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FABRICA RETURNS WITH FOKA WOLF SHOW
Foka Wolf’s powerful installation, Why Are We Stuck in Hospital?, a groundbreaking exhibition raising awareness on prolonged hospital stays for disabled and autistic individuals, heads to Brighton’s Fabrica contemporary art gallery on Weds 7 – Weds 14 August 2024. This marks the first exhibition at Fabrica since the loss of Arts Council funding in April 2023, and signals a resilient step forward for the venue and a commitment to showcasing socially impactful art.
Originally debuted at Ikon Gallery in Birmingham in March 2023, Why Are We Stuck in Hospital?
is a profound visual interpretation of a pressing issue: the needless entrapment of approximately 2000 individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism within the hospital system in England. These individuals often remain in hospitals for over five years, far longer than necessary, due to systemic inefficiencies and the lack of suitable community-based support.
The exhibition stems from a research project of the same name, conducted by the University of Birmingham in partnership with rights-based organisation, Changing Our
Lives. The research sheds light on this largely invisible issue, aiming to foster public awareness and inspire change.
Prior to its showing at Fabrica, the installation was presented at Site Gallery, Sheffield, as part of a broader campaign to raise awareness. Jack Arts (BUILDHOLLYWOOD) launched a complementary billboard campaign, alongside each exhibition in Birmingham, Sheffield and at one site in Brighton.
“We are thrilled to host Foka Wolf’s poignant installation at Fabrica,” says Liz Whitehead,
LIVE AT LANGHAMS:
Part of the month-long MADhurst 2024 celebration of art, music, drama and creativity, the annual Live at Langhams is a much-loved family friendly (and dog friendly!) music and beer festival at Langham Brewery, near Petworth. This year the event takes place on Sat 17 Aug from 1pm until 10pm.
Expect the brewery’s usual relaxed style: wonderful live music - pop, rock, soul, jazz and sea shanties from Selsey Shantymen, Jo Bartlett, Fate The Juggler and many more - a well-stocked, award-winning bar, a fabulous atmosphere and delicious fresh food, courtesy of local producers The Hungry Hog.
This is a free event, but please do give generously, as there will be a collection for
Fabrica’s Co-Director. “Despite the recent challenges we’ve faced, this exhibition reaffirms our commitment to bringing important social issues to wider public attention through art.”
Visitors are encouraged to share their experiences of the installation and sightings of the billboard: #IkonGallery #Fabrica
For more information about the exhibition and upcoming events at Fabrica, visit:
www.fabrica.org.uk
MADhurst 2024 -Sat 17 Aug
Friends Of The South Downs and South Downs National Park‘s ‘Help Nature to Re-nature’ and similar projects, which help to safeguard our wonderful landscape.
Langham - the independent, award-winning microbrewery and taproom near Petworthoffers a range of fresh, carefully developed craft beer served by friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable staff. They create innovative and flavoursome craft beers using top quality ingredients and traditional, as well as contemporary, skills, and host wonderful events for the local community. Taproom and brewery open 6 days a week.
www.langhambrewery.co.uk
Tegen Kimbley
MAKE TIME FOR CREATIVITY
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
NOFIT STATE CIRCUS HEADS TO BRIGHTON FESTIVAL EXTRA
It’s a long-awaited return to Brighton for NoFit State and director Firenza Guidi this month, as they take over The Level with a special show for Brighton Festival Extra. This follows the company’s recent collaboration with Welsh National Opera on Benjamin Britten’s opera Death in Venice in which Guidi directed the critically acclaimed circus elements.
Running on Thurs 8 Aug - Sun 1 Sept, Sabotage is an energising and uplifting large scale circus spectacular. It’s created by the same awardwinning creative team which developed the acclaimed show, LEXICON - which sold out its run at Brighton Festival in May 2018. NoFit State has gained a reputation for creating groundbreaking shows over its nearly 40-year history, like BIANCO, Tabú and Immortal, that not only delight and entertain audiences but also challenge and question contemporary issues.
“The saboteurs are a community of outsiders with little respect for the figureheads of authority,” said NoFit State’s Artistic Director, Tom Rack. “They poke fun at the ‘heads of states’ and show them up as clowns.”
NoFit State celebrate the contradictions within themselves and their work creating beautiful carnage and organised anarchy they embrace the human condition in all its dirtiness. Formed in 1986 by five friends, this is a community bound by a common passion and a collective journey. They work, travel, and love together, putting their lives in each other’s hands daily and it is this trust, this bond and this togetherness which gives their work its unique heart, soul and spirit.
They make stories without narrative – creating work which is poignant and poetic. Using large scale imagery, circus, live music, movement and innovative design, NoFit State invent worlds where the boundaries between the real and the imaginary, the possible and the impossible, become blurred, where the frontiers between artists and audiences are broken, where nothing is hidden, and everything revealed.
This month, audiences can expect the same exceptional large scale circus spectacular with breath-taking skills, stunning imagery and NoFit State’s signature feel. SABOTAGE brings a darker, grittier, and more subversive edge to NoFit State’s
For further information, visit: nofitstate.org/sabotage
Image by Mark J Robson
Image by Sigrid Spinnox
Image by Mary Wycherley
SUMMER AT WEALD & DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM
Get ready for excitement and discovery at the Weald & Downland Living Museum. Their summer holiday activities are running until Fri 30 Aug, providing the perfect day out for families and visitors of all ages.
Immerse yourself in hands-on rural farming lessons, explore the wonderful scarecrow trail crafted by local community groups, and enjoy captivating storytelling sessions that range from Anglo Saxon fantastical beasts to 17thcentury farming tales.
There will also be traditional Punch and Judy puppet shows, medieval tabletop jousting, and the chance to take part in handson activities. Each week offers new adventures, crafts and games, ensuring there’s always something fresh to explore, learn and enjoy.
Beyond the scheduled activities, visitors can wander through the picturesque 40-acre site, explore historical buildings, meet farm animals, and enjoy a picnic by the mill pond.
For more information and special online savings, head to:
www.wealddown.co.uk/ whats-on
WORTHING’S THE CONNAUGHT TURNS 110
Originally opened in July 1914 as The Picturedrome, The Connaught was Worthing’s first purpose-built cinema. To mark the occasion, there’s a series of special birthday events continuing this month, including a birthday film quiz and special screenings of classic films.
Connaught Cinema programmer, James Tully said: “As the programmer for a 110-year-old cinema, I’m very aware that it has been here long before me. And it will be here long after. I’m merely a custodian using the Connaught to entertain and educate Worthing cinema-goers. And I absolutely love my job. We always have one eye on respecting the heritage of the building and cinema as an art form. Whilst also keeping the other eye firmly on the future. Finding new films from festivals, engaging with local filmmakers and
became a staple in the repertory theatre scene through the 50s and 60s seeing many future stars cross its boards. The Connaught has grown alongside the film entertainment industry into the versatile and welcoming space it is today.
James Tully added, “Cinema is enduring a somewhat turbulent time right now. Back-to-back crises have affected audience behaviour, and the way films are released. We were delighted to see our audience numbers pick up in 2023 and really hope that momentum continues through 2024. I really appreciate every visit that people make to us. Especially to our screenings of older films back on the big screen in all their glory.”
Throughout August, audiences at the Connaught will enjoy special screenings of classic and beloved films, ones which are often requested by the community.
The team at the Connaught will also be hosting a behind the scenes open morning on Sun 4 Aug (10am-12pm). It’ll be a chance for members of the community to get onstage, meet the team, and ask any burning questions they might have… There will also be a Birthday edition of the popular film quiz on Fri 30 Aug.
BIRTHDAY FILM SCREENINGS
Fri 2 Aug, 5.45pmWithnail & I (15) Sat 3 Aug, 3.30pmGone With The Wind (PG) Sat 3 Aug, 8pm2001: A Space Odyssey (U) Sun 4 Aug, 12.45pmSingin’ In The Rain (U)
For more information, head to: www.wtm.uk/110th
CELEBRATE PRIDE WITH DUKES LANE
Brighton Pride 2024 is set to be an unforgettable celebration of love, diversity, and unity. And businesses along Dukes Lane will be transforming their busy shopping district into a bustling hub on Sat 3 - Sun 4 Aug, with two days of free live entertainment, exclusive offers and much more.
ultimately creating experiences and memories at the cinema.”
The cinema was opened by Worthing’s mayor and mayoress to a large crowd that lined the streets to enter. The day’s takings of £38.2s.9d (about £2,250 today) were donated to local charities. Within its first year The Picturedrome adopted the slogan ‘The finest Kinema on the South Coast’. 1916 saw the addition of The Connaught Hall (now The Connaught Studio), giving the venue more opportunities for a diverse programme.
Throughout the decades the venue adapted to changes in viewing habits and to accommodate different art forms. In the 1930s it was renamed the New Connaught Theatre and was the first purpose-built cinema to be converted into a theatre. It
The weekend will be kicking off in style with the fabulous Lovinia Belle will performing throughout Saturday afternoon in the Dukes Lane Courtyard. Known for their charismatic performances, fabulous costumes, and incredible energy, this will be Lovinia’s third appearance on the Lane, and will set the tone for a weekend full of festivities.
Celebrations continue throughout the weekend, including a performance by the Actually Gay Men’s Chorus on Sunday. Known for their powerful voices and moving renditions, the chorus will fill Dukes Lane with melodies that resonate with the values of Pride.
Sean Headley, the owner of The Brighton Box Art Gallery on Dukes Lane and member of the Actually Gay Men’s Chorus, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming celebrations: “I am thrilled that Dukes Lane is hosting
such an inclusive and exciting Pride event. It’s wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate diversity and creativity, and we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to join us!”
In addition to the live performances, Dukes Lane gallery They Made This will be unveiling an Instagramworthy new mural, located opposite their store, perfect to take those Pride photos with. Created by a talented local artist, following a recent competition; the mural embodies the vibrancy of Brighton, and will be revealed just in time for the celebratory weekend, adding a further splash of colour and creativity to Dukes Lane.
This exciting event has been organised in collaboration with Brilliant Brighton - Brighton Improvement District (BID) - which has recently welcomed Dukes Lane as associate members. Throughout the weekend, businesses will also be fundraising for Sussex Beacon, a local charity that provides specialist care and support for people living with HIV. As well as fundraising buckets in businesses, there’s also a raffle with participants having the chance to win exciting prizes donated by the stores and galleries within Dukes Lane.
BRIGHTON ART FAIR
Brighton Dome Corn Exchange welcomes back Brighton Art Fair this September for a special 20th anniversary edition. The city’s flagship contemporary art fair returns to offer a spectacular showcase of painting, photography, printmaking, 3D and mixed media works.
Brighton Art Fair was set up in 2004 by Brighton duo Jon Tutton and artist Sarah Young to offer an opportunity for Sussex artists to sell their work and for residents to see the wealth of talent on their doorstep. The Fair’s original series of posters, designed by Young, depicted shoppers riding upon all means of transport - from a bicycle to a whale - with bags full of original artwork, are now collectible works of art in their own right.
Over the last two decades, the Fair has grown to become a national event attracting over 100 artists and galleries from across the UK. Its success has led to the launch of a series of Tutton & Young fairs including MADE London and MADE Brighton. In 2021 the company opened Atelier beside the Sea, a gallery, shop and teaching space, across three ex-fisherman’s arches on Brighton Beach.
Highlights for the 20th anniversary edition include a wealth of experimental printmaking by artist studio groups and collectives and botanical art in all forms. Sussex’s
distinctive shorelines, woodlands and downlands continue to inspire today’s artists as they have done for generations before. New partners have been announced for the 2024 edition: CASS Art, Sussex arts magazine ROSA (Review of Sussex Arts), and DRAW Brighton who will be offering themed life drawing workshops on each afternoon.
Jon Tutton, Director Brighton Art Fair says”Brighton Art Fair is where we started and has a special place right in the heart of our company. We are knocked out by the beauty of the restoration at Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and delighted to be back for, what promises to be, a spectacular 20th anniversary edition in 2024.”
Brighton Art Fair comes to Brighton Dome Corn Exchange on Thurs 19 – Sun 22 Sept.
Special preview on Thurs (6 – 8pm), main fair on Fri – Sun (10.30am – 5pm)
Tickets:
Preview: £15.00 (early bird before Sun 1 Sept)
General Admission: £7.50 (early bird before Sun 1 Sept), £10 (advance), £12 (on the door)
Season Ticket: £40 - entrance to Brighton Art Fair, MADE Brighton and MADE London (including Previews)
Children under 16: Free accompanied by an adult.
Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible. Carers are free. Blue badge parking spaces are located directly outside the venue.
For more details and tickets, head to: www.brightonartfair.co.uk
The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is bringing a new collection of thrilling ocean-themed films to Brighton Dome on Weds 18 Sept. A celebration of the planet’s oceans, the festival brings wild seafaring voyages and fascinating marine-life onto the big screen.
“The Ocean Film Festival Tour is a platform for storytelling that brings the beauty, challenges and importance of our oceans to audiences around the world,” says festival founder and CEO Jemima Robinson. “This year’s line-up is a testament to the incredible adventures, talents
and environmental messages that resonate with us all. We are thrilled to share these inspiring films and celebrate the magic of the ocean.”
The Ocean Film Festival was created in Australia to inspire people to enjoy, explore and protect our oceans, and this is the 11th year it has toured in the UK. The inspirational short films are introduced by a compère, and each screening will see a free prize giveaway to win ocean-related goodies.
Film highlights include:
ICE MAIDEN
Adventurer Lisa Blair is embarking on a voyage to become the first woman to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica. When unexpected and lifethreatening weather conditions cause catastrophe, Lisa needs to dig into every ounce of courage, determination and self-belief to not only finish the journey, but survive in the most dangerous waters on the planet. An epic tale of perseverance, pushing limits and believing you can
BLACK BRIGHTON MARKET
The vibrant city of Brighton will play host to the inaugural Black Brighton Market on Sat 17 - Sun 18 Aug. Running 10am-6pm, and set against the picturesque backdrop of the city’s iconic Brighton Palace Pier, this event promises to deliver a unique and diverse shopping experience, showcasing talented traders from the BIPOC community.
Located in the bustling hot spot of Madeira Drive, the Black Brighton Market will bring together a curated selection of creative and innovative vendors who represent the rich tapestry of Brighton’s cultural landscape. From handmade crafts to unique fashion finds, visitors can expect a wide range of offerings that celebrate the talent and craftsmanship of BIPOC entrepreneurs.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Brighton and Hove City Council to bring the Black Brighton Market to life,” said Jade Hylton, Black Brighton Market founder and organiser. “This event is not just about shopping; it’s about creating a space where diversity, creativity,
achieve something even when you don’t know how.
THE WHALE SONG
Delve into the enigmatic communication of humpback whales. Beyond their renowned songs lies a thrilling revelation –these majestic creatures ingeniously remix each other’s tunes, passing melodies around the world’s oceans. The Whale Song draws a parallel between the musical genius of DJ Sam Feldt and the whales’ haunting harmonies. As Sam transforms whale songs into chart-topping human beats, an extraordinary synergy between nature and art unfolds.
IMMORTAL
and community engagement can thrive. We encourage everyone to come out and support these incredible traders.”
Market stall spaces are still available for hire, offering an opportunity for more BIPOC traders to participate in this dynamic event. Whether you’re a seasoned vendor or first-time seller, Black Brighton Market is encouraging individuals to be a part of this exciting weekend of commerce and community engagement.
The Black Brighton Market is set to become a flagship event on the city’s cultural calendar, celebrating the vibrancy and talent of local communities in Brighton.
For more information and stall bookings, head to:
www.linktr.ee/ blackbrightonmarket
TESS FELIX: PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST
California-based artist Tess Felix uses plastic debris to create mosaic portraits as a vibrant response to the perilous state of our oceans. Tess explores serious issues with imagination and humour, aiming to spark curiosity and imagination. Through the forgotten and unusual remnants of everyday life, Tess uses art to speak of the places, people and ocean that she loves.
For full details and tickets, visit www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk.
APPLES, ETERNAL EGGS
Hastings Contemporary announces a major new show, exploring the rich and complex genre of still life. Immortal Apples, Eternal Eggs is a meeting of two of the UK’s most significant collections – The Ingram Collection and the David and Indrė Roberts Collection – and will include work from artists including Phyllida Barlow, Louise Bourgeois, Sir Anthony Caro, Patrick Caulfield, Michael Craig-Martin, Dame Elisabeth Frink, Henry Moore, Ben Nicholson and Sarah Lucas.
Running on Sat 21 Sept – Sun 16 March, the event juxtaposes worldclass contemporary sculpture, video and installation alongside traditional still life painted works. It aims to challenge assumptions about this familiar genre, inviting new perspectives and asking viewers: what really is still life? More than 50 artworks will be on display, created by more than 50 artists over the past 100 years.
The exhibition begins with a dramatic and theatrical display in the gallery’s largest space, placing large-scale sculptures by Cathie Pilkington
and Ai Weiwei alongside paintings by artists including Ansel Krut and John Armstrong. The show will progress thematically, journeying through trace and absence, wildness and cultivation, production and consumption, and magic and transformation, while also delving into still life’s darker undercurrents of death, violence and exploitation with works by Lonnie Holley, Gabriella Boyd and William Turnbull.
Hastings Contemporary Director Liz Gilmore said “From magic and mystery to life and death, and the beauty of the domestic and ordinary, Immortal Apples, Eternal Eggs takes visitors on a surprising and thoughtprovoking journey through the genre of Still Life. The exhibition title was inspired by the writings of former Sussex resident, Virginia Woolf, and her intuitive understanding of the quiet poetry of everyday items. We are delighted that this collaboration with two prominent British art collections enables us to bring to Hastings World Class historic and contemporary art, in a celebration of some of the most significant artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.
The Whale Song
Image by Dean Koopman
Whether it be shock, surprise, humour, melancholy or delight, there is something for everyone in this exhibition!”
Using The Ingram Collection’s Modern British art works, the exhibition will explore how artists began to interpret the genre in the 20th century, and with the contemporary works of the David and Indrė Roberts Collection, expand our understanding of what constitutes a still life and where the genre is heading. The pairing of these significant collections will enable an intense and playful dialogue between art of the past and contemporary art, with works from emerging and early-career artists –such as Ingram Prize winner Abigail Norris – and more than 20 works that have never been seen in a public gallery before by artists such as
Craigie Aitchison, Louise Bourgeois and Michael Craig-Martin.
Ingram Collection Director Jo Baring said “We are thrilled to be working with the Roberts Institute of Art and Hastings Contemporary on this exhibition which reveals the continued relevance of Still Life to artists. Through their lens, we explore the vitality and dynamic energy within still life, offering visitors fresh and innovative perspectives on the everyday objects that populate our world.”
The exhibition takes its title from Virginia Woolf’s description of painter and critic Roger Fry’s bedsit in 1940.* English Modernist writer, Virginia Woolf was fundamental in showing how ordinary, everyday things can be imbued with extraordinary poetry. She also
understood that art (in the broadest sense) need not necessarily deal with the dramatic and spectacular but with the immediate, domestic and supposedly banal – ideas that remain at the heart of the still life genre, and this show.
Fast forward to 2024 and the genre of still life has never been more relevant. The obsessive documentation of our lives, meals and homes for social media has turned us all into still life artists. And, while seemingly ordinary, every still life is shadowed by the exploitation of natural resources and labour. Immortal Apples, Eternal Eggs delves into all these themes through the lens of some of the most exciting artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, bringing this long-marginalised genre out into the spotlight.
Roberts Institute of Art Director Kate Davies said “This collaborative exhibition presents a fresh take on Still Life, showcasing an exciting dialogue between two diverse collections and artworks by some of the most significant artists of the past 100 years. We are delighted to exhibit many works from the David and Indrė Roberts Collection that have never been seen in a public
gallery before. Still Life is revealed here as a rich and complex genre, challenging our expectations and highlighting its profound and sometimes surprising influence on artists from the early 20th century to today.”
Hastings Contemporary brings worldclass modern and contemporary art to a spectacular coastal setting. With an ambitious programme of exhibitions, events and activities, the gallery aims to enrich lives, offer new opportunities and help Hastings to thrive. Showcasing internationally celebrated artists and emerging practitioners, the gallery has developed a reputation for its focus on painting and drawing, supported by Artist Patron Sir Quentin Blake. The award-winning building is located on the town’s historic fishing beach among the net huts and working structures of the fishing fleet.
FareShare Sussex & Surrey has unveiled a new crowdfunding campaign with the aim of enabling partner charities and community groups to increase their froze goods capacity and help more people across the region who are experiencing hunger and food poverty.
Funds raised will go towards purchasing more fridges, freezers and temperature tracking equipment as well as providing relevant training for volunteers and staff. Having acquired a new warehouse in Guildford in Surrey, FareShare Sussex & Surrey has tripled its capacity for frozen and chilled food and has invested in a frozen van to accept and transport greater quantities of frozen food to stop it going to waste.
The charity receives a variety of surplus foods which are already frozen, such as meats, meat alternatives and mixed vegetables, and can prolong the life of products such as bread, raw meat and dairy by freezing them.
Dan Slatter, CEO of FareShare Sussex & Surrey said: “Unlike other redistribution charities, we can take large amounts of chilled and frozen produce which would otherwise go to waste.
“Last year, we supplied 66 charities and community groups with 43 tonnes of frozen food. Thanks to our new Surrey warehouse, we have tripled our capacity to redistribute frozen food so we can provide urgent support to those who are suffering from food insecurity in areas of Surrey that are often overlooked.
“We know it’s expensive for charities and community groups to invest in their own commercial equipment, which is why we’re launching this campaign to help ten of our partner charities and groups accept more frozen items. This means we’ll be able to feed more people suffering with hunger in Sussex and Surrey, including the homeless and those living in supported accommodation, young parents and the elderly.”
FareShare Sussex & Surrey rescues and redistributes surplus food to more than 150 local
organisations across the counties, helping to combat hunger and prevent waste.
Lou Foley from Stonewater, a charity which provides refuge spaces for domestic abuse survivors in Brighton, said: “The benefits of having a fridge here would keep the fresh items last longer, as we don’t have any other means of keeping them fresh.
“We only have a dry cupboard where all the FareShare Sussex & Surrey items are stored. I hate to throw away food because we’re unable to keep it chilled. Having a fridge will help keep the capacity for food longer and benefit all.”
Trudy Hampton, CEO of Warming Up The Homeless in Hastings, East Sussex, said: “FareShare Sussex & Surrey is a lifesaver for our charity and those it serves. Regular deliveries of good quality food helps us produce 1,400 nutritious meals a week, cooked from scratch to feed those sleeping rough or in vulnerable housing without cooking equipment.
“The meals are frozen so we can provide prepared food in our support parcels which we deliver to 450 - 600 families a week.”
Sarah Renfrey, project manager at Littlehampton Community Fridge in West Sussex, said: “Our deliveries and collections of food from FareShare Sussex & Surrey have enabled us to support our Littlehampton Fridge-On-Tour pop-up community fridges, as well as our main hub, the Littlehampton Community Fridge.
“This means we can help hundreds of people a week in Littlehampton and surrounding areas to access a variety of different foods, which can help with the current cost-of-living crisis for many of our visitors.”
FareShare Sussex & Surrey helps those who live in areas with the highest levels of deprivation, working with groups that provide healthy meals and support such as advice, guidance, health support, counselling and befriending to help break the cycle of poverty.
To donate to the FareShare Sussex & Surrey frozen food campaign, please visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/fsssfrozen
For more information, please visit:
www.faresharesussexandsurrey .org.uk.
TECH-NOIR HEADS TO WATERBEAR
Brighton’s finest DJs and most friendly crowds will be gathering opposite the city’s beach at the Waterbear, on Sat 17 Aug. The awesome Scott Diaz (Bedfunk, ITH, Hed Kandi, Nervous) joins Nick Hook (Jeepers! Music), Nina Carina and MYSD behind the decks for what is sure to be another amazing Tech-noir party.
Expect to hear the best new underground house, tech house, deep and progressive house tunes, mixed by some of Brighton’s finest DJs, in Waterbear’s infamous tunnel of sound on the venue’s Function One sound system. Make sure you arrive early and wear those dancing shoes.
www.tech-noirclub.com
BRIGHTON OPEN AIR THEATRE
There’s a full programme at Brighton Open Air Theatre this summer, including family shows, comedy, music, drag, opera and theatre. July highlights includes two Noel Coward classics; Brief Encounter and Present Laughter, a fresh take on the Shakespearean classic Julius Caesar, hilarious improvisation from The Noise Next Door (as seen on ITV), and a brilliant family day out with DJs and games with Old School Block Party. There’s also the world premiere of a brand-new version of The Count Of Monte Cristo – told with breathtaking speed, skill and wit. Not one to miss!
In August, everything is covered for summer holiday days out, with The Little Mermaid and Jemima Puddle Duck for the little ones, plus Oliver Twist and Jeeves and Wooster for those with a slightly more mature taste. There’s also a bumper Pride Edition of the now famous Drag in the Park, including a family-friendly afternoon show, stand-up comedy from Gary Delaney and co, the Gilbert & Sullivan classic The Gondoliers, and the return (due to popular demand) of Homestead –a new version of Lorca’s The House Of Bernada Alba- which wowed audiences and critics alike in May.
In September the season is rounded out with loads of live music – including legendary swing band Down for the Count – puppet show Space Chickens, re-imagined Peter Pan, sea shanty favourites Old Time Sailors, plus loads more.
BOAT is Sussex’s only permanent outdoor theatre, and since opening ten years ago, has become established as a key part of Brighton & Hove’s cultural landscape. Nestled in Dyke Road Park, between the gorgeous rose garden and stunning views to the sea, the Greek-style auditorium seats up to 400 people. Prices are exceptionally competitive, with a small bar on site offering alcoholic and soft drinks, snacks and ice creams. Audiences are also able to bring their own picnics, and are encouraged to bring cushions and blankets. The venue is fully accessible and can cater for a number of requirements. Crack open a bottle of fizz and relax under the sunshine this summer –at BOAT there’s everything under the sun.
Visit www. brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk for more information and to book tickets.
Image by Lucy MacDonald
SUSTAINABILITY-INSPIRED FUN FOR FAMILIES AT LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM THIS SUMMER
Families visiting London Transport Museum this summer can look forward to a line-up of activities that will get children learning all about the capital, its transport and its environment in a fun and engaging way.
From 20 July to 1 September visitors can take part in green-themed workshops, crafts and story-time sessions inspired by tales of ingenuity from London transport’s past and present, and how these can inspire hope for a greener London of tomorrow.
Highlights will include model vehicle making, an interactive storytelling session inspired by the wildlife of London’s parks, and a soundscape workshop where families can create the sounds of an imagined future London using everyday objects.
Children can also explore the ‘Green Journey Garden’ installation, a tactile display that will get families thinking about the causes of climate change and its impact on London.
See the full programme via www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/ summer-family-fun.
While at the Museum families can also see real buses, trams and Tube trains from 200 years of the capital’s transport history, learn how to drive a modern-day Elizabeth line train in the Future Engineers gallery and climb aboard a fleet of mini vehicles in the All Aboard play zone.
Families can head to the Museum’s café, run by the popular eatery Benugo from 11:00-17:00 to grab a bite to eat while enjoying views over Covent Garden piazza. Visitors can also browse a fantastic range of exclusive transport inspired toys, gifts, homeware, poster artwork and games in the Museum’s shop.
The summer holiday activities are part of London Transport Museum’s Enjoyment to Employment scheme that tackles the engineering and green skills shortage in the UK transport sector by turning childhood enthusiasm into future careers. The programme is sponsored by ABM, Cubic Transportation Systems, Hitachi Rail, Sopra Steria, Telent and Transport for London.
Timed tickets to visit London Transport Museum can be booked online in advance at
www.ltmuseum.co.uk
Adult tickets are £24.50 and allow free return day-time entry for a whole year. Plus, kids go free!
Counselling and Psychotherapy Courses in Sussex and Online
Are you interested in learning about psychology, relationships, communication and mental health, while boosting your self-awareness? The best place to start is:
THE OFFICIAL INTRODUCTION TO TRANSACTIONAL ANALYSIS (TA101)
This course is not just for aspiring counsellors, it’s for anyone and everyone interested in self-development.
l 21st/22nd September (Plumpton)
l OR 5th/6th October (Online)
l OR 6th/13th/20th/27th November (Online).
HOW TO BECOME A COUNSELLOR OR PSYCHOTHERAPIST
l 9th September 2024, 6-7pm. Free workshop to help you understand the different routes you can take.
ONLINE OPEN EVENING
l 11th September, 6.30-7.30. Free workshop to discuss the courses on offer at TLC.
Do you want to start training to become a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist?
We are interviewing for our October 2024 intake now. Email info@thelinkcentre.co.uk to apply.
FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE IN TRANSACTIONAL ANALYSIS THEORY
l Starting October 2024
The TA Foundation Certificate is both a stand-alone course and the first year for those wanting to progress to our counselling and psychotherapy training.
DIPLOMA IN COUNSELLING (LEVEL 6) AND ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN INTEGRATIVE PSYCHOTHERAPY (LEVEL 7)
l Starting October 2024
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In a move that solidifies Duke Street’s triumphant resurgence (as noted by The Argus in April 2024), Tim Waters, the CEO and owner of Cardiff's very own Mad Dog Brewery, proudly cut the ribbon on his first English taproom in this historic Brighton locale on Friday, 19 July.
Waters, who took the reins of Mad Dog Brewery back in May 2021, had his sights firmly set on Brighton for their expansion. “This city’s got a fantastic vibe and a brilliant culture. People here know how to have a good time, and we’re offering something of quality that they can truly enjoy,” he quipped.
Mad Dog’s craft beers, already boasting accolades aplenty, are brewed with pristine water from the Brecon Beacons. And in a nod to modern sensibilities, they are vegan, gluten-free, and preservative-free, all crafted with minimal waste.
The newly revamped building at 24 Duke Street, once the home of Sicilian restaurant Monjibello, now flaunts a thematic design. The ground floor is an ode to their pale ales, showcasing favourites like the extra pale Great Scott, the laidback Hair of the Dog, and the zesty Marmalade IPA. Ascend to the first floor, and you’ll find tributes to their amber brews, including the rich and chocolatey Welsh red ale, Now In a Minute. Finally, the second floor
is a haven for stout enthusiasts, featuring best-sellers like Stouty McStoutFace.
But it’s not just Mad Dog’s own brews on offer. The new taproom also features select guest beers, including an alcohol-free craft option, alongside a curated selection of wines, spirits, and soft drinks. To complement these libations, patrons can enjoy locally made empanadas and customisable pinsas – those light, crispy pizza appetisers topped with an array of vegetarian and meat options sourced from local suppliers.
Waters, once a mere beer enthusiast and now a brewery mogul, couldn’t be happier to be breaking new ground. “Brighton is a city that knows its beer, so I’m confident it’s the right place for Mad Dog,” he asserted. “We’re adding another layer of choice to Brighton’s already stellar lineup of craft breweries. The Lanes is a prime spot, and I’m eager to see our first customers enjoying a freshly poured, preservative-free pint.”
With Brighton now in the fold, Mad Dog Brewery isn’t stopping. One more taproom is on the horizon for the UK. Waters noted, “A trio of taprooms is the sweet spot for a microbrewery like ours. Any more, and you risk compromising the quality of the craft.”
Job seekers, take note: the new Mad Dog Brewery taproom is hiring. Check their website for more details and to apply.
Mad Dog Brewery Co., founded in 2021 and based in Cardiff, is an independent microbrewery dedicated to quality and sustainability. Their beers are vegan, gluten-free, and free of artificial preservatives (equals less of a hangover, surely!?)
“All I can hope for is laughter…” Nish Kumar is reflecting on his hope for the audience at his new show. “I suspect in Brighton I’m changing almost no minds,” he says with a chortle. I honestly don’t know why I asked such a cheesy question. It’s not like any comedian has ever responded with anything more profound. Yet it still lurks in my armoury.
Let’s put this momentary spot of vapidity down to disorientation. It’s been a brisk half hour so far. While we’ve been talking about Kumar’s brand-new tour, Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe (a work he blithely describes as “stand-up comedy about some of the least funny topics imaginable”), we’ve also been covering a lot of other subjects.
The world has become an increasingly strange place in the last decade, full of eccentricities and contradictions, where those in positions of power project, deceive and obfuscate. It’s coincidentally a decade which has seen Kumar become one of our most recognisable comedians in his mission to try and make sense of it all. Despite being a regular face on shows like Taskmaster, Live At The Apollo, Have I Got News For You, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Drunk History and Hold The Front Page, he says the fame is fairly manageable. “It disappears with a baseball cap,” he admits. “Also... my experience of it, wherever I’ve lived, is that people are interested up to the point where it becomes routine. Nobody is getting excited about seeing me in the local café. Because they see me there three or four times a week!”
I actually interviewed Kumar on his first UK tour, many, many years ago. He told me then that he used to hang out at the local library, finding inspiration amongst the books and colourful goings-on. Does this still happen, or has he, like all stars eventually do, abandoned his people? “I still get to do a fair bit of that. There’s still some writing amongst the street drinkers. Maybe not as much as I did.” He chuckles for a moment, and I get the impression both our local libraries have a similar social scene.
In the face of 24-hour rolling news and daily controversies from public figures, it seems almost impossible to the lay-person how anyone could write a show and tour it for three months, while remaining ‘current’. Recent events have made it difficult to still talk about being a British Indian and reluctant to vote for a British Indian Prime Minister. How does any comedian’s show stay fresh when confronted by the churning outrage on social media? There’s always something new to be indignant about. “It’s been like that for most of the last decade. When I toured in 2016, it was in the immediate aftermath of Brexit and the Trump election in the States. In 2019, we were supposed to be leaving and the situation was shifting by the day. Even when I was touring in 2022, it was while all the Partygate allegations were emerging. So, it’s been a constant rolling nightmare for the country. It’s something lots of us who do stand-up about the news are pretty used to. You know…” he pauses for a second then a big laugh erupts. “…that rolling shitshow.”
When we were both kids, Cecil Parkinson, who was then Secretary of State for Trade and Industry in the
Thatcher government, had an affair and child with his secretary. The resulting scandal went on for months and forced his resignation. You get the feeling that such behaviour nowadays would barely register amongst MPs or the national newspapers. In fact, we’ve grown to expect such disregard for responsibility and social norms. And the pace with which such scandals emerge is increasing. It’s a full-time job, if you want to keep up with the indiscretions and malfeasance.
“I think some conservatives around the world have discovered something probably quite important and consequential,” ponders Kumar. “There’s a value in shamelessness. It’s something that the Republican Party and the Conservative Party have had in common during the last decade, there’s a value in scandal by volume.” He suggests that some of it could be a political tactic. Simply because it is so difficult now to keep track of what you’re supposed to be most furious about. But some of it is also what happens when you have large sections of the press keen on keeping certain political elements in power.
“I’m wary of criticising as a whole… as some kind of amorphous blob. Because there are lots of journalists working diligently. But there are certainly large sections of the press who have become like a propaganda operation. There’s been a profound lack of scrutiny being exercised on the Conservative government. Largely because the pages of The Telegraph, Daily Mail, The Express and The Sun are just designed to amplify conservative party propaganda.” He’s eager to point out that there are many factors at work. Social media companies have hollowed out that industry.
“But it’s meant disproportionate power has been given to oligarchs who are able to finance newspapers and run them at a loss - because it’s part of a campaign of political influence to ensure none of them pay the correct amount of tax.”
So, the key to dealing with such a cascade of scandal, at least for comedy purposes, is to write in broader terms. He does have a section of any show which remains loose and gets rewritten throughout the tour. “But I also like to have a focused 65 minutes. There are big themes, like inequality and the climate crisis, which are not going anywhere, that I’m trying to write material around, which I can talk about for the next six months.”
While offering a neat bedrock for his stand-up, Kumar’s fascination with our political system has recently manifested in his podcast, Pod Save the UK. He and journalist Coco Khan offer a weekly slice of inspiring, unpretentious and light-hearted political analysis. “I met her through an essay collection called The Good Immigrant, which came out in 2016. It was assembled by Nikesh Shukla, who is a doyen of the British literary scene. They’re genuinely someone who has done a huge amount of good work that people know about and good work that people don’t know about. He assembled this group of us to write these essays. And… that’s how I first met and befriended Coco.” The pair bring together experts, politicians and famous mates to rummage through the news and think about how things could be done better. Earlier this year, their astonishing interview around the Covid Inquiry with Rosena Allin-Khan MP was shortlisted for a best news coverage award at the ARIAs.
It's been a normal feature in the current affairs podcast top ten for over a year now, rubbing shoulders with (somewhat nerdy) big hitters like The News Agents and The Rest Is Politics. The charm of Pod Save The UK is its lack of pretence, and an ability to break down quite difficult subjects quickly and simply. “I think that’s what we’re trying to do. There’s no point in me and Coco pretending we’re experts. The point about
those other podcasts is that they’re either political journalists or people who’ve worked in politics. There’s no point in us pretending we’ve done that. One of the things we’re trying to do is see ourselves as conduits for the audience. We’re stand-ins for ordinary people who aren’t in a position to ask someone incredibly smart for solutions and how to improve things.” He tells me doing the podcast has had the effect of actually making him more hopeful about everything.
He says it’s becoming increasingly important to promote better literacy around political and governmental terms. There’s also a need for all of us to better understand how some sections of our media works. “When I was a kid, there would be a joke about doing media studies; like it was a ‘Mickey Mouse degree’. Look at where that’s landed us. We’ve a mediailliterate population being fed lies and fake news, without any critical skills to engage with what might be obvious bollocks. That’s part of the reason we’re in so much trouble.” If anything, working in the media forms a huge part of British soft power overseas. Music, comedy, broadcasting and film have become an intrinsic part of our values to be projected around the world.
“You don’t have to look very deeply to know that this is a country in the grip of a crisis. It’s not just a country though, but a world in the grip of a crisis… The November elections in the States, and the rising spectre of fascism in Europe… All of which is in the foreground, while the climate crisis is getting worse and worse.” Kumar is adamant that we’re at a crucial phase in human history. Our actions need to be more decisive, and we need to meet problems with substantive governmental policy. “The coolest thing about the podcast is that we’re able to meet people who are trying to come up with ideas and deal with things.”
Perhaps there’ll be a fresh attitude in politics, as our new Government begins its work. But demands for genuine systemic change are growing in society. “There needs to be a reengagement between populations and their governments. This disenchantment only feeds bad actors. Again, we’re seeing that play out across continental Europe.” I do wonder if he’s ever fancied getting into politics himself… “God, no. We’ve seen what happens when people who are primarily entertainers go into politics. If we’ve learnt anything from the last decade, let it be that we need serious people with serious ideas.”
The upcoming tour kicks off in the beautifully restored Victorian-era theatre at London’s Alexandra Palace, before bouncing up and down the country, including visits to Brighton on Sun 27 Oct and Bexhill on Fri 22 Nov. “I’m doing the Dome in Brighton, which is one of the larger venues I’ll always do. Obviously, I always have a nice time there. That is the least surprising thing that can possibly happen. What you often find in places that heavily vote Conservative is that those gigs are also good. We like being in rooms full of like-minded people, who hear views they might otherwise not hear in the place they live in!”
There are some big rooms on this tour, although it’s actually a shorter tour than previously. The reasoning is that, after almost a decade at the top, Kumar is now looking to make his output more sustainable in personal terms. “You come to a point in your life where you realise: ‘Do I need to keep doing this.’ During my 20s and most of my 30s, it was full steam ahead, saying yes to everything, working seven days a week and driving myself insane. Then have a breakdown, regroup and go back to working.” Now, as 40 comes into view for him, he’s realising it can’t be like that all the time. The fatigue aspect of it needs to be better managed. There’s no disputing he’s been one of the hardest working men in showbusiness during recent years; whether it’s podcasting, TV slots or stand-up. Perhaps one of the reasons he’s not down at the local library, leeching that lovely free Wi-Fi, is because there’s a growing reassessment of his live/work balance.
“It’s occurred to me that there might be more to life than working all the time.” He breaks off with another laugh, which eventually subsides into a slight sigh. “But I do like to work a lot. And I’m very fortunate that I’m able to do that. But now it’s more about doing stuff that I’m really enthusiastic about.”
Nish Kumar brings Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe to Brighton Dome on Sun 27 Oct and Bexhill’s De La Warr Pavilion on Fri 22 Nov, as part of his nationwide tour.
Making history in 2015 when he became the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), Tim Peake spent six months living and working in space. Now he’s looking to share his unique perspective on a new tour.
Offering a glimpse into the awe and wonder of space travel past, present and future, Quest To Explore Space heads to Brighton Dome on Sun 8 Sept. “There have been around 610 people who have been in orbit, and I have only told the story of one of them so far,” he says. “I’m now looking forward to sharing many of the other amazing stories.”
This first-of-its-kind show is set to visit 25 venues across Britain and follows the huge success of his sold-out debut tour My Journey To Space - which ran from 2021 to 2023.
“The new tour will be fast-paced, fun and entertaining,” Peake promises. “It will be a behind the scenes look at human spaceflight; the excitement, the drama, the highs and lows, right from the early days of the 1950s, through to the current Artemis program to return to the Moon, and beyond to the first human mission to Mars.”
Through the stories of astronauts across history, he brings to life the awe-inspiring adventures of those pioneering explorers –celebrating the incredible achievements and historic human endeavour of space exploration. “I am so honoured to have experienced the wonders of space travel myself, and yet it still continues to amaze me just how much space inspires and fascinates people of all ages.” While the tour will reflect on space stories from the past, Tim’s own journey into space may not be quite over.
Born in Chichester, the route of Peakes’s journey into space started as a youngster. Growing up, he always had a thirst for adventure. At the age of 13 he took control of an aircraft for the first time, which began a passion
for aviation. By the age of 18 he was flying solo and had joined the British Army Air Corps. His distinguished career in the British Army included time in Northern Ireland as a Platoon Commander, commanding reconnaissance helicopter flights in Germany and forming part of the NATO peacekeeping mission in Bosnia. He later became a flying instructor and was selected for an exchange posting with the 1st US Cavalry Division to pilot Apache attack helicopters, which would eventually lead him to becoming a test pilot for the latest aircraft designs.
After seeing a recruitment advert online for the European Space Agency (ESA) and undergoing a year-long process, alongside over 8000 other candidates, he was selected as an ESA astronaut in May 2009. After learning Russian, advanced first aid and survival skills, alongside extended teambuilding exercises both deep underground and underwater, he was assigned to a long-duration mission to the ISS.
Launching in December 2015, Peake’s six months on the ISS involved a spacewalk to repair the station’s power supply, driving a rover across a simulated Mars terrain and helping dock two spacecraft, along with over 250 scientific experiments. “We have occupied the ISS for over 20 years now – and it is essentially a giant science lab,” Tim explains. “There are components in modern mobile phones which were first tested
There was also a big focus on educational outreach. He engaged with over 2 million schoolchildren across Europe during his time in space. An ambassador for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Peake is passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers, and highlight how ISS has helped push technology forward. “We’re getting more specialist in the science taking place there now. There is more targeted pharmaceutical research
as companies realise the potential available to them. For example, growing protein crystals in space for motor neurone and Parkinson’s diseases could lead to much better treatments for these conditions.”
He says there are things you can build in space which can’t be built on earth, because of the pressures of gravity. With costs coming down we can realistically think about large scale manufacturing in space. “There are attempts to grow human tissue and organs such as a heart on Earth, using bio ink and 3D printers. The problem is that small structures collapse due to gravity and need some sort of scaffolding. It’s not very effective. But in space, you can 3D print human organs more easily, because there is no gravity causing them to collapse in on themselves. It might sound like science fiction…it really is science fact and it’s where we are at right now. 5 to 10 years and we could be printing full-size human organs in space that could be a feasible transplant option for patients. And that’s when space research starts to mean something very real for people on Earth.”
Potentially, Peake could return to the heavens as part of a commercially-sponsored mission. The UK Space Agency was approached last year by Axiom Space, a US-based company working on the first commercial oribtal station as a replacement for the ISS. There are plans for an all-UK mission, which will be focused on scientific research, technology demonstrations and educational outreach, with potential applicants already invited to pitch research projects for the mission.
“I was very surprised when Axiom Space got in touch, but it’s a hugely exciting project –especially as the aim is an all-UK mission,” he said. “Would I like to go back to the ISS if there was a chance with Axiom? Absolutely – I don’t know of any astronaut who wouldn’t want another mission to space. It’s just an incredible experience.”
“I am delighted that we are looking at getting more British astronauts their wings. There are huge opportunities in the rapidly growing space sector, and it’s important that the UK is properly represented. It’s an amazing opportunity and gives security to the future of human space flight for the UK, to be part of missions going forwards.”
The Axiom Space mission will be the first commercially sponsored space flight, meaning no cost to the UK taxpayer, and it’s hoped it will open doors to further commercial partnerships and whet the appetite for space sponsorship in the future.
“Space touches all our lives in many different ways, from climate monitoring, communications, and navigation to financial transactions, agriculture and disaster response,”
Tim explains. “Most companies are reliant on some form of space-based technology today and there is huge scope for private investment. It’s new territory, but we hope to make it work.”
Tim had announced his retirement from the European Space Agency (ESA) early last year, but within months talk had started around the Axiom mission. “Personally, I have teenage sons approaching GCSE years, and from that point of view, it helps to have a stable family base,” Tim said. “We had some amazing years in Germany and Houston with great opportunities, but the time had come to settle in the UK for a while.”
“Working for ESA is an incredible experience but, as with many organisations, there are certain restraints which come with that status. Retiring from ESA’s astronaut corps enabled me to do more advisory work, more charity and outreach work and to engage with the commercial space industry. However, I’m still an ambassador for ESA and maintain close ties with the Agency.”
Tim’s excitement and passion around all things space shows no sign of waning, especially given the expansion of commercial space exploration alongside the government-led agencies such as NASA and ESA. “The prospect of an all-UK mission is a hugely exciting opportunity for science and technology companies, and for education and outreach,” he adds. It
would showcase some of the cutting-edge science that the UK is involved in, in areas such as AI, quantum technology, biological engineering, advanced manufacturing and more. “But more importantly, it’s a new realm of collaboration and cooperation with our international partners in a post-Brexit environment.”
Peake says the potential is only just now being unlocked – and with the shift from purely government-funded research to commercially-funded opportunities, there is greater competition to achieve results. “Of course, there is the caveat question: Should we send lots of rockets up into space? When we think about the debris from launches and space pollution. But many space companies, some of whom I am working with, are also out there focusing on that clean-up effort, the removal of space debris and creating cleaner, more efficient rocket fuel.”
Some of the scientists and engineers coming through now were teenagers spellbound by his Principia mission – which has created a huge boost for the British space industry. “It’s easy to be inspired by space,” he said. “You go to a conference, meet companies doing incredible things. I can’t help but be inspired still by the potential future opportunities.
“The legacy I’m most proud of from my mission is without doubt the inspiration for future generations. When I go to schools and colleges, it’s amazing to see older students saying: ‘I remember watching you launch, and you inspired me to go off and follow these subjects.’ It’s a huge privilege to have a platform that allows you to inspire people. So many people are inspired by space. We are all mesmerized by the universe –that place where you can wonder and you can dream.”
Tim Peake brings Astronauts: The Quest To Explore Space to Brighton Dome on Sun 8 Sept, as part of a national tour.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to:
In today’s fast-paced, technologydriven world, it can be challenging to step away from screens and prioritise your own wellbeing. While technological developments have huge benefits, the constant access information and communication can leave us feeling rushed, stressed and unable to switch-off. We all know how hard it is to not pick up your phone, check that email or get lost in endless scrolling. But how do we slow down and take a moment for ourselves?
Amidst this hustle and bustle, engaging in arts and crafts has emerged as a powerful way to cultivate mindfulness, enhance well-being, and provide a muchneeded respite from the constant demands of modern life, as well as offering you the opportunity to create something entirely your own.
When you engage in an art or craft practice, you immerse yourself in the process, focusing your attention on the task in front of you. This concentration helps focus the mind and fosters a state of flow – a psychological state where you are fully absorbed in an activity, often losing track of time. This state is closely associated with mindfulness, a practice that emphasises being present and fully engaged in the current moment in an intentional and meaningful way.
Whether you are curious about crafts, drawn to drawing, passionate about painting or don’t know where to begin, a Short
process, including creating basic cylinder and bowl forms.
West Dean’s craft course programme also features Stained Glass for Beginners (7-10 November) where you can design and created your own stained glass panel, Mosaics – An Introduction (5 November) where you will learn the basics of cutting and fixing tiles and Traditional Leatherwork (9-13 September) where you could make a purse, belt and pencil case.
Drawing and Painting courses are a great way to embrace your artistic side and experiment with new techniques or materials in a supportive environment. Courses cover everything from Life Drawing for Beginners (20-22 September), to Watercolour Painting (30 September – 2 October), Mixed Media Landscape Painting (27-30 October), An Introduction to Ink (22 October) and so much more. There are courses to cater for all levels from Beginner to Advanced, and expert tutors will be there to guide you as explore new mediums, try new techniques and develop your skills.
marbling, jewellery, sculpture, printmaking and more! To see the full course programme visit westdean.ac.uk.
Considering further study? Or looking to turn your passion into a career? West Dean offers a range Arts, Design and Conservation Degrees and Diplomas with fulltime, part-time and online options available.
Course is a great place to start; and West Dean, an organisation with a global reputation for excellence in arts, design, and conservation, has a huge range to choose from.
From traditional techniques passed down through generations to modern twists on classic crafts, West Dean’s courses offer a handson practical learning experience where you can create something unique with your own hands. The courses are taught by expert, industry leading, tutors in stateof-the-art studios offering you the opportunity to try something new, develop your skills, and unlock your creativity.
Traditional and Heritage crafts offer a great opportunity to step back, engage in a mindful process and learn something new. You could try Blacksmithing (13-15 December) with tutor Andrew Smith in the West Dean forge, and learn various tools and techniques for shaping, curving and forming, as well as making spirals and different twisting techniques. Alternatively, get lost in the mindful practice of Ash Splint Basket Weaving (15-17 November) with Michelle Mateo. On this course you will weave a double-bottom round top ash splint basket, and learn more about the background of this traditional craft and how timber is prepared for weaving. Or embrace the tactile satisfaction of working with clay in Throwing and Turning for Beginners (22-24 November) with Jo Taylor who will guide you through the throwing
Textiles courses are a great way to rediscover the joy of slowing down. Whether you’re a beginner or skilled crafter, West Dean’s tutors will guide you through the intricacies of embroidery, tapestry, knitting, quilting, stencilling and more. Courses include Tapestry Weaving – The Basics (13-15 September), Creative Rag Rugs with Found Fabrics (27-29 September) and Machine embroidery inspired by Klimt (21-24 November).
This is just a small selection of the courses West Dean offers, the programme also includes bookbinding, calligraphy, paper
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years parttime). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study.
To find out more about all the courses available visit
westdean.ac.uk
Images by Thom Atkinson, West Dean
BRIGHTON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
A short guide to classical and orchestral music
The critically acclaimed and much-loved Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra are sailing into their centenary year. To celebrate, they’ve unveiled a blockbuster season of concerts and recitals which encompasses everything from established classics to the work of renowned experimentalists.
Commencing on Thurs 22 Sept, this landmark schedule brings together a host of world class soloists and works as diverse as Stravinsky's explosive, ground-breaking The Rite of Spring and Duke Ellington’s Blue Note cool. To try and comprehend the epic assortment of orchestral delights, we gathered just a few of the BPO’s finest performers and asked them two simple questions:
A) Which piece from the new season are you most looking forwards to playing?
And…
B) What piece of orchestral music could make anybody fall in love with the whole genre?
The answers were both exciting and inspiring.
PETER ADAMS
Cello, Principal
A) EDWARD ELGAR: ENIGMA VARIATIONS
Sun 9 Feb / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
It is so difficult to pick just one piece that I am looking forward to playing in this season as there are so many great pieces and the programmes are so diverse, but it has to be Elgar’s Enigma Variations. I find it incredibly moving the way Elgar depicts his friends in music and I love the cello solo which appears out of the stillness and sighs before the start of the next variation.
B) JESS GILLAM:
SYMPHONY OF SORROWFUL SONGS
Sun 13 Oct / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
The programme I would recommend to ‘anyone
wanting to fall in love with orchestral music’ would be the concert with the saxophonist Jess Gillam. The overture is a stunner, the Glazunov sax concerto will be amazing and the Gorecki Symphony is very beautiful, and the sound will be familiar to a lot of people even if they don’t recognise its name.
XIAOWEN SHANG
Keyboard
A) STEVE REICH: REICH/RICHTER
Sun 23 March / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
I am looking forward very much to perform two of Steve Reich’s ensemble pieces, Runner and Reich/Richter. In these two pieces, I’ll be alongside amazing musicians and colleagues, including Joanna, our BPO Music Director. In Reich’s music, every musician is a soloist and chamber musician.
B) PYOTR TCHAIKOVSKY:
PIANO CONCERTO # 1
Sun 22 Sept / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
I would recommend the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No 1 to ‘anyone wanting to fall in love with music! It is such a beautiful piece, and you would be able to enjoy the virtuosic piano solo and the grand orchestral music in one piece. My favourite bit is the beginning of the third movement, the lively folk dance music, in this concerto. If you would like to listen to it live do not miss BPO’s performance on the 22nd of September!
ISAAC SHIEH
French Horn, Sub Principal
A) JAMES MACMILLAN: VENI, VENI, EMMANUEL
Sun 1 Dec / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
The piece in the season I am most looking forward to playing is MacMillan’s percussion concerto Veni, Veni, Emmanuel. I have been a huge fan of his compositions, and the piece is really fun, yet it contains moments of great beauty and serenity. I am also excited to work with Dame Evelyn Glennie!
B) NIKOLAI
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV: SCHEHERAZADE
Sun 1 Dec / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
I think Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade is a great piece for ‘anyone wanting to fall in love with music’! Based on One Thousand and One Nights, it’s a really beautiful programmatic piece that has a very colourful orchestration, where different instruments across the orchestra have moments to shine!
JONATHAN PRICE
Bassoon, Principal
A) IGOR STRAVINSKY: RITE OF SPRING
Sun 22 Sept / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
I am most looking forward to playing Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. A seminal piece that changed the world of classical music traditions forever. Stravinsky requires virtuosic playing from every section of the orchestra, and the piece has gained huge notoriety due to the driving rhythms and brutally powerful orchestrations. As a bassoonist It is such a rewarding piece to play, from the opening unaccompanied solo, with it’s haunting melody, to the powerful climaxing rhythms that close the piece.
B) EDWARD ELGAR: ENIGMA VARIATIONS
Sun 9 Feb / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
The programme I recommend to ‘anyone
wanting to fall in love with music’ is Walton and Elgar. Two of the finest English composers. Enigma Variations is a beautiful journey through sections of music that Elgar dedicated to various friends and colleagues, illustrating his lush and expansive sound world, and Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast is a masterclass of dramatic, powerful, and visceral writing for choir and orchestra.
RUTH RODGERS
First Violin, Leader
A) NIKOLAI RIMSKY-KORSAKOV: SCHEHERAZADE
Sun 1 Dec / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
I am most looking forward to playing Rimsky Korsakov Scheherazade - a colourful piece full of the aromas of the Middle East and the fragrances of folk music. I will be lucky enough to play the violin solos and will endeavour to entrance the Sultan with my story-telling!
B) ASTOR PIAZOLLO’S TANGOS
Sat 16 Nov / Brighton Corn Exchange
I would highly recommend the Piazzolla Tangos to ‘anyone wanting to fall in love with classical music’. They are so accessible, vibrant, wild and fun. The concert would be a great introduction to the classical repertoire as it is quirky and varied, and Joanna MacGregor is such a dynamic performer.
NICKY SWEENEY
First Violin, Co-Leader
A) IGOR STRAVINSKY: THE RITE OF SPRING
Sun 22 Sept / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
I’m so excited about the centenary celebrations of the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra this year. It’s such an incredible achievement for a regional orchestra to still be flourishing 100 years on… but I think I’m most looking forward to playing Stravinsky’s iconic masterpiece, the Rite of Spring. As musicians, it’s one of those pieces that we don’t get to play many times in our lives as it’s not programmed often. It has a massive orchestration and is incredibly exciting to play. When Stravinsky wrote it over 100 years ago it was totally groundbreaking and avant-garde and it still sounds modern now.
B) ALL BEETHOVEN SYMPHONIES
I think I’d recommend Beethoven symphonies for ‘anyone who wants to fall in love with orchestral music’. They are all such a mix of beauty and excitement and they encompass all the different moods and colours on the spectrum. You can imagine the different emotions Beethoven was feeling..Joy, anger, peace etc..and let your imagination run riot..
DONNA-MARIA LANDOWSKI
Percussion, Principal
A)OLIVIER MESSIAEN:
TURANGALÎLA SYMPHONY
Sun 13 April / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
It’s tricky to say which will be my favourite programme as it’s a great season for percussion and percussionists with an all-star line up of Evelyn Glennie, Colin Currie and playing the music of Steve Reich. Plus, lots of great pieces which challenge the section, particularly Scherezade, The Rite and of course the mammoth Turangalîla. So, I’ll look forward to them all and if I wasn’t playing, I’d probably be buying a ticket!
B) BLUE NOTES:
CONDUCTED BY CLARK RUNDELL
Sat 25 Jan / Brighton Dome Concert Hall
But if I were advising ‘anyone wanting to fall in love with music’, I’d say come to the Clark Rundell concert. We worked with him last year playing West Side and Short Ride and he has got so much fizzing energy you can’t help but absorb some of it. It’s also a mash up of styles so should be an easy way to orchestral music. But I could have picked any one of the conductors/ composers/ soloists and said they were my favourite. As I said an all-star cast!!
For more details on these performances, head to:
www.brightonphil.org.uk
Navigating School Open Days: A Parent’s Guide.
September brings the start of School Open Day season! There’s nothing like a sneak peek into your child’s academic future but before you get carried away with Pinterest-perfect visions, let’s dive into how you can make the most out of these days! If you are navigating the maze of potential schools for your child, these events are your golden ticket to go beyond the glossy brochures and really get a feel for what a school is all about. Don’t just choose a school because it is flavour of the month.
Trends come and go faster than a TikTok dance craze. Dig deeper – what works for your friend’s child might be a total miss for yours. It’s about finding the perfect fit for your child’s unique needs.
First thing’s first, let us talk vibes – the school’s vibe that is. When you walk through those doors, take a minute to soak in the atmosphere. Is it buzzing with energy, or does it feel more like a library?
Ask yourself if the general vibe aligns with what you envision for your child’s learning environment. Trust me, the vibes speak volumes!
Now onto the nitty-gritty. Ethos and values -what is the school’s mojo? Don’t shy away from chatting to teachers and other staff about what makes the school tick. Ask about their approach to character development, co-curriculars, and how they handle tricky stuff like conflicts or challenges. You want to know if the school’s values dance to the same beat as yours.
Curriculum; dig deep into what and how they are teaching. Research shows that a well-rounded curriculum is key. Ask about the approach to learning, the mix of subjects, and how they cater to different learning styles. Remember it is not just about passing exams, it is about fostering a lifelong love of learning!
League tables – Just because a school is perched at the top does not mean it is the Holy Grail of education. Research backs this up. Schools are like people, they have different strengths. The one at the top might have the best Maths results
but struggle with nurturing creativity. Do not be blinded by numbers; be swayed by what aligns with your child’s journey.
Imagine space to grow, a beautiful safe campus and small class sizes with a dazzling array of exciting indoor and outdoor co-curricular options to choose from. With their super-flexible day and boarding options and less than twenty minutes from Brighton, you might then think of Lancing College, a co- educational boarding and day school for children aged 13-18 years old, nestled in the heart of the South Downs and on the West Sussex border.
The Lancing College ethos cultivates responsible, sociable, and considerate young people, promoting confidence and self-reliance in a lively and enjoyable environment. Lancing College’s commitment to a holistic education ensures that students not only reach their full potential academically but also emerge as flourishing, well-rounded individuals ready to make their mark in the world.
With over 120 weekly co-curricular activities for pupils to choose from, there is quite simply something for everyone to enjoy outside of the classroom and away from screens. Pupils are encouraged and supported to try new activities as well as develop their skills.
Not only that but Lancing College also have a prep school right on your doorstep, Lancing Prep Hove is an independent co-educational
Prep School for children aged 3 to 13 years old. Located on a leafy campus in the heart of Hove and only eight miles from the Senior school. Lancing Prep Hove provides a safe, welcoming and caring environment, where each pupil feels valued and supported.
Lancing Prep Worthing, a day school for 2-13 year olds based in a stunning Georgian manor house in the Broadwater area of Worthing, and Little Lancing, a nursery and forest school offering day care for children aged 2 months to 5 years, 51 weeks of the year, complete the Lancing College family of schools and together they offer children a wonderful journey of discovery and inspiration.
Lancing College’s forthcoming open events and Lancing Prep Hove welcome prospective pupils and parents to explore the stunning campus, meet the staff and students, and get a taste of what makes Lancing College extra-ordinary. It’s not just an open event, it is an invitation to be part of something special.
Don’t get swayed by what’s popular; get swayed by what feels right for your child. And if you are up for an adventure, get your calendars marked for Lancing College’s open events – where education meets excitement in a way which will make your child say, ‘’This is it! This is the one!’’
Lancing College Open Events:
Year 9:
Saturday 28 September
Saturday 12 October
Saturday 19 October
Sixth Form: Saturday 5 October
Find out more:
www.lancingcollege.co.uk
Lancing Prep Hove Open Event: Saturday 5 October
Find out more: www.lancingcollege.co.uk/prep-hove/
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 OF A BRIGHTON LANDMARK when rearranged.
When you have figured it out, email us at prizes@quizface.co.uk FOR A CHANCE AT WINNING THIS MONTH’S PRIZE! Where 3 winners, will get 2 games each from Brighton’s newest games company Party Snail Games!
QUIZWORD
ACROSS
1. Go to NAME THAT SNAIL
3. Go to WORDOKU
6. The type of gin you cannot drink but you can play cards with?
8. Go to CARD GAMES
10. Blanket, saddle, shovel, canteen, pan and lantern are some of the items you stack on which plastic mule?
11. Go to SAY WHAT YOU SEE
14. Give me the last word of the card game franchise who stumped Donald Trump’s plans of building his wall in 2017, buy selling its “Saves America” pack?
16. “P-A-R-T-Why?! Because I GOTTA!” is a famous quote from which nineties movie?
17. Which games console company made playing cards before introducing us to the land of the Mushroom Kingdom?
18. Red, Green and Blue are just some of the coloured shells you try and dodge in which computer game series?
19. Forget a band! What is another collective noun for a group of jays?
DOWN
1. In the game of Trivial Pursuit what category does the colour blue represent?
2. 155 × 499 when totalled up correctly spells out which word, when turned upside down?
4. Go to CARD GAMES
5. Go to CARD GAMES
7. When it comes to the boardgame Monopoly, which chest would you pick a card up from to potentially come second in a beauty competition?
9. Split Tenacious D, with a twist School of Rock and stick with Kung Fu Panda what card game would you be playing?
12. Go to NAME THAT SNAIL
13. Go to WHO WON?!
15. To bite, break and fracture is not what this card game is about. But, if you were to get two of a kind, you might do something similar.
WORDOKU
Fill out the grid using the letters above each Wordoku. The letters in the pink boxes (when rearranged) will make up a card game themed word.
CARD GAMES
Which card game franchises are each of these cards part of?
SAY WHAT YOU SEE
Say what you see in this image. (Little clue it’s to do with a T.V. show) (11 ACROSS)
WHO WON!
NAME THAT SNAIL
Can you name these cartoon snails?
Debby, Donny, Danny and Divya are playing a game of poker. Who out of the four of them has the best hand? (13 DOWN)
INDIE CRIME HORROR GETS STRONG PRAISE
PROTEIN
New Movie Release
By Ross Othen-Reeves
Brighton resident, Tony Burke, has been nurturing the creation of his first feature film, Protein, for over four years. It has been a labour of love for the 49-year-old, who co-wrote, directed, and largely co-ordinated the film’s development from inception. The film finally premiered at the Dukes at Komedia in mid-July. I attended the launch fully braced to watch a horror movie, given the one thing I knew of the script beforehand was that it centred around a cannibal who, as the film’s title hints at, takes to eating other humans to build muscle.
Yet while there is plenty of blood and gore, this is no horror movie. Protein is a sharp psychological drama punctuated with smart, laugh-out-loud comedic moments. The dark humour is all the more unexpected (and welcome) given the gritty setting and plotline.
The film is based in an impoverished Welsh town where one of the few ways of making any serious money is to sell cocaine on the club scene. Realising this, five local bouncers decide to try their luck at becoming gangsters dealing in the local drug trade. The doormen embark on this plan without a clue what they’re doing, however. It is this aspect of the plot which offers the most comic relief, thanks largely to the long-suffering weakest link of the gang, Kevin, played by Steven Meo, in what is one of the film’s stand-out performances.
This is all kicking off just as the film’s protagonist, Sion, played by Craig Russell (pictured above), arrives in town. A penniless Afghan War veteran with the psychological scars to go with it, Sion is quietly obsessed with maintaining his physical strength. This leads him to the local gym where he meets our band of doormen, starting a domino effect of unexpected events and misunderstandings which cause the town’s seedy underworld to unravel. All due (unbeknown to anyone) to Sion’s appetite for human flesh.
This central storyline has been tightly woven together with several well-constructed subplots which add additional layers to each of the characters, carried along by a strong cast of predominantly Welsh talent. This includes actor Kezia Burrows who plays gym manager Katrina, whose fatigued demeanor occasionally softens as her friendship with Sion builds.
Equally as earthy are the depictions of hardened London detective Patch, played by Andrea Hall, and her weathered local counterpart, police detective Stanton, played by Charles Dale. Both actors turn out excellent, restrained performances. You should like them (they’re the good guys after all), but they don’t make it easy. Their relationship is another of the director’s
carefully crafted slow burns that the audience finds itself investing in. Yet it is Russell’s portrayal of Sion which is the most psychologically complex and gripping. I never imagined I’d be rooting for a man-eating serial killer (and there were plenty of scenes which tested my loyalty). But throughout the film, we get snapshots into his past and begin to understand his homicidal ‘tendencies’ which, if not justified, aren’t wholly unjustified either.
What is most impressive about Russell’s performance is how he manages to develop our sense of ambivalent sympathy for his character with so little dialogue. Arguably a bold decision by the writers, but one which pays off; It is the deafening silence of Sion’s past trauma writ large on his face which so often speaks directly to the audience, and it is hard not to feel for him.
Ultimately, it is the excellent script by Burke and co-writer Mike Oughton that has the most fun playing with our moral compass, though it never labours the point for too long. Instead, the film intentionally fluctuates between emotionally charged moments, to scenes so graphic that they need watching between fingers, before lightening the mood with quick injections of humour. Protein does all this so skillfully that it is hard to believe it is Burke’s first-ever turn at writing and directing a feature film.
The world premiere of Protein is scheduled for FrightFest at Leicester Square Odean, London, on August 24th, 6pm.
How Gen Z are Shaping the Future of Creativity
The landscape of higher design education is undergoing a profound transformation, largely driven by the influence and needs of Generation Z. As the first cohort to grow up with pervasive digital technology, Gen Z's expectations and approaches to education differ significantly from those of previous generations. This shift is causing what can aptly be termed an education revolution in the field of design.
Technological Integration and Digital Proficiency
One of the hallmarks of this revolution is the seamless integration of technology into the curriculum. Gen Z students are not just passive consumers of technology but active creators and innovators. Design programs are increasingly incorporating advanced digital tools such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies are reshaping the way design is taught, moving beyond traditional methods to offer immersive, hands-on experiences that mirror real-world applications.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Another significant change is the move towards interdisciplinary education. Design is no longer seen in isolation but as an integral part of a broader ecosystem that includes technology, business, and social sciences. Gen Z values the ability to solve complex problems, which often requires knowledge and skills from multiple disciplines. This has led to curricula that encourage collaboration across different fields, fostering a more holistic and versatile educational experience.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Sustainability and ethics are pivotal concerns for Gen Z, influencing their educational and career choices. Design programs are responding by embedding these values into their courses. Students are being taught to consider the environmental and societal impact of their work, promoting a design philosophy that prioritises sustainability, inclusivity, and social responsibility. This shift reflects a broader trend within Gen Z, who are keenly aware of global challenges and motivated to contribute positively.
Flexibility and Personalised Learning
Gen Z's demand for flexibility is another driving force behind this revolution. Traditional, rigid educational models are giving way to more adaptable and personalised learning experiences. Online courses, hybrid models, and modular learning paths allow students to tailor their education to fit their unique needs and schedules. This flexibility extends beyond just how courses are delivered; it also influences the content, with more emphasis on projectbased learning and real-world problem-solving.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
There is also a growing emphasis on fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among design students. Gen Z is characterized by a strong desire for independence and innovation. Design programs are incorporating entrepreneurship into their curricula, encouraging students to think like startup founders. This includes everything from understanding market needs to developing business plans and pitching ideas. This approach not only equips students with design skills but also with the business acumen needed to bring their ideas to life.
Global Perspective
Lastly, the global perspective of Gen Z is reshaping design education. With the world more connected than ever, students are exposed to diverse cultures, ideas, and practices. Design education is becoming more inclusive and globally oriented, preparing students to work in a multicultural environment and understand the nuances of global design trends.
In conclusion, the revolution in higher design education driven by Gen Z is multifaceted, integrating technology, interdisciplinary learning, sustainability, flexibility, entrepreneurship, and a global perspective. This dynamic shift is not just changing how design is taught but also how it is perceived and applied in the real world, paving the way for a new generation of designers who are equipped to tackle the challenges of the future.
By Bill Strohacker Owner/Educator Strohacker Design School
WHERE INDIVIDUALITY THRIVES AND EDUCATION KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES
About Us
Self Managed Learning is a progressive and innovative alternative to schooling where students are encouraged to manage their own learning We run educational programmes for young people aged 9-17 years old in an inclusive and supportive environment tailored to the needs of the young person
Why SML College?
Freedom to choose what to learn
Learning tailored to future goals
Supportive & small scale
Low student - staff ratio
Proven approach & successful outcomes
Learning matters.
But does education matter?
In our research on highly effective people in work they mention a wide range of qualities and competences that make them effective. Mostly these are learned not genetic. They also mention a very wide range of ways in which they learned. This can include travel, having a good boss, reading, having a mentor, talking to colleagues, family influences, challenging projects, trial and error and so on and so on. The list is very long. What’s interesting is that school, college, university, training courses and other formal educational events play very little part. At most they are mentioned 10 to 20% of the time.
What is also interesting is that often formal education has been a negative influence where, for instance, individuals are categorised as less able, because they’re not good at passing exams - but are very effective in work - if they get over the barriers that are put in their way.
When we set up Self Managed Learning College in Brighton over 22 years ago, we based our approach in supporting the development of young people aged 9 to 17 on this kind of research and other studies that we had undertaken. For instance, we researched on different ways that young people can learn, and we found at least 57 modes, which include the classroom, but many other options. When we started the College we asked students about ways in which they wanted to learn and no-one in 22 years has asked us to recreate the classroom - so we have no classrooms.
Our objective has been to help young people to go on to a productive and fulfilling life after they leave us. The fact that every young person is different means that each of them needs to be able to learn what they need to learn in their own context and for their own lives. This has meant that we have no curriculum, and that students genuinely can learn anything they want and in any way that they want.
Another piece of evidence that influenced us was the Government’s own research on the summer born children. They found that at least 10,000 children every year suffer lower grades at GCSE purely because of being born in the summer months. That figure of 10,000 is a minimum and it’s clear that summer born children suffer a many other ways and purely because of the date of birth that makes them the youngest in their class school. So our students born in the summer can go at their own pace. They can stay on longer, if it’s needed, in order for them to take GCSEs or other qualifications.
We are often challenged as to how this could really work in practice and the evidence is of the 72 young people that have been attending SML college in the last year. They are happy to be able to learn whatever they need in a supportive community. The evidence is also from research carried out independently on ex-students, where it’s apparent that they are able to go on to fulfilling careers in a wide range of areas. In some cases that involves going through to university and in other cases not. It’s up to each individual to go on the journey that suits them.
All of this is an example of a very simple notion that we should base learning around real evidence of the fact that every individual is different and deserves to be equally valued and given a real chance to fulfil their own potential. The educational model of imposed schooling has many flaws that we try to avoid through the way we work.
Dr
Ian Cunningham
Self Managed Learning College ian@smlcollege.org.uk 07850 313814
Food served:
Wednesdays to Fridays: 12pm-2.30pm & 6pm-8.30pm
Saturdays: 12pm-4pm and 6pm-8:30pm
Sundays: 12pm-5pm
• Full Menu plus our NEW Grazing & Burger Menus available on our website
• Carvery on Sundays
• Fresh, Homecooked Food
• Discounts for Blue Light Card Holders
• 10% OAP Discount on Wednesday’s
• £10 Burger & Pint on Thursday’s
• 10 Minute Walk from Cooksbridge Train Station
• Room & Courtyard available to Hire for Parties, Events & Wakes
Resting Oak Hill, Cooksbridge BN8 4SS • Tel: 01273 400134 Email: contact@rainbowinn.co.uk • www.rainbowinn.co.uk
EXPLODING
The UK’s foremost politics and football expert, Colin From Portsmouth, gives his verdict on coming to Brighton
I am sat in front of Anthony Richardson and former-professional-footballer-turned-currentpundit Ian Fiveankles and there is tension in the air. They have presented football preview shows for years now, including for the American broadcaster ESPN, and I’m keen to pick their brains on the forthcoming Premier League season and BHAFC’s prospects in particular, but the elephant in the room that is Colin From Portsmouth won’t let the discussion flow.
Barely ten seconds into Ian Fiveankles arguing that Brighton’s first ten fixtures are so tough that he thinks they should sack the new manager
“I AM DISGUSTED ANTHONY, ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTED!” Neither Anthony nor Ian can get a word in edgeways as the keyboard warrior and radio phone-in-botherer (who is actually from the Isle of Wight but says Portsmouth to appear more cosmopolitan) unloads the latest rant over what’s been keeping him up all night.
“YOU’RE COMING TO BRIGHTON OF ALL PLACES AND DOING THIS LIVE SHOW, WHY EXACTLY? WE ALL KNOW IT’S GOING TO BE FULL OF METROPOLITAN REMOANERS WHO ARE ANTI-BREXIT, ANTI-GROWTH, ANTIBRITISH VALUES. FREE SPEECH IS ALL WELL AND GOOD BUT SOME PEOPLE TALK SUCH RUBBISH THEY SHOULD BE BANNED!”
Anthony bravely tries to get Colin to at least explain what he means by “British Values” but all he gets back is something about being proud to pollute our own waterways whilst demonoising foreigners. And then Colin’s on to the next thing, erupting like a word volcano.
“I HOPE THE KOMEDIA THAT’S HOSTING THIS WOKETARD ROADSHOW HAVE STOCKED UP ON OATMILK AND SMASHED AVOCADOS, THERE’S GOING TO BE A RUN ON THOSE THINGS THE NIGHT YOU’RE THERE.”
Anthony points out that Colin will also be there, which doesn’t go down well with Ian who manages to express his view that the show is supposed to be An Evening With Ian Fiveankles and if Colin turns up, Fiveankles will quit. Colin doesn’t notice. Or doesn’t care.
“I WILL MOST DEFINITELY NOT BE THERE,” continues Colin. “YOU WON’T GET ME THAT CLOSE TO THE LONDON ELITES, I’LL COME OUT IN A RASH AND ANYWAY I WON’T KNOW WHICH TOILETS I’M ALLOWED TO USE WITHOUT HAVING TO FLASH MY GENITALIA AT THE DOORMAN AND IF I’M FORCED TO DO THAT THEN THE TERRORISTS HAVE WON. OR DOOR THEY, BEGGING YOUR PARDON.”
Mercifully Anthony’s phone runs out of juice and Colin’s anger disappears. It’s as if a tiny demonic pixie has just been extinguished from the air right in front of us, though Ian Fiveankles is still not able to relax.
“You know, I worked my entire playing career,” he says, mournfully. “where I remained fiercely loyal to all 23 clubs I played for, and all I want now is to tour the country telling people how amazing I once was, and how my views on the modern game are totally relevant even though the game’s changed beyond recognition since I hung up my boots… But I can’t, because Anthony here has encouraged this raging lunatic called Colin to phone
up and shout nonsense about everything, all the time, and I just feel very overshadowed.”
If Anthony is feeling guilty he doesn’t show it, though there is a tender moment when he places his hand on Ian’s shoulder.
“DON’T TOUCH ME!” says the former midfield hardman, sounding suspiciously like his nemesis Colin for just a fleeting moment. “Life is hard for me, my wife Denise has left me and she’s carrying on with Colin Hendry now.”
“Nicky Barmby,” whispers Anthony, still keen to show support to his old ally who is worryingly close to tears.
“Oh yeah,” continues Ian. “I’d forgotten she’d dumped Hendry recently. At least Nicky Barmby lets me have a bit of pudding whenever I go round trying to get Denise back. I hope they’re not playing Naked Twister: West Ham Edition, like we used to? But what I’m saying is, why can’t I go on this tour without having to look over my shoulder to see if Colin from Bloody Portsmouth is going to muscle in on things?”
Anthony remains quiet and I’m wondering if he regrets letting Colin out of the proverbial bag. Having courted much controversy with his numerous phone-ins, I have a sneaking suspicion that Anthony is actually in full control of what he’s doing. It’s that modern malaise whereby there’s no such thing as bad publicity. And certainly, since they started clipping out video excerpts of Colin’s numerous rants back in 2021 under the twitter handle The Exploding Heads, things have gone from strength to strength. The Exploding Heads now boasts over 100k followers and even Colin’s trademark signoff, “LOVE TO THE FAMILY”, has been adopted by fellow radio phone-in host James O’Brien over on LBC.
Anthony is surely playing with fire. When pundits do that there is a real risk that someone is going to get burned, though maybe, just maybe, they’ll be a safety blanket on hand when Anthony, Ian Fiveankles and Colin take to the stage next month.
The Exploding Heads present Colin From Portsmouth at Brighton’s Komedia on Wed 4 Sept, as part of a nationwide tour.
Mark Davison is not a journalist. He is an actor who plays Colin from Portsmouth and Ian Fiveankles. Anthony Richardson is not a real radio talk show host, he is an actor who plays the imaginatively named character and anchor of the whole evening “Anthony Richardson”. Together they are podcasting sensation The Exploding Heads and this will be their first live show.
LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT SPACE
Arts charity opens Brighton’s first public youth-led art space
By Stuart Rolt
Brighton & Hove continues to lead the way for a youth-led arts, with the city’s Lighthouse charity unveiling an inspiring new space to support young creatives and bring their projects to life. Situated at New England House, just off London Road, the 130 square metre Project Space will transform between offering an exhibition and event venue and a production facility, converting part of this former textile factory and industrial centre into an inclusive, people-centred community platform.
Lighthouse's Creative Communities Producer, Bobby Brown, says the vision for the new project was to create a dynamic and inclusive environment for the next generation. A place which fosters creativity, innovation and community engagement. “Uniquely, the programming of this space is youth-led, driven by a steering group of six future creative leaders,” he tells me. “By giving decision-making power to young people, we aim to break down traditional barriers in the art world, offering a space that is accessible and welcoming to a range of audiences.” There’s a clear ambition to develop the space as a hub for artistic expression and a catalyst for new
ideas and cultural conversations, with a youth steering group directly influencing local cultural programming by providing a platform where artists, both emerging and established, can experiment, collaborate, and showcase work.
A charity seeking to nurture and showcase marginalised, new, emerging and established young people using digital technology across their work, Lighthouse’s mission is to create spaces, experiences and connections around new voices and ideas. Their ambition is to form a diverse and inclusive sector where everyone, regardless of who they are, or where they come from, can explore and fulfil their artistic potential.
For nearly 40 years, they have worked with a diverse range of internationally renowned and innovative digital artists including, Haroon Mirza, Lynette Wallworth, The Otolith Group, Larry Achiampong, Metahaven, Blast Theory, Nwando Ebizie, Trevor Paglen, GAIKA, Invisible Flock, and Rafael Lozano Hemmer.
By connecting established, world-class practitioners to emerging talent, Lighthouse is
able to pass on and reinvest knowledge and expertise to the next generation. Which, in turn, ensures future success for the cultural sector. Their projects already include Lighthouse Young Creatives (LYC), an acclaimed development programme for underrepresented young artists, and Guiding Lights, a mentoring programme for writers, directors and producers. Past participants have worked on over 60 feature films, resulting in critical acclaim from BAFTA, Cannes and the Academy Awards.
So, now the call is on for young people to become part of Lighthouse’s bold new public arts programme and space. Anyone aged 16 – 30 with an idea for live performance, music, spoken word, photography or digital arts is encouraged to get involved. They’ll get the chance to join other inspirational young creatives and receive support their artistic ambitions. Brown says young artists today face several significant obstacles. “Unless you are in a position of particular privilege, one of the primary issues is the lack of affordable and welcoming spaces, which hinders their ability to create and develop their work.” Financial
instability is another common barrier, with many young artists struggling to support themselves during the cost-of-living crisis.
“Access to professional networks and mentorship can also be limited, making it harder for them to navigate the industry and advance their careers,” adds Brown. “Our work at Lighthouse alongside the youth steering group of our Future Creative Leaders aims to address these challenges by creating a supportive community and offering resources tailored to the needs of young artists.”
Lighthouse developed the Project Space concept with Spacemakers - a utopian regeneration agency working in Brighton, London and Stockholm. The design and build for the project was by Alex Peters, a Brightonbased designer-maker, and adapts a longdisused, 1960s light-industrial unit. “They create radical, bottom-up projects, which aim to get inside the machinery of urban regeneration and use it for good instead of evil,” Brown tells me. “They specialise in reactivating dead buildings and dead spaces, harnessing unused potential in a community, and creating projects that address the economic and social issues that are causing the problem in the first place.” Recent work includes the internationally-recognised rejuvenation of Brixton Village arcade in South London; and a multi-million-pound programme of regeneration and reuse for the biggest
housing estate in the world, the Becontree Estate in Dagenham – including playgrounds by artists Yinka Ilori and Eva Rothschild.
The Lighthouse Project Space and its Future Creative Leaders have already launched a bold and thought-provoking poster campaign to raise awareness about the project around Brighton. Already, the space is showing its potential to have a broad and positive impact on the area and wider community. “Beyond providing a venue for artistic expression, it can enable further opportunities for young people by allowing them to test ideas in a low-risk environment and therefore develop ideas with greater potential.
The space also fosters a sense of community pride and cohesion by highlighting local talent and encouraging community participation.”
The project can also serve as a model for other cultural initiatives and organisations. It’s hoped similar initiatives will spring up in other cities around the UK.
Brown says it’s a good example of the value of investing in the arts as a means of strengthening social and cultural fabric. “By giving decisionmaking power to young people through our youth steering group, we are enabling them to have a direct influence on local cultural programming, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant local culture. This unique approach not only empowers young leaders but also ensures that the space reflects the diverse
voices and perspectives of the wider, historically less engaged community.”
In addition to supporting and developing the city’s young creatives, the space will offer audiences a unique and immersive cultural experience. Brown says there are plans for a variety of exhibitions, performances, and interactive installations, curated in part by Lightyhouse’s Future Creative Leaders. “This exciting cohort aims to inspire positive change, spark curiosity and provoke thought amongst their peers in Brighton and the surrounding areas.” The space will also serve as an educational resource, with workshops, talks, and events designed to engage the community and provide opportunities for learning and growth. “Ultimately, we want visitors to leave feeling enriched and inspired, with a deeper appreciation for the arts, themselves and the creative process, and to see firsthand the impact of youth-led cultural initiatives.”
For more information on Lighthouse, this new project and how to get involved, head to:
www.lighthouseprojectspace.com
For more details on the space’s development, and Spacemakers wider work, visit: www.spacemakers.info/projects
an
organic local grocers making a difference
Farming has taken a backseat in the news recently, but the threats to farming and farmers are still very much there. Our society is hellbent on using new technologies, mono-crops and genetically altering DNA, to supposedly help farming. The companies in control of these ‘technological advances’ often forget to mention the other side of things. For instance, farming generates 30% greenhouse gases, from fossil fuel guzzling machinery to pesticides and other harmful chemicals contaminating rivers and water sources. Farming needs to be spoken about more in TV, newspapers and by our government, we need to hold them accountable and we need change.
We have to change the industrialisation and globalisation of food production, it is clearly destroying soil, rivers and farmers livelihoods. Vanada Shiva, an Indian scholar, environmental activist, food sovereignty advocate, ecofeminist and anti-globalisation author has rallied against the industrialisation of farming her whole life and career. She has single handedly been at the forefront of fighting against these giant chemical corporations, for a shift towards more ecological farming. She highlights that “everything comes from the seed, but we have forgotten that the seed isn’t a machine, we think we can engineer life, we can change the carefully organised DNA of a living organism, and there will be no wider impact. But this is a dangerous illusion.” Shiva battles to protect seeds in their natural form by collecting and storing hundreds of seeds in seed banks. She calls for a return to local, small-scale farming, not relying on pesticides, GMO crops and companies trying to commercially control seeds. Instead we need to focus on providing local seasonal food organically grown.
This is where The Seasons come in. A local grocers and cafe, who like Vanada Shiva, love the planet and believe that the best way to farm is to do it alongside the environment, not against it. Director of The Seasons, Robin Walden has the same ethos saying that “the core of our values is a commitment to offering our customers an extraordinary range of Organic and Biodynamic Foods. We believe that the way to a healthy society is through healthy foods. We 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.”
The Seasons was born back in 1971 when a local Quaker, Diana Phillips, recognised a real need in the community for healthy organic foods. 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 21st century! By the autumn of 2017 they moved out
of the premises on Hartfield Road and created a whole new shop on the site of the old vegetable shop in Medway House, Forest Row. They now have another shop in Lewes, on Cliffe highstreet and a new Organic, Vegetarian and Vegan cafe in Forest row. Offering a range of breakfast, lunch, tasty snacks and fresh juices all hailing from their ethical and thoughtfully sourced produce.
The Seasons pride themselves on selling healthy, organic, local and fairtrade food. The power to educate people on where their food comes from and how it got to their shelves, is so important in changing the mindset of having whatever food you want, whenever you want it. This is slowly making a space for more people to shop and think responsibly about what they are
putting in their mouths. It’s refreshing to hear a company open up about the problems modern farming face and to show an alternative. They encourage you to “always check the ingredients list, and note the less ingredients the better and If you don't recognise the ingredients, question it.” Have you seen that sort of thinking in the big supermarkets? I don't think so. By choosing wholefoods over ultra-processed food, your body and the planet will thank you.
P I C S U M M E R
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Serves: 4
Time to make: 30 min
Difficulty: 4/10
This Epic Summer Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is a symphony of flavours and textures, perfect for those balmy summer evenings. It combines the smoky sweetness of grilled peaches with the creamy luxury of burrata cheese, all drizzled with a vibrant basil vinaigrette that will make your taste buds sing.
INGREDIENTS:
• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 200g burrata cheese
• 100g arugula
• 100g mixed baby greens (like spinach and red leaf lettuce)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For the Basil Vinaigrette:
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill the Peaches: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and place them on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes or until they have nice grill marks and start to soften. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before slicing.
2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and emulsified.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the arugula and mixed baby greens with half of the basil vinaigrette. Arrange the grilled peach slices and burrata cheese on top of the greens.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves over the salad.
5. Serve: Drizzle the remaining basil vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, ensuring each plate gets an ample amount of dressing, peaches, and creamy burrata.
This Epic Summer Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is not just a dish, but a celebration of summer’s bounty. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a quiet, luxurious meal outdoors. Enjoy the fusion of flavours and the joy of seasonal eating!
E P I C S U M M E R
Jalapeño Popper
Burgers
Serves: 4
Time to make: 35 min
Difficulty: 5/10
Ignite your grill and your taste buds with these Jalapeño Popper Burgers, a fiery twist on the classic burger that’s sure to be a hit at any summer cookout. These burgers pack a flavorful punch, combining creamy, spicy, and savoury elements for a truly memorable meal.
INGREDIENTS:
• 4 hamburger buns
• 500g ground beef (preferably 80/20 mix for juiciness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 2 jalapeños, sliced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
• 1/4 cup crispy bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
1. Prep the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, chopped pickled jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and minced garlic. Set aside.
2. Prepare Spicy Mayo: In another small bowl, blend the mayonnaise and hot sauce. Adjust the heat level according to your preference.
3. Form Patties: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide the mixture into four equal parts and form into patties, making sure they are not too thick so they cook evenly.
4. Grill Burgers: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Grill the burgers for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. In the last minute of grilling, add a slice of cheddar cheese to each burger to melt.
5. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of spicy mayo on each bun. Place a cheese-topped patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top each burger with a spoonful of the jalapeño popper filling and several slices of fresh jalapeño.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the burgers hot with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
These Jalapeño Popper Burgers are not for the faint of heart, combining the heat of jalapeños with the richness of cream cheese and bacon for a deliciously bold burger experience. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice with their summer grilling!
TV GUIDE
BATMAN: CAPED CRUSADER
THURS 1 AUG
PRIME VIDEO
A new animated adventure from the creator of Batman: The Animated Series, Bruce Timm, reinvents the ‘World’s Greatest Detective’with J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves acting as executive producers. We head back to Gotham City, where the corrupt outnumber the good, criminals run rampant and law-abiding citizens live in a constant state of fear.
Forged in the fire of tragedy, wealthy socialite Bruce Wayne becomes something both more and less than human—the BATMAN. Cruising the streets at night, looking for hot action, his one-man (and, let’s be honest, occasionally violent) crusade for justice attracts some unexpected allies within the GCPD and City Hall - but his heroic endeavour also has deadly, unforeseen ramifications.
FANTASMAS
THURS 1 AUG
SKY COMEDY
Writer, director and comedian Julio Torres spins a fantastical and hugely off-beat, six-part tale of when he lost a gold oyster earring. In his epic search to find the precious object, Julio reflects on the offbeat characters he encounters in introspective, often eerie, and always comedic vignettes set in a dreamy, alternate version of New York City.
A kaleidoscope of colour and surrealism, Fantasmas weaves together stories of people looking for meaning, purpose, and connection in an increasingly isolating world. Full of largerthan-life oddballs, existential brilliance and absurd circumstances, this is a compelling masterclass in making something strangely beautiful from one of America’s hottest talents.
UNSTABLE
THURS 1 AUG NETFLIX
Rob Lowe and John Owen Lowe’s comedy based around a cutting-edge biotech research company returns for another brilliant season. Now we see the universally-admired, eccentric, narcissist-adjacent biotech entrepreneur Ellis Dragon (Lowe) lays out a series of challenges and mind games for his son, Jackson (Owen Lowe).
The objective is to see if the youngster has what it takes to succeed his father as the heir to the Dragon empire. But does a newcomer have other ideas? Created by Victor Fresco (Better Off Ted) alongside the Lowes, this vehicle for the real-life father and son pairing offers a relentlessly upbeat and sunny answer to the cynical world of big tech billionaires.
THE WALKING DEAD: DARYL DIXON
FRI 2 AUG SKY MAX
Yes. It’s another The Walking Dead spin-off. But, this time it features fan-favourites Daryl and Carol, for which we can all get on-board. While the other survivors of the zombie plague have been fighting amongst themselves, gazing at their navels and doing some gardening, Daryl Dixon has been trying to get stuff done.
He washes ashore in France, where the outbreak started; but struggles to remember how or why he made the epic journey across the Atlantic. We track him across a broken but resilient France, as he hopes to find a way back home – or at least get some decent Bouillabaisse. But the connections he forms on the way might complicate his ultimate plan.
MALLORCA FILES
THURS 8 AUG
PRIME VIDEO
A British police officer joins forces with a German detective to fight crime on the sundrenched and glamorous island of Mallorca. Elen Rhys (Consent, The One That Got Away) stars as Detective Miranda Blake, while Julian Looman (The Ibiza Affair, Constellation) joins in as her laid-back partner, Max Winter. They’re the perfect team, even if they don’t realise it themselves.
This third season offers up arson, kidnappings, high-stake adventures, treasure hunts and murder! There’s also more personal tension between Max and Miranda, and an array of international guest stars - including Enrique Arce (Money Heist), Philippe Brenninkmeyer (Mad Men), Charlie Higson (The Fast Show), Michael Jibson (Bodies), David Mora (Memento Mori), Elena Saurel (Buffering) and Leonor Watling (Cities).
THE WALKING DEAD: DARYL DIXON
FANTASMAS
BAD MONKEY
WEDS 14 AUG
APPLE TV+
Based on Carl Hiaasen’s bestselling novel, Bad Monkey tells the inglorious story of Andrew Yancy (Vince Vaughn). After being kicked out of the Miami Police Department, he’s swapped fighting crime for fighting tedium as a health inspector on the Florida Keys.
The stellar cast includes L. Scott Caldwell (The Fugitive), Rob Delaney (Catastrophe), Meredith Hagner (Search Party), Scott Glenn (The Leftovers), with special guest stars John Ortiz (Fast & Furious) and Zach Braff (Scrubs). After stumbling upon a case which begins with a human arm fished up by tourists, Yancy realises that if he can prove murder, he’ll be back in. He just needs to get past a trove of Floridian oddballs and one bad monkey.
ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING
27 AUG
DISNEY+
Three ill-matched associates, played by superstars Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez, share an obsession with true crime and find themselves involved in a series of homicides. Now internet sensations, they navigate life and love at New York City’s most dangerous address.
We find our trio wrestling with the shocking events at the end of season three around Charles’ stunt double and friend Sazz Pataki. Further investigations lead them to LA, where Hollywood is readying a film about their podcast. But, when the trio head back to New York, they embark on an even more epic journey - traversing their building’s courtyard to delve into the twisted lives of the Arconia’s West Tower residents.
THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY
THURS 8 AUG
NETFLIX
Everyone’s favourite show about an adopted family of dysfunctional superheroes returns for a final season. The Hargreaves siblings have scattered after the climactic showdown at the Hotel Oblivion led to a complete reset of their timeline.
Now stripped of their powers, each is left to fend for themselves and find a new normal. Their father Reginald, now alive and well, has stepped out of the shadows and into the public eye. Meanwhile a mysterious association known as The Keepers starts believing the reality everyone lives in is a lie and a great reckoning is coming. As chaos unfolds, The Umbrella Academy must come together one last time, and finally set things right.
THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY
BAD MONKEY
ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING
FILM
TRAP
FRI 2 AUG
After wowing Hollywood with films like The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable and Signs, veteran thriller filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan went into a bit of a fallow period. More recently he’s been back on form though, especially with last year’s suspenseful and eerily strange Knock At The Cabin
Now he brings together Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills and Alison Pill, with another psychological thriller packed with twists and turns. A father and this teenage daughter attend a concert by hot new sensation Lady Raven - only to slowly realise they’re at the middle of a dark and sinister plot. But, as always, nothing is as simple as it seems.
BORDERLANDS
FRI 9 AUG
Based on one of the best-selling videogame franchises of all time, Borderlands centres on Lilith (Cate Blanchett), an infamous bounty hunter with a mysterious past. Reluctantly returning to her home, Pandora, the most chaotic planet in the galaxy, she’s on a mission to find the missing daughter of universe’s most powerful S.O.B.
Alongside Blanchett are Kevin Hart, Jack Black, Edgar Ramírez, Ariana Greenblatt, Florian Munteanu, Gina Gershon, and Jamie Lee Curtis, as a ragtag team of misfits form an unexpected alliance. Together, these unlikely heroes must battle an alien species and dangerous bandits to uncover one of Pandora’s most explosive secrets. The fate of the universe could be in their hands – but they’ll be fighting for something more: each other.
ALIEN: ROMULUS
FRI 16 AUG
The greatest ever sci-fi/horror franchise gets another bold new instalment, featuring Cailee Spaeny as Rain Carradine, and David Jonsson as Andy – her synthetic android “brother”. Pitched as a stand-alone film, it focuses on a group of chancers who conspire to break into an abandoned space station and steal some expensive tech.
Taking place between Alien and Aliens on the timeline, during the period when original protagonist Ripley was lost somewhere in space. As a result, the terror of the Xenomorph species has yet to be fully recognised by humanity. Rain and David are completely unprepared for the new alien threat, in a release which will be encouraging a whole new generation to sleep with the lights on.
GUIDE
MY PENGUIN FRIEND
FRI 16 AUG
Humble fisherman João (Jean Reno) has turned away from the world in the wake of tragedy. But when he discovers a penguin drenched in oil from a spill, his first instinct is to help. To his wife’s (Oscar nominee Adriana Barraza) dismay, he not only rescues the sea creature, but takes the flightless bird under his wing.
For the first time in years João starts to feel joy, even if he cannot fathom just how unbreakable a bond is being formed. When the penguin suddenly disappears back into the ocean, João believes he’ll ever see his friend again. Thousands of miles away, the penguin is determined to find his way back to the place he now considers home.
BLINK TWICE
MON 26 AUG
When tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) meets cocktail waitress Frida (Naomi Ackie) at a fundraising gala, sparks fly. He invites her to join him on a dream vacation on his private island. Directed by Zoë Kravitz, and with a cast including Alia Shawkat, Haley Joel Osment, Christian Slater, Kyle MacLachlan and Geena Davis, this story seems like a trip into paradise.
Wild nights blend into sun-soaked days and everyone’s having a great time. No one wants this trip to end, but as strange things start to happen, Frida begins to question her reality. There is something wrong with this place. She’ll have to uncover the truth if she wants to make it out of this party alive.
THE CROW
MON 26 AUG
Rupert Sanders directs and Bill Skarsgård takes on an iconic role in this modern reimagining of the original graphic novel by James O’Barr. While many will be familiar with 1994’s gloriously gothic big screen adaptation of this classic story, this new version promises to be hard-edged and stylistically distinct.
Soulmates Eric (Skarsgård) and Shelly (FKA twigs) are brutally murdered when the demons of her dark past catch up with them. Given the chance to save his true love by sacrificing himself, Eric sets out to seek merciless revenge on their killers, traversing the worlds of the living and the dead to put the wrong things right.
1992
FRI 30 AUG
Mercer (Tyrese Gibson) is desperately trying to rebuild his life and his relationship with his son (Christopher A’mmanuel) amidst the turbulent 1992 LA riots following the Rodney King verdict. Ariel Vromen (The Iceman) directs an ensemble cast in this action-packed production, including Clé Bennett, Dylan Arnold, Christopher A’mmanuel, Michael Beasley, Ori Pfeffer and Oleg Taktarov,
Across town, another father and son (Ray Liotta and Scott Eastwood) put their own strained relationship to the test as they plot a dangerous heist at the factory where Mercer works. As tensions rise all over the city, chaos erupts - and these two families reach their boiling points as they collide in this tense crime-thriller.
ALIEN:ROMULUS
Medieval Fair
Summer of Play at Bodiam Castle
Prepare for endless fun this summer with a variety of family-friendly events at the medieval castle.
Knight School
24 Jul–2 Sep, 10am–4pm
Enjoy medieval-inspired games and activities including hobby horse riding, straw bale hurdles, castle building, and more! Free, NAA
Children's crafts
Selected dates 6 Jul–1 Sep, 1pm–4.30pm
Get creative and decorate a shield, pot, tile or ceramic dragon decoration inspired by the castle setting. £2/£3 per item.
The Castle the King Built trail
13 Jul–8 Sep, 10am–4pm
Solve puzzles, play games, and explore different roles within the castle In collaboration with Nosy Crow £3, NAA
AD
18–26 Aug, 10am–4.15pm
BODIUM CASTLE
Discover what it takes to be a real knight at this interactive event led by theatre company
Histrionics Free, NAA
Storytelling in the castle
Selected dates 20 Jul–1 Sep, 11.30am–2.30pm
Be enchanted by tales of dragons, knights, and castles. Perfect short drop-in sessions for families. Free, NAA.
Medieval encampment
27–28 Jul, 10am–4pm
See history come to life with 15th-century re-enactment group, The House of Bayard Free, NAA
Bodiam, near Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA
Have-a-go archery
1 Aug–1 Sep, 10.30am–4pm
Try your hand at the medieval sport of longbow archery. £4 for 6 arrows.
Outdoor theatre:
Beauty and the Beast
2 & 13 Aug, 6pm–8.30pm
Join Chapterhouse Theatre
Company for a new adaptation of this classic fairy tale
Adult £22, Child £13 20, Family tickets available
NAA: normal admission applies
“A rocket-fuelled, colourful comedy that celebrates friendship, imagination and diversity, all bundled up in an hilarious hour of laugh out loud entertainment!”
“Heartwarming story of family legacy with an uplifting message and retro humour.” The Stage
