BN1 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2015

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 12 DECEMBER 2015

BRIGHTON’S DEFINITIVE CULTURE AND EVENTS GUIDE

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ASH FOOD & FLOWN DRINK BACALLS AT RIALTO NYE GUIDE & CHURCH BARBAR A NICE FOURTH BREWTORIAL FLANK CAR AVAN PALACE SUPPORTERS:

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DECEMBER 2015 For 2015 we were mostly talking about: ‘Star Wars’, Together the People, #piggate, yet more US shootings, an election shocker (if you don’t live in central Brighton), The Warren at St Peter’s, the colour of a stupid dress, Vicky Thompson, refugee crises, good times at Shoreham Airport, terrible times at Shoreham Airport, Kanye at Glastonbury,

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Mutations, Cilla Black, Errol Brown, Sir Christopher Lee, Steve Strange, Aylan Kurdi, Leonard Nimoy, i360, Paris attacks, VW, Rugby World Cup, ‘The Walking Dead’, Pride’s 25th birthday and the Philae comet lander.

So what will come of 2016?

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NEWS

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COMPETITION TIME

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THE HUMMINGBIRD PROJECT

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MUSIC PLANNER

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CLUBBING PLANNER

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CRAFTWORK PROJECT

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ASH

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CHRISTMAS FOOD GUIDE

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NEW YEAR’S EVE GUIDE

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CARAVAN PALACE

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THE WOOD SHED

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COMEDY PLANNER

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THEATRE PLANNER

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LATEST FILM RELEASES

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BREWTORIAL

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BACALLS AT RIALTO

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FOURTH & CHURCH

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FLANK

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BE GLUTEN FREE

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ADVERTISE IN BN1 MAGAZINE: SA L ES@B N1M AG A Z I N E .C O.U K All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any means, including the making of copies by any photo process or by any electronic or mechanical device (printed, written or oral), unless permission in writing is obtained from the copyright proprietor. All textual content, design graphics, images and specific photographs used in the magazine are Copyright © BN1 Magazine 2015.

EDITORIAL

Editor - Chris Sadler, Editor - Stuart Rolt, Sub Editor - Freya Hughes

DESIGNERS FRONT COVER MARKETING & SALES CONTRIBUTORS

Rachael Cattermole Image by Simeon Aston Freya Hughes, Holly Cozens Holly Cozens, Stuart Rolt, Freya Hughes, Alexandra Cook, Christina Doyle, Mila Statham, Gabriel Mackenzie, Naomi Mathews

PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Smith - photosbydavid.org, James Daly - jamesdalyphotography@gmail.com

LISTINGS NEWSDESK/SALES

Kelly Edwards-Good, listings@bn1magazine.co.uk Tel. 01273 911919

INDOOR SKATE PARK WWW.BRIGHTONYOUTHCENTRE.ORG.UK WWW.CROWDFUNDER.CO.UK/BYCSKATEPARK Brighton Youth Centre (BYC) is hoping to raise £20,000 for a brand new ‘state of the art’ indoor skate park.

Raised through a crowd funding campaign, the money will be used to build a facility for all abilities. Youth Centre members and their families have already raised £2,500 through sponsored events.

SANTA DASH 2015 SAT 12 DEC WWW.SANTADASH.CO.UK Fast becoming a local festive favourite, the Santa Dash returns on Sat 12 Dec. Starting on Hove Lawns at 10:30am, it attracts hundreds of participants dressed as Father Christmas and raises money for great local causes. Entry costs just £19, which includes a Santa suit and a bespoke medal.

BYC has run the only indoor skate park in the city for over 15 years. Recently the programme expanded to include tuition courses, sessions for females, skate parties and events, as well as drop-in sessions. Over 150 young people use the facility each week and numbers continue to increase. “Originally we used to put the ramps away after each session but for the last few years as demand has increased they are now permanently in place,” said BYC’s Liam Teague. “We need to upgrade the current park for several reasons. The old ramps are now reaching the end of their life and are no longer suitable for what we want to be able to do here.”

With a gentle 2.5km flat course, the run is suitable for Santas of all girths and abilities. Heading west from the Esplanade, it heads to Hove Lagoon and back. This family friendly event also includes a free kids 400m race.

Each Santa is also being encouraged to raise a minimum of £20 for Albion In The Community, a fabulous charity helping people across Sussex.

BN1 BOARD GAME GETS THIRD EDITION WWW.BEDSITGAMES.CO.UK Comic book artist Paul Stapleton has created a third edition of his much-loved BN1 board game. An adaptation of the popular comic of the same name, previous versions of the game have sold more than 1,000 copies in the last three years.

To match the ever-evolving nature of the city, Stapleton has created a new version packed with latest and greatest peculiarities which make Brighton & Hove so special. New additions include a busker dressed as a Muppet, the London to Brighton vintage car run and the secret messages hidden at The Basketmaker’s Arms and Devil’s Dyke. Now Stapleton maintains this is the definitive version.

BURNING THE CLOCKS INVITES LOCAL SUPPORT FOR 2015 MON 21 DEC WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BURNINGTHECLOCKS Arts charity Same Sky has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £6,000 towards their Burning the Clocks event. This uplifting antidote to increasing commerciality at Christmas sees people walk through the city carrying paper and willow lanterns, finally throwing them on a huge bonfire on the beach. Taking place at 6.30pm on Mon 21 Dec, it takes 2,000 participants from Brighton Dome to the seafront, attracting more than 20,000 onlookers. Now in its 22nd year, this annual Winter Solstice celebration depends on public generosity to continue. Now its organisers are enticing Brighton residents to donate with a range of tempting packages.

This year’s theme is the cosmos, but volunteers are still needed for the event.

The event’s trademark lantern packs, containing construction materials and wristbands for four people to take part in the parade, are now also available to buy. Supporters can purchase the packs from Brighton Pavilion shop, The Wood Store at Preston Barracks on Lewes Road and Book Nook in Hove.

FASCINATING FESTIVE FACTOIDS Santa Claus is based on a 4th Century bishop from somewhere near Turkey.

Mistletoe spreads through bird droppings. Its name means ‘symbiotic relationship’.

There is no evidence Christ was born on Christmas Day. The Nazis intended to turn Christmas into a festival celebrating the birth of Hitler.

In an attempt to ease tensions one Christmas, Colombia’s government covered jungle trees with lights, which lit up when local guerrillas passed by.

DICKORATE WWW.DICKORATE.COM Here’s a new way to liven up that flaccid Christmas tree.

New company Dickorate.com have produced a cheeky range of penis-shaped ornaments.

Designed and made in Brighton, these perfectly packaged peckers are helping to raise awareness of male cancers. Working with Orchid Cancer Appeal, 20% of all proceeds are going to support men affected by male cancers. Every year over 43,000 men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate, testicular and penile cancer.

Orchid is the UK’s leading charity, offering a range of support services, education and awareness campaigns and a pioneering research programme.

Looking well hung on any festive tree - these hilarious and affordable gifts can be bought online or at a swelling number of retailers throughout Brighton & Hove. Priding themselves on producing quality made products for everyone’s amusement; the team behind these engorged ornaments remind us a dickoration is for life... not just for Christmas.

FRINGE REGISTRATION UNDERWAY DEADLINE: FRI 29 JAN 2016 WWW.BRIGHTONFRINGE.ORG The deadlines for Brighton Fringe are fast approaching.

This year, a brand new bursary has become available to first-time participants in the festival, a terrific opportunity for new performers. So now is your chance to take part in England’s largest arts festival.

Each bursary available through Brighton Fringe offers local and young performers opportunities to fund their shows through free registration, additional funding to cover performance costs and in some cases mentoring from industry professionals.

Other artists looking forward to taking part in this year’s festival can also save up to £30, by taking advantage of the ‘Early Bird’ discount when registering before Mon 14 Dec. For more information about Brighton Fringe’s awards and bursaries, visit www.brightonfringe.org/funding.

Catalonians celebrate Christmas Day by beating a ‘pooping log’ with sticks whilst singing an encouraging song. This anthropomorphised chunk of hollow wood then excretes gifts of small candies, fruits and nuts, with a salt herring expelled as the grand finale.

Most of our favourite traditional Christmas songs from the 20th Century were composed by Jewish songwriters.

At 118ft, the UK’s tallest Christmas tree is at Wakehurst Place near Haywards Heath.

Charles Dickens grew up during a mini ice age, when it snowed every Christmas until he was eight. It influenced his writing and gave the world unrealistic expectations for festive weather.

The Voyager space probes are programmed to avoid planetary encounters over Christmas.

Male reindeers shed their antlers around Christmas. So those pulling Santa’s sleigh are likely to be female, despite their butch names.

The 2015 version of John Lewis’ popular Christmas TV advert was partly filmed in Whitehawk.

Through a stroke of marketing genius, Kentucky Fried Chicken has become the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan.

New York TV station, WPIX, has broadcast 24 hours of a burning fireplace on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day since 1966.

Catalonian nativity scenes depict the entire town of Bethlehem, with one small addition. A small statue known as the Caganer is tucked away in a corner. He’s placed far from the action, because he’s knocking out a crafty poo.

Are you noticing a theme here?

A less-enlightened Dutch Christmas tradition sees people dress up as a stereotypical character called ‘Zwarte Piet’, or Black Peter. Children who don’t behave during the year are told he will take them away to Spain. And we know what their festive season involves.

Iceland has a similar mythological figure scaring the kids over Christmas. Grýla is an old lady who abducts naughty children/ She’s one of 13 slightly strange ‘Yuletide Lads’ leaving presents or playing pranks over a 26 day period.

To reach 2,106 million children on Christmas Eve, Santa would have to make an average of 842 million stops, travelling at 12.19 million miles per second in-between.

Except in Brighton, where he diligently observes the 20mph speed limit.

T H E F E ST I VA L F O R N E W M U S I C B R I G H T O N • U K • 1 9 T H - 2 1 S T M AY 2 0 1 6

LIMITED EARLY BIRD FESTIVAL TICKETS ON SALE FOR £49.50

FIRST LINE-UP ANNOUNCEMENT COMING DECEMBER 2015 H E A D T O G R E AT E S C A P E F E ST I VA L .C O M

COMPETITION TIME! THE PEANUTS MOVIE GOODIES Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the beloved “Peanuts” gang make their big-screen debut, like they’ve never been seen before, in state of the art 3D animation.

WIN TICKETS TO SEE PITSCHI AT KOMEDIA Komedia’s home-grown children’s show ‘Pitschi - the Kitten with Dreams’ returns to Brighton for a two week run, following its successful national tour.

Snoopy, the world’s most lovable beagle – and flying ace – embarks upon his greatest mission as he takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis The Red Baron, while his best pal, Charlie Brown, begins his own epic quest. From the imagination of Charles M. Schulz and the creators of the ‘Ice Age’ films, ‘Snoopy and Charlie Brown: The Peanuts Movie’ will prove that every underdog has his day.

To celebrate the release of this dog-tastic movie, we have teamed up with our good friends at 20th Century Fox Entertainment to give away some awesome goodies that are not to be sniffed at.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this simple question:

A perfect Christmas treat for young children and their families, it tells the story of a little kitten living on a farm high up in the Swiss Alps. She doesn’t like the rough and tumble and mischievous fun of kitten play and dreams of being something else – a chicken, perhaps, or a goat, or a rabbit. After all, anything is better than being a cat! So Pitschi goes off on an exciting adventure to meet other animals, but with winter fast approaching will she find her way home? Full of good humour, adventure, live music and song, the play is performed by Anglo-Swiss actor Natasha Granger and based on Swiss author and illustrator Hans Fischer’s award-winning picture book, ‘Pitschi’.

What breed of dog is Snoopy?

BN1 Magazine and Komedia Brighton are offering one of our lucky readers a family ticket for ‘Pitschi’ on Weds 30 Dec at 11am, plus a goodie bag, sing-a-long CD and ‘Pitschi’ story book!

A winner will be chosen and notified at the end of December.

To win a family ticket to ‘Pitschi’, simply answer this rather easy question…

‘Snoopy and Charlie Brown: A Peanuts Movie’ is in cinemas on Mon 21 Dec 2015.

What kind of animal is Pitschi?

A. Badgeraffe B. Cat C. Crocatoise Send your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: competition@bn1magazine.co.uk Please put ‘PITSCHI’ as the subject header. Terms and conditions apply. A winner will be chosen and notified on Mon 14 Dec.

GOOD LUCK! ‘Pitschi – the Kitten with Dreams’ returns to Komedia on Sun 20 Dec – Sun 3 Jan (except 25, 26 Dec & 1 Jan) www.komedia.co.uk/brighton. Image by Matthew Andrews

A. Cockapoo B. Beagle C. Akita Send your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: competition@bn1magazine. co.uk Please put ‘SNOOPY’ as the subject header. Terms and conditions apply.

GOOD LUCK!

CREATING THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS WITH BARBARA NICE Expectations are mounting. That massive to-do list is reaching biblical proportions, you’ve squandered more money in a month than you can afford and no one really knows why they’re doing any of this…

you’ve foolishly invited over? So to find out how to make the holidays perfect, we hooked up with housewife extraordinaire and occasional agony aunt Barbara Nice, to get some tips on creating a magical December.

As ever the dream is your Christmas will be like a seasonal Andy Williams special, but the reality is closer to a Slipknot music video… As we realise we’re not living up to the perfect image of Hollywood Christmases, the worry we’re not devoting enough time or filled with enough love creeps in. Why aren’t we glamorous? Why does my home look like a crack house compared to Val Doonican’s?

We need to embrace what makes this time so special, like over-scheduling, shameless cash-in albums and inconvenient family traditions.

I generally leave everything until the last minute, buy too much alcohol and get a tree that looks like it’s been plucked from a warzone. How can I avoid messing up this Christmas?

Are you disillusioned by the promises of clever marketing?

Have you spent 200 man-hours garishly decorating your house, so it now looks like the kitsch-laden set of a Lady Gaga biopic? Ever spend hours on a treasured recipe, only to find no one shared your enthusiasm? Did you find the ideal gift, only to have it dismissed by the recipient?

“Again, it’s an individual choice kid. Fashions come and go decoration-wise - I can remember sausages of pleated cotton wool for snow being big - but no one does it anymore.”

Christmas was flawed from the start. It originally saw an impressionable first-time mother staying in sub-standard accommodation, with a stepfather struggling to care for his growing family, an unwitting baby and an endless stream of bloody visitors coming in, drinking their booze and disrupting the day. They didn’t even have the CocaCola advert to warm their hearts. So put away your own expectations, it’s going to be a long hard slog with scant reward. At least one person will be sick, someone will be sobbing and another will start an argument. Let’s make sure this isn’t you.

The most humble circumstances can be the memories of a lifetime. The real gifts are the things we already possess.

It’s a chance to reflect on our blessings, get drunk on unusual spirits, spill candlewax on a new carpet and verbally abuse rubbish carollers. The simplest pleasures can fill us all with joy, the smile on a child’s face as they open a present, the gentle farting of a grandparent during ‘Doctor Who’ or a triumphant 5-0 victory on ‘FIFA 16’.

Whilst some may use the festival to rediscover meaning and purpose in their lives, others simply let the holiday descend into a mulled cider-fuelled apocalypse. How do we strike a balance? Can we be full of seasonal joy, without actually interacting with those family members

“We all do it our own way, love, but probably best to leave the Malibu alone till the tree is up, the turkey is stuffed and the sprouts are on.”

How many is ‘too many decorations’?

Where do you stand on festive newsletters? I have a plethora of utterly mundane experiences and vicarious triumphs to share with people I barely know. Am I just seeking attention?

“Yes love, you are love. I suggest you stop sending them.

No one likes a show off.”

Buying the perfect present is vital to my Christmas, but I have little spare time amongst my busy daytime TV schedule. How can I rustle up the ultimate gifts with the minimum effort?

“Scratch cards always go down well I find, as long as they share if they win... But, the true spirit of Christmas isn’t just a large Malibu...”

It’s Christmas morning! What do you do if everyone wants to get up a lot earlier than you? Often I’ve only been home for about 90 minutes, especially if there was a good Midnight Mass the night before.

“You’re entitled to a bit of a lie-in but to avoid problems later on, get the first person up to put the sprouts on a low heat for you.”

I wanted an Xbox, but received nothing more dazzling than a pair of novelty socks. How do I cover my crushing disappointment?

“How did you know I’ve got you light-up musical Kim Kardashian socks? Have you been rooting through the back of my wardrobe?”

The family are here! There are the in-laws, aunts and uncles, some interchangeable cousins and my unbalanced sister with her incontinent dog. No one is fooled by the facade of niceness. You can feel the contempt in the air. How do I make sure everyone just gets along?

“Malibu.”

No matter how hard I try, I always end up with an uninvited guest at Christmas. You know the sort; a single family member who gets drunk and over-emotional, the creepy half-cousin who is undoubtedly a bad influence on the kids or a random boyfriend who starts exhibiting sociopathic tendencies at the dinner table. How do I deal with these people?

“These are the people that make Christmas special. They stop it becoming just another day and they are to be encouraged.

Jesus was an uninvited guest in the stable after all...”

It’s just after the Queen’s speech; my accumulated sugar rush is now bringing highs normally reached only by the most enthusiastic crack fiends. Should I stop eating?

“No, you need to keep going till you’re in a proper food coma.

I recommend Terry’s Chocolate Orange. The segments are generally manageable. Little, but often #toptip”.

Have you ever noticed how annoying other people’s kids are? Is there an easy solution to coping with the perfect storm of complaining and disobedience that accompanies them?

“Baileys. Tell them it’s hot chocolate; they’ll sleep the afternoon off.”

If I have to look at the photos from Uncle Bob’s dubious holiday in South East Asia I will most likely run amok with the carving knife. Have you any ideas on festive fun?

Christmas Fri 11 Dec

Kate Rusby

Sat 12 Dec

The Panto Game

Sat 12 Dec

Crafty Christmas

Sat 12 Dec

BFC Christmas Concert

Tue 15 - Sun 20 Dec

A Christmas Carol

Sat 19 – Sun 27 Dec

Flown

Tue 22 Dec

Midwinter Ceilidh

Sun 27 – Thu 31 Dec

The Treason Show

Sat 2 – Sun 3 Jan

The Snow Queen

“I don’t think you can beat a game of ‘Split the Kipper’”.

The majority of my family haven’t realised playing Monopoly is possibly the most fruitless and boring activity in the known universe. How do I get out of the obligatory postdinner board games? I’ve already washed up and walked my sister’s dog (not that this act has saved my floor…).

“In this situation I would probably go on Rightmove and look at beach properties in Bulgaria.”

The day is over. Everyone has either left or is asleep in front of ‘Only Fools and Horses’. How do we cope with the sad realisation Christmas will never be as joyous as a John Lewis advert?

“More Malibu and Baileys and a large box of Quality Street!”

Barbara Nice’s ‘Countdown To Christmas!’ comes to Brighton’s Komedia on Sun 13 Dec. ‘Celebrating the birth of Baby Jesus’ comes to venues around the planet on Fri 25 Dec, as part of Christmas. www.komedia.co.uk/brighton www.mrsbarbaranice.co.uk

01273 709709 brightondome.org

F LOW N PIRATES OF THE CARABINA

A young performance company attempt to stage a complex show, but things quickly begin to go awry for the cast of ‘Flown’.

Performers get entangled in their equipment, disagreements break out and ladders fall over. It seems everything is teetering on the brink of disaster.

This award-winning show by Pirates of the Carabina has it roots in circus, but goes far beyond the traditional realm of the bigtop. It skilfully blends theatre, music and incredible acrobatic skills in a stunning visual spectacle. After enormous success at 2014’s Brighton Festival, this madcap show returns for the Dome’s Christmas season. “We had a brilliant time in Brighton, so it’s great to be coming back.” Shaena Brandel, Pirates of the Carabina’s co-producer and co-director, tells me.

Brandel’s journey to this point started with the standard dance, gymnastics and drama classes at school. Although she liked the physicality and basic skills it offered, there was too much of a competitive element attached to the learning. At 17 she began a performing arts course, to find most of her fellow students were interested only in reaching Broadway. A visit to Glastonbury saw her happen across a circus company’s dress rehearsal in one of the festival’s many performance spaces.

Enrolment in her local circus school opened up a world of creativity. She began working in duets and put in a spell with NoFit State. Then unexpectedly a commission came, to stage a production for Glastonbury. “Once we did the show once, we realised we had to do it again, because we had such a good reaction.” It brought together a troupe of talented acrobats, aerialists, stuntmen and musicians in a collection of jawdropping displays. ‘Flown’ was born.

It’s a confident, challenging and astounding show, yet there’s a lingering fear accompanying the spectator throughout. At a casual glance, it’s a health and safety nightmare. It seems catastrophe could strike at any second. “The show was devised by everyone in it. We also have a lovely director, who doesn’t get that involved in the skills but he does put his own twist on it. But ultimately, because it’s devised in such a way, it draws on everyone’s strengths.” With a crew of 13 highly experienced and committed artists, riggers, musicians and technicians from across the world, the company embrace ground-based disciplines and innovative aerial forms. Packed with ambition, there’s also something otherworldly about this highly technical show. As well as the dazzling front of house antics, we get to see the production’s backstage as it all tumbles into disarray.

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By Stuart Rolt

Since its debut this show has been performed to almost 65,000 people worldwide. In 2013 it won the Total Theatre Award for Physical and Visual Theatre at Edinburgh Festival Fringe. This year it took a sell-out tour of Wales, performing at the renowned St. David’s Hall in Cardiff, as well as headlining the first ever Gwledd SYRCAS Feast festival in their very own Big Top. The company have just returned from a from a sell-out tour in Australia, a trip which included massive shows at Brisbane Festival and some challenging circumstances. As if performing nightly to a venue full of 1,700 people wasn’t nerve-wracking enough, one show saw torrential rain leaking through the roof.

So putting out buckets became another part of a show which is constantly evolving. “If you set up things as being chaotic, then when real drama happens you can play with it.” Many of the extraordinary routines in ‘Flown’ revolve around very ordinary objects, an ironing board, lampstands, chairs or even a cloud of dust can all be utilised to create something beautiful.

The show has been tweaked for this Brighton run, now detailing the company’s attempts to get the show sorted in time for Christmas. But being ‘Flown’, plenty of mishaps threaten the festivities. “I think it’s really important to keep things really organic. It keeps it fresh for the performers and the audience, getting a real experience rather than something that’s just churned out.” It’s the perfect festive show, full of wonder and beauty it should enliven and amaze even the most cynical of hearts.

As a touring circus company Pirates of the Carabina is smaller than most. The family-like relationship amongst the members plays a big part in their performance as a unit. “We want it to be small enough that we can all sit round a table and have a meal together. We’ll be 14 in total for Brighton, so we’ll have to find a big table!” Thoughts are drifting to what a new production might bring, but there’ll certainly be a very long lead-in time. Brandel admits there’s a considerable pressure on the company to create an equally scintillating spectacle, but much of this comes from their own ranks. “We’re going: ‘oh god, how do we follow this one?’ I think we’ll just have to see.

The possibilities are really exciting.”

Pirates of the Carabina’s ‘Flown’ comes to Brighton Dome on Sat 19 – Weds 23 & Sat 26 – Sun 27 Dec. www.brightondome.org www.piratesofthecarabina.co.uk

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THE HUMMINGBIRD PROJECT CAMP AT CHRISTMAS A terrible fire burns deep in the forest. Terrified woodland creatures flee, except one tiny hummingbird. As the rest of the animals bemoaned the destruction of their homes, a hummingbird gathers a few water droplets and flies to drop them on the fire. It repeats this fruitless endeavour, to the amazement of the other creatures. A few try to discourage the bird, fearing it would harm itself. One cries: “what are you doing?” Without hesitation, the hummingbird replies: “I am doing what I can!”

Around 87 miles away from Brighton, near the French end of the Channel Tunnel, there’s a temporary settlement known as the ‘Jungle’. It’s a place with no fixed geographical location, intolerable living conditions and a growing population that no nation wants. “For most people I’ve met there, this will be their first winter in Calais.” Elaine Ortiz, founder of The Hummingbird Project, tells me. Together with her Brighton-based group of activists, just like the story’s plucky bird, they are confronting an impossible situation.

The Hummingbird Project was started by pro-equality campaigners ‘English Disco Lovers’ (EDL). They offer a response to this worsening refugee crisis, regularly sending teams of skilled volunteers to the camps. They co-ordinate appropriate aid efforts from across the UK and organise building groups, recently constructing a space offering new arrivals somewhere to sleep for their first night.

What began as a Red Cross centre in Calais was quickly over-run by growing numbers, who found this passage into England blocked. This sprawling camp sits on a desolate flood plain, surrounded by chemical plants and coarse bushes. Whilst there is an emerging economy within the

By Stuart Rolt camps, there’s no governing body, little organisation and fewer prospects. The terms ‘Jungle’ and ‘illegals’ serve to further de-humanise the people here. Conditions are bleak. Glastonbury at its most inhospitable seems like a luxury holiday in comparison. Many stand no chance of entering the UK. Yet every day more arrive in this desolate corner of Northern France.

The gamut of nationalities gathered reads like a list of the world’s trouble spots. Sudan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Ethiopia and Eritrea are all represented. The human cost of disinterested foreign policy and failed nation building is finally hitting Europe. “I’ve not met anyone who hasn’t been through something really terrible. There’s a very good reason why they are there. I don’t think anyone chooses to live in a makeshift camp with no basic human rights.” As extra measures are introduced to prevent illegal entry into Britain and numbers of refugees reaching Calais rise, there’s been a sharp population increase recently.

Accurately assessing numbers and demographics is difficult, but current estimates put the camp’s population at over 6,000, and this figure is growing.

Most food is supplied by charity-run soup kitchens. Water has to be brought from remote points, so hygiene in these conditions is a problem. While donations keep residents relatively well-clothed, finding footwear for such conditions is difficult. Shoes are often ill-fitting, disintegrating or simply inappropriate, many people negotiating the squalor in flip-flops.

The French authorities face the dilemma of dealing with a growing humanitarian crisis, without encouraging new arrivals. Regularly areas are bulldozed without warning, destroying belongings, documentation and shelters.

Entrances are now blocked off to motor vehicles, restricting access for most relief organisations. So the majority of foreign aid is dropped off at an overwhelmed destitution point. Ortiz has noticed the local police becoming increasingly threatening towards foreign aid providers. “It’s not fair to just blame the French government,” she says. “The UK also has a massive responsibility to these people. Most of the people are fleeing because of our involvement in their countries.” There is an attempt to divert this human tide to centres elsewhere, where housing and a fast-track asylum process is promised. Yet few accept the offers.

When refugees are detained they’ll often be dispersed to other parts of France, most immediately returning.

Although the population is perceived as ‘generally healthy’ by UK charity Human Relief Foundation, serious problems do present themselves. The cold brings respiratory issues; dirty water causes infections like dysentery and anywhere without clothes-washing facilities will see the spread of scabies. Having already travelled to Calais every other week with tons of food, shelter materials, fire extinguishers, clothing and money; the Hummingbird volunteers have just built a medical clinic. As many of the people living here have also been traumatised, the next task is to build a support centre, offering the more vulnerable of the camp’s residents a safe space to talk.

As well as encouraging us to do what we can for people in Calais, Hummingbird and EDL have been running poster campaigns, giving TEDx talks, campaigning against current immigration policy and encouraging creative and peaceful activism. “Part of what Hummingbird and English Disco Lovers are doing is challenging people’s preconceptions, myths and stereotypes of immigration and refugees.” Recently EDL have taken to the airwaves, extending their reach with shows on Radio Reverb and 1Brighton FM. Raising awareness and funds with two sell-out Bank Holiday events at The Spiegeltent during Brighton Fringe, they’ve also rocked festivals around the UK and packed the beach with a series of al-fresco parties. Along the way they’ve raised over £17,000 for Calais Solidarity groups in Calais and the UK this year. So to round off an amazing 2015, EDL and The Hummingbird Project are having a Christmas Disco knees-up at Komedia on Fri 18 Dec, celebrating the work of key supporters and raising even more funds.

No matter where you stand on UK immigration or human rights, the fact this is happening right on our borders brings shame to us all. There is no simple fix. The refugee crisis won’t disappear overnight, despite our hopes. Like their plucky namesake, The Hummingbird Project is acting in the face of an impossible situation, as sometimes you can’t stand idly by. “We’re the lucky ones. That’s why we have a responsibility. We should be treating people in the way we would like to be treated in that situation.”

English Disco Lovers and the Hummingbird Project hold their Christmas party and Awards Ceremony at Komedia on Fri 18 Dec. www.facebook.com/Hummingbirduk

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LIVE MUSIC PLANNER

BEANS ON TOAST

BENJAMIN CLEMENTINE

EZIO

THURS 3 DEC PATTERNS

THURS 3 DEC ST GEORGE’S CHURCH

MON 7 DEC KOMEDIA

The new Beans on Toast album - ‘Rolling Up The Hill’ - is his most creative record to date. It’s all about friendship, travel and art, and a little bit about drinking, protesting and growing older in these strange modern times. His seventh studio album in as many years is released this month, and was recorded in Kansas with husband and wife country duo Truckstop Honeymoon.

Ten years in the game and he’s built up something of an underground following around the world, ramming out festival fields and venues in the UK. This year alone he’s played shows on rooftops in Cape Town, tropical islands in the Barbados, folk festivals in Canada and covered over 10,000 miles in the USA.

With his extraordinary voice and charismatic piano balladry, Benjamin Clementine returns as the mercury prize winner. His debut album ‘At Least For Now’ has been dubbed as the future sound of London, accumulating fans with his unique piano-led songs.

His back-story is fascinating and colourful, so there’s little surprise at the depth of emotions displayed within his work.

Exploring heartbreak, homelessness and reinvention, he has an undeniable way with words, and a voice that reaches deep into your soul.

Gradually opening up to a wider spectrum of music fans, Cambridge-born Ezio Lunedei and Kenyan guitarist Mark ‘Booga’ Fowell are capable and rather wonderful song-smiths. Meeting in 1990, the pair plays with a rhythmical power and unity.

Booga’s spontaneous fluid touch is the perfect complement to Ezio’s emotive songs, imaginatively adding to the moods they invoke.

Their debut album ‘Black Boots on Latin Feet’ was produced by Rupert Hine (Stevie Nicks, Tina Turner, Noa, Duncan Sheik) and resulted in support tours with acts like Paul Young, Les Négresses Vertes, Joan Armatrading and Big Country. Now with four albums under their belt, they’ve become renowned throughout the folk scene.

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THE RAMONAS

BERNARD + EDITH

STATUS QUO

THURS 10 DEC THE PRINCE ALBERT

FRI 11 DEC THE HOPE AND RUIN

FRI 11 DEC BRIGHTON CENTRE

The UK’s only all-girl tribute to one of the most influential punk rock bands in history, The Ramonas were formed back in 2004.

These days they travel internationally, capturing the magic that the Ramones had in their early days.

Dreamy Mancunian trip-hop duo - Bernard + Edith - come to Brighton to play a special Melting Vinyl Christmas night, co-curated with Dog In The Snow. Over the past year, the pair has been bubbling with their dark, subtly disturbing, electronica.

With their intense on-stage energy levels, whilst looking much better than Joey, Johnny, Dee Dee or Marky ever did, the girls have toured all around the UK and Europe and guarantee a good night out... Whilst it will never be possible to see the Ramones live again, The Ramonas are absolutely the next best thing for any punk rock fan.

Their debut album ‘Jem’ showcases a rich landscape with a strange allure, it offered intimacy and a tangibility of emotion with their arrangements, despite their electronically constructed origins. It’s an auspicious debut, a worthy volley from a city whose popular music reputation has been built on genre splicing and boundary pushing that’s sat a bit quiet as of late.

Lock up your nan and get those battered old denim cut-offs out, because ‘The Quo’ are in town! Despite being in the game since the Gregorian calendar’s introduction, these rockers are still going strong. They’ve earned their status as Britain’s best-loved rock legends through sheer hard work and great tunes, so we should probably be treating them with a little more respect.

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This 11 date tour will see the band returning to their fully electric set up after the huge success of the ‘Aquostic (Stripped Bare)’ and ‘Aquostic! Live At The Roundhouse’ albums. Packed with hits new and old, taken from an unsurpassable back catalogue, it’s a series of dates not to be missed.

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THE OLD MARKET PRESENTS

JAMES TAYLOR QUARTET

MEDIAEVAL BAEBES

MON 7 DEC THE OLD MARKET

THURS 10 DEC ST PAUL’S ARTS CENTRE, WORTHING

THURS 10 DEC ST GEORGE’S CHURCH

To celebrate the very best that Brighton’s music scene has to offer, The Old Market presents another phenomenal line up of local bands. On the bill is psychedelic rock four-piece, Prince Vaseline, who shared a love of world psych and early experimental electronica.

You might have a massive organ, but has it got a rotating horn? Fearlessly strutting along the line between polite jazz noodling and feverish funk-soul party-starters, James Taylor has been the undisputed king of the Hammond keyboard.

Back in 1996 a group of friends broke into a North London cemetery and sang together, clad in flowing white gowns and crowns of ivy. Formed by Katharine Blake (formally of Miranda Sex Garden) the initial idea of getting a few friends together to sing for fun quickly escalated into a unique musical ensemble.

Joining them is Grasshopper, who blend post punk, surf and shoegaze aesthetics.

Their open-minded instrumentation and DIY ethos has seen them play festivals like Isle of Wight Festival, Kendal Calling and Festival Number 6, as special guests of Tim Burgess.

Completing the line-up are Lutine, who are a mesmerising live act, combining haunting vocal harmonies with minimal, delicate instrumentation.

Breaking through in the early 90s, the James Taylor Quartet saw their ‘Theme From Starsky & Hutch’ become an acid jazz dance floor anthem. Ultimately JTQ are thoroughly modernist, borrowing heartedly from sources like continental cinema soundtracks, TV themes and funk classics, to create a pulsating funk-drenched vibe.

It’s intense, exuberant and urgent. It might have been a few years since their last hit, but this four still ‘Love The Life’.

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THE RIFLES

OPERATION: MINDCRIME

FROM THE JAM

SAT 12 DEC THE HAUNT

SUN 13 DEC THE HAUNT

FRI 18 - SAT 19 DEC CONCORDE 2

You’d be forgiven for not hearing of this four-piece. Purveyors of no-nonsense spiky guitar-pop, they certainly aren’t the trendiest of bands. Anonymity aside, they’re capable of unleashing some infectious riffs and solid lyrics. Despite selling out venues around the country, The Rifles still don’t get any airplay.

It seems they have become something of a cult band.

Founded in 2014 by Queensrÿche vocalist Geoff Tate, Operation: Mindcrime take their name from his former band’s landmark concept album. After Tate’s acrimonious split from his former group in 2012, a tense two-year period followed which saw Tate and Queensrÿche each touring under the moniker.

In November 1980 The Jam released their fifth studio album - ‘Sound Affects’. It featured their second single to reach the number one spot ‘Start’ and the acoustic masterpiece ‘That’s Entertainment’. This album still competes for the title of The Jam’s best record, due to its mix of 60s psychedelic rock and funk alongside a political commentary that was innovative for its time. Celebrating the album’s 35th anniversary From The Jam, which features original The Jam member’s Bruce Foxton and Russell Hastings, will perform the album in its entirety. As well as a thrilling performance of ‘Sound Affects’ they’ll perform a selection of hits and album tracks from The Jam’s back catalogue and songs from Bruce Foxton’s own solo career. So let us ‘Set The House Ablaze’!

This year saw the ten-year anniversary of their debut album ‘No Love Lost’, something they celebrated by playing four sold out London shows. To round off the year they’re out on the road again, pulling into Brighton for a special acoustic show, before recording their fifth album in 2016. The truth is quality speaks for itself, and they’ll be around long after the fashionable bands have all acrimoniously imploded.

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After an eventual settlement, the newly minted band now features a rotating cast of musicians with Tate at the helm. Following this, Operation: Mindcrime released ‘The Key’ last year, their debut studio album and the first instalment in a planned trilogy.

It continued a proud tradition of melodic, narrative-driven progressive metal.

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Years later, these fair maidens have taken three albums to the top of the classical charts and contributed to the soundtrack of BBC production of ‘The Virgin Queen’ which won them in an Ivor Novello Award.

Sourcing lyrics from mediaeval and romantic texts and setting them to original scores using traditional instruments, the Baebes are a beguiling musical beauty.

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CLUBBING PLANNER

CHARGED

WHITE MINK

BLACK KEY RECORDS

FRI 4 DEC PATTERNS

FRI 4 DEC THE OLD MARKET

SAT 5 DEC KOMEDIA

Charged welcome in December with Bristol based My Nu Leng. Drawing on varied influences this duo traverse the whole spectrum between pitch-shifted vocals and the deepest bass heavy rumbles.

Get ready for the sounds and styles of the 1920s and 30s, with another Electro Swing versus Speakeasy Jazz from White Mink.

Selling out in Brighton with astounding regularity, if you’ve been to one of their events before you’ll know why everyone raves about them.

It’s Black Key Records’ 4th birthday, so they’ll be throwing a bash to celebrate with a bang. Here’s a chance to escape the hordes of office workers drinking themselves into oblivion! There’ll be no booth hire and certainly no attitude. It’s simply no-nonsense house music for those in the know. This crew have been trying out some different party concepts during the summer. Now they’ve decided it’s better to run parties like they did at the start - small and intimate. So there are no special guest DJs, no massive ad campaign, just their friends, and plenty of welcoming faces.

The residents-only line-up sees Tom Sevinski, Neil Brown and Jon Gray spinning house & techno to an appreciative crowd.

Remember… tossers, posers and mindless selfie-takers are absolutely not welcome!

At the centre of the Black Butter crew, My Nu Leng have been garnering strong support and attention with several incredible remixes, including UK No.1 ‘La La La’ by Naughty Boy, ‘Right Here’ by Rudimental, and ‘Mozart’s House’ by Clean Bandit. So get ready for some heavyweight rhythms, lush textures and crushing beats.

Raved about by tastemakers and adored by dancefloors, you won’t want to miss this one!

Named by Mixmag as the second best party in the UK, White Mink are the critically acclaimed originators of a speakeasy and swing revival. Along the way they’ve curated festival stages for the likes of Love Supreme, Latitude, Glastonbury and Bestival. Expect high production values, cutting edge but accessible music, worldclass performers, a fantastic atmosphere and surprises galore!

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HOSPITALITY

THE OLD GREY DJ FEST

FIRST FLOOR

FRI 11 DEC PATTERNS

FRI 11 DEC THE OLD MARKET

SAT 12 DEC PATTERNS

It’s a decade since Hospitality Brighton launched. So they’re getting ready to celebrate this 10th anniversary in epic heroic style! They’ll be returning to the building where it all began. For this 52nd show everything is being rewound to where Hospitality had their first four-year residency.

Remember clubbing in Brighton between 1995 and 2005? If you do, you weren’t really there, as they say. For ten brief years, long before people started drinking Champagne and Snapchatting each other in clubs, this fair city was a hub for British dance culture.

Sound systems were loud and the nights were long.

This Berlin-based trio have won plenty of fans recently, with their raw analogue music released on their own eponymous label.

Whether they’re smashing out loopy techno bangers, bouncy house cuts or something more cerebral, Italojohnson have proved they have what it takes to rock a crowd.

So brace yourselves for Danny Byrd, Ivy Lab, Nu:Tone B2B Logistics, Callous B2B Sciphi B2B Mischief, with everything hosted by Wrec & SP:MC. Those upstairs will be getting a similar treat, as it’s being hosted by Wah Wah 45s. So brace yourself, because that little lot will probably blow the roof off of your weekend!

Anyway, it’s absolutely time for a megareunion of all the best local nights from the era. Expect memories of bad dancing and epic walks of shame, as the city welcomes back the best DJs from Gogglez, Tru Thoughts, Roots Garden, Positive Sounds, Catskills, Bust The Box and Evil Nine. Get a baby sitter, take Monday off work and stock up on Sanatogen, it’s going to be mental.

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Now gracing the booths of the world’s most respected clubs, the three of them excel at lacing together pumping, dancefloor wrecking DJ sets over extended periods of time, leaning all the finest sonic gems that house and techno have to offer.

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SEVEN DAVIS JR

SPANK!

FIX SESSION WITH TEREKKE

SAT 5 DEC PATTERNS

SAT 5 DEC RIALTO THEATRE

FRI 11 DEC KOMEDIA

Raised in California, trained as a gospel vocalist and working in the shadows of the music industry for years, Mr Davis Jr is now sharing his exceptional talents with the world. Now his ever-evolving quest into the nether-regions of musical exploration brings him to Brighton.

Brighton club Spank! turned nine years old last month, so they’re throwing another infamous birthday bash with fetish shows, cake and plenty of kink. Expect dungeon play with their resident Mistress, a latexshine station, best-outfit prizes and maybe even your boss. As ever they’ll have top DJs playing house, dance and electro, to accompany all the subversion and splendour.

Celebrating a year of sporadic events in style, this mob is inviting one of their favourite artists to play a very special all-night session. One of the most enigmatic artists on the L.I.E.S. roster, the Brooklyn-based producer has surprisingly never been too prolific with his releases. Terekke has a particular talent for wowing crowds with his dreamy late night sessions, so now he’s getting ready for a mind-blowing four hour set.

The theme is shiny and sumptuous. So get out your most glam OTT fetish finery.

Whether it’s latex, patent leather, satin, lycra, spandex, silk, chain mail or even shiny velvet, make the effort! Remember it’s no outfit – no entry… and they certainly don’t want any prats spoiling the fetish fairyland.

With lush thick soundscapes bubbling away, with just the slightest hint of fink, this is music for the mind. Chugging synths, gorgeous basslines and slightly muffled drum patterns all blended into multi-layered beauty, Terekke is on a mission to perfect the quietly exquisite.

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RICHY AHMED

ENGLISH DISCO LOVERS

FUTUREBOOGIE

SAT 12 DEC THE ARCH

FRI 18 DEC KOMEDIA

SAT 19 DEC PATTERNS

Now firmly established at the forefront of British house music, Richy Ahmed is consistently redefining the scene. Taking cues from disco, techno, funk, electro and hip‐hop, he’s playing a major part in the renaissance of British dance music.

The English Disco Lovers have fast become THE party in Brighton, raising funds, promoting inclusivity and, of course, playing classic and underground disco and house music. So now they round off the year with a Christmas Disco extravaganza!

Hailing from South Shields, this home grown talent continues to make regular appearances across the UK and the world.

He brings an individual sound that fuses the energy of house and disco with infectious funk-inspired grooves and a touch of sullen mystery. His style has a distinct edge that’s impossible to pinpoint. Ahmed proves himself as one of the hottest talents in a whole new breed of DJs and producers.

The event is part fundraiser and part thankyou party. In 2015 the Disco Lovers’ sister group, The Hummingbird Project, raised over £16,000 for the refugee crisis in Calais and the UK. To celebrate they are having a good old knees-up, celebrating diversity in all its forms and raising more funds for Calais. £2 from each ticket sold will go to Calais solidarity groups.

Futureboogie are taking some down time from programming events like Love Saves the Day, Block9 @ Glastonbury, The Garden Festival, Gottwood and Farmfest. But there’s never any rest in the world of good quality dance music. The record label and club night bring down their top boy, Dave Harvey, for some South Coast shenanigans.

Get ready for a real party.

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He views music as purely art, venturing that it can offer a means of connecting to the past. So now he takes an unorthodox look at house and funk. Futuristic sounds mingle with classic influences, this is what they once dreamed music would sound like. Completing an awesome evening lineup are the rather fine Mehtola and Christian Piers.

Joining him is Bonar Bradberry and Tom Thorpe, or PBR Streetgang as they are better known. Familiar to thousands as the residents at the renowned party We Love… at Space in Ibiza, they’ve come a long way from Leeds’ legendary Asylum club.

Making this line-up pretty much perfect is local hero, Neal Schtumm.

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CRAFTWORK PROJECTS

Right in the heart of Brighton, one company is playing with our perception of what is real. Just off New England Street, Craftwork Projects create unique environments that look real, but are entirely fabricated. They take a client’s concept, design, or brand, and then communicate it in a unique and imaginative way.

The company was born from the British film industry, globally revered for its highly skilled workforce. There was a realisation that the skills and methods employed were transferable to other industries. “We wanted to share our knowledge and really reach out to other companies that may never of had access to the kind of skills we have,” says Craftwork’s director, Ian Zawadzki. From painting elephants for a battle scene in the Thai jungle to making an antiqued stone statue of an angel, in the likeness of a client, the work is always varied and exciting. His team has worked on major blockbuster franchises like ‘Harry Potter’, ‘James Bond’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’, as well as events and exhibitions for Dreamworks and Universal.

A project starts with an initial brief, and then a concept, budget and schedule are all laid out. After being digitally visualised, models are made along with physical samples, to help them best choose the materials and determine the overall aesthetic. Finally comes construction, then installation if need be. “It’s essentially a machine. In goes an idea, out comes a finished piece.” The same ‘blueprint’ is used for pretty much every project they undertake. Being so well drilled at this methodology allows Craftwork Projects to get ideas off the ground and delivered far quicker than normal design companies.

As well as working with clients they are also reaching out to local creatives in a number of exciting ways. Currently the company is collaborating with Brighton artists on a project to design and make bespoke furniture. Last month they hosted an event for Brighton Film School, Zawadzki and BAFTA winner David Roger offered students an insight into the fascinating world of the set design process.

As well as designing, they provide project management, fabrication and installation services. The work can range from large to small-scale installations and refurbishments, custom branding and signage, furniture and props. If you

need something interesting built, they can make it happen.

Craftwork Projects also produce original and commissioned artwork and photography. A field they excel in is the creation of specialised paint finishes, textures and surfaces. Their team of artists can replicate almost any surface or material imaginable. Concrete, brickwork, rock face, marble, wood and metallic finishes...

Recently they produced all the sets for ‘Life in Squares’, a BBC portrayal of the Bloomsbury group. The volume of artwork that had to be created, and achieving the authenticity of the ‘Omega’ style as it was evolving, was challenging and complex. They worked very closely with local production designer David Rogers and the team at Charleston House, Lewes, to recreate the different eras.

The Craftwork crew has just returned from the UAE, after making sets for the upcoming Brad Pitt feature ‘War Machine’.

In the near future is another collection of intricate sets for a new Sky TV drama anthology based on the work of HG Wells, which marks the 150th anniversary of the author’s birth.

Zawadzki says there’s no typical day at Craftwork, every project is different and requires its own specific skill-set and approach. On hand are sculptors, scenic artists, joiners, metal workers, graffiti artists, as well as designers and graphic artists to help with the visualisation. The ultimate aim is to produce a piece of work that is utterly convincing. With source material and reference varying so greatly, it’s hard to pinpoint where the inspiration comes from. It can relate to a place in history, an era or genre, or a place in a geographical sense.

“It’s very important to me to really look hard at the world we live in; natural materials, man-made materials, and the effect of nature on man- made materials.” Doing the best job they can is perhaps the greatest source of inspiration.

Alongside the film work, the team also creates innovative designs for the retail sector. They’ve been involved with clothing brand AllSaints, Mexican street food chain Wahaca, restaurant Salt & Good and The Body Shop. Now they want to build on their good reputation and reach out to new clients who may never have had access to a company like this. “We have a very unique set of skills and look forward to being able to meet every new challenge with a fresh, innovative approach.” www.craftworkprojects.com

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ASH NO SMOKE WITHOUT FIRE

By Gabriel Mackenzie After releasing the mammoth ‘A – Z’ series in 2009 (26 singles in one year) Ash have returned to the album format for the first time in eight years. ‘Kablammo!’ sees the Northern Irish trio returning to their unmistakeable brand of power-pop-punk which has made them one of the UK’s most loved guitar bands for the last 20 years. The album is a heady blend of ferocious riffs, sugary vocals and euphoric choruses, all the while keeping true to the irresistible tales of love and longing that have kept us hooked since ‘1977’. Ash head out on a UK tour this winter and bring their blistering live show to Brighton’s Concorde 2 on the Sun 13 Dec. We caught up with drummer Rick McMurray to discuss the band’s triumphant return.

Your new album ‘Kablammo!’ really captures your live sound as a three-piece and has a huge amount of energy, was there anything different in your approach to recording this album?

Yeah definitely, there were a couple of things. I guess when we decided to back to the album format after saying we wouldn’t do any more albums back in 2007 we put quite a lot of pressure on ourselves and felt we had to justify that decision by making a really good album. I think we were looking back at our career for the first time and saying we need this to live up to something like ‘1977’ or ‘Free All Angels’, probably two of our best records as well as two of our most loved records by the fan base, so it was very much the case of looking back at those and trying to top them. As a band we’ve always looked forward when doing new material so this was the first time we looked back and really tried to compete with ourselves. Also with the ‘A–Z’ stuff we found we really enjoyed that process but we were getting away from our core sound. We loved what we did but it was hard to get that stuff into the set, but with the new record we were very conscious of making it fit into the live show.

Is there a song on the album that you are particularly proud of from a drumming point of view?

Yeah there are a few. You always try to grow as a musician and get new bits in there as long as they fit the song you know, I’m very much conscious of serving the song and not getting in the way of what Tim’s doing vocally. But yeah, something like ‘Let’s Ride’ is really cool and ‘Dispatch’ as well. There’s some cool stuff going on there, that’s one we haven’t done live yet so we’ll maybe have to drag that one out at rehearsal and get it sorted out because it seems like that’s quite a favourite. It’s got an incredible guitar solo as well! Yeah it’s pretty off the wall.

Tim and Mark live in New York and you are based in Edinburgh. When it comes to writing and recording, do you fly over for an extended period or for short stints?

We do it in short bursts. I’ll go over there for ten days, maybe two weeks, and through the writing process we’ll do that maybe three or four times. I think its good to have that sort of burst of energy when you’re coming up with ideas and it’s good for Tim to have a little bit of time to let the songs soak in and really get to know them before finishing them off lyrically and melodically. It balances out and we’ve found it’s a really good way to work. It’s cool being in New York as well but it’s almost like I’m not even there. We’re always straight into the studio first thing in the morning, and I’m always the first in, working on the kit for a few hours before anyone else gets in. We’ll do a day’s work and finish at about midnight, so it’s pretty intense but I kind of like it like that.

You’re embarking on a European tour with We Are Scientists in November, will this feature all six of you playing onstage together like we’ve seen in the past?

Yeah I think it will, what we’ll be doing I’m not really sure [laughs]. There aren’t going to be any rehearsals so it’s definitely going be interesting, especially the first night. I think we are doing a day of rehearsals in London before we head off but the Scientists guys are busy with other stuff so they are flying straight into the shows. Hopefully

we’ll figure it out in sound-check, it’s going to be a glorious car crash! And if all else fails we’ll just get the Scientists to talk to the crowd for half an hour because that’s pretty entertaining in itself.

Matt Sharp from The Rentals and ex-Weezer uploaded a picture of himself dressed as Keith Murray of We Are Scientists for Halloween, what’s your best Halloween costume?

BLACKLACE BURLESQUE

I think some of the best Halloween costumes are in the inside cover of ‘1977’. We were on tour in America the year before and there are loads of shots of that Halloween night. I think there’s a picture of me dressed as an emperor on the inside sleeve, some pretty good looks going on in there.

You’re playing Concorde 2 on Sun 13 Dec, how many times have you played Brighton before?

We’ve done it twice, actually I think three times in recent years, but before that it was back in ‘95 just before we did Reading Festival. I remember I was super ill as well, my throat had swollen up, that’s when I quit smoking Marlborough Reds after that show as I could barely swallow. I remember we managed to get through the gig; it was pretty nuts - there were more of the audience on the stage than on the floor. It was pretty chaotic, I think I slept for about 20 hours solid afterwards and then we did Reading Festival.

How does your rider differ from those days to now?

Probably slightly healthier on the snacks and there’s no oxygen on the rider any more [laughs]! Back on the ‘1977’ tour we had a canister of oxygen on the rider which I think turned up maybe once or twice. You’ve gotta throw these weird things on there to see if they turn up!

If you had a TARDIS what gig in history would you back to?

I never got to see Nirvana live so I’d love to have seen them, I’m also a massive Led Zeppelin fan as well and never got to see them so a toss up between those two.

Seeing Nirvana at Reading Festival 1992 would have been amazing, right?

Oh yeah, the line up for that was just awesome, every band that we were into in our formative years was there that year. That would have been great.

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Finally, is there any chance of a ‘1977’ show or tour next year to celebrate the 20th anniversary?

I’m sure we’ll have something going on, we’ve not really sat down to discuss it. I think in the New Year once we’ve finished touring we’ll get some ideas together. There are a few things that may or may not be happening as well but we need to clear up the legality of those before we can say any more about it. But yeah, we’ll definitely be marking it in some way because it’s a big one!

Ash play Brighton’s Concorde 2 on Sun 13 Dec. Their album ‘Kablammo!’ is out now, via earMUSIC. www.concorde2.co.uk www.ash-official.com

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NEW SHOW. NEW STARS.

BRIGHTON CENTRE 5-10 JANUARY 2016

ON SALE NOW! 0844 847 1538* www.brightoncentre.co.uk *calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge

FINE FESTIVE FEASTING The Park Crescent:

If you’re looking for simple, homemade food just off the beaten track, then look no further. This pub offers a cosy, festive atmosphere and a simple menu with brand new kitchen manager Daniele Cartoni at the helm. You’ll find a seasonal menu packed full of locally sourced ingredients, free from GMO and organic where possible. Starters include sumptuous halloumi steaks in a delicious golden breadcrumb with a smooth homemade cranberry sauce; mains include tender beef ribs in a dark and sticky BBQ marinade. Naturally, a delicious crown of turkey is available with all the trimmings. Puddings include a superb sticky toffee and, of course, a traditional Christmas pud with brandy sauce!

39 Park Crescent Terrace, Brighton, BN2 3HE. 01273 604993. www.theparkcrescent.co.uk

Revolution:

Where to go for a Christmas party? This must be the question on every boss’ lips around about now, but do not fear – Revolution is here. With festive treats to warm your cockles, why not head down to West Street this December. Offering up a range of party options, this is the place to be for delights such as popcorn shrimp, pulled pig in blanket sliders and even pepperoni pizzas.

But if you’re after a more traditional take on the party, three-course meals are available for both lunch and dinner. Starters feature a rather special looking crab and shrimp fondue pot, while mains boast confit turkey (with goose fat spuds, no less) and a Camembert and shallot tarte tatin for the veggies. And it wouldn’t be Revolution without a decidedly decadent drinks list. Choose from buckets, bottles, cocktails or champagne!

Revolution, 77 West Street, Brighton, BN1 2RA. 01273 806090. www.revolution-bars.co.uk/brighton

Meatliquor:

The C word is just around the corner and MEATliquor Brighton has got you covered for all your Xmas needs. Their new Christmas menu boasts festive dishes including the XXXmas Dog, XXXmas Garbage Plate, Xmac and Cheese and the XXXmas Burger (a sausage & stuffing patty, roast turkey, crispy bacon, gravy and cranberry sauce). And they know you’ll need something to wash these down with, so their drinks list features seasonal cocktails such as the Pinot Grinchio and The Tinsel Tickler. The ‘Yule Regret It In The Morning’ vanilla milkshake with vodka, amaretto and gingerbread syrup will also be on the menu to get you feeling festive.

Reservations are advisable, so get your Christmas party booked in quick via the website or by calling on 01273917710. And when you’re feeling too hungover the next day to leave the house, hit up Deliveroo and they’ll bring your Dead Hippie and salted caramel shake for you to enjoy straight from your home/office/bed. For some Xmas celebrations like no other, head to MEATliquor Brighton- you’ll come hungry and leave wobbly.

22-23 York Pl, Brighton BN1 4GU. 01273 917710. www.meatliquor.com/brighton

NEW YEAR’S EVE Guide Patterns:

What to do with a seafront facing art-deco style building that looks like it was lifted straight off the Miami strip? Throw a 1980s Miami discotheque inspired extravaganza. That’s what.

Patterns are happy to present the weighty Bicep as headline muscle for their very first NYE bash. Alongside Patterns’ celebrated resident DJs, join Bicep downstairs to bring in your new year under the red lights of the ‘Discotheque’. Expect flashes of strobe and a swirling concoction of clawssic and reimagined house and disco.

Upstairs in the Palm Lounge bar get involved early doors in a fun immersive ‘Ocean Drive’ styled beach bar slicked out with fine cocktails and a slider menu.

10 Marine Parade, Brighton, BN2 1TL www.patternsbrighton.com

Bogan Bingo & Shitty Disco

It’s Bingo, but as your auntie knows it! Having performed at the Melbourne Comedy, Adelaide Fringe and Edinburgh Fringe festivals, selling out almost every week in London for the last three years (and plenty of times in Brighton), Bogan Bingo are getting ready to drop some extra special balls on NYE! This smash comedy gameshow sees two trailer-trash bingo callers (with a passion for 80s and 90s anthems) lead you through a continuous barrage of comedy, chaotic entertainment and classic tunes, all tentatively held together by the great sport of Bingo.

Mullets, mayhem and mass crowd collaboration collide during this high octane show where you get the chance to walk away with one of the many prizes up for grabs including free drinks, bar tabs or even a European holiday from Travel Talk Tours. Then it’s time for the greatest club night ever! Experience sheer euphoria and see legends born on the dance floor. It’ll be one to remember.

Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN www.boganbingo.co.uk

Funfair:

Finding the right place to go for New Year’s Eve is always a struggle.

What to wear, where to go? These are some of the hardest decisions to make during the post-Christmas slump. So, instead of agonising, grab some headwear and head down to the Funfair Masquerade Ball.

Dust off your best dress or your sexiest suit and stick on a mask to join the revellers in the know.

Featuring the likes of Dixie Dread and rewards for the most dapper outfits in the crowd, the riotous nature of NYE is present here. With DJs pumping out a host of tunes, old and new, this is the night to ring in 2016. For just £20 per ticket, you’ll be treated to your own special goodie bag and a free shot to get you started.

Funfair, 12-15 Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 1NE www.facebook.com/funfairclub

English Disco Lovers:

Founded a little over three years ago, English Disco Lovers present the ultimate show of peaceful activism. Based on a mantra of ‘Don’t Hate, Gyrate!’ they’ve taken their legendary parties up and down the country. It’s is a pro-disco, pro-equality umbrella for a number of fun community-based events. More recently, EDL has been raising money for causes that support multiculturalism and equality. Their Hummingbird Project has been working with the refugees in Calais, where a humanitarian crisis is looming. It’s been a great year for the Lovers, with their radio shows on Radio Reverb and 1Brighton and their evolution into a national socially conscious party brand. Ever standing against small-mindedness and intolerance, they’re realising the acid house dream of making a difference through dancing. So join them to celebrate 2015 with some disco and classic house anthems.

There may be plenty of work left to do, but one day we’ll make it to the Promised Land…

Fortune Of War, 157 King’s Rd, Brighton, BN1 1NB. www.edl.me

Juice Joint Jive:

End 2015 in style, with BN1 Magazine and Emporium’s New Year’s Eve spectacular. Enter the Roaring Twenties, with this prohibition style ‘Barrelhouse’ soirée. Enjoy the finest entertainment, hear the most swinging sounds and drink until the cops bust up the joint!

Have a good time, all the time, whether you’re a gangster or silver screen siren. To get you in the mood, they’ll even throw a free glass of ‘giggle water’ when you arrive. Ready to fight the law is the city’s finest DJ talent spinning the funkiest and freshest electro swing around; wonderful live performances to set the senses alight. If you love vintage, modern swing, jazz or just want to go dancing with a fun friendly crowd, this is the NYE event for you. Vintage clobber is encouraged, but not essential for a great time. So polish those brogues, dust off those dresses and get ready to throw some retro shapes. Say yes to Gatsby and shout no at the untouchables...

Emporium, 88 London Road, Brighton BN1 4JF. www.emporiumbrighton.com

New Years Eve party at Stanmer House:

Stanmer House are throwing a Moulin Rouge Fancy Dress event to bring the cosmopolitan romance of the fin de siècle France to Brighton.

Famed for the red windmill on the roof of its most famous nightspot – the Moulin Rouge - Paris’ 18th arrondissement is synonymous with glamour and exoticism. Revellers will be welcomed by paparazzi, so everyone can feel like a superstar. Once you’re inside memories can be captured forever on their special photo booth. Keeping those senses tingling will be performances from beautiful dancers and DJs playing the best party tunes. If you want to go all out, then indulge in the sumptuous fivecourse dinner and a free glass of bubbly at midnight. Ooh la la!

Stanmer House, Stanmer Park, Brighton, BN1 9QA www.stanmerhouse.co.uk

NEW YEAR’S EVE Guide

CARAVAN PALACE THE REAL SWING

By Stuart Rolt

Photo © Antoine Delaporte

Take a ferocious live band playing swing music, mix in jazz and a liberal sprinkling of house, and then drop it into a club. That’s something approaching the Caravan Palace experience. With an armoury of bass-heavy and flapper-friendly dancefloor classics, this Parisbased band is as innovative as they are lively.

Although established figures on the electro swing scene, it’s taken a while for this seven-piece to breakthrough into mainstream acceptance. Their eponymous debut album grabbed a respectable home-grown fan-base for the band, which gave them a solid foundation over the next seven years. Now they sell out venues on both sides of the Atlantic and have just put in a characteristically upbeat performance on ‘Later... with Jools Holland’. Having the time and freedom to develop is certainly a good thing. “We were lucky enough to be able to widen our audience while the genre ‘conquered’ the ears of many countries around the world,” says Hugues Payen, the band’s violin player and vocalist. “We always had partners who understood it was necessary to have a long-term view with the project. And now, we can thank them!”

It’s time well spent. Their brand of punchy Charlestonhouse is as compelling as anything you’d find in modern dance music. Familiar already to revellers

at White Mink, Secret Garden Party, Wilderness and Boomtown Fair, everywhere they visit is crammed with fancy dress outfits, wildly enthusiastic fans and frantic dancing.

Keeping the music sounding fresh has been a concern across the years. “We’ll still listen to a lot of music, and maybe try new ways of working, with more features or covers, or... it’s a surprise, even for us!” Musically, Kendrick Lamar, ASAP Rocky and even Kanye West and Rihanna provide influences. Hip-hop seems to be what’s currently offering innovative sounds for the band to embrace, as is future bass. These genres’ powerful, but minimalist, styles of arrangement are driving the band in new creative directions.

Probably not the first act to produce electro swing, Caravan Palace stood out more than their peers by being a proper live band. This meant they offered something tangible to audiences. They could play almost everywhere, like festivals, venues and nightclubs, with a real show. Payen is still uncertain about exactly what draws so many people to the electro-swing sound though. “It seems that the innocence and spontaneity it exudes make it a real alive and dynamic style, jubilant in its way. The genre

also includes so many different musical aspects which I think increases its appeal!” Packed with swooping brass, frantic percussion and tantalising piano melodies, there’s plenty going on to get your feet moving in any Caravan Palace song, especially if nostalgic rhythms and massive beats are your thing. From the roaring 20s to a modern day underground movement, via 90s warehouse parties, their sound acts like a checklist of the best things in dance music.

Released in October, the third Caravan Palace album ‘<I°_°I>’ (or ‘Robot Face’ as it’s more conveniently and popularly known) shows a new side to the band. Traditionally the third album proves the most arduous, both to write and produce. But it seems ‘Robot Face’ didn’t fall prey to these customary creative difficulties. “If we had to compare, we’d say that the most difficult was the previous one ‘Panic’. The making of the third album was full of surprises and questioning in a positive way. You can probably hear it!” Obviously their musical tastes have changed since they formed in 2005. This third album introduces an expanded sonic palette, partly from necessity to keep their unique sound vibrant and partly through their love of musical innovation. It retains that animated retroedge which flows through everything they do, yet sounds far more refined and effortless. As a work, it’s something you’ll happily listen to in its entirety over and over again.

I had a vision of the band immersing themselves in classic 20s Parisian culture, like the work of Dalí, Man Ray, Buñuel, Cole Porter, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Hemingway, whilst relaxing. The reality is not quite so romantic… “We’re whole bunch of geeks wasting hours on Facebook and forums! Of course we have seen a lot of (classic) dance and music movies. It was totally ‘melted’ in the movies then.

Just have a look at the cinematography of Cab Calloway or The Andrews Sisters!”

Being a French band and French being a somewhat romantic-sounding language, surprisingly all of their lyrics are in English. It seems their mother tongue is not so good for what they do. “There’s no interest in singing ‘ooh la la’ or whatever if it doesn’t swing, and let’s be realistic, French doesn’t really ‘swing’. It’s a very demanding language, and many wonderful authors before us forbid us to use it poorly, for we’re not authors, just musicians.” He points out Caravan Palace’s music doesn’t deal with philosophical, political or aesthetic subjects.

It’s all about love, jealousy, dance, and sometimes death, and English offers plenty of relevant terms and innuendo. “It’s a very reachable vocabulary for us!”

DRIVING

ON DRUGS: THE LAW TRACE AMOUNTS CAN BE DETECTED A change in the law allows police to test for both prescription and illegal drugs.

New technology allows for even trace amounts to be detected, so before you get in the car, make sure you know what is in your system.

If you are caught, the penalties can be severe, including a driving ban (one year minimum), an unlimited fine, a criminal record, and up to six months in prison.

In addition, the conviction for Drug Driving will stay on your licence for 11 years, and your employer will be able to see this.

Being convicted for Drug Driving could mean far-reaching consequences. Consider these before anything else.

Caravan Palace play Concorde 2 on Mon 14 Dec. Their album ‘<I°_°I>’ is available now, via Wagram www.concorde2.co.uk www.caravanpalace.com www.facebook.com/CaravanPalace @caravan_palace

Visit our website for more information:

www.SussexSaferRoads.gov.uk

LOCALLY MADE

Photo © Lee Upperton Photography

THE WOOD SHED KNOCK ON WOOD Every year, over 4.5 million tons of wood is simply thrown away according to a recent Government report. While much of it is poor quality, painted or soaked with harmful chemicals, at least 1.5 million tons are clean, solid, untreated and eminently reusable. There are major efforts being made to stem this tide of pure wastage, as much as half a million tons just disappears.

Bucking this trend, The Wood Shed are a local furniture company using recycled materials to dazzling effect. What they create are stylish and sturdy items, which would fit in with any décor. “A lot of inspiration comes from wanting to get as much use out of materials as I can. Even small pieces can be built into a wine-rack,” The Wood Shed’s founder, Daniel James, tells me. It brings together his passion for carpentry and commitment to recycling by using reclaimed materials in the construction of a diverse range of handmade furniture.

Creating anything from bed frames to desks, they work with clients to produce beautiful and individual pieces of furniture.

James started out at an early age, assisting his grandfather with carpentry projects. Now he’s making bespoke pieces for a number of customers in the Brighton area. Everything is still made from wood. Despite major innovations in plastics and alloys, it remains an enduring choice for furniture. “It’s a material that people keep coming back to. It keeps all of its character and charm.” Not only do his customers get the pleasure of knowing their furniture has been sourced responsibly, it’s also unique and effortlessly cool. Every effort is also made to ensure their designs are affordable, allowing people to access tasteful personalised pieces without the weighty price tag generally involved.

One source of materials for these creations is the humble pallet. With an estimated 56 million circulating in the UK, a

By Stuart Rolt large number are no longer fit for purpose. Although this should theoretically be one of the easiest wood products to recycle, too often these light pine frames are simply destroyed. “It’s a massive waste. Most of these pallets either go into landfill or get burned.” Of course not all of them are good for building furniture from. Some are sprayed with pesticides or too ravaged by the elements, so James is careful to only recover suitable pieces.

From unwanted waste materials to enduring pieces of furniture, The Wood Shed has a beautiful and practical solution to our wasteful nature. With real honesty of design and construction, every item is contemporary and funky, with slight rustic touches.

Locally made, these designs and their ethical construction seem to resonate with the green-minded population of the city. “It works really well here. I think Brighton is a place where everyone is more aware of the need to recycle.” Where most furniture is made abroad and shipped great distances, buying locally from recycled materials is probably as green as you can get.

According to The Wood Recyclers Association, around 60% of the UK’s generated wood waste is now recycled. But too much of this is converted into biomass and burned for fuel, rather than being imaginatively repurposed. It makes sense that we should recycle as much wood as possible. It might be a renewable resource, but by being environmentally and socially aware everyone can avoid needless waste, and with some help from The Wood Shed you can get some fine furniture at the same time. www.facebook.com/TheWoodShed2015 www.instagram.com/thewoodshed2015

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COMEDY PLANNER

HENNING WEHN’S AUTHENTIC GERMAN CHRISTMAS DO

BENT DOUBLE

ANDY PARSONS

WEDS 2 DEC KOMEDIA

SUN 6 DEC KOMEDIA

WEDS 9 DEC CORN EXCHANGE

There might be no festive market at Churchill Square, but there’s still a reminder this year that no-one does Christmas like our Deutsch cousins. But Wehn’s seasonal good spirit won’t prevent him from taking a look at the absurdities and inherent crappiness of British daily life. After living here for a while, he’s evidentially missing the steely rationality of his homeland.

Humbug to the festive shopping nonsense, Bent Double sees a guest MC this month in the form of the tremendous Jen Brister.

She’s funny, blunt and utterly impossible to ignore.

Parson is on the road with his hysterical new ‘Live and Unleashed – But Naturally Cautious’ show. With four sell out national tours, three DVD releases and a special for Comedy Central already under his belt, the new show sees the star of BBC2’s ‘Mock The Week’ armed with some seriously sharp humour.

So this German Comedy Ambassador is bringing his meticulously planned and perfectly executed German Christmas Do to Brighton. In addition to his finest standup there will be renditions of his favourite carols, such as ‘O Tannenbaum’, ‘Stille Nacht – heilige Nacht’, and ‘Klingglöckchen klingelingelingelingelingeling’.

Headlining duties will be carried out by Andrew O’Neill, the most Christmassy comedian they could find. With an atmosphere more like a thrash metal gig, he might be somewhat niche but he’s very funny. Both informing and entertaining, he wants to take us on a tour through the loud, exciting and sometime daft world of heavy rock. It’s not just for the leather and longhair brigade, amongst the loud and hedonistic anecdotes, there’s plenty of profoundness to be heard.

WWW.KOMEDIA.CO.UK/BRIGHTON

WWW.KOMEDIA.CO.UK/BRIGHTON

WWW.BRIGHTONDOME.ORG

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR’S COMEDY LOCK-IN

JOSH WIDDICOMBE

MAYDAYS SHOWCASE

SUN 13 DEC KOMEDIA

TUE 15 DEC CORN EXCHANGE

TUES 15 - WEDS 16 DEC RIALTO THEATRE

Come on feel the ‘Noise’! After another sellout season at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and regular shows around the country The Noise Next Door becoming a nationwide comedy staple.

Just because he’s got a sitcom doesn’t mean he’s too ‘la-di-dah’ to get out on tour anymore. So that guy from the TV comedy shows with the curly hair is back on the road with a brand new tour. Since he’s been away from the live circuit Widdicombe’s found a lot of minor things to get annoyed about.

Now his new show ‘What Do I Do Now’ he has a chance to talk about them on stage (in the form of jokes). Since he was last on tour he’s been busy with his Channel 4 show ‘The Last Leg’, winning awards, popping up on BBC’s ‘Fighting Talk’, ‘Mock the Week’ and ‘QI’, ‘Live at the Apollo’ and ‘Have I Got News for You’ and ‘The Josh Widdicombe Show’ on XFM. He’s also written and starred in his own sitcom ‘Josh’, so it’s probably a relief to get back to the carefree world of live stand up.

This December sees another two showcases for participants in the Maydays improv courses. This will see their finest students present their own hilarious musical improv show based upon the audience’s suggestions.

WWW.BRIGHTONDOME.ORG

WWW.RIALTOTHEATRE.CO.UK

The sell-out smash hit returns to Brighton with their own Christmas special. Expect a hefty dose of their trademark off-the-cuff madness, some guest stand-up stars, and some once-in-a-lifetime comedy curiosities.

Transforming audience suggestion into scenes, songs and scenarios in the blink of an eye, this energetic ten-legged gag machine perfectly blends ludicrous characters, barbed one-liners, epic stories and musical extravagance.

WWW.KOMEDIA.CO.UK/BRIGHTON

As well as performing numerous spots on BBC panel shows, Andy has also appeared on ‘The Politics Show’, ‘Newsnight’ and ‘World’s Most Dangerous Roads’, as well as being a lead writer on ITV’s hugely influential ‘Spitting Image’.

The courses enable people to unleash their creative potential and increase confidence with improvised comedy! With no scripts or prepared material, improv sees comedy created in the moment. It’s a playful and liberating experience, which is both very entertaining and helpful for overcoming creative blocks. Now this course culminates with a show for friends, family and fans of grassroots comedy in its 11th week.

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LYNN RUTH MILLER

MR B THE GENTLEMAN RHYMER

NOEL FIELDING

WEDS 9 - THURS 10 DEC THE MARLBOROUGH THEATRE

SUN 13 DEC THE NIGHTINGALE ROOM

SUN 13 DEC BRIGHTON DOME

Lynn Ruth Miller is 81 years old. She’s lived a lot and nearly died a few times too. She’s faced massive fears and fought a churning tummy and grinding teeth. Realising that fear is the ultimate fantasy, this celebrated 2013 TO&ST Award winner, and 2014 Dave’s Comedy Festival Liberty Award winner, brings us ‘Get A Grip!’

Pip! Pip! Get ready to join Mr B in celebrating the launch of his muchawaited ‘Christmas Album’. Since creating ‘chap-hop’ from elements of his previous incarnations (rapper, breaks producer, banjolele maverick and dandy), his videos have garnered millions of views, he’s appeared on ‘Newsnight’, BBC Radio One, Radio Two, 6Music and Sky Arts and he was described as ‘controversial’ by The Daily Mail.

Due to high demand ‘An Evening With Noel Fielding’ returns to Brighton. A magical mix of unique stand-up comedy, live animation, music and some of Fielding’s best known TV characters (such as The Moon and Fantasy Man), it’s a journey into the surreally side-splitting.

Next time you get some middle-aged ‘comic’ moan about getting old, just point them towards Ms Miller. Embarking standup at the gentle age of 71, she cheerily bounces from inappropriate gags to outrageous songs. Here’s a role model for anyone wanting to age disgracefully. She’ll guide us through eight decades of triumphs and failures, wit and wisdom and the faith in the impossible that kept her from jumping.

Now he’s releasing a compilation of festive favourites. So get ready to hear future classics like: ‘Adultery At Christmas’, and ‘The Saddest Christmas Advert’. Do they know it’s Christmas? Of course they do, because Mr B is reminding us all!

WWW.MARLBOROUGHTHEATRE.ORG.UK

WWW.THENIGHTINGALEROOM.CO.UK

Fielding has performed in venues across the world, including The Royal Albert Hall, The Sydney Opera House and Radio City Music Hall. He’s also won numerous awards, like the Perrier Best Newcomer, The Barry Humphries Award at The Melbourne Comedy Festival and The Douglas Adams Award for innovative writing and appeared on TV shows such as ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow’, ‘Big Fat Quiz Of The Year’ and ‘QI’.

WWW.BRIGHTONDOME.ORG

Following last years sell out run, it’s back!

THE TREASON SHOW “Savagely funny-fantastically silly” THE GUARDIAN

Merry Crimbo!

Humbug!

KRATER COMEDY CLUB

TREASON SHOW CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

SUN 27 DEC KOMEDIA

SUN 27 - THURS 31 DEC BRIGHTON DOME STUDIO THEATRE

Luke Toulson, Damian Kingsley and Jake Lambert all hit the Komedia, to help you fight off that post-Christmas torpor. Toulson brings a down-to-earth style with plenty of audience interaction. This highly skilled and very, very funny comedian is more than capable of dishing out some thoughtprovoking anecdotes.

it’s time for The Treason Show to rip the piss out of the last 12 months? The city’s BRIGHTON DOME STUDIO favourite satirical comedy show returns DEC- 31 DECEMBER 8PM (NYE 7PM) with their 27 annual ‘best-of’ send up of TICKETS 16.50 & 13.50 CONCS (NYE 22.50) BOX OFFICE 01273 709709 the bankers, politicians, celebrities and (probably!) WWW.BRIGHTONDOME.ORG livestock which made the news (EARLY BOOKING RECOMMENDED!) this year.

out Sell ows 4 sh 2’13’1 ’11 ‘1

AS WAS THE YEAR THAT W AT TH It’s December and it’s Brighton, so surely

2015

Damian Kingsley is a master storyteller, most of his tales revolving about personal mishaps and misfortunes. He’s engaging, has a self-deprecating charm and is no stranger to humiliation. Jake Lambert brings stories about shared houses and the pitfalls of young bonhomie. He might be young, but is clearly poised for greatness. As ever, MC Stephen Grant holds proceedings together with pinpoint precision.

Now in its fifth year as a sell-out Christmas fixture in the Dome Studio, this festive review of the year is packed with a bumper crop of satirical songs and sketches from a year’s worth of Treason Shows. Wickedly crafted by a team of over 40 writers and directed by Brighton Fringe award winner, Mark Brailsford. So prepare yourself for a hilarious farewell to 2015!

WWW.KOMEDIA.CO.UK/BRIGHTON

WW.BRIGHTONDOME.ORG

TINA C: I’M DREAMING OF A WHITE TRASH XMAS TUES 29 DEC KOMEDIA Since her second album ‘No Dick’s As Hard As My Life’ was released, country music singer Tina C has become a denim-clad global brand. This poster girl for American democracy has travelled extensively, selling her unique vision of hope to the rest of the world, whether they want it or not.

Now she’s bringing an uplifting Yuletide celebration to the Komedia for one night only, wowing us all with seasonal songs like ‘Ho Ho Ho Down’ and ‘My Dog Died at Xmas’. It’s the ultimate office party – sincere, non-denominational, a profoundly moving religious experience all wrapped up with some jaw-dropping country songs and a whole mess of American lovin’.

WWW.KOMEDIA.CO.UK/BRIGHTON

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THEATRE PLANNER

ALADDIN

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

A WINTER’S TRAIL

WEDS 2 DEC - SAT 9 JAN EMPORIUM

FRI 4 DEC - SAT 12 DEC NEW VENTURE THEATRE

FRI 4 - THURS 24 DEC THEATRE ROYAL BRIGHTON

If you had three wishes, what would they be? Could power and riches set your heart free? A lad from the wrong side of the tracks gets a chance to have it all - wealth, greatness and the girl of his dreams. But castles made of Arabian sand have a tendency to crumble, and soon he has to choose between the man he claims to be and the man he really is. Written by Doug Devaney and directed by James Weisz the team behind last year’s sell-out show ‘Sleeping Beauty’ - they return to bring their unique spin on another classic, with a little help from their enchanted lamp.

Taken from the pages of the ‘1001 Nights’, it’s an exotic cavalcade of dance, laughs, thrills, romance, and the occasional song, guaranteed to tease and transport anyone who has ever believed in magic.

Tight-fisted, old mr Scrooge is probably Dickens’ most famous character. Bah humbug! Now this classic seasonal ghost story is being retold with energy, music and a sense of fun. An embittered business owner finds little joy in the world. Then one Christmas Eve, he is visited by a succession of spirits, each showing him the error of his ways.

The winter snow is drifting, the icicles hang like glass – it’s cold, mysterious and beautiful. A teller of tales leads you through this glistening landscape as stories unfold, treasures are collected and magic is made.

WWW.EMPORIUMBRIGHTON.COM

WWW.NEWVENTURE.ORG.UK

WWW.ATGTICKETS.COM/BRIGHTON

SCROOGE INSPIRED: A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT THE SPIRE

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

THE REINCARNATION OF TRIM TAB JIM

WEDS 16 - THURS 24 DEC (EXCEPT SUN) THE SPIRE

THU 17 DEC - SAT 2 JAN THEATRE ROYAL BRIGHTON

SAT 19 DEC THE OLD MARKET

A classic Christmas tale for all the family comes to a new venue in East Brighton.

Adapted and staged by critically acclaimed actor/director Gary Sefton and performed by a professional cast, the tight-fisted, money-grabbing Scrooge of Dickens’ masterpiece is brought to life.

The world’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll musical is back by popular demand, once again thrilling everyone with frothy fun and naughty moments! Following over 40 years of worldwide productions, Richard O’Brien’s non-stop party now presents Diana Vickers as Janet, Ben Freeman as Brad, Paul Cattermole as Eddie/Dr Scott and Kristian Lavercombe returns as Riff Raff.

A rock opera set in Death’s waiting room, after an unnamed man is brutally mugged and left for dead in the street. While his fate is being ‘processed’ he meets the Angel of Death, who encourages him to reflect on his life thus far. Accepting his legacy leaves a little to be desired, the protagonist realises he must sing for his reincarnation. Can he persuade the Angel to allow him one more chance and what will be the price of readmission? The titular ‘trim tab’ is a small part on ship rudders, used here to represent the power of an individual to make wider change. With an epic rock soundtrack, it combines great theatrics with a thoughtful message. Both of the show’s performances are raising money for good causes, the earlier supporting Green Party and the later aiding the Red Cross European Refugee Crisis Appeal.

With carols, candles, delicious mince pies

by Marmalade, mulled wine from Butler’s Wine and plenty of ghostly goings-on; it’ll be a show to remember. Can three visiting spirits change the self-centred ways of an embittered old man? Will the true meaning of Christmas lift everyone’s hearts? Will Bob Cratchit get any recognition from his employer? I think we all know the answers!

WWW.SCROOGEINSPIRED.CO.UK

Adult NVT members and the youth theatre work as an ensemble to recreate Dickensian London in a timeless tale of redemption and self-realisation. You never know, you might leave feeling somewhat more generous to your fellow beings!

The show follows the story of Brad and his fiancée Janet, two squeaky clean college kids whose car breaks down outside a rather strange house. This leads to an adventure they’ll never forget, with fun, frolics, frocks and frivolity, bursting with timeless songs and outrageous outfits. See website for exact times.

WWW.ATGTICKETS.COM/BRIGHTON

This enchanting and very special promenade experience, for adults and young children to share, celebrates the joy of winter and the fun of Christmas time. ‘A Winter’s Trail’ is created by Herringbone Arts, winners of the national Family Arts Festival’s Best Family Event award for ‘The Secret Stairway’ at Theatre Royal Brighton last year.

Check website for exact dates.

WWW.THEOLDMARKET.COM

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CAMP (AS CHRISTMAS)

ARABIAN NIGHTS

HANSEL & GRETEL

SAT 5 DEC THE SPIRE, ST MARK’S CHAPEL

SUN 6, 13 DEC & SUN 3 JAN EMPORIUM

SAT 12 DEC RIALTO THEATRE

Peter Kay lookalike Scottee has rounded up some of the UK’s most mediocre talent for a night almost worth the ticket price. An award-winning artist, broadcaster and drag queen, Scottee is determined to annoy audiences with his brash, clumsy and provocative approach to art, performance and light entertainment.

From the adventures of Ali Baba to the tale of Abu Hasan’s giant fart; the tales of wonder told by Sheherazaad have enchanted children and adults alike for centuries. The ancient art of story telling is brought cheekily up to date with this high-energy total theatre experience.

Performed by an ensemble of exceptionally talented teenage performers and directed by the award-winning Tanushka Marah, it will captivate the hearts of minds of any audience this Christmas.

Lantern Light’s exciting new take on the Brothers Grimm tale turns the evil stepmother into a tragic heroine. The hapless woodcutter is also transformed into a harassed father in this story of two awkward kids learning life lessons.

Windmill Young Actors, an open youth theatre company based in Brighton and Hove, run weekly classes led by industry professionals for 6 - 19 year-olds.

Remaining true to all the elements of the original fairy-tale, this re-imagining brings new wit and character to the family in the myth. With a thoroughly modern sensibility, this is both an exciting adventure and a heart-warming family story. Ultimately the play champions the traditional Christmas values of learning not to be selfish, loving your family and not always getting what you want.

WWW.MARLBOROUGHTHEATRE.ORG.UK

WWW.EMPORIUMBRIGHTON.COM

WWW.RIALTOTHEATRE.CO.UK

JACK & THE BEANSTALK

GOLEM

THE GROUCH WHO COULDN’T STEAL CHRISTMAS

SUN 20 DEC – SUN 3 JAN ROPETACKLE ARTS CENTRE

TUES 29 DEC – SAT 16 JAN THE OLD MARKET

MON 4 – WEDS 6 JAN RIALTO THEATRE

Who wants some magic beans? It’s not a false election promise, but the subject of a fabulous Christmas show from the producers of Ropetackle’s previous sell-out pantomimes. This year they bring another mighty magical classic, performed by a fantastic cast and the cream of Shoreham’s very own local children’s talent.

The award-winning theatre company, 1927, return with their stunning new show ‘Golem’, following its world premiere at Salzburg Festival in 2014, sell-out seasons at the Young Vic Theatre in London and Paris’ Theatre de la Ville and a London West End transfer. It’s a follow up to the multi-award winning, critically acclaimed ‘The Animals’ and ‘Children Took To The Street’, which toured to 28 countries over three years. Like a giant graphic novel burst into life, it invites audiences into a dark and fantastical tale of an extraordinarily ordinary man. Blending 1927’s handmade animation, claymation, live music and performance, ‘Golem’ is a dystopian fable for the twenty first century.

It cleverly and satirically explores one of the great questions of the modern world – who or what is in control of our technologies?

The Fertile Theatre Company are ready to take you on a journey to the whimsical town of ‘WHOOterville’. Its inhabitants are holding their obligatory Christmas celebrations, but nothing is ever simple.

WWW.THEOLDMARKET.COM

WWW.RIALTOTHEATRE.CO.UK

A special festive edition of his now infamous variety knees-up, it’s a mixed bill of camp clichés, limp wrists and naff catch phrases.

Everything is smashed together with some cheap tinsel, fizzy wine, a few great group booking deals and lots of good old fashioned light entertainment. With an ever-reliable line-up, this night of antics is more than suitable for mums, the gays and snowball drinkers.

Jack Trott and his ‘glamorous’ mum haven’t got a single bean between them. When they come up with a plan to help pay the rent, Jack’s ensuing adventure leads to all sorts of trouble. With magic, puppets, a stellar cast and a hilarious story, LP Creatives are back with their biggest show yet. It’s an unforgettable magical journey. Get down there and see a giant of a show.

WWW.ROPETACKLECENTRE.CO.UK

Phineas Grouch is a young man with a broken spirit and a heavy heart. Cindy Boohoo is a little over-emotional. Minnie is desperate to keep everything perfect for the festivities. Richard doesn’t care much about anything or anyone apart from himself; and Ethel Ann is just desperate to be in the show! It’s a festive tale full of love, laughter and sheer calculated silliness. A real treat for all the family, it’s joyful and triumphant (and perfect if you’re trying to avoid the traditional panto!).

LATEST CINEMA RELEASES DECEMBER 2015

VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN THURS 3 DEC

KRAMPUS FRI 4 DEC

We’re pretty sure you’re all familiar with the tale of Victor Frankenstein and his monster; from the old Hammer Studios incarnation right through to Kenneth Branagh’s reimagining and Mel Brooks’ more comedic outlook (“it’s pronounced Fronkensteen”). This latest visit to Mary Shelley’s infamous story is told from assistant Igor’s (Daniel Radcliffe) perspective where we see his dark origins, his friendship with the young medical student Victor Frankenstein (James McAvoy), and how he helped to create the legend and the monster we all know today. Directed by Paul McGuigan and written by Max Landis, son of famous director John Landis (‘An American Werewolf In London’).

At last, could we finally have a decent Christmas film on the cards that could be as much fun as ‘Gremlins’? Directed

by Michael Dougherty (‘Trick ‘r Treat’), this comedy/horror festive treat is set to bring some wicked glee to all the naughty girls and boys who are tired of the usual schmaltzy offerings on at this time of year. Starring Adam Scott (‘Parks & Recreation’, ‘Party Down’) and Toni Collette (‘The Sixth Sense’, ‘Muriel’s Wedding’), ‘Krampus’ is the name of a festive demon, who accidentally gets summoned to a family home when a young boy has a bad Christmas.

STAR WARS: EPISODE VII THE FORCE AWAKENS THURS 17 DEC

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA SAT 26 DEC

Really? Do we have to say anymore? If you are looking at this thinking ‘ooo Star Wars, I didn’t know there was a new Star Wars out’, then shame on you. Tut tut.

We do love a good epic around the holidays and director Ron Howard (‘Frost/Nixon’, ‘Apollo 13’) has answered our prayers. Set in 1820, ‘In The Heart Of The Sea’ tells the story of the whaling ship Essex, that was attacked and sunk by a sperm whale in the Southern Pacific ocean.

Starring Chris Hemsworth (‘Thor’), Cillian Murphy (‘28 Days Later’, ‘Peaky Blinders’) and Ben Whishaw (‘Skyfall’, ‘Spectre’), this famous true event is said to have inspired the tale of ‘Moby Dick’. ‘In The Heart Of The Sea’ is based on Nathaniel Philbrick’s book of the same name.

And you sure as hell don’t need us to tell you what this is all about. Go see it please. That is all.

PARTY HARD THIS NYE 2015

AdvAnce ticket price: ÂŁ15

Only available until 18th december/Special offers on tickets with packages/complimentary prosecco & canape reception between 8-9pm.

FOr tAble pAckAgeS ticket inFO& event detAilS:

call: 01273 806 090 email: bookings-brighton@revolution-bars.co.uk Website: www.revolution-bars.co.uk/bar/brighton

77 West Street, Brighton, BN1 2RA

Cycle, Keep Active and Save Money

New to cycling? Keen to cycle again? Want to know how to fix your bike?

FREE cycle training and cycle maintenance courses are now available.

To book and find out more visit: www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/cycletraining or call 01273 296753 This initiative is delivered by Brighton & Hove City Council and funded by the Department for Transport.

BREWTORIAL BREW ARE YA?!

Enabling the people of Brighton to indulge in a most noble of pursuits, Brewtorial offer a beer brewing master class for any ability. The appeal of these sessions is wide-ranging, from the curious to the fully-fledged brewing fanatic; they suit anyone appreciating a touch of excellence to their glass. “We’re not just teaching home brewing, we’re teaching home brewers,” Brewtorial co-founder, Daniel Kaye, tells me. “I want to teach from a professional point of view, looking at the whole process.”

Taking place at venues around Brighton and beyond, these sessions take a loving look at all aspects of the process. Kaye and co-founder Josh Dazeley aim to pass on the skills and knowledge needed to make exemplary beers every time.

When a friend started a brewery, Kaye found himself with growing curiosity about the process’ different aspects.

Whilst a comparative newcomer, he learnt his craft on all scale of systems, subsequently creating two commercially available brands of beer. After meeting Dazeley at a brewing class, they both agreed their combined skills could create something really special for the craft community.

Rising pub prices and corporate dominance have stirred a revolt in the fine beer community. Also tastes have shifted away from mass-produced lagers and stouts, embracing something a little more challenging and involved. “People got bored of being fed the same crap. They wanted a bit of quality and some passion.” This reaction against the chains has triggered a vibrant craft beer scene, with independent local breweries leading the way. Hundreds of small niche business have brought with them exciting new styles of beer. Part of this revolution is driven by pure economics. “Why should you buy your beer from some massive brewery which doesn’t care about you and is only interested in numbers and profits?” A pint can be created at home for around 8% of the cost in a pub, with just the simplest of kits.

Decent entry-level apparatus only costs about the price of a PS4, but unlike a games console it will enable you

By Stuart Rolt to learn a skill for life. There’s no greater aid to learning than actually engaging in the practical process. You can read books and check the Internet, but it won’t give you a true point of reference. “Our aim is to get people into home-brewing, and to save them money from not making mistakes.” He appreciates some of the students may be treating it as a fun and interesting day out, but if anyone wanted to get into it as a hobby it’s the perfect springboard.

Brighton, as with so many things, is a great place for these classes due to the area’s inherent community vibe. “It’s a very cool city. There’re a lot of hipsters here. They do have some idiosyncratic qualities, but they do bring innovation,” he laughs. It’s a truism, if you don’t get innovation, then you court stagnation. We all need cool and exciting things to happen, that’s how a society evolves. Reportedly Brighton is the best place to start new businesses.

Brewing beer is a lengthy and involved process. But what could be laborious is made fun and interesting by the team.

“I care very passionately about this. I’d like that passion to rub off on other people.” He admits it’s all slightly geeky, with all the figures, personal pretences and comparison of different ingredients amongst brewers. But what Brewtorial aim to do is demystify this arcane world, making it accessible and fun for anyone that enjoys a proper pint.

The engagement doesn’t end with the session. Students are actively encouraged to stay in touch, swap ideas with each other and show off their produce. By keeping in contact after the sessions, they can see how previous students are getting on with their new-found hobby. It also reinforces the sense of community running through the brewing world. Brewtorial are also working towards releasing their very own range of beer. Ultimately this will enable students to have the chance to make versions of their retail product.

“It’s important for us and our credentials. Why should you trust us, unless you can taste what we brew?” www.brewtorial.co.uk www.facebook.com/brewtorialuk @brewtorial_uk

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BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK

BACALLS AT RIALTO DRAMATIC DRINKS

I’ve always thought of cocktails as funny creatures.

I usually drink wine or beer, as I tend to like to know exactly what I’m drinking and its percentage. Whenever I’m allowed near an abundance of cocktails I tend to get ‘merry’ a bit too quickly as they go down all too easily.

From awful teenage mixes of every available spirit topped up with juice (or even squash…), to swanky bars serving up cutting edge concoctions, we’ve all had our share of terror and (thankfully) brilliance fill our glasses.

Recently, down in Brighton Bacalls bar at The Rialto Theatre, I found myself with cocktails at the forefront of my mind. It was definitely one of those days. Welcomed into a spacious room with a sleek bar on one side and a scattering of luxurious furniture, we hop onto some comfortable bar stools to see what cocktail master Alec Bruce has on his ever-expanding new menu today. The décor matches the ambience of the bar, with sleek and elegant nods towards the debaucherous 1920s.

Bringing his six years of industry experience to Brighton a few years back, I sit back as the bar becomes the equivalent of a kitchen for a chef. Each libation having its own position and counterpart, we can see we are in the midst of a professional. With simplicity and passion on the cards, we dive in. Alec eases us in with a ‘Kir Tang’ - a twist on a classic. With a comparably low alcohol content, a small measure of Chambord (a raspberry-based liquor) is poured into the bottom of a Champagne flute and topped with a high quality Prosecco and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The bubbly gives the drink a crisp taste at first with a fruity twang from the citrus component, and gets sweeter the more we drink. I fleetingly smile as the graduation of flavours reminds me of the effect alcohol is about to have on me.

On to a ‘Meantime Manhattan’, we are intrigued as to what will fill our glasses. This turns out to be a perfect pre-theatre drink that one can take their time over. With a generous amount of Buffalo Trace bourbon, the Manhattan is beefed up with varying measures of Meantime Chocolate Porter and Martini Rosso, and just a dash of fresh orange juice. I’m skeptical as to how this combination will turn out (though in vain as the flavours sit together very nicely). Presented in a Martini glass, Alec drops in a small chunk of 70% cocoa

By Freya Hughes

dark chocolate and a sour cherry to finish it off. The taste has many layers as the ingredients list dictates, taking us from chocolate to bourbon, beer to cherries. Though it is made without cream, there’s definitely a rich taste to this creation, leading a colleague of mine to announce that the Meantime Manhattan is ‘enticing and challenging’.

Next up in our tour de beverages is a festive little number.

With a big time Hollywood namesake, the ‘Ginger Rogers’ has a flavour profile as impressive as the talents of the real deal. Naturally, the drink is started with crystallised ginger; a sour cherry is added and crushed up then covered with crushed ice. This mixture is then doused in Absolut vodka, cherry brandy and a splash of soda water with fresh orange as the garnish. The taste of the vodka lingers at the back of the palate whilst the ginger punctuates throughout. With the crushed cherry, the flavours compliment each other really well to create a warming and enjoyable drink – certainly not ‘hard to handle’.

Named after Lauren Bacall, just like the bar itself, ‘The Leading Lady’ is our next treat. The most alcohol content of the bunch, this cocktail is comprised of Disaronno, Bombay Sapphire and pineapple nectar. Double strained into a Martini glass, the drink is topped with fresh pineapple juice and garnished with the fruit’s leaves presented on a stick, which looks much nicer than I’ve described it. This one has a very tropical aroma and the pineapple taste is diluted to an extent with a hint of almond from the Disaronno.

Close to the centre of town, Brighton Bacalls bar, though smaller than many, stands toe to toe with the cocktail giants of the more well known establishments. And there’s the theatre to make the most of so next time I’m lacking some thespian magic in my life, I’ll be heading to the Rialto. The building that Bacalls and Rialto share has been dubbed as something of a ‘has-been’, though it’s clear this pairing is very much a ‘will be’.

Brighton Bacalls is at The Rialto Theatre, 11 Dyke Road, Brighton, BN1 3FE www.facebook.com/rialtotheatrebrighton @Rialto_Brighton

FOURTH & CHURCH FOURTH PLAY

There is nothing I love more than wine and cheese. In that order, preferably together and (with any luck) in good company. It conjures images of evenings well spent, enjoying the last glimpses of summer sunshine (on a yacht in the south of France, if you have a vivid imagination like myself) or sat cosily around a fire on a winter’s night (more realistic). Designed for sharing, it’s sociable food which elicits fond memories and great conversation; hence my joy on discovering Hove’s newest eatery, specialising in said culinary delights.

Fourth and Church is a deli-come-wine-bar situated, as the name suggests, near the junction of Fourth Avenue and Church Road. Dedicated to fine wine and quality produce, it is the creation of passionate chefs Sam Pryor and Paul Morgan, whose expertise makes this newbie a little different.

The décor is clean and minimalistic. Stripped floorboards and low-key lighting accentuate the muted olive walls, which incidentally, are stocked floor-to-ceiling with wine, local brews and the eye-catching packaging of tinned fish and olive oils. This signals the retail side of business.

With everything available to purchase at surprisingly affordable prices (wine from £6.95) the feel is accessible and unpretentious. Patrons may also select any wine off the shelf for a reasonable corkage fee. Arriving ahead of the lunch rush, we instantly feel at ease. Not only to have escaped the oncoming downpour outside, but because we are greeted by Paul who suggests a glass of bubbles and olives (£2.50) to get started. The fizz is of the English variety, from award-winning Ridgeview winery in Ditchling, a nod to their commitment to local produce. It’s zingy and fresh and dangerously easy to drink as we survey the menu.

The menu is concise and simple. Echoing the classy interior, they play to their strengths, allowing the quality of the produce to take centre stage. With stomachs rumbling and everything sounding equally tasty, Sam offers to select a variety of small plates for us to share. To begin we are presented with a selection of cured meats (£10), followed by salmon gravadlax with dill crème fraîche and cucumber (£5.50). Two dishes I have previously considered to be at opposing ends of the heavy/light scale, however I am gravely mistaken. Consisting of speck, fennel salami, chorizo and pork terrine, the meats are surprisingly refreshing. The terrine is the standout; perfectly moist in

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BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK

By Alexandra Cook

texture with added crunch from the pink peppercorns hidden within. The gravadlax is among the best I’ve tasted, and being my de-facto starter of choice, I’m supremely impressed. We wash these down with a glass of the delicate Custoza Recchia (£4.95) and one of the Albourne Estate (£5.95), another delightful Sussex offering with gooseberry undertones.

Next up, we tuck into today’s special; sherry braised pork cheeks, with tender stem broccoli and almonds (£5.50).

Given the weather, this heart-warming dish is probably my favourite. Cooked to perfection the meat is melt-in-yourmouth tender, the broth perfectly offset with the sharpness of the sherry and crispness of the almonds. Paul tells us of the food he’s enjoyed whilst travelling through Seville and I wonder if this dish is inspired by such trips. Bravely mixing colours, we opt for a deep Spanish red in the form of the divine Juan Gil (£5.50) to accompany our succulent cheeks.

As we descend into dangerous food-coma territory, I’m suddenly aware how busy the place is. People are enjoying wine or popping in to buy cheese as we sit. The relaxed atmosphere can only be attributed to the efforts of Sam and Paul. Service is friendly and knowledgeable throughout and the pair are always on hand to chat to diners, detailing the provenance of the food gracing their plates. Although I protest I am too full to consider another morsel, cheese is my weakness. Not quite such a stinkystilton fan, and known for his sweet tooth, my companion is eyeing up the treacle tart. We share both. The tart (£3.50), served with a healthy dollop of crème fraîche, is delicious and unimaginably light. The Neal’s Yard cheese board (£10) is as heavenly as expected, the soft Tunworth with pickled plums being my winning combination. Especially polishing it off, as I do, with a glass of sweet Ruby Dum port (bottle £9.95).

I quickly realise this is somewhere I am likely to return sooner rather than later. Be that for a post-work tipple, a mid-week bento box or a Sunday afternoon pit stop.

Suitable for all of the above, Fourth and Church have nailed the laid-back neighbourhood deli vibe. We head back into the blizzard, a bottle of Ruby Dum under arm, feeling full and rather content.

Fourth and Church, 84 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2EB www.fourthandchurch.com @FourthAndChurch

FLANK ON THE RIGHT SIDE

By Freya Hughes

It’s a long-established part of the dining experience, ignoring how those dishes adorning our tables have been precisely seared and fried by culinary artists. The anonymity of a kitchen’s team is usually overlooked, so much so that the phrase ‘out of sight, out of mind’ seems appropriate. The relationship between front and back of house is only apparent to those in the thick of any given service and diners rarely spare a thought to the brigade manning the engine room of a restaurant. However the Flank kitchen rarely suffers this glib disregard, as it nestles inside The Royal Sovereign on Preston Street.

Fighting through typically rubbish autumnal drizzle, a colleague and I venture into the pub. The name ‘Flank’; for this kitchen alerts us that we’ll be fighting meat sweats at some point soon. We’re greeted by head chef Tom Griffiths, who cut his teeth in some of the best public and private eateries in Brighton. Serving up our first dish to taste, we’re waited on by Tom himself. This personal touch allows for each component to be described in detail, so we know exactly how our food is put together. Beginning with a whole barbecued quail, we share this dish and enjoy the tender and moist preparation of the game. Served up with crunchy crushed almonds, the contrast of these textures is accentuated by a soft mayonnaise. From our first dish it’s clear to see the kitchen has honed the meaning of seasonal, the colours echoing the falling leaves littering the street outside.

We’re treated to what’s listed on the menu as ‘Pickles & cured (various vegetables)’ which to me sounds quite exciting.

Normally more into my greens, I’m pleasantly surprised by the arrival of baby carrots looking as succulent as I’ve ever seen them. At just £2 it’s a fantastic starting plate to warm up to the main event. The vegetables are pickled for a whole two months and served on a small bed of thyme to really bring out the flavour. On the side is a dark green dip that Tom explains to be nettle and pickle juice. Being ever so slightly concerned that I might not like the nettle element, I tentatively try just a drop. To my surprise, it tastes fantastic.

With our appetites truly whet, we move towards the meatier options. Remaining on the small plates for now, we sample the slow cooked house-made herb sausage with roasted apple (£6.50). Created from scratch, the sausage is constructed from three areas of the pig: trotter, cheek and collar. As the former two have a higher fat content, the

lean collar meat lends itself to spreading flavour through the meat whilst spicing up the texture of the sausage as a whole. Matched with a clear bacon consommé, which wholly added to the pork flavours, Tom drizzles a rich and frankly beautiful crab apple and cinnamon sauce atop the whole plate. This dish is another nod to the season, the flavours complementing our stay in such a cosy and warm setting.

We taste black pudding dumplings, pan stock and peach jam (£6) next. The only times I’ve really tried black pudding it’s been fairly dry, my slightly unqualified palate assumed this was how it was meant to be, so imagine my face when tucking into these deliciously moist dumplings. The peach turns out to be fermented, giving the whole dish a kick and almost fiery piquancy. My colleague is equally as impressed at the textures present in the dish.

We continue to the mains, already with slightly bulging waistlines. Tom presents us with his personal favourite, the 72-hour cooked beef short rib (Dexter cattle) finished on the kamado with Flank ketchup (£15). Slightly baffled by the wording on the menu, we inquisitively tuck in. The threeday cooked meat is maintained in a water bath at exactly 54 degrees centigrade. Then the beef is finished off on a ceramic barbecue, slowly braised for 20 minutes, cooking off the outside and leaving the inside perfectly pink. The result is unbelievable. Sous-vide makes for the most tender meat imaginable and it quite literally melts in our mouths.

Unexpectedly, the dish has granola with it. The crunch perks up the dish allowing for a range of textures and a slight break from the heavy meat. Flank ketchup, it turns out, is quite special, created from stock, mustard and bone marrow.

There’s nothing going to waste at Flank!

We round off our feast with slow braised ox cheeks, tonkatsu cue sauce, pan fried black kale and roasted peanuts (£12).

The tonkatsu is created with dates, plums and a sprinkling of dry roasted peanuts. It’s a shame that I’m not a huge fan of these ingredients, but I have to say in this context it wasn’t hard to get through them! The ox cheeks themselves are a dream and the kale is a winner for me as well as it verges on caramelised. The rich, tender meat is a fabulous end to our meal.

Flank takes residency at The Royal Sovereign, 66 Preston Street, Brighton, BN1 2HE www.facebook.com/flankbrighton

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BE GLUTEN FREE By Mila Statham

BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK

CHICKEN & LEEK PIE In a large frying pan, fry the chicken & bacon in a little oil until almost cooked, season with a little salt and pepper.

Slice the leeks into 2cm slices, place in a sieve and rinse under the tap to remove any dirt. Add the leeks to the frying pan and cook for a few minutes longer until slightly softened (adding more oil if necessary).

Next add the crème fraîche, milk (this loosens the crème fraîche) and tarragon. Season again and simmer for a couple of minutes. Transfer the filling to a pie dish.

Roll out the pastry on a floured work surface and then top the filling with the pastry (or mashed potato).

Brush the pastry with the egg wash for a golden crust, make a couple of slits in the pastry to let the steam out and then cook in a preheated oven at about 200c for 25 minutes. Don’t overcook it or you could dry it out.

PIZZA EXPRESS As a popular chain, with several restaurants all over the city (Hove, Marina, Jubilee Street, and Prince Albert Street), Pizza Express is the perfect place to go for a three course, reasonably priced gluten free meal.

Not only do they have gluten free pizzas available, they have gluten free beer, different starters, salads, and desserts.

Pizza Express worked with Coeliac UK to ensure that their food is safe for coeliacs. The menu is clearly marked ‘GF’ for the foods that are safe.

WWW.PIZZAEXPRESS.COM

RECIPE SERVES 2 - 3 200G GLUTEN FREE PASTRY ( DEPENDING ON YOUR DISH) 400G DICED CHICKEN BREAST 3 - 4 LEEKS 4 RASHERS BACON, CUT INTO LARDONS 300ML CRÈME FRAÎCHE 2 TBSP SKIMMED MILK 2 TSP DRIED TARRAGON SALT & PEPPER 1 BEATEN EGG WITH A DASH OF WATER OIL FOR FRYING

What’s happening in your community Hello! Hubs Your Community Organisers from Brighton Students’ Union spent the summer planning Hello! Hubs that took place in October across different places in Brighton. These events were planned together with Sussex Students’ Union and they were a success!

It was great to see different residents (students and non-students) getting together to chat about their community. You can watch the Hello! Hubs video on the Brighton Community Organisers facebook page.

“

We have 2 new Community Organisers in our team to support students and residents in Moulsecoomb.

“

Hello, I’m Hattie and I’m your new Comm unity Moulsecoom Organiser at b Campus. passionate I’m about liste ning and giving you a voice to you at your campus an d in your lo cal area

“

an Hello I’m Jack, and as oomb I am very ex-resident of Moulsec here. I ing work ed start excited to have as many of you look forward to meeting year ing as possible over the com

Saving our pubs

Our team has recently won a grant to work with two groups of residents and keep two of the pubs in Brighton as part of the local community. The Lectern (near Moulsecoomb Campus) and The Cuthbert (top of the hill near Grand Parade Campus). These two projects will be used as case studies by the Community Organisers as beneficial evidence whilst working with Community Rights by and for local people. Happy days!

“

Our team is growing

Become a Volunteer Community Organiser

We are also running a Volunteers programme in February 2016. We will offering training and an opportunity to gain valuable skills to change things that matter to you and others through collective power. If you believe in social change, empowering people and are solution focused then this is the right programme for you.

Get in touch with us here: BrightonCommunityOrganisers @brighton.ac.uk Brighton Community Organisers

@BrightonCOs

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Surrenders and half succeeds by relocating bums (8)

4.

Comic is dapper and judged (8)

2.

Upcoming setter is editor in ‘Titanic’ and ‘The Plague’ (8)

10.

Fry with love and French volunteer army’s sausage (9)

3.

Opening parts of presents regardless of untimeliness

11.

*Foxy lady? (5)

12.

Some stupendous flip (5)

5.

defnitely is arrogant (5) *Right after frolic (7)

13.

Erotic axe used to strip skin away (9)

6.

Flower lender in place by the side of the water (9)

14.

*London bombing to finish shortly (7)

7.

Erotic kiss you gave to aquatic mammal (6)

16.

Wander in Italian city, say (4)

8.

19.

12” stocking filler (4)

9.

21.

Final part of Mario Kart unexpectedly has east English

15.

countryside feature (3,4)

*Redesigning red can (6) Rob left Christmas bird to support grotto collapse (4,2) Expert on animals is beginning to tunnel under their captive habitat with some wood (9)

A posh sport American soldiers execrate at first then say

17.

Stern girl gets flower (8)

sorry (9)

18.

Snooker accessory in place for the elderly (4,4)

25.

*I’m in bed (5)

20.

Hit list foud in the prickly plant (7)

26.

Within reach: a noisy Asian capital city (5)

21.

Too headless, like a romantic partner (6)

27.

Dorothy’s dog captures big animal (not ant) in long

22.

*Run with the queen (6)

distance lens (9)

23.

*The speaker’s kebab (6)

Take iron right off from Ferrari neckwear - these are not

25.

*Love God (5)

24.

28.

easy to find! (8) 29.

Stick publicity in this place (6)

Crossword provided by Thom Punton visit www.bn1magazine.co.uk for the answers

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You can now breeze up to Stanmer Park and Devil’s Dyke by bus seven days a week, and up to Ditchling Beacon at weekends.