BN1 Magazine May 2023

STEP INTO SPRING AT HANNINGTONS

Our pedestrian Lane adorned with iconic art murals and green wall is home to

to makers, designers, food artisans and pioneers. Breathe in some fresh air and step into Spring at Hanningtons Brighton.

PAULY THE PAINTER

THE TIGER LILLIES

CONTENTS 20 26 48

Photo Credit Andrey Kezzyn

Photo Credit Shahir Iqbal

Photo Credit Faye Bridgewater

Special 50% off deals on pages 18-19

Photo Credit Reuben Bastienne - Lewis

CONTRIBUTORS

COVER:

Nabihah Iqbal

Brighton Festival Guest Director

Photo credit: © Shahir Iqbal

EDITOR IN CHIEF: CHRIS SADLER

CHRIS@BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK

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INTERNSHIPS AND JOB OPPORTUNITIES:

Want to become a part of the BN1 Magazine team and gain valuable media skills or submit articles, content and images?

Various internships are avaliable for writers, photographers, marketing, sales, creative types and enthusiasts to join Brightons leading culture and lifestyle magazine! just email your CV and a little about yourself to: info@bn1magazine. co.uk

SUSSEX

BRICK BY BRICK COMES TO HASTINGS MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

Gathering the work of 14 artists, designers and photographers from around the world who use LEGO® bricks as their medium or inspiration, the Brick by Brick runs at Hastings Museum & Art Gallery until Sun 18 June.

This free exhibition of International LEGO® Brick Art sees creators use this simple plastic construction block as their starting point to create stunning, thought provoking and often humorous artworks which will appeal to art enthusiasts and brick fans alike.

Participating artists include The Little Artists, David Hughes, Ekow Nimako, Janet Curley Cannon, Hannah Gibson, Little Big Art, Zino, Eat My Bricks, Samsofy, Michael BrennandWood, James Paterson, Valentino Fialdini, AME 72 and Jonathan Rolph.

Toronto based artist Ekow Nimako, began using LEGO® bricks in his professional practice in 2014 and has since cultivated a unique approach to sculpting this iconic medium. Comprised of black bricks only, Nimako will be exhibiting four captivating artworks, which reference mythology, West African proverbs and afrofuturism.

Michael Brennand-Wood has created four stunning artworks especially for this exhibition. Using a range of colours, shapes and sizes of bricks, he has created a series of abstract montages which have a mesmerising appeal to them.

Collectively known as The Little Artists, John Cake and Darren Neave collaborated to replicate a series of well-known contemporary artworks and icons of popular culture using LEGO® bricks. Look out for their versions of Damien Hirst’s Shark Tank and the Bates Motel from the film Psycho.

Brazilian photographer Valentino Fialdini will be exhibiting one of his large-scale photographs which show empty rooms and corridors. Using specialist photography and lighting techniques, Fialdini tricks the viewer’s eye in to thinking that these miniature LEGO® rooms are life-sized.

American born artist Janet Curley Cannon, who is now based in Berkshire, will be exhibiting her artwork Not on the High Street Anymore. This installation was constructed using her husband’s childhood LEGO® bricks and makes reference to the demise of the UK’s high street.

Inspired by the wide range of artworks on show, a LEGO® graffiti wall, a build table and a selection of LEGO® related games and competitions will also give visitors the opportunity to try their hand at creating their own construction brick artwork.

For more details, visit: www.hmag.org.uk

BLUR HEAD TO EASTBOURNE

Ahead of their massive shows at London’s Wembley Stadium on Sat 8 – Sun 9 July, Blur are playing a series of warm-up shows around the country. They’ll play the Winter Garden on Sun 21 May, their first show in the town since 1995.

They’ll be joined for their Wembley shows by special guest Paul Weller, as well as The Selecter; and Snooker Champion/DJ Steve

Davis has been added to the Sunday night line-up.

Since announcing their arrival with debut album Leisure in 1991, Blur went on to revolutionise the sound of English popular music with five successive UK chart-topping albums Parklife, The Great Escape, Blur, 13 and Think Tank, along with a string of Top 10 singles. One of the biggest British bands of

the last three decades, they’ve also collected ten NME Awards, six Q Awards, five BRIT Awards and an Ivor Novello Award, and played live to thousands of devoted fans across the globe.

www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

www.blur.co.uk

If a bird does not fly, it goes to bed hungry - Ekow Nimako

Lego Popcorn - Little Big Art

Image Credit Steve Bell

Photo credit Kevin Westenberg

Photo credit Kevin Westenberg

Some of the world’s finest beer, wine and cider producers are again showcasing their wares in Lewes this summer as part of These Hills festival. Thousands of people will descend on the East Sussex town for this widely acclaimed two-day event.

These Hills showcases beer from more than 35 international breweries across three sessions on Fri 16 - Sat 17 May, with producers from as far away as Melbourne and New York offering their premium brews at the festival’s fantastic rural venue - a mere 20-minute walk from the town’s train station.

“Our inaugural festival was held last year, and we were delighted that it sold-out despite some of the largest rail strikes in UK history,” says festival organiser, Daniel Tapper. “This year promises to be even bigger and better with much more on offer than just beer, including low intervention wine and cider and dishes from a roster of award-winning streetfood stalls, such as Slice Culture, Original Patty Men, Caccia & Tails and Field & Flame. We’ve also introduced a dance tent with an incredible line-up of DJs and live music.”

Perhaps unusually for a food and drink festival, These Hills features a series of folk rituals on the Saturday evening session, starting with a procession and culminating in the burning of an effigy as ‘an offering to the beer gods.’

“It’s an absolutely stunning setting surrounded by the South Downs National Park, including

THESE HILLS FESTIVAL RETURNS TO LEWES

rolling fields of barley, which of course is a key ingredient in beer,” adds Tapper. “As such, it felt right and proper to perform some kind of ceremony as a thank you to mother nature. The exact details of the ritual are top secret but we promise it’ll be a real spectacle.”

The event is being organised by Beak Brewery. Since launching two years ago, the Lewes-based business has tripled capacity and now exports its beer to a dozen countries, including Australia, Singapore and Japan. The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) recently named one of its beers, Parade, as one of the world’s best IPAs.

For more information and tickets (£25pp), visit: www.beakbrewery.com/ these-hills

Tickets include a 10% discount on bulk purchases, access to the festival along with a free drink, tote bag and bespoke glass.

HUGE COMMUNITY PROGRAMME TO COINCIDE WITH TURNER PRIZE 2023 IN EASTBOURNE

An ambitious community programme for East Sussex will coincide with Turner Prize 2023 has been announced, all supported by a £480,000 award through the Arts Council’s Place Partnership Fund, made possible thanks to National Lottery players.

The series of shows and events coincides with The Turner Prize coming to Eastbourne this year, and will support the Towner gallery and a range of local partners to make a step change in the provision of cultural and creative opportunity in Eastbourne, particularly for children and young people.

Called Eastbourne ALIVE, the project will seek to empower young people and create a new legacy for Eastbourne through a wide range of projects and creative activities, along with further development of artistic practice and creative skills in the area. It also aims to

broaden access to art and culture through inclusive participation in high quality cultural experiences and creative activities in and around Eastbourne. There is also an ambition in the project to widen opportunities for Young People to engage with art and culture both inside and outside school.

“I am delighted to be appointed to this project,” said Sarah Dance, the new Director of Eastbourne ALIVE. “Our ambition is to place the town’s image firmly in the hands of Young People, harnessing their creative energy for years to come.”

Developing pathways towards creative industry careers will also be part of the project. Working with Talent Accelerator, a package of skills development & training opportunities at Towner will open pathways towards careers in the creative industries

including events for parents/carers about the sector and ways to support Young People into roles; building the regional talent pipeline to drive economic sustainability.

Joe Hill, Director and CEO Towner Eastbourne, said, “Celebrating the once in a lifetime opportunity of the Turner Prize in Eastbourne, we will work with 3000 young people in their places and spaces throughout the town, to foster pride and ownership of their creative town as well as all years 9 in and around Eastbourne. Our partnership will develop creative skills pathways and our public health colleagues will measure the real impact of this work on young people’s wellbeing.”

www.townereastbourne.org.uk

CEYDA TANC DANCE PRESENTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF KIZLAR AT BRIGHTON FESTIVAL

Ceyda Tanc Dance return to Theatre Royal on Tues 16 May 2023, following their sell-out performance of Kaya in 2018.

Kizlar is a brand new, full-length contemporary dance work from Brighton-based, BritishTurkish choreographer Ceyda Tanc. It celebrates what it means to be female, offering an aesthetically driven exploration of femininity and masculinity, strength and

vulnerability, to create a visually stunning dance work.

“Kizlar celebrates women and explores what it means to be female in today’s society,” says Tanc. “With my new perspective as a mother to a baby girl, I have been drawing on the experiences of women and girls of diverse ages & ethnicities, in the Brighton community to shape the vision for the work.”

Drawing on the virtuoso movements of male Turkish dancers with an all-female company, Ceyda Tanc’s unique vocabulary combines athletic contemporary movement with traditional Turkish folk dance, conveying striking shapes and a strong, sensual energy.

www.ceydatancdance.com

BRIGHTON

CORONATION EVENTS ACROSS SUSSEX BY VISIT BRIGHTON

Coronation screening

Jubilee Square 6th May

King Charles III’s Coronation will be shown on a big screen in Jubilee Square on Saturday the 6th May. The Big screen will be set-up with a covered area to ensure the space can be used whatever the weather. There will also be some food and drink stalls onsite as well as space for people to bring their own picnics. After the Coronation, the site will become an outdoor music venue with big-screen capacity for the annual city-wide Children’s parade on Sunday 7th May.

For more info: www.brighton-hove.gov.uk

Coronation at Borde Hill

29th April - 8th May

Celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III with Borde Hill. Browse archive material in the Africa Glasshouse relating to the 1937 and 1953 Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, which were attended by the Garden’s founder, Colonel Stephenson, Robert Clarke, and Sir Ralph Stephenson Clarke respectively. Younger visitors can feel like a King or Queen for the day, wearing paper crowns as they enjoy a very royal children’s trail to spot hidden crows dotted around the Garden. Tasty treats including

Coronation cupcakes, champagne sorbet, Coronation cocktails and mocktails will also be available. Visitors visiting on Sunday 7th May can also enjoy a spectacular array of plants at the Spring Plant Fair.

For more info: bordehill.co.uk

Regency Routemaster

Coronation themed bus tours

3rd - 6th May

Decked in her finery touring Brighton and Hove for the Coronation. Brighton Regency Routemaster are putting on a set of special coronation themed tours for the king’s coronation in May! The tours will run from the 3rd-6th May and can all be booked via their website.

For more info: brightonregencyroutemaster. co.uk

Albourne Wine Estate’s Coronation High Tea for Two

6th - 7th May

Following on from the Queens Platinum Jubilee last year, Albourne Wine Estate are celebrating the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III with another high tea. Enjoy homemade sandwiches, freshly baked

scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam and generous slices of Lemon Drizzle cake and Chocolate Brownie for two to share. All hand-made locally and accompanied by a glass of our sparkling wine. Booking required via website.

For more info: www.albourneestate.co.uk

Leonardslee Coronation

Celebration 6th - 8th May

Celebrate the Coronation of his Majesty King Charles III with a walk through Leonardslee gardens, being sure not to miss their aptly named Coronation Garden. The perfect day out for the whole family to celebrate. Enjoy a royal themed afternoon tea at Leonardslee House or find an alfresco picnic spot in their 240 acres of garden with pre-booked picnics. Get creative with free kid’s activities throughout the gardens and coronation crafts in the Courtyard Café.

For more info: www.leonardsleegardens. co.uk

Regency Routemaster

Leonardslee

Albourne Estate

Borde Hill

ASquared, the Brighton-based digital platform developer has launched an Impact Accelerator program designed to support purpose-led startups. The program offers the opportunity to grab £50,000 in funding, helping early-stage start-ups or aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality.

The ASquared Impact Accelerator is an impactfocused accelerator for high-potential UK startups with a mission to use their business as a force for good.

Building, funding and retaining highperformance teams is hard work and takes time. Yet, our world simply doesn’t have time to sit around and wait for impact.

The accelerator aims to support talented UKbased founders with great causes to achieve their impact, faster.

Through the accelerator, purpose-driven founders get access to mentorship, premium software tools, and hands-on support to help catapult their vision into reality. The cherry on the cake is the opportunity to take part in a Funding Show for the possibility of grabbing a £50K investment from ASquared.

To find out more and to get the opportunity to take part in a £50k Funding Show, visit: www.asquared.uk/impact-accelerator

A tale of queer love and acceptance - early modern theatre’s best kept secret

‘Wildworks draw on myth, ritual and landscape to make spectacular outdoor theatre.’ The Guardian

Presented by Wildworks, Marlborough Productions, Andy Kesson and Emma Frankland

Presented by Wildworks, Marlborough Productions, Andy Kesson and Emma Frankland

‘Emma Frankland is the punk rock angel of your dreams and nightmares…’ The Stage by John Lyly, newly adapted by Emma Frankland and Subira Joy

Preview Fri 5 May | Sat 6-Sun 21 May Adur Recreation Ground, Shoreham | Theatre 01273 709709 | brightonfestival.org

Brighton Festival Commission and World Premiere

CARAVANSERAI ANNOUNCE LINE-UP FOR BRIGHTON FRINGE

Camp Bestival in 2013, Caravanserai have played host to the very best festival talent over the years, and their pop-up at Brighton Fringe will be no different.

Expect the prodigious young talent of tuba player Theon Cross, some top-secret superstar DJs at The Rocking Horse rave and make the most of free all day entertainment with Global Local, the people behind Shangri La Glastonbury and Continental Drifts, in the big top tent.

There’s also a special event from the infamous Drum ‘n’ Bass ‘n’ Brass mash-up band Carnival Collective bringing you the best of what Brighton has to offer, and festival favourites Slamboree unleashing an evening of theatrics, up-and-coming talent, live music and performance art

Alongside the entertainment, there’ll also be a children’s area, bars and street food, and anyone can come onto the site for free to soak up the atmosphere.

For more details, head to: www.caravanseraibrighton.com The south coast’s biggest comedy festival is back. Brighton Comedy

Brighton’s Fringe’s newest pop-up venue has released details of its packed season during May. Based just north of St Peter’s Church, Caravanserai is essentially a micro-festival providing some amazing spectacles to delight and amaze you.

The site offers two bespoke venues within the site, Luna Parc is a 220-seater big top tent, resplendent with its own hearse DJ booth and aerial rigging. While Junk Poet is a 50-seat theatre space built from repurposed fairground rides.

Highlights include the multi award winning and globally acclaimed Police Cops offering their infectious brand of comedy on Fri 5- Sun 7 May. This year’s show is an 80’s ‘low-fi sci-fi’ set in the most dangerous place on Earth…Space. After his father is killed by an evil robot, Sammy Johnson, the last Police Cop in the universe, blasts off in an unmanned escape pod. Now on a distant planet, he must team up with Alien fighter pilot Ranger and his trusty Cyborg C9 as they embark on an intergalactic adventure across the galaxy to find Earth, avenge his father, and become the best damn Police Cop in space.

With a stunning show telling the story of Ethiopian legend Deratru Tulu, Circus Abyssinia come to Caravanserai on Mon 22 - Weds 24, Fri 26 –Sun 28 & Tues 30 May – Sun 4 June. It features dazzling feats of speed and flight, rocking with the exuberant joy of its cast. This show covers the life of the famous long-distance runner, charting her rise from the humblest beginnings to become the first African woman to win Olympic gold. Circus Abyssinia aim to thrill and inspire, to celebrate the beauty and power of the imagination, and the real possibility that when we work together and fight for them, our dreams are for the taking.

A previous Brighton Fringe Award For Excellence winner, Mythos: Ragnarok heads on Caravanserai on Tues 23 – Weds 24 May & Fri 27 May – Fri 3 June. Created by Mythological Theatre, this is storytelling like you’ve never seen before. Gods, monsters and heroes from legend and folklore are brought to life in original stories based on traditional myths and tales. Witness mythology as it was meant to be experienced: live and evolving. The impact of live wrestling is combined with intensity of stage combat and stunt performance in a truly unique form of storytelling.

Coming to Caravanserai on Mon 15 – Weds 17 & Sat 20 – Sun 21May, Crème De La Crème is a fun and stunning variety show filled with acrobats, traditional circus and cheeky bits of nudity. After their success at last year’s Brighton Fringe with their sell out show Railed, Head First Acrobats return with an incredible display of the hottest acts in this year’s festival with a variety night like no other. Expect worldclass acrobatics from seasoned performers, great skits and physical comedy in this Raw and yet refined work.

It’s the Caravanserai Music Takeover on Thurs 11 – Sun 14 May. This brings together the very best bands and musical artists from the festival circus, including several free events. Originally established at

NEWS BRIGHTON

BRIGHTON COMEDY GARDEN RETURNS FOR 2023

Garden heads to Preston Park on Weds 5 –Sun 9 July, accompanied by some of the best stand-up comedians in the world.

This year, you can catch one of Britain’s best loved comedy stars Jack Dee, Off Menu co-host Ed Gamble, the phenomenal Sara Pascoe, legendary BAFTA and Perrier Award winner Dylan Moran, Qi’s Alan Davies, Starstuck’s Rose Matafeo and multi awardwinning queen of ventriloquism, Nina Conti.

There’s plenty of Comedy Garden favourites joining returning, including Ghosts and Shrill icon and master character comic Lolly Adefope, Brighton’s very own comedy superhero Jen Brister, Taskmaster star Fern Brady, the phenomenal Phil Wang, Mash Report host Nish Kumar and lo-fi hero David O’doherty.

Combining award-winning entertainment with a quality selection at the bars and delicious eats from local street-food heroes, this crowdpleasing festival has been dazzling comedy lovers from Brighton and beyond since its first edition back in summer 2019.

Across five nights and the weekend afternoons a series of meticulously curated mixed-bill shows, featuring the absolute best comedians of the moment, are presented in a seated open-air arena.

Set within a boutique festival setting with bars, food stalls and more, the event is perfectly pitched in the leafy surroundings of Brighton’s glorious Preston Park welcoming in audiences from near and far.

The Comedy Garden is produced by sibling team Will Briggs and Cass Randolph of 57 Festivals. And the pair are thrilled to be announcing this year’s festival.

“We’re over the moon with this year’s line-up,” says Will. “It’s definitely one of our biggest line-ups coming to Preston Park. Jack Dee has been on our wish-list for a long time and we can’t wait to get this year’s festival started.”

A London-based company specialising in live comedy, 57 Festivals produce a series of critically acclaimed summer festivals, deliver a year-round programme of shows and tours and provide bespoke comedy programming for other festivals and venues.

Since 2005 they’ve been delivering exceptional comedy shows and a signature style of comedy festivals to select cities across the UK. Fusing the energy of a comedy club with the atmosphere of a fullon festival the events have been a huge hit in each location with tickets flying out each summer. Throughout the year a host of shows and tours are programmed, managed and promoted across the country, including longrunning weekly nights, high-capacity monthly gigs and solo and mixed-bill shows that regularly tour the UK’s best venues.

Cass added “The Comedy Garden is really established now, our audience know they’re guaranteed an incredible set of comedians with every show, with the added festival fun of great bars and street food. Often people buy tickets to see one act they love and are introduced to many more amazing comedians while with us, this festival is the ultimate showcase to catch the best comedians of the moment.”

Get your tickets now to the south coast’s biggest and brightest comedy spectacular landing in Brighton this July.

To find out more and book tickets, head to:

www.brightoncomedygarden.co.uk

BREAKIN’ CONVENTION COMES TO BRIGHTON DOME

Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Breakin’ Convention returns with another showcase of gravity and genre defying dance action. Out on tour for the summer, the international festival of hip hop theatre will be throwing it down at Brighton Dome on Sat 3 June, mixing global talent with the south coast’s greatest.

Hosted and curated by Breakin’ Convention’s Artistic Director Jonzi D, It showcases exceptional hip hop crews from across the UK - including top poppers, lockers, b-boys and b-girls plus as always, showstopping international acts. Out in Dome’s foyer, you’ll also find live DJs, graffiti artists and freestyle dance sessions so everyone can join in.

This renowned and inclusive celebration of hip hop culture welcomes the legendary Ghetto Funk Collective for 2023. Based in the Netherlands, this collective of dancers, musicians and DJs was founded by best friends Ruben Chi and Roché Apinsa. They’ve created their own funkfuelled movement, sound and experience. Dancers include Rowly Hughne, Imaury Dos Santos Moreno Horta, Joshua Markiet, Jinko Adams, Joao Balde Arias and Ibrah Kakande. They take audiences on a journey, paying homage to funk’s rich cultural heritage while infusing it with a fresh, modern sensibility.

Also from the Netherlands, Yvonne Smink will be bringing a highly original, hip hop infused take on the art of pole dancing. Her practice originated from climbing and she immediately fell in love with the physical challenge pole dancing offers. This breath-taking, gravitydefying signature style is influenced by Chinese pole and breakdance amongst other forms. Every performance is loaded with power moves and intricate detail as Yvonne demonstrates her natural grace, flow and physical dexterity.

Hailing from South Korea, MOVER move beyond specific dance genres, building on and utilising their considerable skills as breakers. They’ll perform a piece titled Merry-Go-Round, referencing a DJing technique which repeats the interlude or break of a song by using twin turntables. In their view, B-Boying, which originated from this music is a dance mirroring our lives, flowing and moving with a repeated rhythm.

There’s a host of brilliant local talent, including Mid Sussex’s unstoppable BPM Dance Academy, the exceptional Project Female and hip-hop dance from JP Omari’s legendary Street Funk crew. Alongside them are Visual Artists with choreographer Munya Muchati, explosive freestyle action from Will Timpson and students from street dance and performing arts school, Urban City Dance.

Two decades down the line, Breakin’ Convention’s values have remained unchanged – to platform the best hip hop theatre from around the world, and from around the corner. Through its international festivals, tours and professional development programme and projects for young people, this invigorating dance event is at the vanguard of the global development of hip hop theatre artists.

www.brightondome.org

www.breakinconvention.com

www.sadlerswells.com

Photo Credit Luis Zamora Caroca

BRIGHTON

BRIGHTON OPEN AIR THEATRE ANNOUNCE 2023 SEASON

Brighton Open Air Theatre (BOAT) has reopened its gates for a 9th summer season. As Sussex’s only permanent outdoor venue, BOAT occupies a unique position in the local theatre ecosystem. With an open-access programming policy, opportunities are afforded to local, national and international artists, all of whom contribute to a diverse and varied programme.

Last year’s season saw record-breaking figures, as 24,500 audience members saw a total of 146 performances across the summer. This year, BOAT aims build upon its increasing popularity with dozens of original productions, including work from several new companies such as Tethered Wits, The Last Baguette and Circo Pitanga.

Known as the theatre that friendship built, May 2023 marks the tenth anniversary of the passing of BOAT founder Adrian Bunting, and in July the venue is holding a special and fun night to celebrate the man and his philosophy of art for everyone. Sublime! will take place on Friday 28th July.

This moth there’s the usual eclectic mix of Brighton Fringe shows, including cabaret, circus, ballet, improvisation and poetry. In June, Funny That’s Summer Comedy Festival returns for the third time, featuring some of the biggest names in stand-up comedy. Other highlights include David Walliams’ Bad Dad in half term, Duke’s Theatre Company’s Twelfth Night, and Identity Theatre’s Under Milk Wood.

July sees Horrible Histories arrive straight from the West End with Barmy Britain, a production of Macbeth from National Production Company, BOAT favourites Sarah Mann Company’s large-scale production of Alan Bennett’s The Madness of King George III, and IK Productions start the summer holidays with a bang with their new version of Hercules.

You can soak up the August sunshine with performances from BOAT Patron Simon Evans, a Pride weekend full of Drag,

Changeling Theatre presenting two shows in rep, Illyria’s large-scale Peter Pan, and local legends Brighton Little Theatre’s ambitious production of Shakespeare in Love.

There’s no slowing down in September, with TIMT’s Much Ado About Nothing, loads of music, and Show and Tell closing out the season in style with a full week of comedy with Stand-Up Under The Stars.

Will Mytum, BOAT General Manager, said “We’re incredibly excited to welcome audiences back for our most exciting season yet. This year, our focus is squarely on maintaining accessibility to our programme for as many people as possible. We are acutely aware of the precarious economic circumstances many people currently find themselves in, which is why we’ve made a conscious effort to keep ticket pricing affordable, and a programme of work that everyone should find enjoyment in.

“We have introduced Child prices for Family shows, as well as discounted rates for Groups of 4 across all productions. Bar prices also remain extremely competitive, but as always, audiences are welcome to bring their own food and drink. BOAT exists to serve its community, and we’re confident that 2023’s summer season will offer many opportunities for education, inspiration and escapism.”

Brighton Open Air Theatre is at Dyke Road Park, Brighton BN3 6EH. For more details, head to: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk

Restaurants to try and 50% off codes!

We have teamed up with Uber Eats to support local businesses this month with some special discount codes that will get you 50% off at these five amazing restaurants!

We also have an exclusive offer that gets you £10 off 2 orders made via the Uber Eats app (for new customers only) when you spend a minimum of £15! That's the lazy day / hangover sorted! Just use code BN1UBER10 valid until the 1st Sept 2023

£10 off offer available until 11.55 pm on 01 September 2023, valid on 2 orders made via the Uber Eats app in the UK (check the Uber Eats app for availability of deliveries and restaurants) when you spend a minimum of £15 per order on food and drink, excluding the delivery fee. Delivery fee applies. Other fees (such as a service fee) may apply to order. Offer is not valid on any basket that includes alcohol or tobacco products. To be eligible for the promotion, apply code BN1UBER10 in the Uber Eats app at the checkout before completing the order. Offer applies to orders for delivery only and excludes orders for dine-in or pick-up. Offer available for first time users of the Uber Eats app only. Code can be applied for a maximum of 2000 users on a first come, first serve basis. Read more: t.uber.com/EATST&C

CURRY LEAF CAFE

Code: BN1CLC50

Curry Leaf Cafe in Brighton is a colourful, contemporary eatery serving authentic Indian street food and craft beers. The welcoming atmosphere and eclectic decor invite guests to savour a wide variety of dishes, including vegan and gluten-free options. Offering traditional Indian flavours with a modern twist, Curry Leaf Cafe is a delightful destination for casual dining, celebrating the diverse and vibrant culinary heritage of India.

T&Cs: 50% off offer up to a maximum discount of £15 (excluding delivery fee) available until 11.55 pm on 14 June 2023, valid on one (1) order from Curry Leaf Cafe- Brighton Lanes made via the Uber Eats app in Brighton, UK (check the Uber Eats app for availability of deliveries and restaurants) when you spend a minimum of £15 per order on food and drink, excluding the delivery fee. Delivery fee applies. Other fees (such as a service fee) may apply to order. Offer is not valid on any basket that includes alcohol or tobacco products. To be eligible for the promotion, apply code BN1CLC50 in the Uber Eats app at the checkout before completing the order. Offer applies to orders for delivery only and excludes orders for dine-in or pick-up. Code can be applied for a maximum of 1000 users on a first come, first serve basis. Read more: t.uber.com/EATST&C

HALISCO

Code: BN1HALISCO50

Halisco, a lively Brighton restaurant, specializes in Mexican-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Its vibrant atmosphere and eye-catching decor immerse guests in an authentic dining experience. The menu, featuring dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and sharing plates. With an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, Halisco provides a memorable culinary journey through the flavours of Mexico.

T&Cs: 50% off offer up to a maximum discount of £15 (excluding delivery fee) available until 11.55 pm on 14 June 2023, valid on one (1) order from Halisco made via the Uber Eats app in Brighton, UK (check the Uber Eats app for availability of deliveries and restaurants) when you spend a minimum of £15 per order on food and drink, excluding the delivery fee. Delivery fee applies. Other fees (such as a service fee) may apply to order. Offer is not valid on any basket that includes alcohol or tobacco products. To be eligible for the promotion, apply code BN1HALISCO50 in the Uber Eats app at the checkout before completing the order. Offer applies to orders for delivery only and excludes orders for dine-in or pick-up. Code can be applied for a maximum of 1000 users on a first come, first serve basis. Read more: t.uber.com/EATST&C

CHINA GARDEN

Code: BN1CG50

China Garden has been serving Chinese, Cantonese and Dim Sum cuisine for the past 40 years. You will receive a warm welcome at their beautiful restaurant, conveniently situated on the corner of Preston Street with a great view of the sea! On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for takeaway, China Garden is exclusively available on Uber Eats. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity - place your order today!

T&Cs: 50% off offer up to a maximum discount of £15 (excluding delivery fee) available until 11.55 pm on 14 June 2023, valid on one (1) order from China Garden made via the Uber Eats app in Brighton, UK (check the Uber Eats app for availability of deliveries and restaurants) when you spend a minimum of £15 per order on food and drink, excluding the delivery fee. Delivery fee applies. Other fees (such as a service fee) may apply to order. Offer is not valid on any basket that includes alcohol or tobacco products. To be eligible for the promotion, apply code BN1CG50 in the Uber Eats app at the checkout before completing the order. Offer applies to orders for delivery only and excludes orders for dine-in or pick-up. Code can be applied for a maximum of 1000 users on a first come, first serve basis. Read more: t.uber.com/EATST&C

JOE’S BURGER HOUSE

Code: BN1JBH50

Burger makers since 2012. Joe’s Burgers have been delivering the #1 burgers to Brighton and Hove, Portslade and Lancing. They take great pride in utilising the freshest ingredients to craft what they believe, and you’ll likely concur, are the town’s most scrumptious burgers. With top-notch meats and distinctive homemade sauces, your taste buds are in for a delightful treat. Get 50% off using the code above!

T&Cs: 50% off offer up to a maximum discount of £15 (excluding delivery fee) available until 11.55 pm on 14 June 2023, valid on one (1) order from Joe’s Burger House, Joe’s Burger House - Hove & Joe’s Burger House - Lancing made via the Uber Eats app in Sussex, UK (check the Uber Eats app for availability of deliveries and restaurants) when you spend a minimum of £15 per order on food and drink, excluding the delivery fee. Delivery fee applies. Other fees (such as a service fee) may apply to order. Offer is not valid on any basket that includes alcohol or tobacco products. To be eligible for the promotion, apply code BN1JBH50 in the Uber Eats app at the checkout before completing the order. Offer applies to orders for delivery only and excludes orders for dine-in or pick-up. Code can be applied for a maximum of 1000 users on a first come, first serve basis. Read more: t.uber.com/EATST&C

SUNOSO

Code: BN1SUNOSO50

Sunoso, a vibrant Brighton restaurant, offers a unique and wholesome dining experience with a fusion of East Asian flavours. Its inviting atmosphere and customizable menu cater to diverse dietary preferences. Specializing in nourishing bowls, wraps, salads, and noodle dishes, Sunoso focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Musttry dishes include the Classic Chicken Karaage and the Tofu & Mushroom Curry, providing a delightful and healthy culinary journey.

T&Cs: 50% off offer up to a maximum discount of £15 (excluding delivery fee) available until 11.55 pm on 14 June 2023, valid on one (1) order from Sunoso made via the Uber Eats app in Brighton, UK (check the Uber Eats app for availability of deliveries and restaurants) when you spend a minimum of £15 per order on food and drink, excluding the delivery fee. Delivery fee applies. Other fees (such as a service fee) may apply to order. Offer is not valid on any basket that includes alcohol or tobacco products. To be eligible for the promotion, apply code BN1SUNOSO in the Uber Eats app at the checkout before completing the order. Offer applies to orders for delivery only and excludes orders for dine-in or pick-up. Code can be applied for a maximum of 1000 users on a first come, first serve basis. Read more: t.uber.com/EATST&C

SPOKE TO PAULY THE PAINTER ABOUT HIS MASTERPIECE UP FOR GRABS

COMPETITION WITH VAN GOGH ALIVE

You may have seen Pauly the Painter on Hove seafront or in the hustle and bustle of the lanes. He always has an easel on the go and paintbrush in hand but the latest adventure for this beloved local artist is a collaboration with legendary Vincent Van Gogh.

To mark the 170th anniversary of Vincent van Gogh's birth, along with the upcoming Van Gogh Alive immersive exhibition to be held at Brighton Dome, local artist Pauly the Painter has created a never before seen artwork of some of Brighton’s best landmarks in the style of ‘Starry Night’. The unique piece is up for grabs alongside the chance to have a VIP private exhibition experience as part of a competition by Van Gogh Alive. We spoke to Pauly the Painter about creating the piece, his inspirations and what he is looking forward to about the VGA immersive exhibition.

You have painted a gorgeous piece of artwork of Brighton landmarks in the style of Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’. How did creating the masterpiece come about?

The Van Gogh inspired artwork is essentially a combination of features that are Brighton; the nightlife, bold and brash, the architecture both traditional and contemporary ( in the form of the pavilion, the pier and the i360 as well as our shingle beach and sea.) I combined these with elements of Vincent’s artwork; the Starry Night, the sunflowers, the helter skelter (as one of his cypress trees) and crows converted to seagulls to produce a vision that would have him spinning in his grave.

Is Vincent Van Gogh an artist that you would say has inspired your artworks previously?

As a very old and antiquated artist, I have many influences on my art. I love the work of all artists and creatives whether they are famous or not. I love the energy and passion of Vincent’s painting technique. I admire his obsessive urge to capture landscapes, objects and people that surrounded him and his use of texture and colour.

You are often spotted around Brighton and Hove painting our vibrant streets, how did you decide that you wanted Brighton pier and the Pavillion to go into this specific painting?

Brighton pier and Brighton pavilion are two of the most visited and well loved landmarks of our city. They seemed to be appropriate to feature in the artwork. I am sure that Vincent would have loved the music room with all its colour and dragons and lost a stack of 2p’s in the amusement arcade on the pier.

You do a lot of your work plein air, so outdoors, capturing moments as you see them as opposed to painting from a photograph. How do you think this changes the energy of your paintings?

I paint on the streets of Brighton and Hove because I am a passionate creative and educationalist. The beauty of nature and our exquisite architecture inspires me as well as sunlight and the wonderful people in our community. Painting allows me to communicate to people of all ages and backgrounds. I often extol the many virtues of creativity, the success of the Seagulls and I (obviously) love a good chat!

There is a very distinct impressionist style to the Van Gogh inspired painting. Is all of your artwork usually in this style?

I consider that many artists have inspired the style of my artwork, for example; Bellini, Raphael, Titian, Monet, Van Gogh, Seurat, Hopper and younger artists such as Brook, Roux, Sammy and Alex.

The piece will be on display at Van Gogh Alive from May 12th, how does it feel to have your creation exhibited at such a renowned immersive experience?

I am honoured to be a part of this wonderful project. I hope that it inspires and encourages people of our community to become involved in creativity. It’s great fun being energetic and getting mucky!

What are you most looking forward to seeing at Van Gogh Alive?

I know that people who visit the experience will come out feeling energised and enlightened by Vincent’s artwork.

Do you think you will be painting any more specific artist inspired work? What is the next adventure for Pauly the Painter?!

As I mentioned in my earlier answer, my artwork is always inspired by the work of other artists. I do feel that this process of focusing on Vincent’s work has energised the way I work and inspired me to become more expressive and colourful with my own work. Next time I see him I’ll spoil him to a coffee and a fish finger ciabatta at the Big Beach Cafe!

To be in with the chance of winning this oneof-a-kind artwork alongside a VIP viewing experience with friends and family worth £900, register to the Van Gogh Alive newsletter via the Van Gogh Alive Brighton website before 17th July. The winner will be selected at random, from the emails collected through this competition as well as those already registered to the Van Gogh Alive newsletter audience, who will be automatically entered into the draw.

To find out more about the exhibition, to purchase tickets, register for the Van Gogh Alive newsletter and enter the competition please visit the website:

vangoghaliveuk.com/brighton/register/

WE

IN

By Amy Stanborough

Hopping onto our zoom call, a bundle of energy and joy, was Brighton-based artist Faye Bridgwater. Immediately I was enticed by how much of Faye’s personality is transferred into her paintings. “I paint like this,” she shows me, pointing to the vertical canvases “and then they look like this” she says, turning them horizontally. Behind her was a complete backdrop of colour as though she had found herself buried deep inside a rainbow cave. It was in fact her shed at the back of her garden - a retreat where Faye’s creativity has the emancipation to bounce between four wooden walls and transform into the brush strokes on a canvas.

Continued on page 22

Artist Faye Bridgwater tells us all about her work, Artists Open House, and what she loves about May!

Most of Faye’s excitement and passion was bursting from the thought of May quickly approaching - her favourite month. Walking around the city, you may have noticed flyers and posters for Brighton Festival, Fringe, The Great Escape and Artists Open Houses popping up. “It’s an absolute party city!” Faye exclaims thinking about spring truly blossoming. Artists Open Houses is what Faye is most looking forward to as she will be at two venues this year.

The first venue Faye will appear at is part of the Kemptown Trail. Head to Understory Sat 6 - Sun 28 May for the delightful combination of art and nature. Here you can discover Faye Bridgwater's latest collection of original floral and landscape paintings as well as her limited edition prints amidst the abundant foliage of a charming plant shop. Inspired by the stunning Sussex coastline and the natural world, Faye's vibrant art is perfectly complemented by the lush greenery of this plant-filled oasis. Understory, 4 Church Place, Brighton, BN2 8EZ

Also, mark your calendars for Fri 19 - Sun 21 May to see Faye’s work on the Hanover Trail. This exhibition features Faye's largest paintings to date, capturing her pure emotional joy of paint. Held at The Ballroom, an intriguing venue in the heart of Hanover which is now open after 50 years, the immense and interesting space provides the perfect contrast to Faye's vibrant and bold brushstrokes. She is utilising the space to create an uplifting and inspiring experience that is not to be missed. 10am-5.30pm

Asking Faye where she finds inspiration, she tells me she is constantly creatively charged by the photography posted in ‘Brighton Skies’. Brighton Skies is a Facebook group created by Faye Bridgwater with over 43k group members. It is a “wonderfully positive place about sharing the joy of looking up” she tells me. While there are some incredibly talented photographers in the group, Faye’s favourite posts are by the amateurs who capture images of the sky when they are out and about. Thinking back to the process of starting this group, Faye explains how it was all very quick, flicking ideas between ‘Brighton Sunsets’ or ‘Brighton Dusk’ before landing on the chosen name. “I shared it with a few mates and artists” and now “I can’t believe it gets seen all around the world!” The virtual group embodies the collective creativity that radiates across our city, something Faye is all about.

Not originally from Brighton however, Faye tells me about how she would commute here from Watford to work in a gallery. “I’ve always wanted to live by the sea” she reminisces, “my brother and sister and law live in Seven Dials so [my husband and I] were always visiting.” It was thirteen years ago when her husband got a job at Gatwick and they took the opportunity to move. “I still pinch myself. I cannot believe that I can go and paddle right now if I wanted to.” She shares an awe and excitement that I am sure all Brightonians can all relate to. Faye continues, “we go on holiday and camp and it’s utterly inspiring living here. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

Everyday Faye finds herself going for a walk to the sea or the racecourse, which she labels as a real hidden gem in Brighton. “You can see all the way to Worthing or down to the pier!” While on her

walking ventures, she takes lots of pictures, but it is that connection between the city and the landscape which seems to really motivate Faye. She summarises, “Where else can you see a sheep then walk into town and see one of your favourite bands?”

Speaking further on her creative process she tells me that she uses acrylic because it dries quickest. Her paintings are not just landscapes inspired by Sussex scenery, but also consist of large crazy florals (as implied in the previews for her feature at AOH). “I go through the rainbow and work through the process of adding colours” she explains. When I comment on how visibly full of passion Faye is, she continues “paint is fully immersive in my life. I’m inspired by everything I see.”

The fun does not end with Artists Open Houses however! Brighton Festival opens with the Children’s Parade which is a free event at 10:30am taking place on Sun 7 May from Jubilee Street to Madeira Drive. For the last five or six years, Faye has helped out with St Luke’s School. “I actually get really emotional about it” she ponders, describing the overwhelming joy of the morning. “And you have all these little people, strands and webs of people, all coming together to make this celebration” where the hard work of building sculptures and making costumes pays off in this party.

On what else she is wanting to see at Brighton Festival and Brighton Fringe, Faye loves the opportunity to see free art across the city most. “How amazing that there is free art and music and sculpture. It’s a coming together of creativity and acceptance. You never know what you are going to see; you’re walking down the street and suddenly a silent disco goes past you!”

From 1 April - 3 September, Out of the Ordinary is a photography exhibition from Roger Bamber at Brighton Museum. As a photographer herself, Faye is keen to visit this. She also says that Mattias SchackArnott’s Groundswell, coming to St Peter’s Square looks like a lovely thing to see (Sat 6-Sun 28 May). The Great Escape is a huge event for the Bridgwater household: “everyday we are deciding where to go and what to see.”

Faye embodies everything that Brighton is about - being inspired by the beautiful city and sea while embracing the creativity it has to offer. To discover more about Faye or purchase her art go to www.fayebridgwater.com

For more information about Artists Open House this May, go to aoh.org.uk

Assassins

Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim

Book by John Weidman

Take a daring, time-bending journey through American history in Sondheim and Weidman’s Tony Award-winning musical.

3 – 24 June

Tickets from £10 Book at cft.org.uk

NABIHAH IQBAL

Brighton Festival Guest Director shares her fascination with sound

By Stuart Rolt

Photo Credit Shahir Iqbal

“It’s the biggest curatorial task that I’ve been offered,” Nabihah Iqbal tells me. “So, it’s been a real pleasure to be involved. They said they were already fans of my work and everything I do.” When Brighton Dome approached the DJ, broadcaster and multi-disciplinary musician about being the Guest Director of England’s largest curated arts festival it was a genuine, and lovely, surprise.

The programme she’s helped assemble reflects her eclectic tastes and the zeal which has resonated throughout her career. She’s a familiar voice to millions, with unbridled music shows on Radio 1, 1Xtra, Asian Network, World Service and 6Music, along with a hugely popular residency on global radio platform NTS. She brings together sounds from across the globe, thrown in with a good helping of perspective and history. She’s also created the Glory To Sound project as Somerset House’s resident artist, curating live talks, music and club nights which brought together historian David Olusoga, DJ Gilles Peterson and pioneering electronic artist SOPHIE.

Her own consolidation as a recording artist arrived in 2017 with the release of her Weighing of the Heart album. It generated considerable critical acclaim, with its finely tuned collection of electronic pop. Touring the world extensively, both as a live act and DJ, she’s played ground-breaking shows at venues as varied as the V&A Museum, MoMA, Warehouse Project and Glastonbury Festival. There’s also been collaborations with Chinese artist Zhang Ding and photographer Wolfgang Tillmans, along with composing music for the Turner Prize and performing at the London Barbican’s Jean-Michel Basquiat retrospective.

Now, Iqbal serves as Brighton Festival’s 14th Guest Director, following luminaries like Brian Eno, Laurie Anderson, Kae Tempest, Lemn Sissay OBE and Anish Kapoor. “They’ve said I’m probably one of the most involved guest directors they’ve ever had. Especially with the music programme, because that’s my focus area.” As soon as she received the brief, work started on building wish-lists of artists and contributors. These comprised of people whose work she believed in and wanted to platform under the festival’s umbrella.

“Everybody basically said yes,” she tells me. “Which was a really nice feeling. I’m really excited to see what Brighton is like during the festival.” Running on Sat 6 – Sun 28 May, Brighton Festival 2023 offers a large-scale celebration of music, theatre, dance, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and community events in venues and locations across Brighton, Hove and Sussex.

Iqbal’s own contributions are uncompromising and at times awe-inspiring. Running inside Brighton Dome for the festival’s opening weekend, The Sleeping Tree is an immersive sound installation which surrounds visitors with the captivating and microscopically accurate noises of the jungle. It’s been created by Invisible Flock, an award-winning interactive arts practice which occupy the intersection of art and technology.

“I wasn’t in touch with them before, and it was Andrew from Brighton Festival that put us in touch. I’m so glad that he did

because I’m so excited to work with them.” Using field recordings made during three months in Indonesia, audiences are able to follow a family of endangered Siamang Gibbons who wake, roam across the jungle and dutifully return to the majestic trees that they’ve lived around for generations. On the Sunday evening, Iqbal and Invisible Flock are creating a unique sound performance in response to the work. Using extra rainforest recordings and original text it will highlight the myriad connections between humans and the forest ecosystem’s living, breathing, changing entities.

Nabihah Iqbal welcomes some special guests to her Glory to Sound events, offering evenings of music, discussion and joy. Award winning broadcaster Anita Rani and acclaimed poet Linton Kwesi Johnson will be joining the Festival Guest Director at Theatre Royal Brighton to explore the power of music and the ways in which it connects us.

Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts welcomes SUROOR on Sat 15 May. This offers the more shape-shifting side of Iqbal’s musical output. “My performance in there is going to be really bassy. It’s a kind of shapeshifting improvised live show.” This evolving collaboration with sound artists Raheel Khan, who works around heritage and society, Paul Purgas, who works with sound, performance and installation and Imran Perretta, who addresses themes like oppression and alienation, has previously performed at Glasgow’s Tramway and London’s Whitechapel Art Gallery.

It’s the first time all four project members have appeared onstage together. This is an exercise in uninhibited creativity, with plenty of droning synths and interesting textures. While it contrasts with most of Iqbal’s solo work, she says she loves it just as much. “I was really into a lot of experimental music, and still am. It’s nice to be up there with fellow Asian artist, because you don’t really see a lot of brown and black people perform this kind of Avant Garde music.”

In a celebration of bass culture, Iqbal performs with one of the original British reggae sound systems on Sun 7 May. Up front is a compelling message of integration and good times from Aba Shanti-I, who has been making walls and floors shake around Europe for three decades and is a mainstay of Notting Hill Carnival. They’ll be joined by industry veteran heavyweight Dennis Bovell MBE, who has been instrumental in the careers of the scene’s most important pioneers as well as being a renowned artist in his own right.

We’re talking just days out from the release of Iqbal’s second album, Dreamer. She’s been diligently working on this glorious slab of dreamy, multi-dimensional electronica and indie pop for almost five years. “It’s going to be amazing. It’s emotional because it’s taken me so long to make it.” The writing process was born in the face of almost overwhelming circumstances. Her studio was burgled in 2020, resulting in the loss of all her work. She was already suffering from burnout and a broken hand. Almost straightaway she had to travel to Karachi for a family emergency. Then, the pandemic struck. What came out of all the adversity was a sense of strength. Iqbal started writing songs again, but in a

more stripped-back aesthetic freedom from the restrictions of her familiar studio set-up.

The result was a selection of songs which are both intimate and playful. Dreamer explores personal identity and sees Iqbal uncover new dimensions to her work. Now she’s in a whirlwind of rehearsals, preparing for a series of live shows which will see her playing her solo work with a full band for the first time. “I’m really looking forwards to performing it live. I can’t wait.”

Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival’s Chief Executive, Andrew Comben, recently described Iqbal as being “intellectually curious,” which is a lovely thing to say about someone. “Isn’t that another way of saying geek?” she says with a chuckle. “I’m just a big nerd, I think. I love learning about things and sharing information, and that’s always been there.” Even at school she was a bit of a geek. Music has always been her favourite thing. Her parents weren’t particularly musical but really pushed all their daughters to learn instruments.

As with so many kids, she started off with the humble recorder. “I took it quite seriously. I played descant and treble… and played in a recorder ensemble.” Branching out into flute, piano and guitar, she’d attended music school every Saturday. Studying ethnomusicology at university, sitar became her main performance medium, along with an electric range of Asian traditional instruments and a brief foray into the Nay – a Turkish reed flute. This fascination with how music theory varies across the world has echoed throughout her career.

Photo Credit Shahir Iqbal

Iqbal is part of a new breed of British broadcasters. The way we consume music has changed in response to an explosion of different outlets. But those wanting to be freed from the algorithmic tyranny of streaming platforms or the sluggish response of the traditional music press are increasingly turning to curators and tastemakers of broadcast media. Iqbal’s own shows, particularly on NTS, broaden horizons and throw open their arms to mysterious and compelling sounds from around the world.

I suggest that the internet has liberated music in some ways, but she’s more reserved about the progress being made. “It’s become democratic for consumption, in the way that anyone can access any kind of music, anywhere and at any time. So, that’s amazing. You can also share your music anywhere. Those are all things I feel grateful for. But at the same time, streaming is not very democratic at all, when it comes to the people making the music and being paid for it.” It’s little surprise that she buys a lot of albums, rather than streaming music. “I know what it feels like where you go on Spotify, and there’s two million streams of your song and you’ve not seen anything from it.”

This month sees the tenth anniversary of her show. And the zeal with which she seeks out new music has not dimished. “I still feel like things feel harder now, because I’m more busy with everything and when you’re younger you just don’t worry as much about things... Life’s changed, obviously, but I still love it.” It gives her the opportunity to communicate her fascination with sounds in all their forms. “The whole point of music is sharing. That’s why it exists. The radio is an amazing outlet because there’s a freedom to play anything I want. It’s not like when you’re DJing in a club, where the aim is to make people dance and feel good.”

There’s every chance that her tenure at Brighton Festival will impact subsequent work. Everything she does relates in some way to her life’s experience. But, for this month, she’s concentrating on spending plenty of time in Brighton and soaking up as much of the Festival programme as possible. “There are a few things which I haven’t chosen because they’re leftovers from lockdown which got postponed, but I’m just as excited about seeing those things as well. And hopefully getting more

inspiration for what comes next, whether that’s collaborations, more curation or more festivals. You just never know what might happen.”

Brighton Festival comes to Brighton & Hove and across Sussex on Sat 6 – Sun 28 May. Nabihah Iqbal’s new album, DREAMER, is available now. She also plays Brighton’s Concorde 2 on Sun 7 May.

www.brightonfestival.org

www.nabihahiqbal.com

Photo Credit Shahir Iqbal

CAPSULE RECORDS: A MUSICAL HAVEN OPENS IN HOVE

Nestled in the heart of Hove, Capsule Records is the newest gem on the local music scene, quickly becoming an essential destination for vinyl aficionados and casual listeners alike. This independent record store and cafe space sets itself apart with an impressive collection of new and rare vinyl records, enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

At Capsule Records, the focus is on music that brings joy, that means celebrating the rich tapestry of genres, including the lovingly curated selection of funk, soul, classic and contemporary jazz, dance, disco, and hip-hop, complemented by a generous helping of electronica.

The store’s welcoming ambiance and their genuine passion for music make it an ideal spot for connecting with fellow enthusiasts, perhaps over a coffee, and immersing oneself in the world of sound.

We had the pleasure of connecting with Lawrence (co-owner with Sarah) to delve deeper into the story behind this exciting new hub and to share in the exuberance of their musical journey.

It’s truly refreshing to witness the opening of a vinyl record store in Hove, complete with the delightful perk of enjoying coffee as you browse through the newest additions! What inspired you to embark on this venture, particularly amid the prevailing economic uncertainties?

In truth, it wasn’t a case of forensically assessing ‘is the time right’. It was more intuitive than that. We only moved to this amazing city in 2020 (having been travelling for a couple of years) and during the lockdowns were figuring out what to do with our lives when we happened across the opportunity with the incredible property we’re in. We’ve always been passionate music people and the stars just seemed to line up with the property being available, the city being musically centric and us looking to align a passion with a day job. Soon after, the idea for Capsule Records started to take shape and we pushed ahead.

That said, it’s clear that vinyl is on a resurgence right now. Because of the superior quality and the sense of ‘owning’ something. But also because the wider implications of streaming on the creators of the music are becoming more widely understood by music lovers who, as a result, are increasingly looking to show their support by buying physical products again. But, for many of us, coming (back) into the market for vinyl records can be a bit intimidating, or overwhelming, and it’s not cheap. So, at Capsule, we want to bring a bit of joy to new

music discovery, and provide a way to make it a more accessible and enjoyable experience.

How would you describe the vinyl record store scene and its changes over the years in our wonderful city?

Tough for us to say given we are fairly recent interlopers! But, it was obvious to us very early on that music is a big part of Brighton & Hove life and, whilst the city has some fantastic and well established record stores already, there’s room for more.

What’s the newest release that you have on vinyl and what’s your favourite record in the store right now?

We take delivery of new stock several times a week, so our selection is being permanently updated. A very recent big seller has been London Brew - inspired by Miles Davies’ album Bitches Brew which was released 50 years ago. The album brings together a dozen or so of the great and the good of the contemporary London jazz scene to pay homage to that great album.

As for our favourite? We’re lucky enough to be able to fill the shop with all our favourites!

What genres of vinyl records do you have the most selection of?

We’ve focused on music that makes us smile! And for the Capsule team, that’s principally music of black origin - so funk, soul, classic & contemporary jazz, dance, disco, hip hop

With a good dollop of electronica thrown in.

Do you have any limited edition or rare vinyl records?

Right now, the shop is full of newly pressed records - new releases but also the classics and the lesser known gems. We have a lot of space for the genres we offer, so can dig deep into the libraries and give lesser known titles and artists some air time which our customers seem to be enjoying.

We don’t currently stock second hand/pre-loved vinyl. Brighton has some fantastic shops doing just that so we’d need to be clear about how we were going to do that differently if we were to dip our toe in…

Can you help me find a vinyl record that matches my personal music taste?

This is our bread and butter. Our ambition is to make new music discovery a real pleasure. So, as well as asking us what we like (or think you would like) we offer a really well curated selection of albums in Collections of like-minded titles. Think Spotify playlists but in the physical world. So, rather than staring at racks organised by A-Z, we chunk them down into smaller Collections - by label, by vibe, by artist or other groupings like, for example, Staff Picks, Summer Sounds, or Influenced by Dilla.

And then our secret sauce is that we put a QR code on every album that links to that album on our website where you’ll find descriptions of the album, notes about the artists and the Spotify version of the album. This means that rather than just asking us, our customers can scan the QR code on their phones to discover all about it and listen to it. Of course, we’re also happy to point out some crackers too….

Can you show me how to properly handle and care for vinyl records?

Sure can. Keep your fingers off the playing surface, using an anti static cloth to remove the dust, keep the record stored upright and away from heat and bright light.

You’ve partnered with Black Mocha coffee, what was the decision behind that?

We wanted to have a coffee area in the shop as a space to enjoy the vibes (the sound quality from our system is awesome!), but also where our community could mingle and chat about music. Brighton & Hove is not shy of coffee shops, so we wanted to work with someone local and needed to provide the very best quality. And we believe we’ve done that with Black Mocha. Paul roasts his wonderful Amber Cup blend just around the corner in Holland Mews, is a music nut himself and has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental impacts.

In that same spirit of working with neighbours, we have also teamed up with City Books to offer a curated range of music related books, and with Sevenoaks to offer a selection of their Project turntable range.

Overall, Capsule Records is a must-visit destination for music lovers in Hove and beyond. With its diverse selection and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to discover new music and connect with fellow vinyl enthusiasts.

CAPSULE RECORDS IS OPEN:

TUES - FRI 11 - 6PM SAT 10 - 6PM SUN 11 - 5PM

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If you would like to qualify as a registered psychotherapist we have various options depending on whether you have a counselling qualification or you’re starting from scratch.

l Starting October 2023.

1 Apr to 3 Sep 2023

Open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm

Closed Mon (except Bank Holidays 10am-5pm)

Free with museum admission

brightonmuseums.org.uk

Punch Line © Roger Bamber / TopFoto

WHOSE ANTHEM IS IT ANYWAY?

24th May, 8pm Ironworks, Brighton £10/8

England’s having an identity crisis. Comedian Charlie George and our house band front a new show for Brighton Festival 2023 by artist Amartey Golding. Together with the audience, they’ll attempt to tackle the impossible task of delivering a new national anthem in just one night.

There might be a lot about being English we’d prefer to distance ourselves from, but can music bring us together!? What better way to usher in England 2.0 than creating a new national anthem.

Drawing on our nation’s rich musical heritage, from Grime to Triphop, Britpop to Bhangra, nothing is off the table in this raucous night of music, comedy and democratic process.

Witness the sound of our nation come to life through Charlie’s wry and witty takes on the state of the nation, quick thinking improv from our house band, and the most important ingredient: the audience! Can Charlie find a way to bring the room, if not the nation, together to create a song that represents what we’re really about?

Amartey describes the show as, “a funny and warm look at the impossible situation of creating one song for an entire nation, but also acts as a vehicle to ask how English people feel about themselves and their nation, grappling with that indefinable and elusive thing that makes England ‘England’.”

Fronted by Charlie George, LGBTQ+ comedian of the year 2019, writer for Charlie Brooker, Joe Lycett and Frankie Boyle, it’s sure to be a hilarious night out.

A new work commissioned by Lighthouse in collaboration with Brighton Festival 2023, with additional support from Arts Council England and Art Fund.

To get your tickets just head over to: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/whoseanthem-is-it-anyway-tickets-590257003587

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POLICE COPS IN SPACE

Ladies and gentlemen, Brighton Fringe Festival is upon us! For the next few weeks, the city of Brighton will be transformed into a vibrant hub of creative energy and expression, as artists from all over the world converge to showcase their talents and captivate audiences with their unique perspectives and performances.

From theatre to dance, comedy to cabaret, and everything in between, the Brighton Fringe Festival offers something for everyone. With hundreds of events taking place across the city,, there is no shortage of entertainment and inspiration to be found.

So whether you're a seasoned Fringe-goer or a first-time visitor, get ready to immerse yourself in the exhilarating and unpredictable world of the Brighton Fringe Festival.

One of our top picks is the highly entertaining show POLICE COPS IN SPACE by Zachary Hunt, Nathan Parkinson and Tom Roe; a three man multi award-winning comedy group from London.

After his father is killed by an evil robot, Sammy Johnson teams up an Alien pilot and his trusty Cyborg, embarking on an intergalactic adventure across the galaxy to find Earth, avenge his father and become the best damn police cop in space.

We caught up with Nathan to get a little insight into the process of making the hit comedy shows.

Can you tell me a bit about yourselves as individuals?

Police Cops are Nathan Parkinson (The tall one), Zak Hunt (The short one) and Tom Roe (The other one). Nathan had chronic fatigue as a teenager and is making up for it now by making the most high energy shows he can, he also has an estranged Oscar nominated Grandfather who he can’t name for legal reasons.

Zak is an Ex-Mormon who's now rebelling against the corny, wholesome image of his yesteryears by getting really into musical theatre and listening repeatedly to Lord of the Rings on Audible (But only the Chapters in the Shire).

Tom first got into acting through his misspent youth participating in Tudor period historical re-enactment events. So aside from being a chick-magnet, Tom was spending his days dressed as a 16th century page and learning all sorts of fascinating historical facts. Ask him about the origin of the phrase ‘On the dole’you won’t be disappointed.

How did you meet and decide that comedy was something you wanted to venture into as a group?

We met at East 15 Drama School where we studied Acting & Contemporary Theatre. We

did a comedy module in which we made a scene that was a parody of 80’s action movies (a rookie cop goes into a shady bar to persuade an old retired renegade cop to help him on a case). That went well and was super fun so when we graduated we decided to expand it into a full play.

How did you come up with the concept and name POLICE COPS?

As we were developing the play one of us said it by accident during an improv. It sounded stupid so we thought ‘yeah, police cops, that’s what we can call our cops in the story, that’s funny and original’. Then we found out that The Simpsons already did it. Doh. I guess people will think they stole it from us… right?

Can you tell me about some of your first shows? How did they pave the way for you to get to where you are now?

We’ve learnt so much about making shows. Police Cops in Space suffered from a classic case of second album syndrome. We basically came up with a really convoluted story about Humans disguised as Robots disguised as Aliens. What could go wrong? After our preview we changed the whole storyline to something way more simple. So we’ve learnt a thing or two about story crafting and definitely something about joke writing. Take this corker of a joke from our

very first draft of Police Cops: ‘Smoke hung in the air like washing on mama’s line…Coming Mama!’ That's what we thought was a joke.

What is at the centre of your stage performances and is there any audience participation?

We usually have a chair in the centre of the stage. It’s good for scenes where a character needs to sit down. I hope other theatremakers don't read this and steal all our secrets. No audience participation. We’re far too egocentric for anyone else to share the spotlight.

Following the original Police Cops, how did you come up with Police Cops in Space and BADASS be thy name?

Police Cops in Space was inspired by a plug with a wire sticking out of it that Zak saw during our brainstorming session. He looked at it and then said ‘What about something with a Robot’. When genius like that strikes you have to go with it. It’s those moments that make you wonder, do we even come up with these things or are we a conduit through which a higher power is speaking?

Badass we were messing around doing a parody of a 90’s gritty social realism kind of thing. When the lines come really organically through parody we always think this could have legs.

Your upcoming musical Police Cops: The Musical is coming to theatre soon; how has your previous work contributed to the creation of the musical?

Well it's an adaptation of our first show. So it’s the same main characters, same style and world. But it's a totally different show. Way more ambitious, storyline is way more sophisticated and the jokes are way funnier (yes, even funnier than the mama's washing joke!). By looping back and working on the original concept but with 10 years experience under your belt, you can create something you never could have created when we first started out. It’s like going back to the same bit of wall you measure yourself against as a kid to see how far you’ve grown. The Musical is like everything we’ve learnt up to now packed into one show.

I can see you've won lots of awards at Edinburgh Fringe, have you done Brighton Fringe before?

Yes we’ve done Brighton a few times. We

always love coming to Brighton, the audiences are really our crowd and we always have great runs here. It’s super cool going from playing the smallest spaces Brighton fringe has to offer to playing the biggest. It’s been a real journey. We’ve made loads of friends with programmers from other venues who come to see the show and even were lucky enough to be seen by the programmer from Cape Town fringe a few years ago which resulted in us going to perform in South Africa 3 times.

What else are you looking forward to in Brighton during Fringe season?

So many great artists and shows to choose from! Super excited about seeing Jamie Finn’s ‘Nobody’s talking about Jamie’ which is on in May. He’s a super funny stand up / musical comedian / theatre-maker who’s doing a work-in-progress of his new theatre comedy show. That’s one to watch out for!

POLICE COPS IN SPACE is at Caravanserai: Luna Parc stage from 5 to 7 May. Tickets at

www.brightonfringe.org

ABSOLUTE. / AIDEN LAVELLE / ALAN FITZPATRICK / ALON SHUMAN / AMBER D / ANCHORSONG (TRU THOUGHTS) /

CAMDEN COX / CARL COX / CARL LOBEN (DJ MAG) / CARLY HEATH / CARLY WILFORD / CASSIMM / CHAD JACKSON / CHARLIE

TEE / CHRIS GOSS  (HOSPITAL RECORDS CEO) / D.RAMIREZ

/ DANNY RAMPLING / DANNY SAVAGE (MIXMASTERS) / DAVE CLARKE / DJ

PAULETTE / DJ RAP / ELLIE TALEBIAN / EVE HORNE (PEAK MUSIC) / FABIO & GROOVERIDER / FRANKIE WELLS (FOUNDATION FM) / GRAHAME FARMER (DT)

/ HANS HESS (THE EGG) / HARRIET JAXXON / HEIÅKO HOFFMANN (BEATPORT)

/ HUXLEY / IRVINE WELSH / JACOB HUSLEY (FABRIC) / JAMES HYPE / JAMES

WILTSHIRE (FREEMASONS) / JANSONS / JENNI COCHRANE (GET AHEAD) / JESS ISZATT (RADIO 1) / JESS KIDD / JFB (3X DMC WORLD CHAMPION) / JOCELYN

BROWN / JOHN TRUELOVE / JON CARTER / JUDGE JULES / JUMPING JACK FROST / JUST HER / KITTY BARTLETT (PERCOLATE) / KRAFTY KUTS / LAU.RA /

LEFTWING:KODY / LISA LASHES / LISA MOORISH / LIZZIE CURIOUS / MADAME

ELECTRIFIE / MARK KNIGHT / MARK VESSEY  (ARTIST) / MIKE KILL  (CEO NTIA) / N1NJA (MOBILEE) / NAOMI BRESSANI / NICO DE TRANSILVANIA / NIKKI MCNEILL (GLOBAL PUBLICITY) / NOLAN / NORMSKI / PAUL HUTCHINSON (CLOCKWORK ORANGE) / POLA & BRYSON / RACHEL MENZIES (BMG PM) / RALPH LAWSON (20:20) / RICHARD EARNSHAW / RIDNEY / SAOIRSE KAVANAGH (OUTERNET LIVE) / SAYTEK / SCOTT GARCIA (KISS FM) / SEAMUS HAJI / SILVIA MONTELLO (CEO AIM) / SIMON DUNMORE / SOPHIE LLOYD / STANTON

WARRIORS / STEVE BRAINES  (HE.SHE.THEY.) / STEVE MAC / STUART KNIGHT  (TOOLROOM) / TAMMY TINAWI (CAVENDISH) / TIMO MAAS / TOM MIDDLETON / TONY ANDREWS (FUNKTION ONE) / WILDBLOOD & QUEENIE + MANY MORE SPEAKERS & ARTISTS

#BMC23 BRIGHTON MUSIC CONFERENCE.CO.UK WHERE BEATS MEAN BUSINESS

ARTISTS OPEN HOUSES MAY FESTIVAL 2023

The UK’s first, and now the largest, event of its kind will be throwing open the doors of homes and studios across Brighton & Hove and Sussex this month. Artists Open Houses (AOH) encourages audiences and artists to connect in a multitude of self-curated, non-traditional art spaces. Around 200 houses and studios will be displaying some of the area’s finest creators and makers.

“Everyone is exceptional in one way or another!” says Festival Director, Judy Stevens. “AOH embraces the entire community, welcoming artists of all ages and at all stages of their careers: school children, university students, emerging artists, residents of seniors’ centres, neuro-diverse artists, artists with mental health issues and with learning disabilities; also established artists and those with national and international reputations.”

Run in parallel with Brighton and Fringe Festivals, AOH’s ethos is wholly inclusive. It encourages participation from artists and makers of all ages, at all stages of their careers and from all parts of the community, including school and college students and artists who might otherwise be excluded or marginalised from the mainstream.

It’s Abi Chambers’ first time exhibiting at AOH, and she is unequivocal about the opportunities it offers people to discover new work, as well as the platform it gives emerging talent. “It’s a great way to meet and see work from other artists. They’ve given me loads of advice and insights. It’s also brilliant to discover other mediums.”

Exhibiting at The Coach House in Kemptown, she’s developed her practice in needle felting. Her work is greatly influenced by the natural environment and the amazing colours provided by nature. She takes a photograph of something and recreates it with wool fibres, evoking a beguiling sense of depth and memory. “For me it’s a feeling, how a moment in time can resonate - and how I can take that feeling and turn it, to produce something which inspires.”

of city-wide schemes as part of Brighton Fringe. Artists Open Houses was then established in 2004, producing a brochure uniting all the individual trails and creating an identity separate from the similarly flourishing Brighton Festival and Brighton Fringe.

While events have grown exponentially, AOH has remained true to its roots, consulting extensively with the 1,000 artists involved annually on the direction moving forwards. Stevens is keen to highlight how everyone is welcomed. “Both artist participants and audiences are welcome to engage with AOH - to explore their own creativity and be inspired by the ideas, techniques and practices of others.”

Patsy McArthur suggests AOH helps the city’s artists and makers to meet and visit each other in their own environments and forge important local creative connections. “It offers an invaluable opportunity to have meaningful dialogue about our work with collectors, trial new ideas and receive immediate feedback. Artists are often introverted souls who hide away in our studios and behind social media. AOH forces us into real conversations with real people in real time, there’s nothing like it!”

She’s showing her latest series, Night Moves, in her own home on Marine Parade. Using drawing and painting, she explores the figure in motion: leaping, soaring, flying and falling, along with the associated emotions which can be triggered in the viewer. Her work conveys a sense of power and energy or potential energy, along with the fragmented and fleeting nature of experience. “For art fans I think they love the casual environment that AOH offers, and I think they get a deeper understanding of who the artists are as people from meeting them in their homes and studios.”

The event can be traced back to 1982, when Ned Hoskins began inviting visitors into his home to view his own work and that of a group of friends. Other local artists started doing the same, forming the Fiveways Artists Group. It proved instantly popular, and other groups began popping up in other neighbourhoods – leading to the creation

There is a joyful garden party mood in the air for this year’s AOH, especially with the Coronation looming and festivities back to full strength after the pandemic. Exceptional art is being shown in some very beautiful places, including Stuart and Mark and Friends’ large meadow garden with mosaics in Fiveways. Seven Dials has Alizeti Creative, which boasts a beautiful outside space to accompany the display of mosaic sculptures, Japanese fabrics, ceramics and jewellery.

Hove’s Art in Bloom features painting, plus sculptures in ceramic, paper and bronze, all hung in a walled garden. Along the coast in Ovingdean, Mike Levy Pots and Prints invites visitors into a purposebuilt home studio, surrounded by a lush garden, where domestic tableware, large garden pots and tiles, posters and cards are for sale. There are more ceramics even further along the coast, in Newhaven, at South Heighton Pottery garden, along with homemade food.

Perhaps one of the most enticing venues is Kemp Town’s The Secret Garden - a huge oasis of green hidden from the city by a high flint wall. With a charming café serving excellent food by TABLE, visitors can marvel at the monumental, crash-landed figures of David Breuer-Weill. Over in Ditchling, Dymocks End Studio is an award-winning Sussex Downs-garden boasting an orchard and an ancient well. This hidden, peaceful place is the setting for sculptures and fabric installations. Or music fans can enjoy a Venezuelan Garden Concert at Encounters in West Hove, accompanied by some delicious food.

Artwork Credit Abi Chambers

Artwork Credit Patsy McArthur

Stevens tells me the Brighton & Hove area has more than its fair share of artists and makers. “It has long had a reputation as being an area of great creativity; but with ever-diminishing affordable studio space in Brighton and Hove, it is increasingly hard for young artists to maintain a base here. It is really important everyone supports their local artist community, buying from local artist and makers, to conserve that presence within our city.”

Renowned designer, Sarah Arnett, showcases colour and exoticism in fabrics, wallpaper and fashion items at The Little Picture Palace in Seven Dials. She promises cocktails in the garden and surprise weekend entertainment, too. RAPTURE at Brunswick’s beautiful Regency Townhouse aims to revolutionise exhibition economics with its profit-sharing model. Matthew Burrows of @artistsupportpledge fame will be giving a talk as part of a programme of RAPTURE events.

Known for its controversially colourful paintjob, Sam Hewitt’s House on Dyke Road is full of the acclaimed artist’s drone-inspired street scenes. Finally, architectural ceramicist Kay Aplin’s unusual tileadorned home (and hugely popular AOH venue) The Ceramic House Gallery in Fiveways hosts contemporary Irish ceramics and sound art, plus a collaboration between artists in Estonia, Ireland and the UK.

There is plenty of patriotic fun to be had at Beacon Hill Windmill in Rottingdean. More Tales From The Windmill brings together 3D illustrated lanterns, puppet theatre, animation, paintings, books, fortune-telling, live folk music, and a 3D Coronation kit to cut out and colour. There’s even a 50’s-style television live-stream of King Charles being crowned. Alternatively, you can see a Chinese brush painting demo at Delicious Delights near Fiveways, immerse yourself in a sound installation and see handmade recorders at Hanover’s The Yellow House, take Vintage Afternoon Tea at The Claremont in Hove or marvel at AI Assisted Portraits by Kaniskult at Kemptown’s Art Rascal.

Making their debut amongst the AOH family this year is Laura Waldusky in Kemptown, who creates painstakingly precise line drawings on paper, some made into 3D sculptures. There’s also Home James at 76 in Fiveways, showing printmaking, ceramics and crafts, with an open garden and Portslade’s The Way of Seeing which features experimental photos from the Sussex countryside.

Although its concomitant to how AOH is presented, the festival does offer an opportunity to views spaces where much of the art is developed and formed, which can often be as rewarding as viewing the works themselves. “The joy of visiting artists in their own homes and studios is that it breaks down the barriers of the more formal gallery structure,” suggests Stevens. “Being able to talk to the artist about their work, sharing ideas, such as how the work is made, what inspires and influences them, is a very different one for both artists and visitors. Plus, there is the added pleasure of seeing artists in their own environments and, yes, it is always nice to visit a lovely house full of interesting art - some even offer tea and homemade cake!”

Artists Open Houses 2023 runs every weekend from Sat 6 – Sun 28 May. For more details, and information on participants, visit: www.aoh.org.uk

Artwork Credit Laura Waldusky

Artwork Credit Sharon Griffin

Artwork Credit Sarah Arnett

Artwork Credit Pantin

Artwork Credit Dimebag

Artwork Credit Will Nash

Photo Credit John Miller

BN1’s TOP PICKS FOR BRIGHTON FESTIVAL

It’s May which can only mean one thing - the dawn of our whole city coming together to showcase the artists, musicians, comedians, actors, dancers, poets and creatives amongst us. Brighton never fails to be colourful and full of surprising, interesting people or events, and Brighton Festival is how to gather that collective spirit. With so much on, we have done some gathering of our own to narrow down the options of what you should see. Here are our Brighton Festival 2023 top picks.

expresses his personal relationship between remembering details and trying to imagine yourself in spaces. This exhibition is free to explore and guaranteed to be rich in nuances.

Sat 6-Sat 27 May, Tues-Fri 12-5pm, Sat 12-4pm

THROUGHOUT FESTIVAL

GALATEA - THEATRE

It is no secret we at BN1 are excited about the world of Galatea coming to Brighton as we spoke to the director and performance artist Emma Frankland for our April edition. Galatea is a Marlborough Production theatre performance written by the Shakespeare contemporary, John Lyly. It is a timeless story of love, joy and acceptance reintroduced to a whole new generation of audiences as a resonant story for modern times. It features a vibrant and diverse cast of LGBTQIA+ and deaf performers, a creation that celebrates diversity, inclusion and the power of community-led creativity. Challenging the status quo when it comes to staging too, as the play is performed in an outdoor, community space - Adur Recreation Ground.

Preview - Fri 5 May, 8pm Sat 6-Sun 21 May (Wed-Sun), 8pm Sun 14 & Sat 20 May, 2pm

A FUTURE MEMORY - VISUAL ARTS

An art exhibition which we imagine to emotionally connect with all viewers, A Future Memory created by Mohammed Adel is inspired by existence and remembrance; family and culture. Based in South East London, Adel considers his British-Bengali identity through paintings. Represented is a comfort but also spaces of awkwardness and ambiguity. A Future Memory will be full of life and colour as Adel

CHILDREN’S PARADE

Ah, the gorgeous parade to kick off the festival season. Year after year the children’s parade never fails to impress the people of Brighton with its noise, vibrancy and cheerful communal pride. School children in their homemade costumes, with their interesting sculptural creations, march from Jubilee Street to Madeira Drive. This year’s theme is One World, encouraging kids to think about culture and the environment to answer questions about how we can learn and grow from each other. It is an important topic which will lead their dances and chants alongside Same Sky artists, teachers and volunteers. If you’re not awake at 10:30am on Sun 7 May, the Children’s Parade will make sure you are with its fabulous raucousness.

Sun 7 May, 10:30am

LITTLE MURMUR - DANCE WORKSHOP

A new dance theatre show by Aakash Odedra Company and The Spark Arts for Children, Little Murmur promises to be a sensory spectacle. We are expecting the extraordinary through displays of movement and confetti. Dance became a mode of expression for Odedra who grew up dyslexic and didn’t feel like he belonged until he found the missing ‘A’ in Aakash. It will be enthralling to see how these ideologies of challenges and overcoming are projected with the aid of design and technology. What’s more, on Sun 14 May at 10am, a 45-minute workshop will encourage children to explore their own identity through movement as inspired by Little Murmur. The workshop was created in partnership with the British Dyslexia Association and is just £5 to take part, with no dance experience needed. Performances will take place at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts

Sat 13 May, 1pm, 3pm & 5pm Sun 14 May, 11am, 1pm & 3pm Workshop - Sun 14 May, 10am

Photo Credit Vic Frankowski

Photo Credit Holly Revell

VAN GOGH ALIVE - VISUAL ARTS

Possibly the most world renowned and enticing art exhibition to come to Brighton, Van Gogh Alive has everyone in the city buzzing, and we are no exception. The immersive experience, celebrating the life and legendary work of Vincent Van Gogh, will be held at the newly refurbished Brighton Dome Corn Exchange. There will even be a brand new Starry Night installation exclusive to Brighton Festival. The technology provides a kaleidoscope of colour, allowing visitors to become part of the recognisable and lesser known paintings. We are expecting the space to be interactive, educational, and entirely captivating. An event that has been in the diary for a long while, and should be in yours too!

Fri 12

May-Sun 6 Aug - Times Vary

WEEK TWO

SUROOR - MUSIC

The gorgeous creative director Nabihah Iqbal is taking the stage for this slot. SUROOR is a four-piece experimental group embracing the interconnectedness between music, art, politics and society. The multidisciplinary performance will surely keep us on our toes; we are unsure whether to lose ourselves in movement or sip red wine and listen hard. Either way, SUROOR will make us feel. With support from Qazi & Qazi who combine intricate harmonies with orchestral-scale arrangements. This is what music is all about - the confusion, delight and overall euphoria of sound. Taking place at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts.

Mon 15 May, 7:30pm

KIZLAR - DANCE

Another world premiere, the themes of Kizlar sound dreamy and mesmerising as the aesthetically driven work tells the story of femininity and masculinity, strength and vulnerability. The all female company combines Turkish folk dance with unique movement from Brightonbased choreographer Ceyda Tanc who has Turkish heritage herself. It challenges gender and celebrates culture which sounds both eloquent and thought-provoking. Performed at the stunning Theatre Royal Brighton.

Tue 16 May, 7:30pm

WEEK THREE

LIVE - COMEDY

There is so much comedy at Brighton Festival, which is an accolade to how this art form is being accredited, but to get a dose of laughter from an eclectic mix of personalities, watch Live at Brighton Festival at Brighton Dome. A night with an impressive line-up of comedy’s biggest names: Nish Kumar, Chloe Petts, Thanyia Moore and others, means you get to see plenty of stand up under one roof. With regards to the jokes, who really knows what to expect? But with it being the biggest comedy night in Brighton, entertainment is guaranteed.

Fri 19 May, 7:30om

MOBY DICK - FAMILY THEATRE

When it comes to choosing something for the family to see, we are spoilt for choice between visual masterpieces and circus spectaculars, but maybe this Plexus Polaire performance will be a wise pick. Brought to the UK for the first time by the Norwegian/French company, it has already received immaculate acclaim. The adaptation of the classic tale of a friendly whale will provide warmth for parents and wonder for the children. The unique artistry brings seven actors, fifty puppets, video projections, orchestra and of course, a whale to Theatre Royal Brighton.

Thu 25 & Fri 26 May, 7:30pm Sat 27 May, 2pm & 7:30pm

MUNROE BERGDORF - BOOKS AND SPOKEN WORD

Literature is becoming a more inclusive world on a daily basis, with people from all walks of life being able to tell and publish their stories on platforms that have not always been available. By simply reading a plethora of perspectives, we are becoming a more empathetic society. It is important, cool, dare I say trendy to tell stories and speak about books! Transitional is labelled heartfelt and intimate as readers enter the life and questions of Munroe who shares how to heal and how to make society stronger and prouder. She is an activist, model, writer and broadcaster, plus won an honorary doctorate for campaigning for transgender rights by the University of Brighton. She has recently spoken about her book on the Radio 1 Breakfast Show and Channel 4’s Late Night Lycett, so the fact that we have Munroe with us is a real honour. While we are yet to read Transitional, we can’t wait to hear Munroe speak at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts and to feel inspired.

Sat 27 May, 7:30pm

OUR ROOTS - CLUB NIGHT

Last but not least, it wouldn’t be a festival without dancing the day away, long into the far away night. Our Roots is Brighton Dome’s first ever club night hosted by Brighton’s own legendary queer club nights UOKHUN? Polyglamorous and Gal Pals. We want colour. We want dance music. We want chaos. We are sure Our Roots will provide all of that and more. The event is all about inclusivity and celebration featuring DJ sets from BISHI and Nabihah Iqbal which will make Brighton History. You don’t want to miss out on that. See you on the dancefloor.

Sat 27 May, 10pm-3am

To discover what else is on at Brighton Festival, and to purchase tickets to any of the events, go to BRIGHTONFESTIVAL.ORG

Little Murmur

Photo Credit Angela Grabowska

THE TIGER LILLIES

FROM THE CIRCUS TO THE CEMETERY

BY STUART ROLT

Photo Credit Andrey Kezzyn

It’s not really a surprise that Adrian Stout from The Tiger Lillies is in another country when he picks up the phone. With large scale tours rare for them in Britain, you’re more likely to find this unconventional cabaret trio performing all over the world.

“We’ve always been able to find places to play in Europe, because we’re quite small and mobile,” the multi-instrumentalist tells me. “Even back in the 90s we’d do quite a lot of shows in places over here, and we’ve got further afield as time has gone on.” They’ve already been to Romania and Hungary in the last month. Tonight, it’s Innsbruck in Austria, then on to Germany, Switzerland and Czechia.

Formed in 1989 by singer-songwriter Martyn Jacques, who has since been joined by Stout and drummer Budi Butenop, The Tiger Lillies have a singular mission to study the hidden fringes of human experience. Their smart use of theatrics, videography and elaborate staging has seen them attract a sizeable following all over the world. “We have slowed down a little bit,” Stout admits. “In the early 2000s we were doing 250 gigs a year, between theatre shows and concerts. We’re trying to back it up a bit, so we don’t kill ourselves.” Later this year sees them taking productions to as far afield as Ecuador, Columbia, and America. Although soon you won’t need to dust off your passport to catch them live as the next two months sees them tracing their way around Britain with a Bernard new live show.

Originally intended as a casual retrospective, From The Circus To The Cemetery brings together many of the Olivier Award-winning band’s most loved numbers and some sparkling unreleased material. Calling in at Hove’s The Old Market on Thurs 1 - Fri 2 June, it promises a more stripped back affair. “This is going to be just songs. When we initially started planning this tour, we wanted to play our greatest hits. But recently, we’ve started putting new numbers in again. Mainly because Martyn doesn’t want us to become some kind of jukebox playing the classics.”

A giddy mixture of vaudeville, punk, folk and exotic cabaret, the trio are relishing the opportunity of performing favourite numbers on home soil. “We do usually play with a big set, costumes and props, but it is nice to concentrate on performing songs and reacting to the audience. We’ve always moved between those two worlds - from where there’s a big production and other people involved, to just the three of us on stage.”

The last three decades have taken the band on the road with shows as diverse as a rebellious version of A Christmas Carol to an adaptation of the wild cautionary tales found in German children’s classic, Struwwelpeter. They’ve done over 40 albums and created shows with everyone from circus performers to world-renowned choreographers in their visually-rich, narrative driven productions. Unsurprisingly for a band founded on European folk traditions and unapologetic social commentary, the war in Ukraine has offered a lot of inspiration recently.

“We’ve got friends who were doing a performance arts piece in our Edinburgh show a couple of years ago, and now they’re now on the front line. It’s unbelievable.” Until recently, the band were regularly performing in Ukraine and Crimea, as well as working with Ukrainian performers on several different projects. “We also go to Russia a lot, and there’s plenty of people who don’t want the war. I know people who used to come and see us in Moscow, who had to go and live in Azerbaijan because they didn’t want to get drafted.” The countless faces of the conflict have been providing a rich source of inspiration, as the band attempt to find some way of quantifying the horrors affecting so many of their friends.

“We’ve been writing a lot about what’s been going on, and how it’s been taken over by the gangster government of Putin and his cronies. Martyn just wanted to express how he feels about the situation, as he does. We wanted to find some way of processing it, and hopefully we can do some good in any way that we can.”

Those songs are being turned into an album, with proceeds going to charities working in the region. The band are also headed to Kiev and Lviv for some shows in July. “We can’t do much, but we are going to go over there and find out what people are going through on the ground. That’s going to be eye-opening.”

The Tiger Lillies have always tackled difficult themes head on, pushing at the edges of civilisation to see if anything might push back. Theirs

is a twisted fantasy world, where Dietrich, Brecht and Brel walk hand in hand through darkened streets. Jacques’s unique falsetto floats alongside Stout’s ethereal use of theremin and musical saw while everything is underpinned by Butenop’s uncompromising percussion. The eschewing of boundaries in their lyrics spills out to their approach to music genres. With ease they can jump from oompah bangers to heartfelt torch ballads without missing a beat.

Across the broad scope of their back-catalogue, this genre-bending trio evoke the spirit of the Wermer Republic’s nightlife. This almost mythical period was characterised by an abandonment of conservative values and social norms. The Great War, revolutions and a rise in extremism increasingly compelled young urban Germans to express opposition to the surrounding nightmares through subverting art and identity.

After the Second War, this spirit would flourish again, in places like an isolated West Berlin and Eastern Europe. “We used to play a lot in places which were on the edge… former Soviet countries like the Czech Republic and Hungary. We’ve also played in Russia a lot. The people who would come to our shows saw that their society was on the edge of one thing or the other. Our music has always responded to that slightly unsteady nature of society.”

Stout says Jacques is still very influenced by things like the Wermer years and Threepenny Opera. This explicitly manifests in the band’s use of expressionist style make-up, which turns its back upon naturalism. He tells me Marlene Dietrich was a very good musical saw player. “When I was in Hamburg in the 90s, we used to play in a small cabaret bar, and a woman there had learnt to play it from watching Marlene Deitrich films.”

The Tiger Lillies inhabit a bawdy fantasy world of murderers, prostitutes, and dope fiends. God turned his back upon the subjects of their songs long ago, leaving them to be consumed by hubris and despair. But while Jacques observations are sometimes confrontational, they remain curiously non-judgemental. No matter how desperate their circumstances or foul their actions, these drinkers, oafs and perverts were all driven to a dead end by something.

There is a question about why British people tend to shy away from the peculiar, macabre and sinister side of their cultural traditions, while our European neighbours gleefully continue to embrace them. “People on the continent tend to hold on more to their folk music, whereas our tradition has been pushed to the side of society. We’ve replaced that kind of thing into soap operas, where we find the visceral thrill of society on the edge.” He points out that England is a densely populated nation, so perhaps many don’t want to hear so much about the horror outside our door. “They want to watch it on the telly, where it’s safe.”

beautiful voice, and he does enjoy creating an atmosphere around some quite tragic subjects. It’s about finding that kind of contrast. The beautiful can enhance the darkness. We’ve always been trying to walk that very fine line between the grotesque and the gorgeous.”

The Tiger Lillies play Hove’s The Old Market on Thurs 1 - Fri 2 June.

www.theoldmarket.com

www.tigerlillies.com

Photo Credit Andrey Kezzyn

Probab y the b y club in Brigh if not the country

Romesh Ranganathan

every saturday night at ironworks studios tickets from £10

scan for tickets

ironworks-studios.co.uk

The Enchanting World of Secret Garden Party: A Festival Experience Unlike Any Other

Picture this: a sprawling, idyllic landscape, bursting with colour and life, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. A place where creativity, music, and celebration come together to create an unforgettable, otherworldly experience. Welcome to the Secret Garden Party, a festival that will leave you spellbound.

For those who have never had the pleasure of attending and for those yearning to return, this year’s organisers promise to take you on a journey through the magic of the Secret Garden Party festival. From its inception to its unique attractions and unforgettable moments, let us remind you why this enchanting gathering is a must for any festival aficionado.

After a brief hiatus, the Secret Garden Party festival made a triumphant return in 2022, and the excitement for this year’s event is palpable. In this interview, we chat with the festival founder ‘Head Gardener’, Freddie Fellowes on what led to the festival’s brief end, its rebirth, and the improvements and innovations for 2023.

The founder explains that the decision to end the festival in 2017 was due to a disconnect between the organisers and the audience. The festival had become a “bucket list” item, and the revolving door of attendees made it difficult to understand the value exchange. The return in 2022 was inspired by a film screening request, which evolved into a small reunion garden party to celebrate the festival’s 20th anniversary. From there, the festival embraced a new direction as a social enterprise.

The direction of this form of business for SGP is to help in the ‘rehabilitation of at risk and disenfranchised individuals via the arts’. In accordance with the rules of being a Social Enterprise at least 65% of profit will go to front line organisations in these sectors. The charities will be chosen by the artists playing and the people coming, and the remainder will go toward in-house partnerships and apprenticeship schemes (such as Bridges For Music).

For 2023, the festival has addressed waste disposal issues, with new contracts for compostable cups and food stalls. There are also exciting changes, such as a new stage by the small swimming lake, and improvements to the popular pagoda stage. Art installations will be heavily influenced by a 70s and 80s sci-fi feel, in line with the festival’s ‘New Hope’ theme. “It is a real Declaration of Independence as we are ensuring that Secret Garden Party (Version 2.0) is a force for good by officially becoming a Social Enterprise.”

In terms of inclusivity, the festival is proud to be a sex-positive space, “everyone should be” as Fellowes states, with areas dedicated to promoting a responsible approach to drugs and alcohol, “harm reduction and welfare are a vital part of hosting any event” this includes

the ground-breaking introduction of MAST drug-testing. As the cost-of-living crisis impacts festival-goers and production alike, the festival is working to offer affordable ticket payment options, and on-site kitchen facilities to help mitigate costs.

With a lineup as diverse as its attendees, there’s always something to immerse yourself in, which brings me to the headline acts this year and they’ve really pulled it out the bag with this bunch including the Libertines, Underworld, Roshin Murphy, Fat Freddy’s Drop, 2ManyDJS, De La Soul and an emotional Faithless DJ set from Sister Bliss. Amongst the other music stages you can drop in and out of folk artists, world music acts, electronic and dub to name some making the festival’s eclectic mix a testament to the creative ethos that underpins the event. It’s not just about the music, though; there’s a wealth of other surprises and secret performances, whimsical activities, and immersive installations, all designed to ignite your imagination.

Memorable moments from past years include a stage invasion by Florence and the Machine during a Grace Jones performance, “Grace welcomed the surprise with open arms, and the rest of the set was nothing short of spectacular. Florence spent the performance crouching between Grace’s legs, who in turn stroked her head in a monumental manner as they sang together. The scene was completely mesmerising.”

As for the future, the festival’s ambitions include “expanding its social enterprise and integrating apprenticeship and student schemes into the site”. Fellowes hopes to strengthen the connection with local communities and charity partners.

With a capacity of around 20,000, the Secret Garden Party festival is set to provide an intimate and unforgettable experience for attendees in 2023. The founder’s enthusiasm is contagious, and we can’t wait to see what this next chapter in the festival’s story will bring.

For those who have yet to experience the enchanting world of the Secret Garden Party, now is the time to embark on an adventure like no other. A place where magic is tangible, and creativity runs wild, the festival will leave you with memories to treasure and stories to tell for a lifetime.

For those who have already been touched by the magic of the Secret Garden Party, this is a reminder of the experiences that await you when you return. So, don your most fabulous attire, gather your tribe, and come together to celebrate the magic, mystery, and wonder that is the Secret Garden Party.

SGP 20-23 July 2023

Photo Credit Giles Smith

© Andrew Whitton

win tickets to secret garden party

Episode XVII: A New Hope

Win Tickets to the Secret Garden Party - 20-23 July 2023

It's your chance to win an unforgettable experience at the most exclusive event of the year - The Secret Garden Party! We're giving away a pair of full weekend tickets, with camping, to our lucky readers, and it could be YOU!

This once-in-a-lifetime event is shrouded in mystery and brimming with surprises. From mesmerising live performances to captivating art installations, the Secret Garden Party promises to sweep you off your feet and transport you to a realm of pure imagination.

Don't miss your chance to frolic amongst the flora and fauna, and lose yourself in the magic of the Secret Garden Party!

How

to Enter:

1. Follow our magazine’s Instagram account @bn1magazine for updates and winner announcements

2. Go to www.bn1magazine.co.uk and follow instructions to enter your email for 1x entry. It’s that simple!

Contestants must be over 18 . Ts&Cs apply GOOD LUCK!

Photo Credit Joshua Atkins © Andrew Whitton

© Andrew Whitton

THE GREAT ESCAPE HOT PICKS

BY AISHA KABIR

ÁINE DEANE

The 22-year-old singer-songwriter launched her career while enrolled in her last year of undergraduate studies. Her videos gained hundreds of thousands of followers as a result of the time she invested in creating and posting unique songs from her bedroom. In a fairy-tale-like turn of events, stars like Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran and Little Mix decided to repost her videos to their own fan bases. Since receiving her degree, Áine has gone on to create her debut EP, The Handmedowns, go on tour with James Bay and sell out her first headlining performance in London. At the start of the year, BBC Radio 1’s music of the week included the EP’s title track. After a second headline performance at London’s Omeara, Áine will then open for Sam Smith at the Royal Albert Hall.

ASK ELLIOT

This four-piece indie band, formed in 2018, from Liverpool is revolutionising the music industry with a unique sound and exciting live shows. They skilfully combine indie, pop, rock, country and disco, with each member contributing their own distinctive influences and backgrounds, to produce a sonic tapestry which is both distinctive and contagious. Ask Elliot have grown since their debut, with songs like Flowers of White and Settle Down demonstrating the band’s diversity and originality. Ask Elliot’s live performances are not to be missed; they excite and enthral listeners with their passion and intensity on stage. The band comprises a lead vocalist, two guitarists, a bassist and a drummer.

ELLA MORE

In the neo-Soul section of the UK, Ella More is a blossoming secret flower. The Birmingham singer-songwriter uses music as therapy, putting any troubles to rest while also releasing the weight of the world from her shoulders. She gives listeners a window into her life via her open, soul-baring lyrics. She doesn’t like to fit into neat categories or rigid frameworks; instead, she may weave in many topics and aspects of her personality through melodies and impulsive runs that are never the same. Her openness about former relationships, happy moments, and her plans for the future makes it seem like upward mobility is the only option.

KAI BOSCH

The music that 20-year-old Kai Bosch creates is staged in the shadows and infused with a subdued yet intense sense of emotional drama. It makes a lot of sense if you look at where he’s going rather than where he’s been. The singer’s upcoming first self-titled EP is beholden to the quest of sensation. Bosch moved from a peaceful hamlet in Cornwall to the vibrant nightlife of Berlin at the age of 17, before migrating to London. The EP’s four tracks wear their emotions on their sleeves, conjuring hazy lost evenings and brief moments caught mid-breath, nodding to the nocturnal sensibilities of James Blake and the clear picture-painting of Lorde.

SPOTLIGHT

MASTER PEACE

The new output from Master Peace reflects a desire to create music which transcends trends and stands unaffected by the machinations of the music business. It is ambitious in both scope and sound. For his remarkable new EP, Peace Of Mind, Master Peace is poised to take the dazzling and unwavering next step in his unrivalled creative path. He credits influential indie acts like Arctic Monkeys and Bloc Party for being crucial to his musical development. He just finished a headline tour and a supporting slot with Nova Twins, which uncompromisingly lived up to his reputation for wild live performances.

I. JORDAN

One of the most intriguing musicians in dance music, London-based I. Jordan is a dedicated follower of upbeat, emotionally charged dance music. This artist released their first original music in 2019 with an immediate effect after managing DJ residencies and organising DIY events around the UK for the better part of a decade. They were selected as a major name to watch across the board after an initial run of singles on the Local Action label and raucous live performances on Boiler Room and Keep Hush, with early backing coming from Ben UFO, Caribou, Sherelle, and more.

ARTHUR HILL

By drawing inspiration from vintage rhythms, Arthur adds fresh ideas to timeless tunes. He has a talent for writing infectious choruses, and you’ll quickly be tapping your feet and singing along – even after only hearing his music once. With the release of his songs, How About Then and F You, Arthur continued the path of love tales, heartbreak and the sense of not being good enough. Emotions which everyone listening can identify with. Although largely in the pop genre, his music incorporates elements from a range of influences and offers a bold nostalgic feel.

49TH & MAIN

This Irish indie-pop duo, made up of vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Paddy King and producer Ben O’Sullivan, are from Kilkenny. The two first became friends when they met in school and, over a particularly sunny summer, started working on music together; with O’Sullivan experimenting with acoustics and learning how to record King’s guitar. Since then, 49th & Main have been on a roll, racking up more than 40 million streams and more than a million monthly Spotify listeners. The duo has gained recognition from several sectors of the industry throughout time, notably Red-Light Management, where they rapidly joined its strong worldwide roster.

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH THE GREAT ESCAPE

A guide to some of our best eating spots as your venture from venue to venue

By Noor Sheika

Brighton’s Great Escape Festival is once again upon us, and hundreds of acts are preparing to perform at this year’s many venues. If you’re visiting Brighton for the festival, or are a local looking to get involved in the festivities, you’ll most definitely work up an appetite going from place to place. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of spots to grab a bite and a drink along the way, and we’ve gathered our favourites. Brighton has long been known as a hub for vegans and seafood-lovers alike, so there’s something in the area for everyone, whether you’re plant-based or not. If you’re in between shows and need a drink to perk you up, there are cocktail and wine bars amidst the classic pubs in the heart of the city.

Starting all the way up by the Brighton Railway Station on Queens Road, is Sunoso. For those coming to the city via train, any spot along Queens Road is a convenient stop-off on the way to your final destination. A tiny café style location, Sunoso offers seating or takeaway, whatever works for you. Pick up one of their Donburi bowls that come with a number of toppings and fresh vegetables; the perfect light bite. Walk a little further up and you’ll find yourself at The Hope and Ruin, which is actually one of the venues hosting acts at The Great Escape. Take a seat in the eclectic interior for a pint or two before heading upstairs, where shows and club nights are held. The Hope and Ruin also houses Beelzebab, an entirely vegan kitchen serving seitan-based kebabs and hot dogs seven days a week.

Komedia is another venue and is situated on Gardner Street. They’ll have Great Escape events on in their basement for a total of four nights, and the attendees are encouraged to grab a snack from their menu or browse the many, many drinks they serve at the bar. Since they’re known best as a cinema, they’ve got some cinema classics like nachos and hot dogs, but their burgers and sides are worth a try too.

Just a couple of minutes around the corner is Ten Green Bottles, a picturesque wine bar with an expansive selection of wines by the glass or by the bottle. Don’t shy away from trying a glass or two as a pre or post show treat. The ambient lounge area makes a lovely destination for an evening outing.

Of course, The Brighton Dome is hosting the headline acts of The Great Escape, so there’s no doubt you’ll be wanting some time to recharge if you’re getting involved in the festival. Opposite the Dome on Church Street is Pompoko, a small Japanese restaurant with fantastic food at modest prices. The menu is simply huge, but the experience at Pompoko is always a good one, whether its lunch, dinner or just a couple of snacks. If you’re heading in the direction of The Lanes, pop into Bar Valentino on the way for a unique cocktail overlooking the Pavilion Gardens. Described as ‘a sanctuary of distinction’, it is exactly that. Watch people and buskers from the balcony as you enjoy some separation from the chaos below.

Let’s venture into The Lanes, which will you believe it, have even more bars, pubs and restaurants for you to try out. Starting with a hidden gem on Prince Albert Street, Shogun Ramen is easy to miss. Take a peek in the window and if you’re drawn into the intimate atmosphere, choose from meat or vegetable-based ramen dishes, curries and traditional Japanese side dishes. Nearby is Black Lion Street, incidentally home to The Black Lion, a pub which frequently puts on club nights with DJs and other live music. Pop in for a drink in their snug beer garden or get a few plates to share between friends. The area is full of TGE venues, so you’ll be within walking distance of wherever you’re off to afterwards.

Our last destination is East Street, which is a hub for great music, food and entertainment. Known as one of ‘Brighton’s oldest boozers’, dating from 1568, East Street Tap is a popular starting point for most nights out. It’s no surprise that patrons often end up staying for the stellar vegan menu and constantly changing array of craft beers. The menu shows off several burgers and sides made by The Mad Robot, who specialise in vegan junk food. This is the ideal place to visit before or after a gig, either for a meal, a pint, or both.

East Street also has loads of options when it comes to food, and most of them make for the perfect takeaway meal to nosh on while walking from point A to B. There’s What The Pitta, which has been the subject of many a positive review over the years. They concentrate on keeping their carbon footprint low and their quality high. If you have some gigs lined up in the area, pay a visit to What The Pitta for an on-thego lunch. Last, but most certainly not least, The Bok Shop. Always reliable and always flavourful, their chicken (and vegan chicken) never disappoints. Another apt choice for a day walking around Brighton, go pick up one of their flavourful choices and get yourself out on the town.

Moving on from the quaintness of the North Laines to North Road, the location of Bison Beer and the Fountainhead, both pubs which are well loved by residents of the area. Bison Beer focuses on their very own small batch brews and signature burgers, which they make in collaboration with SLAM BBQ. Check out the full menu if you’re interested in a craft beer or cocktail along with your meal. If you’re bar hopping to pass time between gigs, Fountainhead is right next door and their 100% plant-based kitchen is great, whether you’re wanting a small plate or a full pizza. Made in-house by Flower Power Pizza, their snacks are great for a mid- pub crawl bite.

Beelzebab at The Hope & Ruin

What The Pitta on East Street

Hello Brighton

BLACK DEER FESTIVAL

The award-winning Black Deer Festival today reveals the first wave of artists on the bill for the 2023 edition of the festival, taking place at Eridge Park, Kent on June 16- 18 2023. From established and legendary artists to fresh, exciting newcomers, the line-up is an eclectic and diverse mix of incredible talent from the world of Americana, Folk, Country and beyond.

Priding themselves on a true sense of community, one that is accessible to all, Black Deer Festival is on a mission to bring the authentic Americana way of life to the UK, with festival-goers able to immerse themselves in the music, food and storytelling of a culture like no other

Fri 16 June will see the exhilarating and unique offering of Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats performing, as well as Americana pioneers Midlake, GRAMMY Award winning Lucinda Williams, Bonny Light Horseman and more. All the way from Colorado, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats effortlessly weave the sonic styles of folk, R&B and rock ‘n’ roll into a genre-hopping sound that flourishes even more in a live setting.

On Sat 17 June, Black Deer will welcome The Pretenders, one of the most enduring acts of the rock era, Bonnie Raitt – fresh from claiming

the prestigious ‘Song of the Year’ at the 65th Grammy Awards – as well as The Teskey Brothers to name a few.

Closing out the festival on Sunday 18th June is the tender folk rock duo Bear’s Den, country music icon Steve Earle and other incredible names from Americana and Country. Bear Den’s recent album Blue Hours was the duo’s most personal record to date, and also one of the best-selling Americana releases of 2022.

An impressive main stage line-up aside, Arkansas Porch Sessions and The Roadhouse return as other popular areas for music, storytelling and food. The Young Folk area will also return with a whole host of fun activities for all the family.

Founders of the Black Deer Festival, Gill Tee and Debs Shilling, add: “We are thrilled to reveal the first names for Black Deer Festival 2023. Bonnie Raitt, Nathaniel Rateliff, Lucinda Williams, Allison Russell… it reads like a who’s who of Americana music past and present. We can’t wait to welcome our community back into the deer park to enjoy it all!”

TIER 2 DAY & WEEKEND TICKETS ON SALE NOW

www.blackdeerfestival.com/tickets

Photo by Ken Friedman

RED ROOSTER FESTIVAL 2023

Set in the idyllic Suffolk countryside is Euston Hall, a historic home set in 10,500 acres of landscaped gardens, parkland, ancient broadleaf woodland and agricultural farmland. Once a summer this venue transforms into a home for joyous celebration. This festivity of family friendly fun, folky music and fantastic food is otherwise known as Red Rooster. In 2023, Red Rooster returns for its 9th weekend on Thurs 1 - Sat 3 June where music lovers can truly embrace nature and a collective spirit of enjoyment which is at the core of festivals. Plus kids under 12 go free with two paying adults!

With a line-up that is specific to cajun, rock n roll, soul, blues, roots and country music, you already know the vibe. Expect funky guitars and lots of hats as you immerse in the music which instructed everything which came after it. Amongst the artists are Christone “Kingfish” Ingram who takes the Saturday headline slot on the main stage. This artist, originally from Mississippi, was Grammy nominated for his 2019 debut album, and his 2021 album 662 was Grammy-winning. By having this success at only 23 years old, he has been defined as the blue voice of his generation. Rolling Stone magazine says his sound encompasses B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix and Prince.

On the Friday night main stage slot will be Fantastic Negrito, who has taken home three consecutive GRAMMYs for Best Contemporary Blues Album. This star takes audiences on a journey through history through his music. His new album, White Jesus Black Problems, is an exhilarating ode to the power of family and the enduring resilience of our shared humanity. The collection is bold and thought provoking, grappling with racism, capitalism, and the very meaning of freedom itself. It challenges our notions of who we are, where we come from, and where we’re headed. To hear some of these songs live will completely enhance the power of his music, a euphoria not to miss.

Also performing live music will be His Lordship, Take Me To The River All-Stars, Jesse Malin,

Ashley Campbell, and a whole host of other names. Use Red Rooster as an opportunity to seek out your favourite up and coming talent. Within this realm, you will find artists who are truly passionate about what they do, connecting to audiences through their musical magic.

On top of the music, there is a whole line-up of activities which are a combination of getting stuck in, or taking a sit back to relax. Perfectly situated next to a river, the festival encourages wild water swimming with a lifeguard on duty for you to enjoy a refreshing dip in the sun. Or, if diving in isn’t your thing, there are also Pedalos to hire so that you can still submerge in the natural landscape. Another way to embrace the surroundings is by taking part in a selection of short workshops hosted by Back to The Wilderness.

While the whole festival is a family-friendly zone, Mardi-Gra Parades promises the perfect paradise for children to get into the party spirit with motivational dancing,

colourful face paints, games, climbing frames and costumes. Within the festival site you can also find vintage stores, a barber shop, dog training and even spa treatments! Red Rooster truly is its own creative village where you can explore all your needs and wants.

Of course, a festival wouldn’t be so without booze and BBQs to go with the rhythmic blues. Red Rooster will present you with that tough decision any festival goer has to make - which award-winning street food trader to dine with?! Businesses such as internet famous The Mac Factory, Brighton’s own DeadGood Burritos, and Wafflestick, as seen at Disneyland, will all congregate to bless crowds with mouthwatering food choices.

Also explore the Red Roaster Zone, curated by BBQ partners Smoke & Fire Festivals. The Red Roaster Zone has sit down banquets across the weekend, but you can book a place at the Thursday Crayfish Broil - a feast like no other! The all-you-can-eat crayfish feast which allows you to immerse in the

Photo Credit Ed Haynes

ultimate Southern dining experience epitomises how Red Rooster offers experiences like no other festival.

Ready to book your ticket? You’ll be pleased to know that camping is included in the price so you just need to pack up your tent and get your dancing shoes on. Weekend ticket holders can set up camp from Thurs 1 June from 9am through to Sun 4 June at midday to make the most of soaking in the atmosphere. Or, Saturday-only ticket holders can still camp overnight until Sunday midday, so there is no need to rush off home. Pre-erected yurts and belle tents are the perfect solution to a boutique night sleep under the stars. To view the full details for accommodation options go to www.redrooster. org.uk/stay.

Red Rooster comes to Euston Hall, Suffolk on Thurs 1 June - Sat 3 June. For more information and to book your tickets go to www.redrooster.org.uk

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9am–8pm

Friday, Saturday 9am–9pm Sunday, Monday closed

WE OFFER A DAILY- CHANGING MENU OF AUTHENTIC ASIAN CUISINE

MAIN DISHES

a wide range of curries and traditional dishes from across the region

SAVOURY SNACKS from spring rolls and chicken wings to samosas and sushi

WEEKEND SPECIALS

singapore laksa and papaya salad

ASIAN DRINKS speciality teas and coffees, bubble tea

FRESH SANDWICHES

vietnamese banh-mi, paratha wraps, filled brioche rolls

SWEET SNACKS

asian cakes, fresh pastries, ice creams and sorbets

HOMEMADE DESSERTS

kheer, yoghurts, milkshakes and lassi

ASIAN BEERS

range of bottled beer, Cobra on tap

for updates on our daily menu, please follow us at x

ALBOURNE ESTATE

Acclaimed Sussex wine producer gets ready for summer

Now is the time for Sussex wine. Although a relative newcomer upon the world stage, the county’s vineyards are bettering centuries-old producers with a mix of passion, innovation and determination.

Started in 2010 by husband-and-wife team, Alison Nightingale and Nick Cooper, Albourne Wine Estate has become renowned for offering an exhilarating range of tipples. While Sussex has received recognition for its sparkling wines for some time, still varieties are rapidly grabbing serious attention.

“Since our first harvest 10 years ago we’ve always produced still and sparkling wines and the quality of the still wines is definitely up there with the sparkling!” Alison tells me. “Having the flexibility to use our grapes to produce a range of wine styles is a key part of maximising the quality of each of them and minimising juice wastage.”

In 2015, their second year of production, the estate won UK Wine of the Year with a Bacchus wine. The range, quality and reputation of Albourne Estate wines has seen their offerings grow to include traditional and charmat method sparkling wines, white and red still wines and one of the first English Vermouths.

Located just outside Hassocks, with magnificent views of the South Downs National Park and only eight miles from Brighton, Albourne Estate’s 44,000 vines across around 30 acres enjoy the perfect growing location. Alison says the area’s mixed geology, comprising sandstone and chalk plays a big part. “Coupled with our moderately warm climate, and proximity to the coast, it provides the necessary environment for grape cultivation. Our location is also a

huge bonus, the proximity to the urban areas of London and Brighton makes us more accessible for visitors.”

As well as creating a sensational selection of wines, Alison and Nick are keen on welcoming visitors to come and see what they do on the estate. Alongside establishing the vineyard, they’ve also built a winery and stunning new Tasting Room. “Building a significant wine tourism element to our business allows us to engage with our customers and share with them our beautiful little corner of the South Downs. Whether visitors are local residents or long-haul tourists, engaging with them and sharing our passion for wine and the local ecosystem brings us great satisfaction.” This kind of wine tourism also supports the growth of the English wine industry, and its overall reputation. A big part of their ethos is to be inclusive in their approach, engaging with customers and creating an experience which is enjoyable, informative and accessible.

In the last few years Albourne Estate has expanded its visitor experience to encourage more people to visit and learn about their range and English wine in general. “We run our tours and wine tastings so people can enjoy a relaxed but informative introduction to our wines and how they are produced and gain a greater appreciation of our unique style of wines and the range of wines we produce.”

Their Tasting Room and shop are open April to September, offering informal walk-in wine tastings, guided wine tastings and wine sales. Visitors can even purchase wine by the glass or bottle to enjoy whilst overlooking the vines.

Guided wine tasting events run every Saturday, where you can explore the true diversity of Albourne wines with a passionate

and knowledgeable team member. There are also two delicious Sussex sampler food boards on offer, so visitors can experience some of Sussex’s wonderful charcuterie and cheese. “We have always worked with local food producers serving local Sussex cheeses and charcuterie as part of our wine tastings and at our Tasting Room. This helps showcase the amazing food produced in Sussex. We introduced the Friday Night Supper Clubs last year as we wanted to further our partnerships with local food producers and offer visitors an opportunity to enjoy a wider range of delicious local food in the beautiful surroundings of our vineyard accompanied by a glass of our Sussex wine.”

This year, Albourne is welcoming six local chefs and street food vendors to serve up a range of fabulous dishes. Some evenings will see entertainment from local musicians, Ellie Parkside and Sistie Moose, accompanying a South Downs sunset.

“We can assure you that there is no better ‘restaurant’ view than that from our Tasting Room and balcony on a long, warm summer’s evening, and there is plenty of grass and space for the kids to run around if you decide to bring them along. Albourne estate customer relations manager Bonnie, our vineyard dog, is always there and happy to help entertain them!”

The estate is also available for exclusive-use corporate and private event hire. It provides a blank canvas space which clients can decorate as they wish (within limits) and bring in their own caterers (they can provide a recommended list as well). “We’ve hosted many events here, from sit-down four course dinners to more informal buffets, as well as corporate away-days with meetings followed

by a fun guided tour and wine tasting. We work with our clients to tailor what we do to suit their requirements.”

Albourne Estate’s bottle labels feature some of the wildlife seen around the vineyard and winery, so you’d expect Alison and Nick to hold a big interest in sustainability and working sympathetically with the local countryside. They’re striving to reduce the site’s carbon footprint. “When we built the Winery in 2011, we installed an array of 159 solar panels on the roof so we could run the Estate on renewable electricity. We have done this ever since, buying in power from Good Energy, a green energy supplier, when it’s dark or raining and our panels are not generating sufficient electricity.”

From reduced use of herbicides and mulching of all vine prunings, to improving soil structure with green compost and transitioning to printing labels on recycled paper, there’s lots of different ways wine producers can reduce their environmental impact. Alison tells me the awareness, understanding and tools have grown in recent years to help businesses calculate and reduce their carbon footprint. “This has become a real focus for us. Reducing our carbon emissions and hence

helping tackle climate change has to be a top priority for all of us now. We are perhaps more sensitive to this than other industries as we see the impacts of climate change first hand in the vineyard. Erratic and extreme weather patterns which make growing grapes reliably and successfully in the UK more challenging are occurring at an ever-increasing rate.”

Now Albourne Estate are looking right through their supply chain to reduce carbon emissions. “One area we have identified for improvement is to encourage visitors to us to use more ‘green’ forms of transport to reach us. Unfortunately, due to our rural location and the poor provision of rural public transport in the UK, this is quite a challenge! However, we are encouraging locals to walk or bike and visitors from Brighton to take advantage of E-Bikes which can turn a visit here into an adventure! And as an added incentive we offer free next-day home delivery of wine purchased on site so they don’t have to struggle back with wine bottles on their bikes!”

With as much care for the environment as the finished product, Albourne Estates are producing a stunning and distinctive range of English wines. With a careful mix

of tradition and forward-thinking, they’re the epitome of the flourishing breed of Sussex vineyards. From selective oak barrel matured Chardonnay and Pinot Noir base wines to inert gas pressing of aromatic varieties and innovative yeasts for fermentation cultures, they continue to explore and push the boundaries of English wine making.

From cultivation to delivery, just how much work goes into producing wine? “A lot!” says Alison. “The most challenging aspect is the viticulture (grape growing) as our climate is unpredictable. We know farmers always moan about the weather…. I think vineyard owners are worse as our crop is so sensitive to weather patterns. If we have a kind year though, running a vineyard can seem like a dream and is an incredibly beautiful place to work.”

Albourne Estate is at Albourne Farm, Shaves Wood Ln, Hassocks BN6 9DX

For more information about their range of produce and special events calendar, do visit:

www.albourneestate.co.uk

GLORY TO SOUND

WITH ANITA RANI & NABIHAH IQBAL

TUESDAY 9 MAY

A SURVIVOR’S GUIDE TO POLITICS WITH RAFAEL BEHR

WEDNESDAY 10 MAY

AAKASH ODEDRA COMPANY AND THE SPARK ARTS FOR CHILDREN PRESENT LITTLE MURMUR

SATURDAY 13 & SUNDAY 14 MAY

NABIHAH IQBAL PRESENTS SUROOR

SUPPORT: QAZI & QAZI

MONDAY 15 MAY

JO FONG AND GEORGE ORANGE THE REST OF OUR LIVES

FRIDAY 19 – SUNDAY 21 MAY

DAMIR IMAMOVIC

MONDAY 22 MAY

EVADNEY

VISUALS BY INFINITE VIBES

THURSDAY 25 MAY

WE SEE YOU NOW:

WRITING & WALKING THE GLOBAL IMAGINARY OF THE SUSSEX HERITAGE COAST

FRIDAY 26 MAY

MUNROE BERGDORF TRANSITIONAL

SATURDAY 27 MAY

Image: Nabihah Iqbal by Shahir Iqbal

CONNECTED BRIGHTON

Happy May lovely people!

We’ve just about recovered from celebrating our 2nd birthday here at Connected Brighton. In year two we hosted over 100 events for over 1000 people and supported over 100 independent local businesses. We launched our singles brand The Single Sessions, became radio show hosts for Radio Reverb and our podcast had over 1000 downloads. So much to celebrate.

And now there’s more fun to be had at Brighton Festival!

It’s all about to explode with performers on every street, in every venue and with everyone from near and far coming to check it out. I love this time of year, sitting out at the Fringe sites, sipping drinks and soaking up the festival atmosphere is the best. I just love this city.

We’re going to be hanging out a lot at the new Caravanserai festival site, catching shows and enjoying the pop ups with our members. We got in early for tickets for our favourite shows and we can’t wait to see what other new and interesting performances we can find this year.

It can be overwhelming to choose shows with so much on offer, but my advice is always to just throw yourself in. See as much as you can, tickets are cheap and the variety will keep you entertained!

As well as the Fringe, now the sun has made a comeback we’re excited for our outside events with Beginners Petanque classes and Kayaking between the piers. As well as our bespoke nights in with Little Jasmine, Nostos, Wine Tasting with Bright On Wines, Karaoke at Bar Broadway and our Game Show evening with comedian Julie Jepson. And our Singles Nights are back at Southern Belle, helping singles to mingle.

If you’re looking to make new friends in the city and meet like minded people all through supporting local and independent then check us out.

Have a fab May and enjoy the Fringe!

Lyndsey x

Aristides Ureña was recently invited to London to the Holy Art Fair to share his art where he presented PANAMA SUMMER to great reception from his newer UK audiences.

Located amongst the hustle of Brighton’s hospitality in the lanes, you can step inside a space of peace and creativity at Art5 Gallery. Owned by husband and wife Omar and Giselle, the gallery sells beautiful original paintings, while on display are also ceramics, prints and other interesting media from local and worldwide artists. Their latest artist on display is Aristides Ureña from Panama, exhibiting his gorgeous multidisciplinary work in shades of boisterous blues and warming yellows. Aristides tells us all about his art, creative processes and fascinating career so far as he is welcomed to Brighton.

Let’s start at the beginning, how did you decide you wanted to be an artist?

Always. I was able to sense my fate from an early age. My parents inspired me to set such high standards for myself. Imagine [I was] a future artist living in a small Latin American nation with a deeply religious mother and a revolutionary father who seek[ed] to conquer angels and dreams.

Your most recent event was The Holy Art in London just this weekend (30-2 April) where you presented “RAKA TAKA (2017)” and “KALIDONIA (2022) as a part of a larger project “PANAMA SUMMER”. Can you tell us a bit about these works and what inspired them?

The PANAMA SUMMER project is a collection of multidisciplinary works that demonstrate the aesthetic contributions that multicultural relations have made to the urban culture of the capital city of Panama. The viewer's sharp eye is drawn to the particularities that give new concepts their individuality. Within this picture series, each piece is an accumulation of aesthetic memory that comes to life on its own.

You were born in Panama and lived in Italy for 38 years. How much do your homes and surroundings inspire your artwork?

They have had a noticeable impact on the fundamental aesthetic patterns that underpin these fine arts. I am a person who grew

Meet Aristides Ureña, the World Class Artist From the Tropics at Brighton’s Art5 Gallery

up in the rich traditions of Panama, where mysticism, music, folklore, and cultural syncretism have all contributed to the creation of new ways of being that deserve to be evidenced. Having spent so much time in Europe, I've had the opportunity to evaluate my personal experience with several challenging new situations.

When you were studying, you specialised in lithography, mural design and engraving; now, what are your favourite art mediums to create with?

Each of these are crucial when I need to communicate my projects. As a multidisciplinary artist, I believe that we [artists] must be ready for difficulties that arise in the field of modern art.

Your art is developed in pictorial cycles. For those who may not know, what does this mean?

The first of the graphic cycles, “El Ballet del Cabrón”, (The Scoundrel Ballet) was created in 1977. Cycles is an outlier for any painter of my generation's artistic career. It turned out to be an opportunity for me to create a short-term setting where I could evoke, study, and put into action a variety of intentions. Cycles are time-suspended receptacles for memories. They often last two to four years.

How does the addition of music or video enhance the viewing experience of your works?

They enable me to evoke the moods that I wish to communicate as a contemporary artist.

We are able to appreciate the beauty of anything made since the arts are developed through the five senses. These [mixed media] perceptions inform the development of my artistic endeavours, or overall art.

Can you tell us a bit more about your creative process, and do you think this has changed over the years?

I am an observer trained in criteria and in a continuous creative delirium; I spend a lot of time building an idea about my works and my projects. As soon as the idea takes shape, I abandon every obstacle and give free rein to my emotions... for me, intuitions should not be

limited. That is my way of questioning myself in front of the creation of my work to obtain criteria to continue within that process. Your works have been exhibited all over the world including Latin America, Europe and Africa. In addition, you were invited to show art at the Venice Biennales. What has been your most exciting adventure in your art career?

The three Venice Biennales, because they have given me the opportunity to confirm my artistic path thanks to them. This platform is one of the most important in the international artistic landscape that dictates trends.

Your next adventure is as a resident artist at Art5 Gallery in Brighton. Can you give us a little insight as to what we can expect to see?

Brighton is a seaside city, and my home nation is bordered by two oceans. It is intriguing to try to emphasise those cosmopolitan qualities that bring people together and lessen our distance on an imagined bridge that connects these two realities while taking into consideration their differences.

Art5 Gallery offers me this wonderful opportunity, which I accept as a challenge to produce works that use the tranquil compassion that the arts bestow on us to bring people together around shared emotions.

Do you have any goals or ambitions either in your personal life or career that you wish to achieve in the near future?

To consolidate my foundation, which was established to aid those who are most in need, to give indigenous children in my country the chance to receive artistic training and grow the “Los Semilleros” (The Seedbeds) project, which serves as an incubator for developing talents under the direction of the Fundación Aristides Ureña.

You can buy Aristides’ art on the art5 gallery online shop: art5galleryshop.com/collections/aristidesurena/original-art

And discover more about Aristides on the art5 gallery blog: art5galleryshop.com/blogs/news/clash-withthe-tropics

ART 5 Gallery, 5 Prince Albert St., Brighton UK

ANGMERING ON SEA - BEACH HOUSE STAY

The Angmering on Sea Beach House is quite possibly the most beautiful place I have ever stayed. Situated on the beach a few metres from the sea. The breath-taking white house wouldn’t be out of place in America on the Malibu beach front

A mere 30 minutes from Brighton lies East Preston, a quaint British village with the most beautiful unspoilt beach. The Angmering on Sea Beach House is situated just outside East Preston village, right on the beach. On arrival the sheer size of the house is quite overwhelming and very impressive. Seven bedrooms with almost as many bathrooms, with a large proportion of the ground floor used as an open plan kitchen / dining and living space. The house definitely has the WOW factor.

The ground floor features a sitting area with a real fire and sofas so comfortable, an after-dinner nap is inevitable. A further seating area faces a giant television, plus there is a lovely little snug room complete with a TV player and DVD collection. Moving towards the back of the open plan area is a pool table, and the biggest dining table I have ever seen in real life. We loved the little touches, such as the dining table being laid for Easter complete with decorative features and lots of chocolate and an ice bucket complete with a bottle of Champagne. We then move into my dream kitchen; a crispy white space, huge, beautiful, and so well equipped, it really is the perfect space for any foodie. The owners of The Angmering on Sea Beach House really have thought of everything. The tableware is all delightful and mostly from high end homeware store Amara. Everything you need to cook, serve, and entertain is in the kitchen. Cooking whilst looking at the most perfect beach view, really was a delight. The large dining table with beach and sea views makes for the perfect space for a dinner with friends.

I am told the owner is an art collector, which makes perfect sense as the décor, art and ornaments are all incredible and suit this impressive home. From giant vases reminiscent of the Ming dynasty to a ginormous wooden elephant sculpture that takes pride of place right by the entrance to the house. Every room has its own specific style from a grown up wooden and leather vibe on the ground floor, reminiscent of a Mad Men boardroom to the upstairs master with a clean white and silver style, allowing the stunning sea views to shine. There really isn’t anything in life better than waking up to the sound of the sea lapping on the stones, and enjoying your morning coffee

on the master bedrooms’ terrace with uninterrupted sea views. The bathrooms are equally impressive in design and practicality. The quadruple bunk room was a huge hit with the children, as were the toys and puzzles.

The Angmering on Sea Beach House is a huge space perfect for multiple families, with areas for everyone to enjoy on both floors. The desks are a great touch if you need to do a little work whilst the rest of the group enjoy everything the house and beach have to offer. Plus, it is the ultimate house to play hide and seek in, no matter what age you are, it is a guaranteed hour of fun, and yes Summer you are the undisputed Hide and Seek champion.

The outside of the house is as perfect as the inside. The house lies on the beach a few metres from the sea, and has a wrap round garden, and terrace area. There are various seating areas, and even a walled garden with a large table, perfect for alfresco summer suppers. The highlight of the garden was a large 8-person hot tub, right next to the sea. The tidal beach is also sandy at certain times, so it is a fantastic place for the children to play.

The Angmering on Sea Beach House has the perfect mix of luxury, comfort and style, and I am yet to stay in a place more perfect for a group of people who want to enjoy the British seaside, eat, drink and be merry together.

We booked our break with website Coolstays.com who have several awesome, unique, unusual and super luxury properties for hire across the UK and worldwide. They have over 3,000 hand-picked, extraordinary places to stay each offering something truly quirky, noteworthy, or stylish. Accommodation includes glamping options such as gypsy caravans, shepherd’s huts, tipis, yurts, tents and cabins; luxury tree houses and cave houses; cool conversions such as planes, trains, boats, buses, churches, windmills, lighthouses and deluxe beach huts; as well as the coolest quintessential cottages, villas, B&Bs and boutique hotels.

To book The Angmering on Sea Beach House go to:

www.coolstays.com/property/angmering-on-sea-beach-house/23108

Instagram: @art5_gallery

Facebook: @artatfive

Twitter: @artatfive

REUBEN BASTIENNE-LEWIS ON CAPTURING THE DYNAMICS OF YOUTH IN HIS EXHIBITION

By Amy Stanborough

“Parachute feels like trying to mark out a particular chapter in my life through this diaristic biographic response to why I take photos”

Photo Credit Ruben Bastienne-Lewis

South-London born photographer Reuben Bastienne-Lewis is visibly full of joy to be debuting his exhibition Parachute at Brighton Festival as he tells me, “I am really grateful for the opportunity to put my work into this platform.” The exhibition consists of intimate portraiture and video installations. It is dynamic work which celebrates youth and creativity; the still as well as the vibrancy of adolescence. Parachute will be on display at Phoenix Art Space from Sat 6 May right up until Sun 2 July, plenty of time to see this incredible visualisation of art which Lewis describes as marking a chapter in his life.

Parachute is a personal project incorporating photography of Lewis’ friends as they are going through their own coming of age. Thinking about youth cultures and growing up as a process, I ask Lewis how this translates or compares to his process as a photographer. “The process is shoot first, think later” he confirms, “creating a mass of imagery and bubbling it down.” Capturing photographs for this particular concept - being diaristic and biographical - is “instinctual” in its process, as Lewis carries a camera as much as he can. “I try not to intellectualise or overthink what I am shooting at the time,” Lewis says considerately, always “trying to be pleasantly surprised by the world.” His care behind every deliberation of his work emphasises that it is a humble and honest creation. “I guess it is like a sensitive phenomenology. Allowing the world to present itself” before he then sits with the imagery and tries to translate a feeling or what is being said. He enjoys looking for things that make you think or react, taking the photograph, and then attempting to decode the curiosity the image holds.

For Parachute in particular, the title came first. It began as ‘The Nature of The Parachute’ Lewis reveals, before narrowing down to Parachute. “It became [the idea of] this journey of growing from adolescence to adulthood and how that kind of feels like jumping out of a plane.” He continues, “trying to make sense of the world from a ‘looking down’ perspective and jumping in” the fear, intrigue, and endless possibilities when you dive into life. Lewis says that the photographs and recordings create a sense of permanency or, a “marking of a chapter through this diaristic biographic response to why I take photos and trying to capture those questions [about youth culture].”

Further, the exhibition will allow Lewis to move onto the next stage of his photographic journey. They are “moments that I won’t be able to recreate.” The body of work spans between ten and twelve years and are therefore very familiar memories or moments which are personal to the creator. Beyond the youthful energy of Parachute, Lewis feels able to develop his aesthetic and other areas of his life that he wants to capture.

Because of the natural process of his photography, and being able to articulate something so familiar and personal into a public display of art, I couldn’t help but wonder what encouraged this young creative to take his work more seriously onto a professional level. Turns out JPG is in his DNA because his mum is a photographer too. He pleasantly reminisces about being a teenager

“going out to events and parties.” This was around the time when he “started looking at the body of work that my mum captured in her early 20s of the punk scene in New Zealand.” Lewis confesses, “I just wanted memories like that really.”

The creative journey actually started as one which was functional however, as a lot of Lewis’ friends were in bands and starting off in music. It “was my way to get involved in going to gigs and stuff,” to be “part of a community of artists and musicians.” He says,

Photo Credit Ruben Bastienne-Lewis

Photo Credit Ruben Bastienne-Lewis

“Looking back now they are some of my favourite photos [because of the] family sense of pride.” Recently, a short film was put together called You Heat Me Up, You Cool Me Down. This was partly shot at early King Krule gigs, with whom Lewis went to school and became friends with.

Then, turning photography into a career was a matter of going to university to hone the skills and have access to facilities before “one thing led me to another.” Just like the photography itself, the success was natural.“It all started small with friends and then started progressing and I was getting more traction.” Lewis modestly states, being in the South London music scene was his gateway into being “there at the right time and we all developed together.” He describes being able to get his work published as young as eighteen was the “buzz” that motivated him further into the professional creative field.

Speaking a bit more about his aesthetic, I label it as ‘street grunge’ with its high contrasts, shadows and pops of colour and ask if this resonates with Lewis at all. “I guess my vibe is grunge in a classic sense” he ponders, “feeling quite home-grown.” The framing of the photograph, the moment he captures, “is often quite immediate.” This immediacy means there are also a lot of dynamics captured: sound or a movement which illustrates “the rawness and reality of a photograph.” Lewis asserts, “I like to strip things back a bit” and has recently found himself taking a lot of pictures of the back of people’s heads. Using this as a portrait technique means “there is more silence or a sculptural essence to my work” Lewis informs me. He has stopped asking people in his everyday work to do so much in the imagery, “let[ting] the action happen and be subtle about it.”

Seeing as BN1’s theme this month is festival, I turn Lewis’ attention to this colourful and vibrant topic as a space in which young creatives annually congregate. He has many fond memories of attending festivals,

photographing them but also just soaking in the atmosphere with his friends. Brainchild Festival was the first he photographed, and he has also done a couple of bits at Secret Garden Party. What Lewis loves about photographing festivals especially is the “middle of day haze when everyone is hungover and you get this magic.”

Festival stories that Lewis shares include being pleasantly surprised at the randomness of Secret Garden Party, “just walking around and there is a parade of naked people or theatre troops.” He also loves Brainchild because there is a miniature bird sanctuary next door, so you can look at exotic birds while you are putting your head together on a hungover morning.

Parachute comes to Brighton on Sat 6 May, where Lewis is hopeful that people will be surprised by the exhibition. “Without giving too much away” he begins, “there is a level of scale that you can play with in an exhibition.” This tiny clue as to what we can expect from the show suggests that spectators can become immersed in the photograph’s worlds. Lewis says this is something he is most looking forward to about Parachute being on display. He is “interested to see how people react to the space” as well as recognising the “relationships between photographs.”

Brighton as Parachute’s home is idyllic because Lewis used to come here throughout his teenage years to see a close friend of his mum’s. Speaking of our city he tells, “I used to come down with my friends a lot” and his friend Kaya, who used to travel to London from Brighton, actually features in a photograph at the exhibition. Asking whether place influences his photography much, he says there is definitely “a pride of growing up somewhere.” He enjoys being able to capture a place from a different perspective, something non-touristy, “understanding the rhythm of a city in a different way.” Place also features heavily in Parachute via climate, as Lewis portrays the UK’s love of hot weather.

“There is a lot of summer in my work which I think is a reference to that celebration [of] emerging out of the depth of the cold.”

Perhaps some of Brighton’s summer skies will feature in future projects? “I will be photographing the process,” Lewis says, “but it might be nice to step back and enjoy taking it all in.” Last time he was in Brighton however, he spent about an hour on the pier photographing the starlings. “It is often the things you don’t photograph that you regret or think about more” he decides, though he wants to remember this experience for a long, long time.

Brighton Festival is just the start of the journey for Lewis. As part of the exhibition he is also publishing a photobook of the same title, so audiences can take a part of the Parachute experience home. Working on more small publications is something he would love to do more of. This, and getting back into filmmaking, doing more touring with his friends’ band.

For now, he tells me he gives huge thanks to Phoenix Art Space and Nabihah Iqbal. On his relationship to this year’s director he says, “I met [Iqbal] maybe seven or so years ago, so that has been really cool, growing as artists.” He actually worked with her on a music video on the day before the exhibition got launched. Concluding our conversation, Lewis says, “shoutout to her for seeing something in my work. Lots of gratitude. And, keep a look out for the book!”

Parachute is a free visual arts event consisting of portraiture photography and video installations making its world premiere at Phoenix Art Space Sat 6 May–Sun 2 Jul, Wed–Sun, 11am–5pm.

See more of Reuben Bastienne-Lewis’s work online at

www.reubenbastiennelewis.co.uk/home

Photo Credit Ruben Bastienne-Lewis

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The Art of Festivals

By Louis Raphael Michael

The word festival can mean many different things. For most nowadays it conjures up images of music stages, giant crowds, endless tents, and people gone wild. To our grandparents' generation it might have made them think of the annual fete, with games and stalls on the village green, perhaps a maypole dance at the height of summer. To the religious their hearts may swell thinking of their holy days throughout the year, and the deep reverence of their manifold meanings. The common universal thread here is that to humans the world over, no matter what background, and throughout all human history, say the word festival, and the unanimous association is ‘celebration’.

There is and always has been an innate desire in humans to celebrate. Even when our ancient ancestors lived in constant danger in the deepest depths of the wild, we know from archaeological evidence that they celebrated, in their own spiritual ritualistic way, to express thanks and joy. For the food they could gather, for each other, for the bounty of nature, and for the gift of their lives. They lifted up their hands to the sky, and they danced and they sang, and they focused on the good. Today things are very different, because we are safe and comfortable, and because we have so very much more than we could possibly need. A severe consequence of modern convenience is that many have lost touch with gratitude entirely. It’s hard to appreciate the value of any one thing when anything and everything is at the push of a button. This apathy is the reason why many feel so lost in life. Essentially, we’re talking about glass half full, glass half empty, the famous test of perception. In a world of apathetic ungrateful zombies, how do we switch perspective back to deep gratitude for every aspect of life, so that every breath feels like a miracle?

This is what the festival is and what it always has been. It is so much more than just a chance to let your inner party animal out. On a deeper level, it is the chance to remember and realign to the deep appreciation for life. Whenever one goes astray into depression, meaninglessness, spiralling into numbness, the festival offers a space of upbeat, energetic, euphoric rejoicing where you are allowed and encouraged to put down your burdens and get in touch with the playfulness dormant inside you. To lift you out of the noise and busywork of daily life, and reorient you towards living as your optimal self. At its best the festival transports you to a higher state, reminding you what life is capable of being when you feel light and joyful. The festival is as much for the inner child as the inner party animal.

At least, this is an idealised understanding of festivals. In practice the music festivals that have grown to dominate the world are governed by how much money the music corporations, landowners and alcohol distributors can make, and the spirit of celebration is pushed aside for the same old boring capitalistic pursuit of profit. And yet, regardless of this money hungry incentive, the music festival still shines as a true festival, rich with meaning making. Groups of friends making lifetime memories and dancing until sunrise; or people having deep realisations on psychedelics laying in a decorated fairy forest; or meeting the love of your life eating £10 chips at 4am. The true spirit of the universal time-honoured tradition of festivals is an integral part of human culture and it evolves and changes alongside us, as part of us. Even in the madness and debauchery of the contemporary music festival, there is something so surprisingly pure, and this aspect is more meaningful than you might think.

Perhaps you went to your first festival with a group of friends, after exams, or taking holiday days off work. There’s a good chance it was a huge blowout where you felt a release, and then the inevitable dread of going back to the real world. You know you want to stay in the festival atmosphere, but what does that really mean? Why do festivals feel so good? Let’s think about how they’re different from daily life.

The obvious is that you’re on holiday, free to do whatever you like with none of your usual unpleasant responsibilities. You’re cut loose from the relentlessly functioning adult persona and free to be something a little different, if only temporarily. The festival itself is built around musicians and performers both unknown and bigtime famous, therefore putting human artistic creativity at the centre to be appreciated, respected and enjoyed by all. The entire festival becomes one big community; with everyone connected by the event and sealed into this world together, talking to strangers and making friends becomes far easier and more natural. Everything is designed specifically to be walkable; you can get to everything you need on just your own two feet. Usually there is beautiful, even fantastical decoration, further bringing you into a different dimension where life feels a little more special than usual. On top of all that, there is a loosening of convention, and a freedom of expression; people feel freer to be themselves.

Within a festival you are cut off from the real world, and all its expectations and restrictions; by letting go of everything you think you need to be you may just come home from a festival having finally found yourself. So added up, we have freedom from unpleasant responsibility, a focus on human creativity, a strong sense of community, walkability, beautiful aesthetic decoration, and freedom of expression. When you look at it like that, festivals are rather utopian. To me, it seems like even though we can’t make it work quite yet on a mass global scale, the human idealistic dreamer spirit has created pocket-utopias within music festivals. Yes, drunken fights may break out and teenagers may be vomiting on the side of the path, but when you are walking through a beautifully decorated field with delicious food everywhere and talented musicians performing nonstop, surrounded by friends and friendly people, in the sunshine and nature, the feeling of liberation from the oppression of everyday life is undeniable. This is a mere inkling of the utopia humans may one day build, a world of oneness and creativity, an endless festival.

Yes, life is undeniably hard, and made harder in today's world by incompetent governments and ruthless corporations. But life is also a miracle, every second of every day. That the trillions of cells in your body are working in perfect harmony to create your reality, that alone is an unfathomable marvel, and that is true for all the billions of humans and trillions of lifeforms on this planet. The unknowable intricacies of nature are never-ending and unfolding around us at all times, and it is our duty, our privilege and our vital lifeline to simply bear witness and be filled with awe. It's this cosmic mystery that ignites the human need for celebration. Deep down we know that we need to rejoice at these wondrous facts, but the burdens of modern life weigh our spirit down too much for us to get into that jubilant mode of being. Festivals revive us, they show us how good life can be, and when we feel so good and free we almost can’t stop ourselves from saying, from the bottom of our hearts, ‘I’m so happy to be alive, here in this moment’.

BY AISHA KABIR

Mark your calendars because Pride is returning to Brighton for a summer of festivities sooner than you think. Back on schedule are all of your favourite major events, including the Pride Community Day & Dog Show, Pride LGBTQ+ Community Parade, Pride Village Party throughout the course of the weekend, and the two-day We Are Fabuloso festival, all raising money for the Brighton Rainbow Fund.

Brighton & Hove Pride is an occasion to unite and celebrate inclusion and diversity in this wonderful city. The sole aim is to encourage respect among our community and, via fundraising, to assist regional organisations and issues. Through the Brighton Rainbow Fund, Pride Social Impact Fund, and Pride Cultural Development Fund, Pride has raised nearly £1.25 million over the past seven years for local charities, projects, and community organisations.

Pride LGBTQ+ Community Parade Sat 5 Aug

The Pride LGBTQ+ Community Parade which honours the city's charities, community organisations and small companies as well as vital emergency services, like the NHS, and statutory partners, is unquestionably one of the highlights of the summer.

With over 300,000 spectators lining the streets of the city to take part in and watch the parade of community and campaign groups as well as the all-singing, all-dancing funfair of colour as it winds its way from Hove Lawns to Preston Park for We Are Fabuloso, the official Brighton & Hove Pride charity fundraiser, it is arguably the biggest and brightest event on the city's calendar.

Community Day & Dog show Date TBC

One of Brighton Pride's most delightfully accessible events is the yearly canine highlight, where happy owners pamper their pooches. Prepare yourself for a day of fun and barking frolics as dogs and dog lovers unite and shine in honour of our furry companions from noon until 5pm.

The Coastway Vets and Pride Community Day & Dog Show includes a beautiful catwalk doggie fashion show, shop booths, prizes for several categories, a bar and refreshments.

Industry experts supervise all submissions and judge each category, ensuring that each star canine receives the praise that their proud paws merit.

FABULOSO

Sat 5 Aug

The two-day official fundraising event is returning to Brighton & Hove Pride bigger and even better! It will collect money to benefit LGBTQ+ groups and organisations in the neighbourhood through the Brighton Rainbow Fund. More than 150 LGBTQ+ artists will perform at the festival, along with crucial allies. They will play on 12 various stages and entertainment venues. All performers are members of the glorious rainbow family or their allies.

Over the course of two days, FABULOSO will feature world-class performers on its main stage, including The Black-Eyed Peas, Zara Larsson, Jax Jones, Confidence Man, Dylan, Mae Muller, Bellah Mae, and more on Sat 5 Aug. There’s another stellar line-up on Sun 6 Aug, which welcomes Louise, Melanie C, B*Witched, The Vivienne, Harley Moon Kemp, and Tom Aspaul.

Pride Village Party

Sat 5 – Sun 6 Aug

Businesses along St James' St and Marine Parade join together for the Pride Village Party in Brighton's renowned Kemptown to celebrate Pride and generate additional cash for the Brighton Rainbow Fund and Pride Social Impact Fund.

It’s an unforgettable weekend of fundraising celebrations, entertainment areas, bars and venues, live performances and cabaret, DJs, drag artists, singers, performers and musicians all come together.

The largest Pride festival in the UK, Brighton & Hove Pride, is run by a non-profit neighbourhood association. Thanks to the generosity of companies, sponsors and the tens of thousands of people who bought tickets for the Pride Festival in Preston Park and Pride Village Party, Brighton Pride was able to earn more than £1,236,000 for charitable organisations in the community. The Brighton Rainbow Fund's mandate is to collect donations and distribute them as grants to Brighton and Hove-based LGBT and HIV-related individuals and organisations. The Pride Social Impact Fund supports neighbourhood good causes by awarding grants to several local organisations.

For further information and tickets, visit: www.brighton-pride.org

Photo Credit Chris Jepson

A Culinary Adventure at The Seahorse

Strolling along the picturesque Brighton shoreline, I found myself drawn to the irresistible energy emanating from the newly renovated The Seahorse (formerly Brighton Beach Club). This beachfront oasis beckoned me to embark on a culinary adventure, combining the relaxed vibe of a beach bar with the sophistication of fine dining.

Upon entering, I was instantly greeted with warm, welcoming smiles from the staff, who made me and my dining companions feel right at home. The open, airy and modern design over two floors created an inviting ambiance, setting the stage for the delectable meal to come.

The menu, a tantalising tapestry of flavours, featured dishes that would cater for most including vegan and gluten free options. The lovely manager, Lola, explained how much of a difference the place has come since Portobello Brewery took over the venue, making sure the locally-sourced ingredients and the harmonious blend of traditional British fare with international influences were evident in every dish.

We opted to sit on the terrace as the sun was just right for a beautiful spring evening, to which we were presented with some marinated olives (£4) and rosemary focaccia that came with a delicious pesto-style herb oil, while we sipped on a margarita and a Portebello brew beer (gluten-free I must add!).

To start, and under some recommendations from Lola, we chose the smoked beetroot

tartare with mustard aioli and salt and pepper crackers (£6) which looked marvellous on the plate and had a refreshing tang to it. Along with some vegetable tempura with a lovely ponzu dipping sauce (£6.50), Moroccan lamb skewers and pine nuts on a bed of creamy spiced aubergine, pomegranate and yoghurt base (£9.50), and grilled pork loin with roasted fennel and romesco sauce (£8.50) that was very tender and satisfying.

Next, we ordered some mains and I indulged in the classic combo of “meat, veg and potato” but in the classy form of roasted chicken supreme with hispi cabbage and potato gratin covered in a chicken jus and bacon crumb (£18).

One of us asked for the confit potato (apparently, she always tries this in restaurants that serve it to seek out the best) with a Cacio e pepe sauce and a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese. Their impression was this mouth-watering creation was nothing short of a taste sensation.

My vegetarian friends who accompanied me shared the roasted cauliflower, drizzled in a lip-smacking sticky sesame sauce, which gave it a fuller texture, on a cushion of lemon wild rice and a radicchio salad (£15) and stole the show in my opinion. Finished with a tamarind roasted squash, peanut & herb chutney, coconut butter bean curry (£15.50).

Throughout the meal, we savoured a handpicked selection of local and international wines, as well as refreshing cocktails crafted by the talented bar staff.

As I sipped my drink, I marvelled at the breath-taking views of the Brighton coastline and the relaxed atmosphere of The Seahorse.

The experience at the restaurant was nothing short of exceptional. The exquisite culinary offerings, attentive service, and picturesque surroundings left me not only satisfied but also inspired and uplifted. This is a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Brighton, and I cannot wait to return for another delightful meal or cocktail on the terrace.

The venue also caters for large parties and events (weddings, birthdays, you name it!). This includes a dedicated bookings planner who will be able to advise on which area would suit your needs best, suggest which food & drink packages would work for you & will be available to advise throughout, to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Check out their website for more information: www.seahorsebrighton.co.uk

The Seahorse, 26 Kings Road, Brighton