’. Officially, the BBC said they wanted somewhere easily accessible from London but that offered a different experience to the capital city.

What kind of contributions did you get from people who were there that night?

Such an interesting mix. Lots of memories from people who worked on the event in some way. A Seeboard engineer, who spent the week with a power metre checking the technicians didn’t overload the Dome’s electrical system; Police

28 March to 4 August 2024

officers who were supporting the security effort (but obviously had a lot of fun too); a local furniture shop owner who lent his drum kit for the ABBA performance!

What’s your personal favourite from the items on display?

That’s a tough one. Collectively, all the items brought together help tell this unique story of Eurovision in Brighton. But if I have to choose, can I choose two? I love the behind-the-scenes stories –so I think a photo of Seeboard Engineer, Chris English, standing behind cameras at the Dome, checking the electric supply. And the drum kit! Just such an iconic object, used on stage by ABBA’s drummer, Ola but lent by local drummer Larry Wilton.

Are there any other events taking place on the Royal Estate to coincide with this anniversary?

Yes! On the anniversary itself, Sat 6 April, you can come and drop in to an afternoon of fun at the museum. We’ll have live music from one of the previous members of Bjorn Again, a chance to dress up in ABBA costumes and 70s gear and have your photo taken, lots of craft activities such as making ABBA inspired accessories. Also on 6 April, our friends at Brighton Dome have Gold, an evening of ABBA and Eurovision classics, sung by Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus and hosted by Eurovision winners and participants.

Brighton Museums presents ABBA: One Week In Brighton until Sun 4 Aug. For more info visit www. brightonmuseums.org.uk

ABBA win Eurovision 6 April 1974 © PA Photos - TopFoto

Eurovision Brighton Dome Concert Hall setup Photo credit Frederick Wackett

ABBA in front of Brighton Dome’s Corn Exchange Colour credit Argus Photographic Archive

ABBA win Eurovision 6 April 1974 © PA Photos - TopFoto

Eurovision Rehearsal in Brighton Dome’s Concert Hall credit Frederick Wackett

Katrina part of GOLD with Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus

QUIZ FACE WIN

TRIVIA FUN AND PRIZES TO BE WON! www.renegaderesin.com

This month’s prize is from Renegade Resin! A Brighton based resin designer, who loves making awesome designs for everyone! For a chance to win a custom resin jewellery set enter the Quiz Word competition opposite.

QUIZWORD

The Quizword is like a crossword but a little bit more trivia based. Once completed, the letters in the pink boxes spell out a CODEWORD when rearranged. When you have figured it out email us at prizes@ quizface.co.uk FOR A CHANCE AT WINNING THIS MONTH’S PRIZE!

ACROSS

2. Which musical sang about the rain in Spain staying mainly in the plane?

3. What is the collective noun for a group of skunks?

8. Got to Beardy Little Eyes to figure out who is in Jack Black’s beard?

9. Which continent is the only continent not to have an active volcano?

10. Go to WORDUKU and figure out the famous tourist destination

11. Go to WHAT THE DUCK?! to see which celebrity has been made in Rubber Duck form

15. Figure out the film logo to the letter F in Put A (film)

Name To The Face (on page 29)

16. Figure out the film logo to the letter E in Put A (film)

Name To The Face (on page 29)

17. What colour is Japan in the boardgame Risk?

18. Tiny, Chatterbox and Sunshine are names associated with which Roger Hargreaves book series?

19. Yet another hierarchical officious oracle is a backronym for which well-known search engine?

DOWN

1. Figure out the film logo to the letter C in Put A (film) Name To The Face

4. “Was it a car or a cat I saw?” it all sounds backwards to me!

5. Go to WHERE AM I?! to figure out which Brighton venue I am in

6. The Icelandic Football Association share the same initials with which Youtuber\Rapper\Boxer\Sideman?

7. What connects all the logos letters in Put A (film) Name To The Face (on page 29)

9. Figure out the film logo to the letter A in - Put A (film) Name To The Face (on page 29)

12. Scientific studies in 2023 concluded that babies born on the 31 of March were easier to fool. Because they were born WHEN?

13. 179,328 ÷ 32 spells out what on the calculator, when totalled up correctly and turned upside down?

14. Tungsten - Indium - Carbon - Yttrium when changed to their chemical symbol spells out what word?

Opening end of April 2024

Soft Play

• Supervised daytime sessions will be available

• Party packages starting at £12 per child

• Twice weekly SEND sessions

3yrs+: £6.50 / 1 - 3yrs: £5.50 / Under 1yrs: FREE

(Parent/Guardian: £1)

Scan the QR code for more information

Withdean Sports Complex: 01273 542100

Tongdean Lane, Brighton, BN1 5JD

www.freedom-leisure.co.uk

WORDUKU

Fill out the grid using the letters above each Worduku. The letter in the pink boxes will make up a famous tourist destination. (10 ACROSS)

WHERE AM I?

Which Brighton venue did I sneak inside, take a pic and maybe done a cheeky quiz in too? (5 Down)

WHAT THE DUCK?!

Which celebrity has been emulated into rubber duck form? (11 ACROSS)

PUT A (FILM) NAME TO A FACE

I have taken the beginning letter from four different film titles. Can you name the correct films?

F = 15 Across

A = 9 Down

C = 1 Down

E = 16 Across

BEARDY LITTLE EYES

Which celebrity’s eyes have snuck into Jack Black’s beard? (8 ACROSS)

ANOTHER 150 ACTS ADDED TO THE GREAT ESCAPE 2024

In the latest unveiling by The Great Escape, a multitude of artists is set to grace the stages of this year's Brighton festival, showcasing some of the most promising talents from around the globe. Spanning a diverse range of genres such as pop, electronic, punk, soul, rap, Americana, and R&B, the new announcement boasts an impressive lineup including Wunderhorse, Lauren Mayberry, Kneecap, Soft Play, Lambrini Girls, Bradley Simpson, Been Stellar, Love Fame Tragedy, and many others.

The festival has opened sales for individual singleday and two-day tickets, offering music enthusiasts the chance to experience the best of new music from various corners of the world against the backdrop of Brighton's seaside. Full weekend tickets for The Great Escape festival start from £89.25 and are now available for purchase.

Furthermore, The Great Escape is proud to announce its robust support for independent label showcases in this year's Saturday festival program. Notable labels such as Fat Possum, City Slang, Alcopop, Big Scary Monsters, and more will be hosting stages, with Complex's Pigeons and Planes curating a stage dedicated to hip hop for the first time in the festival's history.

In anticipation of the upcoming relaunch of Festival Republic's ReBalance initiative, which aims to provide opportunities for women and genderexpansive artists across the UK, The Great Escape introduces a dedicated ReBalance stage. This stage will feature selected artists of the campaign, with full details of ReBalance 2024 set to be unveiled on International Women's Day, March 8th.

Renowned for its role as a springboard for emerging artists, The Great Escape stands as a beacon for new music discovery. With over 450 up-and-coming artists and talents across various genres performing across 35+ walkable venues, alongside the music industry-led TGE conference, the festival is slated to kick off the 2024 season from May 15th to 18th in our wonderful city, Brighton.

In tandem with the festival, The Great Escape hosts the UK's leading music business conference. Undergoing a transformation this year, the conference will feature a brand-new network of music industry collaborators shaping its programming with cutting-edge knowledge and

expert speakers. Notable speakers include Lauren Mayberry of CHVRCHES, Sacha Lord of NTIA, and the hosts of the 'They Think It's All Sober' podcast.

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO THE GREAT ESCAPE FESTIVAL VISIT

WWW.BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK TO ENTER

The festival's lineup spans across several categories:

Alt/Indie: Featuring an eclectic mix of indie and alternative artists, this year's lineup includes acts such as Alfie Templeman, Another Sky, Big Sleep, Liz Lawrence, and Love Fame Tragedy, among others.

Pop/Dance: Encompassing a captivating blend of pop and dance music, the lineup features Bradley Simpson, Lauren Mayberry, Twst, Zoe Graham, and more.

Folk/Americana/Country: Handpicked from the realms of folk, Americana, and country, the lineup includes artists like Bird, Jake Vaadeland, Marissa Burwell, and Nusantara Beat.

Grime/Rap/Hip-Hop: Catering to grime, rap, and hip-hop enthusiasts, the lineup showcases emerging talents such as Chiedu Oraka, Elsy Wameyo, Haviah Mighty, and Len.

Electronic: Electronic music aficionados can look forward to sets from groundbreaking acts like Electric Cherry, OIEE, and Y U QT.

Jazz/R&B/Soul: A diverse blend of jazz, R&B, and soul artists will grace the stage, including Aleighcia Scott, Essence Martins, JayO, and Sen Morimoto.

Punk/Rock/Metal: For fans of punk, rock, and metal, the festival presents a dynamic lineup featuring Soft Play, Lambrini Girls, Dream Nails, Projector, and more.

With such a rich and diverse lineup, The Great Escape promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers, continuing its legacy as a platform for new and emerging talent. www.greatescapefestival.com

Tamara and The Dreams

The Belair Lip Bombs Photo by Bridie Fitzgerald

Mad Tsai

CreditLuka McGhie

LAUREN MAYBERRY - CHVRCHES

Then Now

Meet Lexi. Just one of our pupils who’s fulfilled her own personal journey of discovery and development during her time at Hurst. Invaluable years in our nurturing, enriching environment in which all children thrive, blossom and grow. Prepared. For life.

‘Neolithic Cannibals - Deep Listening to the Unheard’

By Rosie Paldi-Edwards

Co-founder Curtis James explains “The Class Divide podcast was the first step in sharing stories about the unheard and about the inequity in places like Brighton and Hove. Inequity exists in every town and city across the country to varying degrees. It stifles the chances of younger and older people in realising the talent, curiosity and sheer brilliance they have to offer, because without a social security system, or parents to support them, there is little opportunity to even see inside the door, let alone get a foot in. First and foremost, Neolithic Cannibals will be an amazing art piece, but, just like the podcast, activism is at its heart.”

Simon James, sound artist and twin brother of Curtis James, shares how he got involved “I worked on the Class Divided Podcast, I did the sound design production and we always planned to have the final episode made by the young people of Whitehawk, that was the seed of the idea. I'm a sound designer and sound artist so I thought I would just take a load of fun synthesisers, noise machines and microphones and just explore the noises around Whitehawk and make that into the final episode. Then Brighton Festival got in touch and it seemed really obvious to turn this podcast episode into a gallery exhibition and so the scale just expanded.”

This sound art project and exhibition is set to debut at Brighton Festival and is open to the public on May 4th. Created by the young people of Whitehawk and East Brighton, led by sound artist Simon James, alongside Class Divide and arts charity Lighthouse to bring to you ‘Neolithic Cannibals’ a deep dive and exploration into the history of the neolithic in Brighton as well as bringing to attention the contemporary and often unheard narratives of modern day Whitehawkers.

BN1 interviewed sound artist Simon James who spearheaded this project, to discuss how it started, how the workshops are going and what this means for the young artists of Whitehawk. “There's this connection between that invisible unheard and the unheard of people in Whitehawk and the stigma they face. I was at a party not that long ago and somebody used the term ‘shitehawkers’ to describe people from Whitehawk and so those kinds of names and stigma are still

very common today. The Class Divide Campaign works towards allowing kids from Whitehawk to access schools around the city and we need to tell the people in the city that kids from Whitehawk are just normal kids who want a chance at a good education. There are some lovely threads and connections that run through this” said Simon.

The exhibition has been created through a series of workshops held at the CrewClub, each week Simon has been introducing the children to archeology, psycho-geography, sound art, activism and more. Interestingly the group of children who are participating have more girls involved than boys. Simon added to this and said “It's brilliant, because definitely sound and music tends to be dominated by boys and so it’s been fantastic, I'm always up for opening it up for everyone and making it accessible.”

The exhibition offers an immersive experience that intertwines ancient history with modern social activism. James highlighted how the Neolithic Camp on top of Whitehawk Hill had always been a plan of his and how after more research he realised that “It was going to be a central theme to explore through sound, as it's a mix of contemporary listening to whitehawk, alongside a historical exploration about the people who first lived on that hill 5000 years ago.” James included the support from experts he has had, from the likes of Archeology South East and Brighton and Hove Museums. “We had a session at the museum where we had a Flint Knapper, to show the young people how tools were made 5000 years ago. We recorded the sounds from that and then a week after we used those sounds to make some soundscapes.” This creative way to learn, looks like a really brilliant, fun and engaging way for students to delve into the past and actually enjoy and connect with history. Simon also mentioned how “the camp itself was discovered using sound, so it just felt like such an obvious fit.” James plans to bring the kids there to record sounds through the geographical listening technique known as Bosing, which is what they first used to discover the fort back in 1929.

It is clear that James feels strongly about helping bridge the gap in the creative industries, he mentioned “seeing their faces when certain

BN1 Magazine’s Rose Rosie Paldi-Edwards caught up with the founders from Class Divide - a grassroots campaign drawing attention to the deeply unjust educational attainment gap in Whitehawk, Manor Farm and Bristol Estate, to explore the new Brighton Festival sound-art exhibition.

sounds are being made or when they discover something new or when they engage or connect with things in a certain way, it really touches me.” James realises that his project is rather ambitious and to say to these kids to listen to the feedback from a microphone next to a speaker is going to be a bit challenging, but that's part of sound art and “at first they were like what? But then they got into it and they absolutely loved it and were really focused.” said Simon.

The exhibition will recreate the Neolithic Camp - a place of community, celebrations and rituals to invite a compassionate and open listening space for the audience to delve into the rich tapestry of Whitehawks joy, playfulness and hope, empowering local voices through rarely explored sonic expressions. This has been a very personal project for Simon James who went to school in Whitehawk and “from doing a similar workshop that triggered my interest in music when I was 15. It's personal

because I wanna give the kids in Whitehawk a chance. I don't meet very many working class sound artists - I've had a lot of luck along the way, but I wanna see more kids from my background in sound design.” This exhibition wants to leave audiences with a deeper understanding and more empathic listening when considering the power of collective effort and the part we all play in addressing complex and current social issues.

The main exhibition will be accompanied by a series of talks, walks and workshops around the themes explored in the exhibition. Visit the Class Divide website for full details.

Exhibition Times: Sat 4 - Sun 19 May

Weds to Sun

Doors: 12 PM - 5 PM.

(Closed Monday and Tuesday, except Monday 6 May or by appointment.)

Lighthouse Project Space, New England House, Elder Place, York Hill Corner, BN1 4GH

ROSIE HOLT

By Stuart Rolt

“Wouldn’t it be great to be a political influencer to politicians?” asks Rosie Holt. “But you don’t want to give them any good ideas. I like to think my MP character only comes out with bad ideas of how to defend things. Emulating it is not a very good sign.”

It’s been an odd week for the actor and comedian. Over the last three years, she’s become one of the most infamous British people on Twitter (No. I’m not moving on, Mr Musk) by pretending to be a slightly-startled and ill-prepared Conservative MP. Neatly editing herself into clips from genuine news broadcasts, this political facsimile has been attempting to spin various missteps and pratfalls from the stickier end of our cultural spectrum.

People either get the joke instantly or take it at face value and become peeved that such a hapless character could find their way into the corridors of power. Either way, it generates attention for her talent, which is fine. The only problem is she’s inadvertently become some kind of satirical oracle. The Government’s sacrificial lambs being sent out for media rounds every morning and defending the indefensible have started echoing the sentiments in her videos.

Yesterday, she’d put up a video of Kay Burley ‘interviewing’ her about certain comments made by Lee Anderson. Instead of discussing the matter with any depth, she simply kept repeating that the member of Parliament of Ashfield’s remarks were ‘wrong’, while being incapable of explaining exactly why. “Then today… everyone’s been sharing this video from LBC, where a minister has basically copied my script!”

The imitator has become the imitated. Which either speaks to the sharp nature of her work or suggests that a few people’s inability to concede wrongdoing is making a farce of current affairs programming. Holt tells me the MP character’s mesmerising oddness was created with a simple premise. She’s about to do an interview and has been told to try and justify the latest scandal. “It comes from a place of panic. It’s kind of like: ‘Right! Got to defend this, and can’t say this... What do I do?’ I kind of see her as improvising.”

She’s just written a book, which comes out in July. Or rather, Rosie Holt MP has just written a book. “It was really fun fleshing out the character. She’s more dreadful than I previously thought!” It sees this titan of politics explain how the Tories made Britain great again over the last 14 years - from getting Brexit done and bending the Ministerial Code, to rowing back on climate change policies and voting in Liz Truss as leader. Called Why We Were Right, it neatly explains why the ‘scandals’ or ‘controversial’ decisions of the government, which have been derided by the Left and the woke media, were correct and intentional all along. On a side note, it would be interesting to do a comparison with this work and Liz Truss’ upcoming epic, Ten Years To Save The West: Lessons From The Only Conservative In The Room. Life may well be imitating art once more.

We need to establish some distance between Holt and her Tory MP character, just to avoid any confusion. She couldn’t be further from her slightly deranged and flustered creation, quick to chuckle, thoughtful and relaxed. The Member of Parliament for somewhere unspecified does form an integral part of her new live show, That’s Politainment! Last night she was trying out some new material. “I have to write quickly, because the government keeps doing things! But you need to try out to see if it’s funny as well. Which is quite important for a comedy show…” Heading out tour this month, and stopping off at Brighton’s Komedia on Thurs 23 May, she’s picking over the threadbare boundary between government and a career in media.

In a bizarre confluence of events, we now live in an environment where the worst excesses of populism and objective idiocy are being rewarded. The worse you are at public service, the more likely you can land a job shouting nonsense on one of those new truth-bending TV networks. “My first idea with the show was after being obsessed with GB News. You’ve got this channel which has presenters who are politicians. So, you’ve got politicians interviewing politicians about other politicians. It’s insane. I find that really fascinating. They recently gave this whole hour to Rishi Sunak to take a Q&A from an audience. It feels like a propaganda channel, and I don’t

know if they’re dressing up politics as entertainment, or vice versa.” Following a hugely successful Edinburgh Fringe season, Holt is taking an extended version around the country. Obviously, being a work which delves into politics and culture, it needs constant updating. “There was a Holly & Phil joke in there. Everyone is going to say that was 500 years ago. So, now I’m having to rewrite and add bits.”

It follows on from her last Edinburgh Fringe show, The Woman’s Hour, which offered a fast-paced array of ludicrous characters. “That was really fun but I was throwing a lot of things into it. I was trying to showcase everything I did after becoming online famous.” In contrast, That’s Politainment! is a lot more pared down. There’s plenty of the MP character, but she’s also introducing an over-amplified rightwing talk show host called Harriet. “They’re two halves of the same coin really. You’ve got a politician who is dissembling the truth to get at the public, and the host is working in aid for them. It’s a simpler structure. I’ve also got a left-wing comic, who comes in with balanced jokes to appease the BBC!”

There’s good reason to question the motives of news channels established to beam unchallenged rhetoric into the nation’s living rooms, especially when public service broadcasters are tripping over their own feet to deliver true impartiality.

“I find it really interesting how they position themselves. Talk TV and GB News like to talk about themselves as if they’re the political underdog. Liz Truss was recently talking about how the ‘wokies’ and the ‘lefties’ have been in charge for too long. There’s this weird narrative going on. You’ve got a rightwing government. The majority of the media are right wing. Yet we’re still enthralled to the woke left? It doesn’t add up.”

By mining humour from a daily deluge of scandals, incompetencies and the Government’s attempts to make us believe everything is completely normal, Holt has found an audience amongst both comedy fans and the metropolitan liberal elite. I ask if she’d intended to be the darling of the woke left from a young age or had she aspired to be a PE teacher and become radicalised at Loughborough University? “I was so bad at PE,” she says, with a regretful sigh. “I was always picked last, and I hated it. So that wasn’t the case. I really wanted to be an actor.” Attending The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, she struggled to find her niche after graduating.

“The problem with acting, is that most actors are quite creative. Firstly, you’re reliant on other people allowing you to create. And when they do, you’re part of someone else’s vision. You might have interpretations about a character, but you’re still serving a story.” She found herself at a point where she wasn’t getting much acting work, but was doing a lot of lousy jobs. There were ideas and things she wanted to say, and she might have been inspired to try standup while living with comedian Harriet Kemsley. “Comedy seems

to be a wonderful thing, especially in London and Brighton, where you could go out that night, find an open mic night above a pub, and try out some jokes to see what happened. That seemed wonderfully liberating. I still love acting, but I can’t imagine just doing that. I’d probably go a bit mad.”

She understands why people want her to talk about politics but is adamant her role is being a satirist rather than offer practical solutions to societal issues. “Where I’m coming from is observation. I

out when they’re doing something wrong. At the moment, she wants to carry on doing that, no matter who is in charge. “Whether there’ll be an appetite for satire immediately…, people might go: ‘let them have a chance!’ But we had Keir Starmer during the pandemic saying he was going to step back, when everyone was going: ‘Not now! They’re talking about not feeding starving kids!’”

The big boost for Holt came during lockdown, where she deployed the Tory MP character to highlight hypocrisy around the Partygate affair. As with most, even vaguely,

wouldn’t want to run the country. I don’t know as much as a journalist… I want to be funny, which you can’t always do if you’re going into the minute detail.” Obviously she’s interested in what happens in a potential election this year. “I want Labour to get in. But… Do I? It’s not a secret to say I’m on the Left, but we should always be holding our Government to account.”

It’s an important part of a democracy to call a political party

suddenly have a wave of it. It is tricky online, I don’t think I’m saying anything unusual, but there are a lot more pitfalls for women online than there are for men.”

While she’s been rather fortunate in using the platform to gain prominence, since Musk took it over, many of her fellow comedians using Twitter as a springboard have struggled with reaching an audience. “Engagement has gone down, less people see your videos and there’s all sorts of things which make it harder. And they took away my blue tick, the bastards…” she bemoans people like Owen Jones being able to retain his verification on the app, while people like Ben Stiller lost theirs. “That was a sad day. I think Musk wants to get rid of it all. He tried to stop the purchase and was forced into it. Now, I think he’s trashing it, like a spoilt rich man.”

In a fast-moving political world, there’s less room for analysis. Helpfully, people like Holt are lobbing in logic grenades from the sidelines to underline just how silly some of our public discourse is, and hopefully get a few laughs in the process. She obviously gets misunderstood on a regular basis, but that appeals to her sense of playfulness. Especially when somebody thinks she genuinely represents a parliamentary constituency. “That’s happening less, but I have had it when I’ve gone to do sets and a few people were wondering why an MP is talking to them in a comedy club. That I don’t mind, now I’m expecting it. I do worry that I’m going to get someone who votes Conservative getting in touch and saying I’ve made a good point. If there’s a load of people on the left who think I’m real, there must be a lot of people on the right who are watching me thinking I’m doing a terrible job and making them look stupid…”

outspoken women on social media, she comes in for a troubling amount of abuse. The trolls won’t allow certain people to be criticised. “I’ve got various things in place on Twitter to protect me from the really nasty stuff. It does make you think about what female MPs must have to put up with, which is really awful.” If it’s something light and silly, which I can play and joke with, it’s fine.” The problems arise when people move away from the character and start attacking her personally, but it happens relatively rarely. “You’ll

Rosie Holt’s That’s Politainment! comes to Brighton’s Komedia on Thurs 23 May. Her debut book, Why We Were Right: A Catalogue of Conservative Successes will be published in July. Liz Truss was unavailable for comment.

www.rosieholt.co.uk

www.komedia.co.uk/brighton

IMAGE CREDIT: KARLA GOWLETT

Rising comedy star updates his

CV

By Stuart Rolt

“The last job I had before comedy, I was working full time in an office…” Emmanuel Sonubi is telling me about his professional life before comedy.

“I’d be working full time Monday to Friday, then Saturday and Sunday, I’d be gigging. It was such a weird experience going from playing in a theatre with a thousand people, and then, eight hours later, I’m back at my desk… and nobody cares.” It’s safe to say the North Londoner has been around the block, but now he’s found his niche in stand-up comedy.

He’s been getting some well-deserved attention for his composed stage presence and infectious confidence. Right now, he’s out on his largest UK tour so far, so it’s a day of doing press stuff. Sonubi has lost track of how many different interviews he’s done. “They’ve all been quite fun. It’s all kind of blurred into one, but it’s nice.” He seems faintly bemused by his rapid progression through the comedy ranks, admitting he’s still evolving and learning a few things about performing. “It’s timing really. Now, when I do a 10-minute show, it goes so quickly. You don’t realise how different it is to do a full hour. I remember the first time I did a club set after being at the Fringe, and you’ve got to be more fast-paced.”

His career in stand-up might only have started a few years ago, but when his 2022 show, Emancipated, sold out at Edinburgh and won a nomination for the Best Newcomer award, it was only a small step to BBC TV’s Live At The Apollo and serious attention. There’s an acknowledgement that it’s bizarre transferring from some anodyne office position, where you’re just a cog in a machine, to being the reason a huge room full of people are venturing out for the evening. “It’s a weird rush of dopamine, which gets quickly taken away the next day. But you don’t have a come-down. It’s just gone.”

“I wouldn’t say it’s fame yet. There are people who know who I am… This is what I’ve worked for, and I’m happy. Which has stopped it being ‘work’. That’s the best feeling... I could stay at this level for the rest of my life,

and I’d be happy.” Sonubi’s new show, Curriculum Vitae, offers an often-poignant look at the world of employment, and the other people it forces you to spend time with. From an uninspiring existence in IT to gracing the stages in a variety of musical theatre productions, they’ve all made him the man he is today. “It’s talking about my working history before comedy, that got me to the stage. That’s the most coherent way I’ve actually said that. I think there’s been maybe nine interviews before this, and I’ve now got it down to exactly what it is!”

He tells me there’s one job which didn’t get into the show – potentially because there’s not many gags you could wring from it. “I used to work selling mobile phones. And I’ve always thought about what I learnt from that experience. I got that job, and the manager lost his… In the interview, he said to me: ‘You don’t sound like a black guy…’ I just asked him what a black guy sounded like. He couldn’t answer.” At that point he didn’t care if he got the job or not. Pragmatically, Sonubi confesses this situation did provide a realisation he could be tolerant and keep his temper under the most testing of circumstances.

He tells me he studied musical theatre at college, as an A-Level, which has always been a big interest. His aspirations to work in theatre might be a clue to why he’s gone through so many different shades of employment. It’s a tough world for actors. A huge proportion of them are resting, waiting for casting agents to recognise their brilliance, and forced through a meat-grinder of unedifying jobs.

Most fans will already be familiar with Sonubi’s previous employment as a nightclub door supervisor. It’s unsurprising really, as he is what’s known in the industry as a ‘proper unit’. The late nights, drunk patrons and a lack of self-awareness from colleagues have already offered some hilarious anecdotes and observations, but he’s also had a plethora of other jobs, each accompanied by their own eccentricities and awkward moments. Beyond the burly physique is the reality of someone who can be vulnerable but is charismatic and confident onstage.

And onstage is where he likes to be. The gentle self-assuredness echoes through the material. There’s no desperate need to elicit quick laughs from his audience. This guy is an accomplished storyteller, and that makes the jokes even more delicious when they reveal themselves. The creative process can be unorthodox. He does try to settle in and knock out gags. “I’m terrible at that. I do have days when I’ve said ‘Right! This is a writing day!’ And I’ve done nothing, apart from watch YouTube videos. Then I’ll be lying in bed and think of something, and I’ve got to write it down, because I’ll forget it by the morning. I’ve got a whole playlist of voice notes, that I will sit down and write all of them out. To me, that’s the easiest way to do it. If I’m out and about, living life, if I think of something I write it down. I’ve tried to force it... I’ve tried to make stuff up, and it just hasn’t worked. All the stuff I talk about has really happened.”

His mantra is to encourage people to laugh as much as they can with the people who mean the most to them. “You only get to do this once, and it’s not very long. With my show, I want to give people somewhere they can escape to, leave the baggage at the door and just have an hour of fun.” It’s a simple and earnest ambition, which is key to his warmth as a performer. Stand-up has taught him to be increasingly honest and objective about life and people. “I’m a lot more accepting of things that I’ve done. And things that I haven’t done. There are things which are my fault, and things that aren’t. Out of that acceptance comes comedy.”

Emmanuel Sonubi brings Curriculum Vitae to Brighton’s Forge Comedy Club on Thurs 25 April.

www.emmanuelstandup.com www.forgecomedyclub.co.uk

Image credit: AEMEN SUKKAR JIKSAW

Sustainable ethical beauty by The Makeup School

By Jacqui McElroy

Sustainable ethical beauty. Beauty that makes the world a better place. Whether makeup is a daily ritual or reserved for special occasions, it’s crucial to understand the impact of your choices on the planet. Ethical skincare and makeup are revolutionising the industry, offering products that prioritise sustainability and minimise environmental harm.

As a makeup artist, I am often asked which is the best brand for skincare as well as makeup, there are quite simply too many to mention so I have cherry-picked a few of my favs, not forgetting accessories such as cotton pads & wipes. all eco-friendly! So to help you find the good stuff, here are my leads on the crème de la crème of beauty brands Starting with this little gem ‘Greener Beauty’ contains everything under one roof! So if you are time-strapped or not sure if the product you are buying is ethical, vegan or cruelty-free then rest assured this online company covers it all.

Here below is a little snippet of my personal skincare favs that can be found via Greener Beauty.

My go-to cleanser is the White Rabbit Skincare Eucalyptus & Lavender Cleansing Balm. Despite being marketed for combination skin, it works wonders for my dry skin, leaving it radiant and impeccably clean.

For removing makeup and achieving a thorough cleanse, I prefer UpCircle Organic Muslin Face Cloths. Even though there is the option of sustainable cotton wool I do love a muslin facecloth. These reusable cloths effortlessly remove impurities and makeup residue.

To nourish and soothe my skin, I love the White Rabbit Skincare Coconut and Rosehip Calming Cream. This plant-based moisturiser not only smells divine but also leaves my skin luminous and refreshed, making it an essential part of my skincare routine.

With these carefully selected products, you can indulge in luxurious skincare while upholding your commitment to sustainability and ethics.

For those craving a bolder makeup, Lime Crime reigns supreme! This cosmetics brand boasts a vibrant array of colours and an abundance of sparkling glitter, perfect for elevating any night out or enhancing your festival look.

Committed to sustainability, Lime Crime offers eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and vegan products, with recyclable packaging to boot. Whether you’re seeking neon hues or dazzling glitters, Lime Crime delivers. Find their products online or at Superdrug, ensuring your makeup game stays fierce while staying kind to the planet.

The Makeup School is headed and founded by freelance makeup artist Jacqui McElroy.

For more tips & tricks or info on lessons head over to www. themakeupschool.co.uk

MAKE TIME FOR CREATIVITY

Painters, poets, weavers, welders, gardeners, gilders, calligraphers, conservators…

Whatever your craft, whatever your level, there is a short course for you at West Dean. Learn from expert tutors in state of the art studios. Be inspired at westdean.ac.uk

Photo Credit: Karla Gowlett

BRIGHTON SPIEGELTENT

By Stuart Rolt

Festival favourite returns to brighten up May

For just over a month every year, the south end of Brighton’s Old Steine hosts a temporary wonderland. In the last 11 years, it’s become a place, as much a part of the city’s identity as pebbles on the beach or the Royal Pavilion.

Camping out around the Victoria Fountain during May, Brighton Spiegeltent offers a dynamic selection of everything from swing music to outrageous drag shows, and dance events, to the best in children’s entertainment, it probably has something to delight those looking for the unique and memorable. “We work hard to put together a real variety programme,” says Deputy Event Manager, Sam Rush. “It’s not all cabaret. It’s not all music. It’s about having brilliant and nice stuff. It’s a real oddball, mish-mash of everything. Because that’s the way we like it. You want to know that if you’re coming to see something at Brighton Spiegeltent, it is going to be a little bit off-the-wall. That’s the vibe we want.”

Sam has been with this independentlyrun mini-festival for eight years now. She tells me her role mostly involves liaising with artists, traders and suppliers, looking after the crew and getting her hands dirty.

“I guess ‘the woman without portfolio’ is my unofficial title!” Across May, there’s roughly 50 people a day working on site, which includes bar staff, crew and technicians. They help stage 129 shows, which amount to 233 performances. For this they sell an astonishing 30,000 tickets during the season. Brighton Spiegeltent’s estimated footfall is around 80,000 across the whole of May, while a sunny Bank Holiday weekend might encourage 5,000 people in a day to come down and check out the Spiegel magic, which is on par with some of Sussex’s most famous tourist attractions.

“We want people to experience a bit of magic and what we love,” says Sam. “We’re all doing this because we love it. When I started, I came down to volunteer and put a bit of bunting up. I always say bunting is a gateway drug in this industry. That’s it, you’re hooked for life…” Partnering on the hospitality side of things is another familiar Brighton brand, Laine. The local pub chain is not only bringing down the best of their Laine Brew Co beers, but a selection of well-chosen wines and spirits. “We’re really pleased to be working with them. They get what we do. If you go into some of their pubs around the city, you see that Spiegel magic.”

Cabaret Boheme at Brighton Fringe 2014 - Spiegeltent

Tshwane Gospel Choir from 2015

Image By David SmithPhotosbydavid

“The site is really nicely contained. We’ve very carefully created that over the past 11 years, to make this perfect little insulated bit that’s protected from the rest of Brighton. You’re stepping into Spiegelworld.” And this is a dreamlike space. It offers a specially created garden, complete with different seating sections, welcoming bars, a cocktail van and plentiful food offerings, where you relax before or after a show, or simply hang out amongst the carnival-like atmosphere. This sits between two performance venues, each with their own rich sense of identity and purpose.

The larger of the two is the Tivoli Spiegeltent from Belgium and owned by a family business dating back almost a century. This structure, featuring wooden floors, ornate decoration and lush drapes, follows a proud tradition of similar venues travelling between fairs, festivals and dance events across Europe. “They bring it every year, roll up on site, build it and then go. Then afterwards, they come and take it down again. It’s gone before you know it. They’re very traditional.” Across the gardens is the Bosco Theater, (*Dutch spelling) which comes from a similar family in Amsterdam. Built in 1909, this original Dutch “Kermis-circus” tent houses amphitheatre seating inside. The intimate environment makes it ideal for leftfield performances which you’re unlikely to see in

BS2017 Spiegeltent- Heart Of The Fringe Show

BS2019 Railed by Head First Acrobats

Image By David Smith

Image By David Smith -

Photosbydavid

Image By David Smith

most other places. These short runs of unusual and exciting works range from relentless alternative comedians to cutting edge family shows. “We couldn’t do it with something else. I’m sure we’d give it a go, but we wouldn’t want to do that to Brighton…”

Spiegeltent has also evolved into an impromptu hub for the whole of Brighton’s festival season. On any stroll through their gardens, you’ll overhear talk of this sensation, or even meet performers in their downtime. “I think those are just our people... It just happens that way. If you come down, you’re going to meet someone flyering and talking about their show. For whatever reason, that doesn’t happen across Brighton so much.”

Where it sits on Old Stiene is hardly a dormant space for the rest of the year. Sam tells me that a lot of careful planning goes into constructing something so extraordinary on such a compact site. There are flowerbeds, fully matured trees and a 150-year-old fountain to be mindful of. Fitting everything in is a marvel of translation. “It is incredible, with the level of infrastructure that goes into making that site work. Our ethos with that site is that it’s our home. We want to keep coming back to it, so we do look after it. That we deck the site is not by accident. We want to protect the ground. We’re trying to leave no trace.” Almost everything has to be brought with them, which is a big job when you’re welcoming

thousands of people to what is essentially a transformed large roundabout. While there is a water source, any power needs to be drawn from onsite generators.

To supplement these, Brighton Spiegeltent has been using hybrid fuel cell technology from Horizon Offgrid Energy since before they officially came onto the market. Originally created for the construction industry, these extraordinarily efficient power units are not only cleaner but also quieter. “There’s an impact on having a diesel generator running all the time. It’s not just environmental but financial, so we’re trying to minimise that and make it quieter for nearby residents.” They’ve also been using reusable glassware instead of single use plastic for quite a while and go to great lengths to leave no trace after everything has moved on.

While there’s obviously a burst of activity around April and May, Sam says organising and curating the event is a year-round affair. “We have a really nice returning roster of shows. There are favourites of ours and the audiences who’ll always come back.” Amongst those returning is Brighton’s legendary, MultiAward winning, Alfie Ordinary, who returns for a fourth consecutive year to bring you an evening of high camp, low brow entertainment –accompanied by his trademark glitter-drenched brand of anarchic humour. There’s also Drag Race UK and cabaret superstar, Joe Black,

who unleashes another season of vaudevillian musical mischief, accompanied by a live band.

“It just wouldn’t be the same without them,” says Sam. “There’s also shows that know what we do, and why it’s a little bit different, who’ll approach us and join the family. For example, we have glamorous headline shows like United Queendom from Europe and Dizney In Drag from Australia, who played with us last year and went so well are coming back for a longer run.”

Other shows on offer hail from a broad spectrum. You can witness a talk celebrating sound pioneers like Throbbing Gristle and Genesis P-Orridge one evening. Then spend an afternoon with something more family orientated, perhaps The Extraordinary Time Travelling Adventures of Baron Munchausen, or marvelling at the crazy antics of Dizzy O’Dare’s The Giant Balloon Show – which comes complete with loads of audience participation and a banging 80’s soundtrack. “It’s about the weird and the wonderful. If you speak to somebody in Brighton and ask them what a ‘Spiegely vibe’ is, they couldn’t tell you exactly, but they’ll always know…”

Brighton Spiegeltent comes to Old Steine Gardens on Fri 3 May 3 – Sun 2 June.

For more information and tickets, head to: www.brightonspiegeltent.com

BS2019 Nosferatu

BS2017 Cordes Nuptiales - Nuptial Ropes

Image By David Smith

Image By David SmithPhotosbydavid

Crafting a Greener Future How Jewellery Companies Can Embrace Eco-Conscious Practices

As consumers increasingly consider the ecological impact of their purchases, jewellers in the UK must redefine their practices to align with sustainability principles. Jack Lockyer, co-founder of South Downs Designs, a sustainable Brighton-based jewellery brand, offers his practical guidance for jewellery companies aiming to adopt eco-conscious approaches.

In this article, we explore some initial steps jewellery companies can take towards a more sustainable future.

Sourcing sustainable materials: One of the foundational pillars of eco-conscious jewellery is the use of sustainable materials. Recycled metals, such as reclaimed silver and gold, offer a sustainable alternative to newly mined resources, reducing the industry's reliance on environmentally destructive mining practices. Additionally, ethically sourced gemstones, free from conflict and exploitation, are essential components of sustainable jewellery. Companies can ensure ethical sourcing by partnering with suppliers certified by organisations like the Responsible Jewellery Council.

Minimising waste: Jewellery production often generates significant waste. To minimise waste, companies can adopt practices such as recycling unused materials and utilising sustainable packaging made from recycled and recyclable materials. Taking this a step further, upcycling scrap materials in your own workshop can reduce the environmental impact even more, reducing the carbon emissions associated with transport/logistics.

Energy efficiency: Energy consumption is another critical consideration for eco-

conscious jewellery companies. Companies can reduce their carbon footprint and lower their environmental impact by investing in energy-efficient technologies and practices, such as LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment. Additionally, companies can optimise their production schedules to minimise energy use, such as consolidating pieces and the need for workshop machinery - only fire the kiln when you have a full load, or run your tumbler/ultrasonic when you have more than one item to polish/clean.

Embracing innovation: Innovation is crucial in advancing sustainability within the jewellery industry. Technologies like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) enable designers to create intricate pieces digitally, reducing the need for physical prototypes and minimising waste. Furthermore, advancements in materials science have led to the development of alternative materials, such as lab-grown diamonds and plant-based plastics, which offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials.

Educating consumers: Educating consumers about the importance of eco-conscious jewellery is essential for driving demand and fostering a culture of sustainability. Jewellery companies must communicate their commitment to sustainability through transparent labelling and marketing efforts, highlighting their use of sustainable materials and ethical practices. By empowering consumers to make informed choices, companies will catalyse a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns.

These are only initial steps, and a lot more can be done. The journey towards a sustainable industry requires a total shift in

South Downs Designs is an eco-conscious, family-run business specialising in unique handmade gold and silver jewellery.

The team creates highly personalised items from their South Downs workshop such as cremation and memorial, fingerprint, sand, and handwriting jewellery. The firm believes that with personalised items comes increased sentimental value, which, in turn, leads us further away from a culture of disposable fast fashion. In addition, South Downs Designs' 2024 collection has been recognised for its contemporary take on time-tested styles.

For more information, visit the South Downs Designs website at www.southdownsdesigns. com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook (@southdownsdesigns).

SEE OFFER on next page.

© J&B

© J&B

© J&B

EMMA CRITCHLEY COMMON HERITAGE

By Stuart Rolt

Climate Justice Week is coming to the University of Sussex this month, bringing with it a series of workshops, talks and activities. It platforms collaborative learning, community building, knowledge and skill sharing between students and lecturers, as well as outside speakers. While highlighting a need for sweeping systemic change, it also discusses the efforts we can all make as individuals - from thinking harder about our diet and minimising the amount of waste we generate to recycling and thinking about how our money could be more ethically used.

As part of this, the Attenborough Centre For The Creative Arts is hosting a pioneering screening, followed by a panel discussion, from artist Emma Critchley. Deploying photography, film, sound and installation, she seeks to present a more sustainable and just society, acknowledging that we all need to drive change. The economic system of never-ending growth and exploitation is driving the climate and ecological crises.

Coming to ACCA on Tues 23 April, her film Common Heritage stands as an urgent response to the rush of deep-sea mining for rare earth minerals, exposing how reverberant layers of industrialisation, colonialism and territorial claim have affected the way we relate to our environment.

It centres around a speech by Arvid Pardo, the Maltese Ambassador to the UN. In 1967, his words instigated the Common Heritage of Mankind principle and after 10 years of international conference and debate, bore the Law of the Sea treaty. This serves as the provocation for Critchley’s film, which has been narrated by writer Gwyneth Jones. It presents dystopian science fiction motifs

harmonised with a poetic montage of deep-sea exploration archive footage. The juxtaposition both questions our current state and our future engagement with this critical frontier.

We were able to speak with Emma Critchley, to discover more about her creative process, the potential impact of exploiting the oceans and how a new age of colonialism may be dawning.

What gave you the idea to use that Arvid Pardo speech as a jumpingoff point?

The film doesn’t recreate the speech as such but uses the structure. In its proposition, Pardo’s speech was revolutionary for its time and is highly significant in the field of ocean governance, as it instigated over ten years of international negotiations, which resulted in the Common Heritage of (Hu)Mankind treaty. To date this is still the only treaty in place governing the High Seas. Right now, however, negotiations are taking place to try and draw up new regulations for managing the High Seas, but it has held its place for over a decade and is globally highly regarded. So, when thinking how to structure the edit of the film I thought what better place to start than the premise of this speech.

While many international bodies and charities are highlighting the danger being caused to our environment, the industries who profit from exploiting natural resources have significant wealth and influence, particularly amongst governments and media outlets. Can art be a way of redressing this balance and help people to make up their own minds about the risks we face globally?

Yes, I think art can provide a fantastic space of reflection for what is going on in the world, it’s often a good mirror to what is unfolding around us. To me art is at its best when it is less concerned with conveying a single message, which as you say is what we get from other information sources, but more about offering different perspectives, bringing together multiple truths and knowledge systems and implicating the audience to think and ask questions for and of themselves.

Have the old-world European empires been replaced by multinational business concerns?

In relation to deep-sea mining, the political and economic domination

that is at play still feels very colonial in its nature. The big companies who are pushing to mine and have the financial and technical means to do so are based in countries like Canada, Belgium, Norway, China and hold licences to explore (with the intention to exploit) in the waters of Pacific nations like the Cook Islands, Tonga, Nauru and Kiribati; areas known to have minerals within their national jurisdiction. Companies of course have to have agreements with these countries but details like accountability in the case of an environmental disaster are often unclear. The ocean is a source of income, food, employment and is of huge cultural significance in most island communities and any harm to life in this space will have huge social and economic consequences. It’s a narrative we’ve seen before.

Some people might suggest that the Earth’s oceans are huge, so the impact of deepsea mining would be minimal. Just how important are aquatic ecosystems?

From working with scientists over the years, the glaringly obvious thing to me with regards to the deep ocean is that there is so much we just don’t know – it’s a statement I’ve heard over again from scientific experts. Knowing so little about the life and ecosystems that exist in the deepsea, how are we ever really going to know the consequences until it’s too late?

We do know that life in the deep ocean has been evolving, untouched for millennia and operates on a different time-scale. The polymetallic nodules for example, which are the main focus for mining at the moment, form at a growth rate of 2-15mm per million years. Beautifully balanced ecosystems that have evolved over millions of years will be disrupted. We also know that water does not stay in one place, it is not compartmentalised; the ocean and its inhabitants are a global dynamic, interconnected ecosystem. We also know that terrestrial life relies on the ocean as a regulator of the Earth’s climate, as a carbon sink and it contributes to 50% of the air we breathe. There is potentially a lot to lose.

Society’s thirst for rare earth minerals, and the technology which uses them, is increasing almost exponentially. Are there difficult decisions ahead, or can we now take action to tackle the damage caused by their mining?

I think the best way of mitigating the potential damage caused by deep-sea mining is to not do it, it’s as simple as that. We need to question the narratives we are told about why we need to start mining and remember that the companies propagating these narratives have invested huge amounts of money in deep-sea mining research and tech.

One common narrative claim is that we need to mine certain minerals from the seabed for batteries, especially to support the green revolution. However, this argument doesn’t hold up under scrutiny . In a brilliant episode of the “Anglerfish Chronicles” podcast, Khadija Stewart interviewed Bobbi-Jo Dobush, who made some insightful points. Firstly, that lithium, the key mineral used in batteries, cannot actually be mined from the seabed – there isn’t enough. Secondly, cobalt and manganese, which are found in existing batteries and could potentially be mined from the seabed, are not part of any new or future battery innovations. This essentially blows this narrative out of the water.

There’s also the narrative that it’s needed for smart technology: the phones and laptops we use in our daily lives. Our rate of production and consumption of this technology has to slow down, it’s critical for the environmental situation as a whole. But I think we also need to use technology that is designed to be open and modular, so individual parts can be recycled instead of discarding entire devices. Companies like Fairphone are already implementing these principles. The circular economy model for example, where resources are reused and recycled is gaining traction. There is already a vast quantity of these minerals out of the ground - in our homes, in landfills and waste dumps. If devices were designed for longevity and recyclability, we would not need to continually extract new minerals. While big societal changes are required, adopting a circular model for consumer technologies is an important step we must take to help the environment.

Emma Critchley’s film, Common Heritage, comes to Brighton’s ACCA on Tues 23 April, as part of Sussex University’s Climate Justice Week.

Find out more at: www. attenboroughcentre.com

Spring Music Festival Guide

LAND BEYOND FESTIVAL

Brighton

Fri 3 – Sun 5 May

www.landbeyondfestival.co.uk

Kicking off Sussex’s festival season is Land Beyond, bringing with it the best in house and electronic music. Artists already announced include liquid DnB icons, Hybrid Minds, who will be joined by their regular MC, Tempza, along with Craig David’s iconic TS5 show. Elsewhere, you’ll be treated to genre-bending electronic dance icons Rudimental, Example, Joel Corry, Jazzy, Sammy Porter, Murphys Law, Arielle Free, Seb Zito, and the legendary Sigala, and so many more.

If you’re a fan of huge bass sounds, Gardna and Goddard will be setting the main stage alight, as well as Kings of the Rollers, dancehall legend David Rodigan, the iconic bass collective SASASAS, as well as, Mozey, Lens, IC3, Eksman, Devilman, Harry Shotta and loads more. Stages are being run by industry Heavyweights like Abode, Foreverland, Worried About Henry, Homebass, The New Society, Mic Masters, and Lullaby. This is going to go right off!

THE GREAT ESCAPE

Brighton

Weds 15 – Sat 18 May

www.greatescapefestival.com

This sprawling new music festival, where punters and industry luminaries rub shoulders in their search for the latest sounds, returns bigger and better for 2024. Seemingly every venue and free space in Brighton will find themselves hosting an eclectic range of artists – all with the potential of becoming the next big thing. Amongst the extensive list of bands are Soft Play, Lambrini Girls, Been Stellar, Milk, Wunderhorse, Lauren Mayberry, Kneecap, Soft Play, Lambrini Girls, Bradley Simpson, Been Stellar and Love Fame Tragedy. There’s also a wealth of independent label showcases, with names including Fat Possum, City Slang, Alcopop, Big Scary Monsters, Future Bubblers, Nice Swan, Secretly, Chess Club, Heavenly Records, Pigeons and Planes and Fat Cat all hosting stages. The gigs are just one strand of this now-landmark sonic feast. Behind the scenes, conference delegates will be attending workshops, networking sessions and seminars, hosted by some of the most respected professionals in the industry. Pulps iconic frontman, Jarvis Cocker,

will be giving a keynote speech, while Darcus Beese OBE will open proceedings by sharing his experience of being the UK’s first black record company CEO and nurturing artists like Amy Winehouse, Florence and the Machine and U2.

BRIGHTON MUSIC CONFERENCE

Brighton

Weds 22 – Sat 24 May

www.brightonmusicconference.co.uk

The UK’s foremost electronic music conference and networking event for professionals and enthusiasts heads back to the city’s i360 complex for another genreguiding year. Now in its tenth birthday, BMC has become the UK’s annual opportunity for the industry to meet face to face, share knowledge, and build new business opportunities and personal relationships.

Delegates and speakers will gather for over 60 talks, seminars and workshops, alongside exploring the latest tech and hearing a lot of cutting edge dance music. It’s attended by thousands of DJs, producers, labels, distribution companies, promoters and venues, all eager to collaborate and set the stage for the next 12 months.

BMC enables attendees to learn, form new business partnerships, showcase products and expand existing networks and network with like minded individuals and companies.

Participants this year include A Guy Called Gerald, Alex Grey, Amber Jolene, Brandon Block, Danny Byrd, Dave Pearce, Hannah Warnes, J-Felix, Mickey Jukes and Wildblood & Queenie. It’s not all work, work, work though. Every evening offers a range of special BMC parties, with some of the biggest names in electronic music - as well as BMC’s now legendary parties in the i360’s pod.

BBC1'S BIG WEEKENDER

Luton

Fri 24 – Sun 26 May

www.bbc.co.uk/events/r49fhn

Stockwood Park is set to be transformed, as the BBC brings some of the world’s biggest artists to town. Headliners include Sabrina Carpenter, Vampire Weekend, Coldplay and

beabadoobee headlining the New Music Stage. They join an absolutely huge line-up, which boasts household names like RAYE, Charli XCX, Chase & Status, Rag‘n’Bone Man, Becky Hill, Rudimental, Aitch and loads more. There’s also performances from Danny Howard, Picture Parlour, Sea Girls, Panjabi Hit Squad, Shygirl, Mabel, ESSEL and Everything Everything – if that wasn’t enough…

The ethos of the event is to bring some of the biggest UK and international artists to cities that don’t usually host such large scale events, while platforming new and local talent. As with all Big Weekends, tickets will be geographically weighted with 40 percent of tickets being reserved for those living in Luton, and a further 30 percent of tickets reserved for those living in the surrounding areas. Handily, if you aren’t able to jump on the Thameslink and get there, BBC Radio 1 will be broadcasting live from the festival across the weekend, with performances and tracks available live and on demand across Radio 1’s iPlayer channel and BBC Sounds.

LET'S LOVE LIFE

Aldershot

Sat 25 May www.letslovelife.co.uk

A boutique electronic music festival, with dancing in the woods and raising money for good causes, you say? Sign us up for that. While only a relatively intimate affair, Let’s Love Life punches well above its weight, bringing together quality music from some of the world’s most renowned DJs. Spread over four stages, it offers a top-quality day – with over 40 DJ’s spinning tunes from House, Deep House, Tech House, Techno & Club Classics.

Artists include DJ S.K.T, Darren Emerson, Dave Pearce, Ellis Dee, Graham Gold, Jonathan Ulysses, K-Klass, Rob Roar, Slipmatt, Todd Terry, Tristan Ingram. There’s also DJ Mystery, Jon Paul, Soultronic, Matty H… and the fantastically named Mat & Mrs My House spinning all that is great and good. Let Love Life was set up by events organiser Duane Stevens and his wife Jennifer Stevens, to raise money for premature babies after they tragically lost two daughters. The proceeds from the festival go to support local premature babies charities.

LOVE SAVES THE DAY

Bristol

Sat 25 – Sun 26

www.lovesavestheday.org

The beautiful Ashton Court estate welcomes another monster weekend, as Love Saves The Day throws up its doors to a weekend of good times and huge beats. Thousands of party-heads will be giving it some serious welly to artists like Camelphat, The Streets, CASISDEAD, Gorgon City, Caity Baser, Gardna, Joker, Sir Spyro, NOTION and absolutely loads more. A perfect start to the summer, it showcases a huge variety of global names and a diverse range of sounds – from the jungle majesty of Goldie to the high-energy drum and bass of Dimension. There are also huge slabs of UKG, house and bass music from legendary DJ-producer Joy Orbison, as well as Bristol's very own NOTION delivering his evolved sound; which bounces between garage and house.

On the live music front, BRIT-nominated sensation Caity Baser joins the line up following some massive TikTok success and her music hitting in the UK Charts. Elsewhere, there’s also performances from dancefloor heavy weights like Wilkinson, Bru-C, Katy B, Kenya Grace and Hedex. A stunning location, a huge roster of artists and an up-for-it crowd. What’s not to love?

LOVE SAVES THE DAY

REGGAE ON THE PIER

Hastings

Sun 26 May

www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Hastings/Hastings-Pier/Reggae-OnThe-Pier

It’s Spring Bank Holiday, and hopefully no work tomorrow. So why not soak up the sunny days and some big phat bass action out above the waves? Reggae On The Pier is attracting some of the world’s biggest names to the town’s most iconic landmark, for a blissful day of skanking and rhythmic bliss.

Headlining the event are The Dualers, known for their infectious blend of ska and reggae. This nine-piece band from South East London first gathered attention with their single Kiss On The Lips became a blues party classic. Alongside them is the patron saint of all things lo-frequency, legendary DJ David Rodigan with a host of dubs and rare grooves. There’s some genuine superstars in attendance, as the delicious voice of Dawn Penn takes the stage, as well as the first British born black female with a reggae song at the top of the British charts, Janet Kay, and the Queen Of Lovers Rock, Carroll Thompson. The lineup also includes dub maestros Prince Fatty & Horseman, the Reggae Roast collective, and it's all hosted by the supreme tastemaker, Solo Banton. Blissful.

BMC

Image by James Allam

Image by Scott M Salt

THE GREAT ESCAPE Image by Garry Jones

BN1 Magazine’s Sustainable Alternatives for Sun-Soaked Retreats

As May unfolds and the sun beckons, the urge to escape to warmer climes becomes irresistible. Yet, in an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, traditional travel methods come under scrutiny for their carbon footprint. Fear not, eco-conscious travellers, for there are sustainable alternatives that not only mitigate environmental impact but also offer unique experiences closer to home. From coastal adventures to countryside retreats, The Guardian presents a selection of eco-friendly holiday options for May, ensuring both rejuvenation and environmental responsibility.

Costa Del Sol, Spain

Temperature in May: Average highs of 24°C (75°F)

Sustainable Travel Option: Train and Ferry - Embark on an eco-conscious journey by taking a train from the UK to Spain via Eurostar and connecting services. From London, travel to Paris, then catch a train to Barcelona. Finally, board a ferry from Barcelona to Malaga, minimising carbon emissions while enjoying scenic landscapes along the way.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Explore the UK’s coastal gems, such as Cornwall or Pembrokeshire, where you can enjoy pristine beaches, coastal walks, and sustainable accommodation options like eco-lodges and glamping sites.

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Temperature in May: Average highs of 24°C (75°F)

Sustainable Travel Option: Cruise - Opt for a sustainable cruise from the UK to Gran Canaria, minimising air travel while enjoying the journey across the seas. Choose eco-conscious cruise lines committed to reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities at port stops.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Discover Scotland’s rugged beauty with a camping trip in the Highlands or explore the Lake District’s stunning landscapes by hiking and staying in eco-friendly accommodations.

Croatia, Rovinj City and Adriatic Sea- Istria

Majorca, Spain

Temperature in May: Average highs of 23°C (73°F)

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Temperature in May: Average highs of 24°C (75°F)

Sustainable Travel Option: FerryTravel from the UK to Tenerife via ferry, embarking on a leisurely voyage across the Atlantic. Choose ferry operators committed to sustainable practices, such as reducing emissions and minimising waste onboard.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Experience the tranquillity of the Norfolk Broads with a sustainable boating holiday, exploring the network of rivers and lakes aboard eco-friendly electric boats or traditional sailing vessels.

Sustainable Travel Option: Coach and Ferry - Embark on a scenic coach journey from the UK to Majorca, crossing Europe’s landscapes and stopping at picturesque towns along the way. Upon reaching the Spanish coast, board a ferry to Majorca, minimising carbon emissions and enjoying a unique travel experience.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Embrace the charm of rural Wales with a sustainable farm stay, where you can immerse yourself in nature, participate in eco-friendly activities, and support local agriculture.

Norfolk Broads black and white windmill landscape

Port de Soller Mallorca at Sunset

Dalaman Area, Turkey

Temperature in May: Average highs of 24°C (75°F)

Sustainable Travel Option: Train and Bus - Travel from the UK to Turkey via a combination of train and bus services, crossing Europe’s diverse landscapes while minimising carbon emissions. Enjoy the journey as part of the adventure, with stops in scenic towns and cities along the way.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Explore the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire with a sustainable camping trip, where you can hike through stunning landscapes, visit charming villages, and reduce your environmental impact by staying in ecofriendly campsites.

Algarve, Portugal

Temperature in May: Average highs of 23°C (73°F)

Sustainable Travel Option: Electric Car Hire - Choose a sustainable mode of transport by hiring an electric car and embarking on a road trip from the UK to the Algarve. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace while minimising carbon emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Discover the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales with a sustainable cycling holiday, exploring scenic routes, visiting local attractions, and staying in eco-friendly accommodation options like cyclistfriendly B&Bs and eco-lodges.

Sicily, Italy

Temperature in May: Average highs of 23°C (73°F)

Sustainable Travel Option: Train and Ferry - Travel from the UK to Sicily via a combination of train and ferry services, crossing Europe’s landscapes while minimising carbon emissions. Enjoy the journey through Italy’s picturesque countryside, stopping in historic cities along the way.

Alternative Eco-Holiday: Immerse yourself in the vibrant coastal culture of Cornwall with a sustainable surfing getaway in Newquay and St. Ives. Ride the waves, soak up the laid-back atmosphere, and explore stunning coastal trails, all while supporting local businesses committed to eco-friendly practices. Stay in environmentally conscious accommodations such as eco-friendly surf lodges or sustainable B&Bs nestled amidst Cornwall’s breathtaking landscapes.

Algarve, Portugal by Ioana Mohanu

Winnats Pass, Hope Valley, Peak District

Noto, Sicily

St Ives by Benjamin Elliott (Unsplash)

Strawberry Spinach Salad

As April heralds the peak of spring, this strawberry spinach salad celebrates the season with its blend of sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, and tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a refreshing, quick, and easy dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring

4 Hand

DIRECTION

Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese.

15 mins

INGREDIENTS

1 / 10

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and gently toss to ensure all the ingredients are well coated. 01. 03. 02. 04. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Serve: Serve immediately, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavours of the salad, a perfect starter or side dish for any spring meal.

TIME

45 mins

Spring Risotto with Lemon and Pea

A creamy, comforting bowl of risotto that bursts with the flavours of spring, this dish combines the zestiness of lemon with the freshness of peas, creating a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal.

How To Cook

DIRECTION

01. Sauté Onion: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

6 / 10 DIFFICULTY

02. Toast Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring to coat with oil and toast the grains slightly.

04. Finish the Risotto: When the rice is al dente and creamy, stir in the fresh peas, lemon zest, and juice. Add the Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.

05. Serve: Spoon the risotto into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately for a true taste of spring.

03. Deglaze and Cook: Pour in the white wine and stir until it’s absorbed. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until each ladleful is absorbed before adding the next.n

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cups Arborio rice

• 1/2 cup white wine

• 5 cups vegetable broth, warmed

• 1 cup fresh peas

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil, for garnish

Pan-Seared Salmon with Spring Vegetables

This pan-seared salmon with spring vegetables is a beautiful, nutritious dish that brings together the richness of salmon with the lightness of seasonal greens. It’s an ode to the freshness of April, simple to prepare yet elegant enough for a special dinner.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 salmon fillets, skin-on

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 lemon, sliced into wedges

• Fresh dill, for garnish

DIRECTION

01. Prep the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

02. Cook the Salmon: Add the salmon, skin-side down, to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

03. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Add the peas and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

04. Serve: Place the vegetables on a plate, top with the pan-seared salmon, and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill.

These recipes, ranging from the simplicity of a strawberry spinach salad to the comfort of a spring risotto, are perfect for celebrating the abundance of April in the UK, each dish offering a different level of culinary challenge to match your cooking mood or occasion.

TV GUIDE

LOOT

WEDS 3 APRIL

APPLE TV+

This Maya Rudolph-fronted comedy returns for a second season, which again will be packed with fabulous frocks and terrible decisions. Molly is newly divorced, but the pain of the split has been numbed slightly by a $87 billion settlement. Realising her life is quite vapid and pointless, our heroine throws herself into charity work. Although nobody anticipated just how difficult it would be,.

This new season promises to be even more packed with gags, along with exploring the lives and motives of several background characters. There’s also some shady characters threatening to spoil everything. Not everybody is happy that the ex-wife of a famous tycoon is turning her back on high society to concentrate on her charitable foundation…

STAR TREK: DISCOVERY

THURS 4 APRIL PARAMOUNT+

If you know that the Riker Maneuver isn’t something you’d see on an Essex dance floor, then prepare to get excited. The epic voyage to this sci-fi spin-off’s fifth and final season is nearly at an end. We’ve been 930 years into the future, formed uneasy alliances with morally flexible rogues and discovered the unpalatable source of the replicator rations.

Now, we find the intrepid crew about to shake things up even more, as they set out to investigate a mysterious and ancient power. There promises to be plenty of action, adventure and ambition. While on this epic quest, they realise it’s been hidden away for a very good reason, and that there’s some very dangerous people also on the hunt.

STAR TREK: DISCOVERY

RIPLEY

THURS 4 APRIL NETFLIX

Tom Ripley is a grifter scraping by in the urban jungle of early New York in the early 1960s. He thinks he’s on to a good thing when hired by a wealthy man offers him some good money and some foreign travel. All he needs to do is travel to Italy, and convince his employer’s vagabond son to return home. But Tom’s acceptance of the job is the first step into a complex life of deceit, fraud and murder.

This atmospheric drama is based on Patricia Highsmith’s bestselling Tom Ripley novels, and stars Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers), Dakota Fanning (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) and Johnny Flynn (One Life)

SUGAR

FRI 5 APRIL

APPLE TV+

Here comes a contemporary, unique take on one of the most popular and significant genres in literary, motion picture and television history - the private detective story. Alongside Amy Ryan (The Wire), James Cromwell (Succession), Anna Gunn (Breaking Bad), Nate Corddry (Mindhunter), Sydney Chandler (Don’t Worry Darling) and Dennis Boutsikaris (Better Call Saul), Academy Award nominee Colin Farrell, stars as John Sugar.

This dogged American private investigator is looking into the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel, the beloved granddaughter of legendary Hollywood producer Jonathan Siegel. As Sugar tries to determine what happened to Olivia, he also begins to unearth some of the Siegel family’s secrets; some very recent, others long-buried.

THE REGIME

MON 8 APRIL

SKY ATLANTIC

From the executive producers of Succession comes a brand-new, political satire, which stars Kate Winslet as the ruthless leader of a fictional European autocracy. This uncompromising and darkly comedic six-episode series tells the story of life within the walls of a modern authoritarian regime as it begins to unravel.

After not leaving the palace for quite some time, Chancellor Elena Vernham has grown increasingly paranoid and unstable when she turns to a volatile soldier, Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts) as an unlikely confidant. As Zubak’s influence over his leader continues to grow, Elena’s attempts to consolidate her power will eventually result in both the palace and the country fracturing around her.

SUGAR

FALLOUT

FRI 12 APRIL

PRIME VIDEO

Finally, there’s a gaming small-screen adaptation I can truly get behind. Based on one of the best (and certainly aesthetically impressive) video game franchises of all time, this is the story of haves and have-nots - in a world in which there’s almost nothing left to have.

Two-hundred years after the apocalypse, the gentle denizens of luxury fallout shelters are forced to return to the irradiated hellscape their ancestors left behind. Ella Purnell plays Lucy, an optimistic Vault-dweller with an allAmerican can-do spirit. Although, her peaceful and idealistic nature is tested when she is forced to venture outside into the incredibly complex, gleefully weird, and highly violent outside to rescue her father.

WELCOME TO WREXHAM

THURS 18 APRIL

DISNEY+

In something of a fairytale for Welsh Association Football, two Hollywood stars stepped in to turn around the fortunes of its oldest professional club. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have bought into Wrexham AFC, with a dream of taking it to the big time.

Like a real-life version of Ted Lasso, this reality show follows the two actors as they get a lesson in the intricacies of the beautiful game and perhaps learn something about each other. The end of this third series will also coincide with the culmination of Wrexham’s 2023-24 season. At the time of writing the side is looking at promotion into League One, so it could be a thrilling end to the campaign.

THE BIG DOOR PRIZE

WEDS 24 APRIL

APPLE TV+

Chris O’Dowd (State of the Union, The IT Crowd) as Dusty, Gabrielle Dennis (A Black Lady Sketch Show) as Cass and Patrick Kerr (Frasier) as Mr Johnson, this US comedy series avoids the pitfalls accompanying a high-concept by also giving us a cast of loveable and interesting characters.

Based on M.O. Walsh’s book of the same name, we return to a small town which has been changed forever. Magical things have been happening after a mysterious machine appeared in the local grocery store. It promises to reveal everyone’s true potential, and soon residents start changing jobs, rethinking relationships, and questioning long-held beliefs - all in pursuit of a better future.

THE BIG DOOR PRIZE

FALLOUT WELCOME TO WREXHAM

FILM

HOUSEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS

FRI 5 APRIL

Acclaimed filmmaker Goran Stolevski (Of an Age) explores the universal truths of family, both the ones we’re born into and the ones we find for ourselves. Already winning an award at the Venice Festival and selected as Macedonia’s entry for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars, it assembles an ensemble cast –including Anamaria Marinca (Sex Traffic, Tin Star), Alina Serban (Gipsy Queen), Vladimir Tintor (Sonja and the Bull) and Mia Mustafa.

Dita never wanted to be a mother, but circumstances force her to raise her girlfriend’s two daughters - tiny troublemaker Mia and rebellious teen Vanesa. A battle of wills ensues as the butt heads and become an unlikely family which must fight to stay together.

MONKEY MAN

FRI 5 APRIL

Dev Patel gets inspired by the legend of Hanuman, -an icon embodying strength and courage. He both directs and stars (alongside Sharlto Copley, Pitobash, Vipin Sharma, Sikandar Kher) as Kid; an anonymous young man who ekes out a meagre living in an underground fight club. Night after night, wearing a gorilla mask, he is beaten bloody by more popular fighters for cash.

After years of suppressed rage, Kid discovers a way to infiltrate the enclave of the city’s sinister elite. As his childhood trauma boils over, his mysteriously scarred hands unleash an explosive campaign of retribution to settle the score with the men who took everything from him.

ABIGAIL

FRI 19 APRIL

Are all children little monsters occasionally? Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, who’ve previously collaborated on Ready or Not and Scream, this creative horror stars Melissa Barrera (In the Heights), Dan Stevens (Downton Abbey) and Kathryn Newton (Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania)

A group of would-be criminals kidnap the 12-year-old ballerina daughter of a powerful underworld figure. Now, they just have to watch the child overnight, before collecting a chunky $50 million ransom the next day. simple, right? Locked inside an isolated mansion, the gang mysteriously starts to disappear… one by one. They quickly realise, to their mounting horror, that the young captive is no normal little girl.

GUIDE

FANTASTIC MACHINE

FRI 19 APRIL

What happens when humanity’s infatuation with itself and a free market meet 45 billion cameras? Filmmakers Axel Danielson & Maximilien Van Aertryck (Ten Meter Tower, Jobs For All!) again turn their cameras directly on society, this time to explore, explain and expose how our unchecked obsession with image has grown to change our human behaviour.

From Camera Obscura and the Lumieres Brothers all the way to Youtube and the world of social media, the film chronicles how we went from capturing the image of a backyard to a billion-dollar content industry in just 200 years. With archival and found footage, the film uses the very medium it examines, in a self-reflective, yet hilarious, montage.

THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE

FRI 19 APRIL

Based upon some recently declassified files of the British War Department, and fresh off the back of his adaptation of The Gentlemen for Netflix, Guy Ritchie goes all out with the wartime action comedy. Inspired by true events, he tells the story of the first-ever special forces organisation - formed during WWII by Winston Churchill and a small group of military officials including author Ian Fleming. The top-secret unit, composed of a motley crew of rogues and mavericks, goes on a daring mission against the Nazis using entirely unconventional and utterly “ungentlemanly” fighting techniques. Ultimately their audacious approach changed the course of the war and laid the foundation for the British SAS and modern Black Ops warfare.

WILDFIRE

FRI 19 APRIL

Inspired by the worldwide hit by Michael Martin Murphey, and the legend of the Cherokee ghost horse, this is the story of redemption and forgiveness. Samantha is a young girl struggling with guilt, following the tragic death of her parents. With the family facing financial ruin, the survivors move from Texas to Oklahoma to live on their Grandma’s horse farm outside Tahlequah.

Emotionally lost and distraught, Samantha finds peace from the attention she receives from a mysterious wild horse that seems to be following her as she walks home from school each day. Eventually, she is able to contact and is soon entering races with this new friend. But… is the horse real?

BOY KILLS WORLD

FRI 26 APRIL

Bill Skarsgård stars as Boy in this inventive Moritz Mohr-directed sci-fi actioner - a man who has been left orphaned, deaf and voiceless. He sets out to bring vengeance to Hilda Van Der Koy, the deranged matriarch of a post-apocalyptic dynasty that murdered his family. Driven by his inner voice, one which he co-opted from his favourite childhood video game, Boy trains with a mysterious shaman to become an instrument of death.

Attacking on the eve of the annual culling of dissidents, Boy unleashes bloody martial arts mayhem. Attempting to get his bearings in this delirious realm, he soon falls in with a desperate resistance group, all while bickering with the apparent ghost of his rebellious little sister.

ABIGAIL

Master the art of fun.

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