BN1 Magazine November 2023

NOV 2023 BN1 MAGAZINE

Brighton Dome winter season:

Kin

The Little Match Girl Touch & Glow Snowed In PLUS: CORN EXCHANGE OFFICIAL OPENING / GAZELLE TWIN / EVA / PECHO MAMA / RECIPES, WALKS & GUIDES BN1 MAGAZINE 1

Sometimes the best things come in the smallest of packages

Hanningtons is Brighton’s hidden gem and home to your locally sourced, unique, and perfect gifts this Christmas. Peruse a range of gifts from independent and artisan retailers and step into a world of Christmas wonder at Hanningtons. We have a range of merry events for you to enjoy too, including live music and festive food and drink.

Why go anywhere else? @HanningtonsBrighton 2 BN1 MAGAZINE

@HanningtonsBTN

www.hanningtonsbrighton.com

/HanningtonsBrighton

BN1 MAGAZINE 3

THE BRIGHTON FILM FESTIVAL ADVENTURES IN WORLD CINEMA THE LAST QUEEN

FARAH UK PREMIERE

REGGAE AND RAÏ

DOROTHY TOWERS

FRIDAY 10 NOVEMBER, 7.30PM

WEDNESDAY 15 NOVEMBER, 7PM

RESISTANCE MUSIC FROM JAMAICA AND ALGERIA

+ LIVE SCORE

THE MOTHER AND THE WHORE

+ LIVE SCORE

SATURDAY 11 NOVEMBER, 4PM

SUNDAY 12 NOVEMBER, 3PM

PEOPLE LIKE US ‘THE LIBRARY OF BABEL’ SUPPORT: BLEVIN BLECTUM TUESDAY 14 NOVEMBER, 8PM

Image: Still from ‘The Harder they Come’

THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER, 8PM

IN SPRING

SATURDAY 18 NOVEMBER, 8PM

36-HOUR FILM CHALLENGE

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER, 8.30PM

Share the Joy

at Brighton Dome this season Touch and Glow

A multi-sensory colouring adventure Fri 1–Sun 24 Dec

ORGANOKE

Christmas karaoke classics (+ an organ) Thu 7 Dec

Christmas with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Sun 10 Dec

Sing-a-long-a-Wickerman

Tue 12 Dec

Kate Rusby

Tue 12 Dec

Snowed In

Discover this interactive family show Wed 13–Sun 17 Dec

Live at Brighton Dome

Thu 14 Dec

The Snowman and Magical Music

The classic film accompanied by a live orchestra Sun 17 Dec

The Unthanks in Winter

Mon 18 Dec

The Big Christmas Singalong!

Tue 19 Dec

brightondome.org 01273 709709

The Little Match Girl

[pictured] A magical, dance-theatre production Wed 20–Sun 24 Dec BN1 MAGAZINE 5

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CONTENTS

CONTRIBUTORS: STUART ROLT AMY STANBOROUGH ROSIE PALDI EDWARDS MATT RUSSELL ELENI SPIROU FREYA O’MALLEY

EDITOR IN CHIEF: CHRIS SADLER CHRIS@BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK EDITOR: STUART ROLT STUART@BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK MAGAZINE DESIGN: AMELIA HARRIS COVER: KIN BY GECKO IMAGE BY RICHARD HAUGHTON NEWSDESK/ GENERAL ENQUIRES: INFO@BN1MAGAZINE.CO.UK

BN1 MAGAZINE UNIT 28. FLOOR 6 NEW ENGLAND HOUSE BRIGHTON BN1 4GH 01273 022991

8-15

NEWS

16

XMAS ARTIST OPEN HOUSES

18

CHICHESTER FESTIVAL THEATRE

20

EVA WINS 3 AWARDS

24

QUIZWORD

26

GAZELLE TWIN

30

SMOOVE & TURRELL

34

THEATRE & COMEDY

36

STUDIO 9 INTERVIEW

39

DRAWING EVERYDAY MOMENTS

40

15 YEARS OF LITTLE JASMINE

42

BRIGHTON CORN EXCHANGE OPENS

44

PECHO MAMA

46

TUACA AND ITS BRIGHTON HISTORY

48

VISIT HANNINGTONS

50

SMB TATTOO & DOUBLE DROP VINTAGE

52

ON BEING MEN

54

MUSIC AT KOMEDIA

58

MUSIC GUIDE

60

THE POND REVIEW

61

AUTUMN RECIPES

62

OUTDOOR WALKS

64

TV GUIDE

66

FILM GUIDE

66

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BN1 MAGAZINE 7

NEWS

LEE MILLER: DRESSED CONTINUES AT BRIGHTON MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

Lee Miller, photographer, surrealist, model, war correspondent, writer, traveller, and cook lived her many lives with passion and audacity. Now a new exhibition at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery examines her life and work through fashion and dress. Running until Sun 18 Feb, Lee Miller: Dressed starts with her time in 1920s Paris and ends in Sussex during the mid-1950s.

It includes Miller’s outfits which represent key moments in her biography and her creativity.

The exhibition features her Parisian fashion of the 1930s and her fashionable dress worn in New York, jodhpurs, bathing wear and traditional folk dress from travel and adventures in Egypt and Europe with surrealist friends and artists. Her military uniform from her work as a war correspondent, and maternity dress celebrating life in rural Sussex as a surrealist host.

Very few of these intimate items have ever been seen in public. The wardrobe will be seen alongside her photography and brings a unique perspective to the stories of her life. The exhibition coincides with a new film starring Kate Winslet called LEE, which examines Miller’s life. Curator Martin Pel said: ‘The chance discovery of the trunks of Lee Miller’s clothes at her home in Sussex is extraordinary - and revelatory. Clothes are so personal that to be able to tell the story of one of the most incredible people of the twentieth century through her clothing alongside her work is really a dream project.

“The exhibition includes ten outfits, representing key moments in Miller’s life and her biography, with her photographic work complementing her clothing. But it is through Miller’s dress that we get a much more personal understanding of who she was and how she lived - a fashion model, a war correspondent, a wife, and a mother. It’s all there in the exhibition.’

The show focuses on seven places and times in Lee’s life. Each location represents not only a moment in Miller’s life but a period of creativity distinct from the others: Paris and her emergence as a photographer setting up her own studio, her New York studio photographing American art and fashion.

Her work in Egypt photographing landscapes and her move into non-studio portraiture. Her later travels in 1930s Europe celebrating life and unfamiliar cultures. Her fashion photography and the arts under conflict in wartime London, and documenting history and the trauma of World War II on the European frontline. The exhibition concludes with Miller’s life as a gourmand and host at Farleys, Sussex.

© Lee Miller Archives Model wearing Digby Morton Suit London, England 1941

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

Self portrait with headband,Lee Miller Studios Inc.,New York,USA,c1932

Lee Miller, Vogue Studio, London , England 1943 by David E. Scherman © Lee Miller Archives

8 BN1 MAGAZINE

Lee Miller, Mougins, France 1937 by Roland Penrose © Lee Miller Archives

NEWS

Photo by Mark Sepple

Photo by Mark Sepple

KIN TO OPEN BRIGHTON DOME’S NEWLY REFURBISHED CORN EXCHANGE

As schools return for the autumn term, award-winning physical theatre company Gecko, a recommended practitioner on GCSE and A-level theatre and drama syllabuses, prepare to bring their new show Kin to Brighton Dome’s refurbished Grade I listed Corn Exchange from Weds 1 – Sat 4 Nov. Commissioned by the National Theatre, Kin is the eighth show from Gecko, whose critically acclaimed productions highlight the complexity of modern life. It reflects on migration as a part of human existence, having been inspired by a conversation Gecko’s Artistic Director Amit Lahav had with his grandmother, Leah, about the journey his family made from Yemen to Palestine in 1932 to escape persecution. It is a provocative, poetically intoxicating story of desperation and compassion.

“Every production that I create starts with a personal reflection combined with a current wider societal issue,” said Lahav. “Kin was ultimately inspired by the desire to delve deeper into the complex mix of migration stories that make up who I am. We all have migration stories whether we’re aware of them or whether they’re more distant, and that excites me because we have the potential to encourage a profoundly positive, celebratory voyage towards empathy. We exist both where we’ve come from and where we’re going; this is what I wanted to explore through the creation of Kin.” Tickets are available at a reduced rate for school and college groups for the performances on Wednesday 1, Friday 3 and Saturday 4 November. Gecko is also offering all school and college bookers an accompanying classroom workshop, led by the company’s performers, at a discounted rate.

Suitable for Year 10 and upwards, participants will have the opportunity to experience the company’s unique style of movement and physical theatre, gaining insight into the creative process behind a show.

For more details, head to: www.brightondome.org

Photo by Ray Gibson

LEONARDSLEE ILLUMINATED 2023 This winter, a magical winter experience returns to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens. Visitors can enjoy a captivating after-dark light trail, as the landscape comes alive with colour and sound during this bedazzling Illuminated event.

Open between Fri 24 Nov - Thurs 21 Dec, Illuminated is celebrating a fifth year at the historic 240-acre Grade I Listed estate in West Sussex.

The gardens will be transformed with lights, large-scale installations and atmospheric soundscapes. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a Victorian funfair, a small Christmas market, a selection of seasonal food and drink, and other entertainment before entering the mile-long trail.

“Visitors can explore the lit trails and walk down through the valley, decked with fairy lights and lanterns, giant flowers and mythical animals. There will be displays of massive stars and planets suspended over the seven lakes, reflecting the sparkling lights and the towering lakeside trees,” says Leonardslee’s General Manager, Adam Streeter. “We’ve worked hard to make the event even more affordable this year, given the rising cost of living: there is a price reduction from last year, and Leonardslee members will get free entry on selected days, and 50% off at other times.

Streeter says that the illuminations and other events are vital to maintaining the estate, helping to fund the major programme of works needed to preserve the woodland gardens, which were originally created by the great Victorian plant collector, Sir Edmund Loder. The estate is now a protected ecosystem for fauna and flora that are threatened elsewhere in the UK and beyond, including several rare ‘champion’ trees.

For more information, head to: www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

BN1 MAGAZINE 9

NEWS

CINECITY FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS

The CINECITY independent film festival hits screens across Brighton & Hove and Lewes once more on Fri 10 – Sun 19 Nov. This annual celebration offers a diverse programme of premieres and previews, giving audiences first sight of highly anticipated titles ahead of their UK and works from around the world enjoying one-off screenings.

In addition to the latest dramas and documentaries, the line-up also features perfume-enhanced and 3D screenings, live soundtracks, a ‘draw to film’ event, locally-made shorts, treasures from the archive and director Q&As. Plus the inside story of a riotous independent cinema, a tribute to a Brighton film-making legend, a once banned paean to Acid House and a celebration of one of the greatest film-making duos of all time.

classic acid house LP. Initially banned on its release, it is today hailed as one of the most innovative music films ever made, providing a pioneering meditation on the British rave experience.

Live cinema has been an important part of CINECITY since the festival’s first edition twenty years ago. This year Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts presents a packed schedule of events, including Sean Burns’s Dorothy Towers, a film about the famous residential blocks adjacent to Birmingham’s Gay Village. Shot on 16mm, it explores the complex relationship between architecture, community and memory, it explores ideas of queer kinship and inheritance alongside experiences of HIV/AIDS in the 1980s/’90s.

It opens and closes with previews of two eagerly awaited films both tipped for success in the awards season. On Fri 10 Nov the Duke of York’s welcomes Yorgos Lanthimos’s Poor Things. Winner of the Golden Lion at the recent Venice Film Festival, it has been described as a steampunk black comedy fantasy film, and stars Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe and Mark Ruffalo.

CINECITY closes on Sun 19 Nov at the Duke of York’s with All of Us Strangers.

Directed by Andrew Haigh, and starring Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott, it’s been praised as a mysterious, beautiful and sentimental work. There’s also a special preview of Alexander Payne’s charming 1970s-set comedy The Holdovers, starring Paul Giamatti – their first film together since 2004’s Oscar-winning Sideways.

There’s a host of award-winning international films all screening in the region for the first time ahead of UK release, including animated fantasy, The Boy And The Heron, Aki Kaurismaki’s bittersweet comedy Fallen Leaves and Evil Does Not Exist- a timely and unsettling study of humanity, nature and the threats to our survival. Other treats include Monster, which examines the horror of untamed adolescence, Amanda Nell Eu award-winning feature debut, Tiger Stripes, and Kenton & Hassiba Freiha-Oxley’s Farah, a drama about a student prescribed a controversial antidepressant.

CINECITY’S Reel Lives reinforces cultural exchange between the UK and Ukraine at this critical time. It features acclaimed documentary, We Will Not Fade Away, a moving portrait of Ukrainian youth in the Donbas region, who in spite of everything, are able to recognise and celebrate the fragile beauty of life, alongside In Spring, a city symphony devoted to Kyiv made in 1929 is presented with a live score from accomplished composer and pianist Roksana Smirnova with long-term collaborator and countryman, Misha Kalinin.

As part of the BFI’s UK-wide celebration of film-making duo Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, CINECITY Presents multi-sensory screening of Black Narcissus. Now widely regarded as a masterpiece, the 1947 psychological drama is about a small group of nuns sent to establish a new convent in an abandoned palace in a remote and vertiginous part of the Himalayas. CINECITY also celebrates the 75th anniversary of the most iconic dance film of all time, with a preview of the soon to be re-released The Red Shoes, Powell and Pressburger’s visually ravishing masterpiece inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale.

This month sees 100 years since the birth of legendary Brighton-based artist and filmmaker, Jeff Keen. Dubbed the ‘Peckinpah of the South Downs’, he pioneered experimental film with rapid-fire animations, multiple screen projections and raucous performances redefined multimedia art in Britain.

There are a number of festival events and screenings celebrating his life and work, including a talk by his daughter and archivist Stella Starr as part of a Catalyst Club special taking place in Horatio’s Bar on Palace Pier and a screening of his film, Mad Love, at Fabrica.

Local film-making talent features elsewhere in the line-up, as CINECITY presents a showcase of short dramas and docs selected from open submissions to the festival’s CINECITY Open and New Voices programmes, featuring young filmmakers aged 25 and under supported by Screen and Film School, Brighton.

For full programme details, visit: www.cine-city.co.uk

Elsewhere, Scala!!! celebrates the glory days of one of London’s most loved and infamous independent cinemas. It became a beacon and refuge for the city’s film lovers, creatives and LGBTQIA+ community during the repressive Thatcher era. Wim Wenders returns to the screen with Anselm, an epic 3D study of German painter and sculptor Anselm Kiefer. A riveting and visually stunning insight into a career which has spanned five decades, the doc explores Kiefer’s use of mythology and literature, the preoccupation with his country’s troubled past, as well as his working practices and processes.

Musically themed offerings come in the form of Chloé Raunet’s I Am Weekender, which celebrates the iconic Weekender promo video. Directed

by Brighton-based WIZ, this was an accompanying film to Flowered Up’s

NEWS

SHORT DAYS SHORT WEEKS Solaris Gallery in St Leonards-On-Sea is hosting Short Days Short Weeks, an exhibition by local artist Vicki Painting. Running until Sat 2 Dec, this free exhibition investigates the embodied experience of her mother at the final stage of life through print, film and installation.

The work seeks to understand the end-of-life process, not only as a personal experience but what this also means in social and political terms.

Together mother and daughter have co-constructed a visual narrative, which demonstrates how the domestic space and those who reside within it can slowly become institutionalised once the care infrastructure is invited in.

Aware of the structural inequalities inherent within the care system, they have utilised magical realism as a framework to disguise the actors involved and to demonstrate the struggle for agency within this system.

Magical Realism is a method employed to implicitly criticise society and is therefore a mode for the vulnerable and marginalised to challenge the viewpoints of those who have authority over them. It may appear as if a spell has been cast, but the ordinariness of Patricia’s surroundings and the activities she engages in literally ‘dis-spell’ the notion. The magic is as unremarkable as her surroundings and what emerges is an unresolved tension between magic and reality inviting the viewer to suspend belief in what is rational and what is irrational, or more importantly they can decide for themselves.

Central to the narrative is the mother daughter/relationship and the mask of inherited trauma running throughout. These themes are relayed in the form of a quest where Alice and the White Rabbit’s attempts to remove this mask remain unsuccessful. These themes are amplified through Patricia’s testimony in the film short days short weeks.

For further information, head to: www.solarisprint.co.uk

MELTING VINYL 2023/24

09.11 Decisive Pink BRIGHTON 13.11 Mikey Kenney BRIGHTON 15.11 The Mary Wallopers FOLKSTONE 17.11 Charlie Beddoes 21.11 Kris Drever BRIGHTON 22.11 BC Camplight BRIGHTON 07.12 Richard Dawson BRIGHTON 09.12 The Unthanks in Winter FOLKSTONE 10.12 Memorials LEWES 12.12 Lankum BRIGHTON COMING UP IN 2024 19.03 Flamingods* BRIGHTON * CO-PRO WITH LTN

meltingvinyl.co.uk

SUSSEX UNIVERSITY HOSTS TURNER PRIZE EVENTS

With the Turner Prize 2023 exhibition underway at Towner Eastbourne until April, the University of Sussex are hosting a series of public events at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts (ACCA. They will bring the exhibition to life for staff, students and everyone in the region, with sessions providing an informative and accessible look into the world’s leading prize for contemporary art.

The University of Sussex has two Turner prize winning alumni, Helen Cammock, a Sociology graduate, who was one of the co-winners of the 2019 prize, and Jeremy Deller, who holds an MA in British Art History and Critical Theory, who won the Turner Prize in 2004. Each feature in the event series, which take place this autumn and into spring.

The season continues this month, with Helen Cammock in conversation on Thurs 2 Nov, where she’ll be discussing her work and the impact of winning the prestigious arts prize with Dr Malcom James.

On Weds 22 Nov, Towner’s Exhibition Curator Noelle Collins, along with former Turner Prize curators Dr Sarah James and Hammad Nasar, will talk about their experiences presenting the Turner Prize to the public with Chair Dr Francesco Ventrella (Art History, University of Sussex).

For further information and to book tickets, visit: www.attenboroughcentre.com

BN1 MAGAZINE 11

NEWS

SUPPORT THOSE IN NEED

The homeless support charity Justlife is running three events over Nov. Each event is part of the generosity Multiplier the Big Give, a match funding platform which enables them to double all the proceeds raised. So get involved and make a difference this winter.

Sat 4 Nov - Party night at the Lost + Found

This is an evening of Disco, Soul, Funk and House music at the Lost + Found taproom in Fiveways, Brighton, with DJ Stu Hedley (tickets £10)

Fri 10 Nov - Ceilidh at Gloucester Place

An evening of dancing for the new and experienced - a brilliant live band and an experienced caller, ‘in just a few minutes people who’ve never danced a ceilidh before can learn the steps easily and if you go wrong, it’s all part of the fun!’ (tickets £15)

Fri 24 Nov - Justlife Quiz

Our staple Justlife Quiz night extravaganza you know, hosted by our lovely hostess Debs at Florence road, BYOB and there’s always a cracking raffle! (£5 entry) All events are listed on eventbrite or visit: www.justlife.org.uk/our-work/brighton / @justlifeuk

UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX ALUMNI GAZELLE TWIN WILL TAKE THE STAGE THIS NOVEMBER COMBINING MUSIC, ART, NARRATIVE AND THEATRE Gazelle Twin’s new live show is a plunge into darkness. Memories and dreams electrified by fear. Rooted in the theatrics of the séance and the phenomena of ghosts. If we can summon the spirits of our past, or present selves, what would they tell us? Are we the ghost, or the haunted?

Gazelle Twin is the performance moniker for acclaimed composer, producer, singer and visual artist Elizabeth Bernholz. As an ambassador for women in music production and an alumnus of the University of Sussex, Bernholz is the inspiration behind the Gazelle Twin Scholarship for Women in Music Technology. Gazelle Twin returns to ACCA this autumn to perform from her brand new album Black Dog, out October 27.

Bernholz created her “transformative” Gazelle Twin performance persona in 2009, to encompass composition, studio albums, soundtracks, art installations and live performance, intended to openly address a deeprooted aversion to traditional and contemporary norms across the music industry, particularly for women. Her ever-changing, identity-warping personas based on powerful, emotional themes and a fiercely independent spirit has driven her output and many collaborations since.

She had independently released three critically acclaimed studio albums prior her newest project; The Entire City (2011), Unflesh (2014) and Pastoral (2018), together with three soundtrack LPs from album off-shoot performance projects; Out of Body (2015), Kingdom Come (2017) and Deep England with NYX Electronic Drone Choir (2021).

Recently shortlisted for the Arts Foundation Electronic Music Award, Gazelle Twin’s Black Dog is released by British label Invada Records and OUT NOW. Gazelle Twin performs at Attenborough Centre of the Creative Arts on Fri 24 Nov. www.attenboroughcentre.com/events 12 BN1 MAGAZINE

Justlife is a local charity supporting people experiencing homelessness who have been placed in emergency or temporary accommodation whilst waiting for somewhere more permanent to live. In Brighton, their work supports people to improve their mental and physical health and find a safe, secure home of their own.

They also run a befriending scheme, Social Connection, to help people develop social networks and feel a sense of ‘belonging’ in their community, and a gardening project which transforms unloved planters into lovely green spaces for the public to enjoy.

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NOV 4TH

All proceeds will be DOUBLED via this year's Big Give campaign DOUBLE your impact this season!

HOUSE NIGHT

An evening of house music at the Lost + Found taproom, DJ Stu Hedley Lost & Found, Fiveways, 298 Ditchling Road, Brighton

Scan for tickets!

Limited tickets £10

NOV 10TH

with

DJ STU HEDLEY

CEILIDH

7.00pm - 11pm

An evening of dancing for the new and experienced - a brilliant live band and an experienced caller OneChurch, Gloucester Place, Brighton, BN1 4AA

Limited tickets £15

NOV 24TH

Put your hands up in the air!

7.00pm - 11pm

QUIZ NIGHT

7.30pm - 11pm

Our staple Justlife Quiz night extravaganza, hosted by our lovely Quiz hostess Debs.

Doors at 7.30, start time 8pm OneChurch, Florence Road, Brighton, BN1 6DL

Limited tickets £5 email esther@justlife.org.uk

www.justlife.org.uk

NEWS

ATTENBOROUGH CENTRE OF THE CREATIVE ARTS IS ONE VENUE CELEBRATING THE VERY BEST OF FILM AND CINEMA AT CINECITY THIS NOVEMBER

the towers. The night will be followed by a conversation with filmmaker Sean Burns.

In Spring directed by Mikhail Kaufman, with live score by Roksana Smirnova and Misha Kalinin screens on Sat 18 Nov. Then, to round up the festival on Sun 19 Nov, University of Sussex School of Media, Arts and Humanities will partake in a 36-hour Film Challenge 2023. Students will be given a prop, a location and a mystery parameter and have 36 hours to make a four minute film. All films will be screened on Sunday 19 November at 8.30pm during CINECITY to a public audience and a judging panel. With up to £1000 worth of prize money, this is a 36-hour filmmaking marathon designed to test students’ ingenuity and endurance!

To discover more about the films and talks showcased at CINECITY this November, and to book tickets to any of the events, go to www.cine-city.co.uk

CINECITY brings the best in world cinema to Brighton and the South Coast with a festival programme of premieres and previews, artists’ cinema and installations, treasures from the archive, live soundtracks, talks and special events. Described by The Guardian as ‘eclectic and imaginative’, CINECITY also explores ideas around the ‘cinematic’, the space where different practices including music, visual arts, photography, storytelling, literature, design and digital culture, can converge.

Duke of York’s, DEPOT, Dukes at Komedia and Fabrica are other venues screening films and hosting events for the festival. Below is the full list of events taking place at Attenborough Centre of Creative Arts.

The first screening at ACCA will be The Last Queen co-directed by Adila Bendimerad and Damien Ounouri on Fri 10 November. This film screening will be followed by Q&A with Damien Ounouri and Martin Evans, Professor Of Modern European History at the University of Sussex.

Following this event, an afternoon of film, discussion and music will commence on Sat 11 Nov for Reggae and Rai. Reggae from Jamaica and raï from Algeria are two musical forms that emerged from the global south in the 1970s and 1980s and carried the same message: resistance to authority.

Through a mixture of rare screenings, conversations and DJ sets, this event will connect these two musical rebel cultures, exploring their roots and impact. A key part of the evening will be a screening of the 1972 classic The Harder They Come whose killer soundtrack introduced reggae to the world.

People Like Us – The Library of Babel and support from Blevin Blectum - an evening of narrative, collage, cinema and sound is on Tues 14 Nov. Then, on Weds 15 Nov is the UK premiere of Farah directed by Kenton and Hassiba Freiha-Oxley.

On the evening of Thurs 16 Nov, Sean Burns’ Dorothy Towers and live score

by Sean Burns and Lai Power will entertain ACCA. Dorothy Towers is the story of the legendary Clydesdale and Cleveland Towers, two residential blocks in the centre of Birmingham. Completed in 1971 as a social housing development, and located adjacent to Birmingham’s Gay Village, the towers’ proximity to the community means they have long been a haven for LGBTQ+ people.

The 16mm film includes footage of interior architecture; archival materials, including newsprint and photographs; community members in celebratory mood; and sweeping shots of architectural reliefs and designs surrounding BN1 MAGAZINE 13

MEET JOLLY FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS MAGICAL GROTTO

Father Christmas December 2023 BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

brightonmuseums.org.uk

NEWS

Getting all cosy with Connected Brighton

SRISHTI PATHWAYS HEADS TO WORTHING

Photo by Simon Richardson

An ambitious performance of classical Indian Bharatanatyam dance comes to Worthing’s Connaught Theatre on Tues 14 Nov. Featuring classical Indian dance performed by a new generation of British-South Asian dancers, this ambitious production will showcase the best of Bharatanatyam through exquisite movements, powerful rhythm and striking ensemble work.

Three works by award-winning choreographer and Srishti’s Artistic Director Nina Rajarani MBE will be presented, alongside a specially commissioned one by the inimitable guest choreographer Mavin Khoo. Versatile music composer and Karnatik vocalist Y Yadavan has created the music score for the performance.

Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance style that originated in the temples of southern India. It is characterised by its strong lines, geometry and symmetry, as well as highly expressive mime. Bharatanatyam is probably the most popular and versatile classical Indian dance style worldwide.

Find out more at: www.wtm.uk and www.srishti.co.uk

How was your October? Survive Halloween? There were so many cool parties this year, we struggled to pick between them! From immersive burlesque, to bingo there really was something for everyone. I’m a sucker for fancy dress, so I always love seeing a sea of costumes walking the streets - though last year I was the only person dressed up on the 5B bus. But I styled it out until I got to St James’s Street and finally saw my skeleton and zombie tribe!

It now feels like we are speeding through autumn, summer feels like a long time ago and Christmas feels closer than ever. I do love seeing the city shimmering in fairy lights and we’re very much looking forward to seeing all the decorations go up from this month, especially the enormous tree at The Joker, which is always a crowd pleaser.

I love this change of season, the hue of the leaves, these chilly but sunny days are some of my favourite and there is so much to do to distract us from the cold! We have so much planned for this season, like heading to the Sussex Cricket County Cricket ground for their spectacular firework display on Bonfire night. We’ll be getting cosy over Sunday Roasts, tipsy with Tequila Tasting and playing Ping Pong with our Connected Brighton crew.

Our events are set up to connect you to like minded people, through small group experiences that champion independent brands. So, if you are looking to make new friends, enjoy bespoke experiences and to support local business in this fabulous city then check out our website for details on our weekly events, download our app and get involved.

Or if you are just looking for Singles Nights, pop over to our sister brand The Single Sessions and check out our Christmas Mixer, where you’re sure to meet new people.

Lyndsey & Jude

Photo by Simon Richardson

FESTIVE FAVOURITE ARTISTS OPEN HOUSES RETURNS TO BRIGHTON & HOVE FOR 2023 Artist Open Houses returns for 2023 with over 60 houses to explore across Brighton & Hove this festive season. From Hove and Portslade to Fiveways, Seven Dials to Rottingdean, stunning seaside neighborhoods will come alive with arts and crafts displayed in the homes of a vast range of artists and makers. This year's festival takes place on weekends Sat 25 - Sun 26 Nov, Sat 2 - Sun 3 and Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, and is free entry.

Celebrating its 41st year, the focus of the winter festival is Christmas, with venues selling a range of artworks and handmade crafts as unique gifts.

Many houses also offer a glass of something mulled, and a chance to meet the maker - perfect for a winter weekend. Houses are set on trails, so you can choose an area of town to explore, or simply look for your favourites on www.aoh.org.uk.

The Artists Open Houses 2023 Winter Festival offers a range of delights such as work by celebrated painters Clara Wilkinson and Faye Bridgwater, and makers including Kate Jenkins' extraordinary crocheted food plates.

Meanwhile, Judy Dwyer’s fabulous sewn creatures and Helen TwiggeMolecey’s beautiful mouth-blown glass Fungi sculptures. Christmas shopping-wise don’t miss 11 Welbeck open house for great textiles, jewellery and ceramics are not to be missed. Further highlights include Studio 27 which includes work by printmaker Hannah Forward, as well as Emma Carlow’s brilliant Mexican influenced clay whistles. For a different experience. Pink Door open house for a family show, including photography performance art and spoken word performed by AFLO. the poet.

After the Rain by Clara Wilkinson. Photo courtesy of the artist

When buying from AOH for Christmas you are safe in the knowledge that your money is going straight to the maker, and that you are supporting artists’ careers in the process. There is a fantastic choice of work to buy this Christmas, including ceramics, textiles, paintings, jewellery, original prints and many other artworks by both emerging and established artists.

Judy Stevens, AOH Director, said, “We are delighted to launch

this winter's festival with some well known houses returning for 2023, as well as a range of new venues to explore. This time of year in Brighton & Hove is always magical, as the cold weather arrives the open houses provide a great opportunity to buy gifts for friends and family in the warmth of artists' homes. It's a great way to discover new arts and crafts from Sussex makers and meet members of the local creative community. We hope you will join us to visit open houses in your neighbourhood, as well as those further afield, and support our fantastic range of artists and makers across the city and beyond.”

Knitmas Dinner by Kate Jenkins. Photo courtesy of the artist

A new addition for 2023 will also be Hove Museum and Charity Outside In who will take part in Artist Open Houses for the first time.

Outside In (www.outsidein.org.uk) provides a platform for artists encountering significant barriers to the art world and its national open exhibition, which features 80 artworks on the theme of ‘humanity’, will be opening at Hove Museum of Creativity on Sat 25 Nov and will run until Sun 21 Jan. This represents the final leg of a national tour for Humanity, which initially opened at Sotheby’s Old Bond Street in January 2023 before touring to Project Ability in Glasgow. Sussex is the birthplace of Outside In and numerous local artists have work included in the show. Outside In artists have interpreted humanity from a wide variety of perspectives, both personal and global, and the work on show includes paintings and drawings, sculpture, ceramics, photography, film and performance pieces.

The AOH Christmas trail starts on 25 Nov with the full list of houses and dates at www.aoh.org.uk

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Faye Bridgwater. Photo courtesy of the artist

Festival of Print 9th & 10th Dec 2023 Sat & Sun | 11:00 – 18:00 Events Include: Tabletop Print Fair Printmaking Workshops Family Fun

PHOENIX ART SPACE 10–14 Waterloo Place Brighton, BN2 9NB East Sussex, UK

The ‘best-of’ Review of the Year 2023

The Treas n Show “Savagely Funny - Fantastically Silly” The Guardian

“Brilliant” The Latest

“Hilarious” The Argus

Artists Open Houses

Winter 2023 Brighton, Hove and beyond

Weekends 25 November to 10 December aoh.org.uk 27-29 December 8pm

£18.50 - £30.00 (+bkg fee)

Book online www.treasonshow.co.uk

@artistsopenhouses Judy Stevens: Winteriesse, Hurdy Gurdy Player

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CHICHESTER FESTIVAL THEATRE REPRESENTS THE VERY BEST OF ENTERTAINMENT AND CULTURE IN SUSSEX WRITTEN BY AMY STANBOROUGH

It was a drizzly evening as we approached the theatre, finally an autumnal chill in the air. But through the windows of the Minerva Theatre was a welcoming glow leading us inside The Brasserie. This is the perfect spot for some pre-theatre dining with one, two or three courses to choose from and an excellent wine selection. Caper & Berry are the catering masterminds behind this lavish dinner experience, serving locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

Immediately attentive and smiley, the staff led us to our table on the circumference of the restaurant. For our mains we were given a choice of Grilled Sea Bass, Roast Chicken, Braised Ox Cheek or Beetroot Tatin though the menu is subject to change. I selected the chicken, served with dauphinoise potatoes, buttered kale and a black truffle jus. My dining partner chose the seabass which was garnished with samphire, shallot butter, a dill mayo and served with rustic fries.

The food came out pretty much right away, and it was the smell that struck us first.

Everything was tantalising the taste buds.

My chicken was cooked to perfection, as was the sea bass with a pleasantly crisp skin. Likewise, the fries were crunchy and dauphinoise potatoes were not too heavy.

It was the dill mayo and truffle jus that stole the show on both dishes, providing that final touch of flavour that makes you want to mop the plate clean.

Accompanying our dinner we each had a glass of rosé wine. Our waiter Ed was extremely conscientious the whole night, ensuring that our meal was okay and we 18 BN1 MAGAZINE

were well. Looking around, every table in the restaurant was full.

We couldn’t resist a desert. I opted for the Vanilla Panna Cotta (vg) which was served with raspberry sorbet and a buckwheat tuile.

It was a very pleasant desert - something sweet and light to complete the meal. I believe there could have been more vanilla flavour, but the sorbet was a great compliment and I enjoyed the textural crisp of the tuile. My dining partner professed herself a Sticky Toffee Pudding Connoisseur as she chose this desert. Tasting the muscovado sauce drenched sponge, and she was certainly impressed.

Food and drink at Chichester Festival Theatre: www.cft.org.uk/your-visit/food-drink We then crossed over to the theatre which was Britain’s first modern thrust stage theatre when it opened in 1962. A View from the Bridge by Arthur Miller is set in the migrant enclave of Red Hook, Brooklyn. Miller had met the river’s dockers who had fled the battered economy of post-war Italy wanting to find work in America. Miller took this historical drama and turned it into a Greek tragedy in which Eddie Carbone, a regular American working man, is the hero.

A View from the Bridge was first staged in New York in 1955. On the play, Miller wrote, “It takes place beneath the traffic of Brooklyn Bridge and the modern society we live in.”

Today, watching the play, there is a story of family, love, immigration and home which still feels very current to our society nearly 70 years later.

A View from the Bridge - credit The Other Richard

The thrust stage theatre made for a more intimate viewing experience as the audience surrounded the action. It was an experience which began before the script as a character took a seat on the swing - a pivotal piece of set design. The swing grew symbolic of an edge between youth and adulthood, transitioning from familial love into romantic love, plus geographical borders and leaping off the swing into new land.

Brooklyn accents took the stage first, introducing the characters Catherine (Rachelle Diedericks) and Eddie (Jonathon Slinger) who are niece and uncle in a very compassionate relationship.

Beatrice (Kirsty Bushell) takes the role of the mother figure after the death of her sister left Catherine an orphan. It unravels that Beatrice’s cousins - Rodolfo (Luke Newberry) and Marco (Tommy Sim’aan) - have come to work and stay with them in America, filling the stage with convincing thick Italian accents. This new family dynamic, and the tension of their illegal stay, causes cracks to appear amongst the relationships.

While the first half included a slow establishment of relationships and story, narrated by Alfieri (Nancy Crane) who is also a lawyer, the second half was packed with intense relationships which were well-acted. From laughter, song, piercing screams and realistic tears, the performance had me immersed the whole way through.

Congratulations to director Holly Race Roughan on a successful play.

Chichester Festival Theatre clearly stages highend performances with incredibly talented casts in a beautiful setting which remains consistent regardless of the show. Their next upcoming play

will be A Voyage Around my Father (Tues 7 Nov - Sat 11 Nov), another gripping family drama.

Written by John Mortimer and directed by Richard Eyre, BAFTA and Golden Globe nominee Rupert Everett stars in this celebrated autobiographical play.

In shining a light on this delicate relationship between a young man and his father who adored his garden and hated visitors, and whose blindness was never mentioned, A Voyage Round My Father introduces us to a gallery of unforgettable and often hilarious characters.

Then, from Thurs 16 Nov - Sat 2 Dec, Life of Pi adapted by Lolita Chakrabarti from the novel by Yann Martel and directed by Max Webster will take to Chichester Festival Theatre. Including breathtaking visuals and puppetry, this is a tale of friendship, resilience, and adventure. Life of Pi is the Winner of five Olivier Awards including Best New Play, and three Tony Awards! After conquering the West End and Broadway, Chichester Festival Theatre champions a stage for every story, wanting everyone to be engaged in the world of theatre. Therefore, Prologue tickets are available to 16-30 year olds for just £5 and you can show your ID for 10% off food and drink.

Throughout their season, they also have a whole host of events and talks for a variety of ages. To find out more about theatre for Young People go to www.cft.org.uk/young-people.

To discover more about the full Winter Season at Chichester Festival Theatre and to book your tickets, visit www.cft.org.uk.

A Voyage Round My Father Rupert Everett Photo Credit Manuel Harlan

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MUSIC

Local rising star EVA wins three awards at this year’s Youth Music Awards

By Rosie Paldi Edwards

R

osie Paldi Edwards chats with rising 21 year old singer, songwriter and producer EVA, who got nominated for three awards at this year’s Youth Music Awards - the Music Video Award (Public Vote), Live Performance Award and the Rising Star Artist Award.

Eva talks about how she got involved with Youth Music charity, NextGen Fund and how it feels to win all three of her nominations.

“It goes back to when I started making music in a youth club called Audio Active in Brighton.

They ran an all female production group every Thursday and through that I met a mentor figure called Bobby Brown.” After finishing her A Levels, Brown told Eva about the NextGen Fund and after a swift application, her name and forty others were on the list for funding. Eva goes on to say “That was my first contact with the Youth Music Charity. They give the winners 2,500 pounds, which is so much money. From then, I started to mix and master my first track, then made a music video and did that three times over till my money ran out.”

Eva explains how you don’t have to be in the city centre to get all the opportunities, “there are also loads of regional opportunities, like South East or Wales, you don’t have to just live in London. You can also apply multiple times for the same thing and there’s loads of other programs that are similar. They have a great mailing list that says ‘this is all the opportunities for this week’ and it’s sent out every Friday.” She goes on to talk about the importance of community and the friends you make along the way, especially if you’re in a new city. From regularly attending open mic and jam nights in London, it helped her get really comfortable with performing live and meeting other like minded musicians.

Eva has been booked for shows, nominated, played on the radio and even made an

“You put so much work in as a

musician and results can be quite slow sometimes, but then things like the award happens and I did

Glastonbury, so it’s like oh gosh, it’s working.”

appearance on ITV! She explains how “all these different experiences were also kind of work experience as its project management.

It’s such good training. You put so much work in as a musician and results can be quite slow sometimes, but then things like the award happens and I did Glastonbury, so it’s like oh gosh, it’s working.”

In just a year of making music and receiving support from Youth Music Charity, she has made big moves in the music scene, releasing 4 singles to performing at Glastonbury after being chosen as a finalist for Glastonbury’s Emerging Talent Competition 2023. The singer goes into the process of how she got her Glastonbury slot.

“They have 30 judges and they give them a few hundred tracks and it just so happens that they liked my track. It then went to another round of judges and they picked me for the shortlist which was nine people. You go to Shepton Mallet, Michael and Emily Eavis are there as well, I performed two songs and before they decided on the winners they said we could all perform.

My main booking that gave me my ticket was the Lonely Hearts Club and I also got booked

by Bread and Roses and I got to perform a third time at the festival at the Hive stage just across from the BBC Introducing stage.”

Eva explains how her song ‘My One’ came into fruition when she met now bandmates Luke Gomm and J P Rose. “I knew Luke had worked with Lily Allen and she’s like my favourite artist

so I was excited to work with him. We had our first studio session together, it was the second time I had met him, so we were just getting to know each other and vibing. We started making this beat, it was a really harmonious studio session, it felt like an instant trio, they are both incredible musicians. J P plays the bass and Luke plays the keys so they also came with me to Glastonbury.” She describes the surprisingly easy process of making ‘My One’ “after coming up with the chorus, Luke was like ‘let’s add these Drum and Bass high hats and J P is like okay what about this,’we were just sharing ideas and then we got this song, it felt like it had just appeared.”

A lot of organising and many phone calls later Eva arranged a day to shoot the music video for ‘My One’. “It was freezing that day because we filmed in February. After that I had all the footage we needed and edited it together with my friend.

That’s the whole process from recording to getting the music video finished and then finally you put it all together.” Her now award-winning music video shows her love for themes, “there is something about having this iconography, like a symbol with the song, so I decided to do a whole golf themed music video. The song is playful, using Jersey Club with Drum and Bass elements.”

Using the same process, Eva explains how she got the idea for her ‘Snow’ music video, a catchy UK Garage / house track. “All the lyrics surround the idea of someone who is quite nonchalant and so I thought of snow, you know it’s cold.” The singer talks about being creative on a budget and trying to come up with something that’s eyecatching but attainable, “I don’t have the money to go to a ski slope so I was thinking about how am I going to make something that’s memorable but also includes the theme of snow.

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I found this music video of this Christmas song in the 90s and they are all wearing white outfits in front of a greenscreen and so I thought I’d just make a parody of that.” Again the process of making it was quite challenging she said as the lighting didn’t always work with the greenscreen and so lots of edits were made to make the footage work. However, hard work definitely pays off as the music video proves for itself you don’t need a big budget to make a captivating and creative video.

From being played on the radio to getting interviewed for ITV, Eva explains how Youth Music got her on the news. “I got an email from one of the Youth Music staff members, and they were saying ITV News is interested in me. I was like what, that’s so random but okay that’s gotta happen. They asked me a few questions and it went back and forth like that for a bit and it was such an experience. To just be in the studio and find out how everything works, because I love the whole production side of it all.”

From UK Garage, House, Drum and Bass and soulful melodies what has Eva got up her sleeve next? She describes her music taste at the moment as a blend of “funk, house and disco. The next song that I’m doing is called “How Many Times” and it’s sort of a mixture of funk and disco but not explicitly just cheesy soul. I had a disco themed party for my birthday and just been listening to alot of that lately.”

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So with a new song in the works, I had to ask if she was going to make an accompanying music video. Eva stated “looking back at all the planning, I don’t think I’ll have a full length video for this one but shorts instead. At Glastonbury I did loads of recording with a camcorder, so it’s got that retro look. At my birthday party I also filmed and got everyone to dress up all 70s, so I’m going to use some of that footage as well as the footage from the awards ceremony. I’ve also

got a gig tonight at Georges Tavern in London, where I’ll do some more filming.” With nothing but creativity and flair for music I’m excited to see what Eva brings out next.

www.youthmusic.org.uk/awards

MUSIC

Enter this month’s Quiz Face trivia competition for a chance to win 3 amazing games from Gamely, just in time for Christmas! www.gamelygames.com

WORDUKU

Fill out the grid using the letters above each Worduku. The letter in the pink boxes will make up a word, when rearranged. (12 DOWN)

WHOber Eats Can you figure out this order?

It seems familiar....

The order address is definitely a famous family’s on T.V. (15 ACROSS) The order and location have to be from a fictional sweet shop (9 ACROSS) The WHOber driver I swear has been in a film (2 DOWN) CONSTELLATION Name that constellation (10 DOWN ON THE QUIZWORD)

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QUIZWORD

The Quizword is like a crossword but a little bit more trivia based.

Once completed, the letters in the pink boxes spell out a CODEWORD when rearranged. When you have figured it out email us at prizes@ quizface.co.uk FOR A CHANCE AT WINNING THIS MONTH’S PRIZE!

ACROSS 3. Maria has a green beret, Frans has orange eyebrows and Sam has round spectacles in which game?

6. I came, I saw, I conquered.

9. Where would you get these sweets in WHOBER EATS? 13. Go over to SHEET MUSIC and figure out what the musical notes spell.

14. If you converted 31,536,000 seconds into minutes you have the opening song lyrics to which musical?

15. What is the name of the family that lives at the WHOBER EATS order address?

16. What fruit can be seen in the painting The Son of Man by René Magritte?

18. Sulphur - Gold - Sulphur - Silver - Einsteinium spell out what word when changed into their chemical symbol?

19. What move does Ken make when he goes south, south east, east and then punches?

20.

Red+Black+Red+Black+Red+Black+Red+Blue+Red+Black+Red+Brown=?

DOWN 1.

1982 saw author Alan Moore and illustrator David Lloyd release which book, which would then be adapted to the silver screen 23 years later?

2. Which film have you seen your WHOBER EATS driver in?

4. Go over to the TRANSLATOR section and figure out what word is being spelt out.

5. Fizz Wiz popping candy has three different flavours, cola and strawberry are two of them what is the other one?

7. Here’s the church, but what two fingers do you use to make the steeple?

8. The Powerpuff Girls were made of sugar, spice, everything nice and what other ingredient?

10. Figure out the CONSTELLATION. 11. Go over to TRANSLATOR section and figure out what form of communication this is.

12. Figure out the WORDUKU. 17. What word connects the country Dhaka is in and the capital of Thailand?

SHEET MUSIC

This piece of music spells out a word. (13 ACROSS ON THE QUIZWORD)

TRANSLATOR

The image below shows a form of communication.

We would like to know what this form of communication called and what it is spelling out in the image. The answers correlate to two questions in the Quizword. (4 DOWN & 13 DOWN)

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Photo Credit Teri Varhol

MUSIC

GAZELLE TWIN Acclaimed electronic composer and performance artist releases most personal work to date

By Stuart Rolt

E

lizabeth Bernholz, the face behind pioneering multi-disciplinary electronic artist Gazelle Twin is determined to understand how society deals with common emotions and experiences. “Folk culture tells you what the mindset was at that time in those places and communities. Their collective fears for example. And how those fears become articulated in culture, music and costume. That’s my template for everything I do. If I was living in a pagan community, and we were scared of this thing; what would it look and sound like? How would we cope with it?” She describes humanity’s fondness for ritual as being a form of confrontation and control. This habit can be found throughout civilization, as art and observances seek to make sense of a mysterious world.

The need to quantify and explain the most fundamental of human responses rampages through much of Gazelle Twin’s new longplayer, Black Dog. With that title we could justifiably conclude it addresses the spectrum of depression. But the work’s core themes might draw from a more supernatural place. “What I started out with was an idea of making an album about ghosts. That was in 2019, on the last show of my tour. I didn’t know where that was going to take me, but usually the way I make albums is I start with a theme that I can’t escape.” Like most of us, the following two years offered a range of different experiences and emotions.

She started exploring memories of seeing a black dog in her parents’ bedroom. Describing it as some sort of shadow, she says it never caused her to be afraid but still can’t explain what caused the apparition. “I didn’t know until I was older that there was a bit more to it. Other members of the family had seen it. There was this whole strange history which captivated me.”

The project evolved into more of a personal journey through the fears and anxieties which

“I think I’m just one of those

people who likes to know how we did things before all the

mundane, everyday technology we live with.”

have been with her since childhood. She describes her creative process as being like making a film, pulling together a mass of research and establishing a world to inhabit before any actual music is composed. The resulting object is packed with double meanings and open-ended stories, with themes evolving or doubling back at every turn. “It’s quite similar to haunting, the way depression comes in loops and doesn’t really leave you.”

Sonically, many tracks on Black Dog sound like a séance, with Bernholz assuming the role of a medium attempting to break into a different realm, while certain things push back from the other side. “That’s sort of what I do… as Gazelle Twin anyway… a vessel that sends different messages and narratives. This was just a more literal version of that. There are loads of things connected with spiritualists. They’re cliches really, but I’m really interested in them.

At face value and in terms of what they meant and were trying to do.” With so many strands going into the record, she didn’t realise where the recordings had been subconsciously taking her until much later. There are undoubtedly some themes coming through which explore emergent electronic music technology and its indelible connections to the Victorian spiritualist movement, along with why there were so many spiritualist mediums who were women.

There’s been a slight development in her craft with Black Dog. While previous albums have dealt with looking at the complex nature

of England’s heritage and collective perspectives, this new work sees more of her own experiences projected out.

Becoming a parent during lockdown has certainly had an impact, as Bernholz adapts to a new set of responsibilities and amenities. Obviously, the experience also takes you back to your own childhood and the issues which may not have been properly processed back then. “There was quite an urgent need to create something which made some kind of sense of it. I don’t know if it’s a shift, or if I’m operating in exactly the same world I always have been. If anything, this is the most cinematically influenced album I’ve made.”

While Black Dog might summon the unseen malevolence occasionally keeping us scared and alone under the night time’s bed covers, there’s no dispute that her music is expensive and alluring. Its expansive use of layering, clashing together the familiar and the angular, makes it perfect material for the make-believe worlds of film and TV. Gazelle Twin recently composed the soundtrack for Sky’s criticallyacclaimed euro-thriller, Then You Run. It follows a group of young friends travelling to Rotterdam, who subsequently become involved in a brutal criminal enterprise. This startlingly original series draws much of its raw energy from the performances, slick editing and Bernholz’s dynamic and innovative score. “I got to do my own thing really. It uses music from my 2014 album, Unflesh, and some more recent ones. I also got to score in my own style around that, which was a mixture of horror and teen dark comedy. It was a brilliant one for me to work on.”

Producers always had her music in mind for the show as it aligned with their ambition to create something vibrant, punchy and stylish.

Her studio process involves a blend of computerbased synthesis and analogue instruments.

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For this album there was access to a theremin, and the Moog Studio Lab; an assemblage of classic mythicizers. “I had sessions which I sampled, and used these gnarly sounds on my DAW. I often use my voice to build synths in Ableton. I never want to be stuck in one place.

I like to have real sounds and vocals, so they’re not digital clean things. I like there to be a bit of a mess and a bit of ‘real person’ in there.”

There was also a foray in deploying string arrangement. Alexander Painter, a fellow member of Brighton’s Anti-Ghost Moon Ray collective, provided some ethereal cello work for several tracks. This took the form of drones, along with rising and dropping noises which only add to the spooky atmospherics.

Perhaps most interesting, samples were lifted from an old cassette tape of her sister playing piano. “It’s from before I was born, in the mid-70s. There was just this amazing tape, with my late grandparents in the background and this tinkly piano. I used that on a few tracks for the album, just to have that crazy thing where you have the acoustics of your childhood home.” This house also features on the album’s artwork, with many of the songs referencing growing up there in their endless kaleidoscope looping. The echoes of the past theme often became even more literal, with discarded songs surviving as brief samples hidden away in the mix. “I really wanted to carry on that idea of haunting as far as it will go.”

While this album was more concerned about story and narrative, the Gazelle Twin output gives equal importance to music and performance. Bernholz is now preparing for a string of live shows, including a visit to Brighton’s Attenborough Centre For The Creative Arts on Fri 24 Nov. “I hate the word ‘theatrical’ and all it conjures, but this show is more like going to see a film or play. There’s a whole visual element.” She’s working with visual designer Danial Conway on creating wonderful live video feedback effects. These are being combined with projections and atmospheric lighting to create an immersive séance environment. She admits to subverting some familiar spooky staging but the show promises to offer something unusual within the performance which makes the audience feel they’re entering a different, dreamlike world.

“Sometimes when I make albums, the persona becomes one of the first things before any music. Maybe I should have been a filmmaker or something. Often, the way I do it is not always about the music.” Bernholz cites Bowie as a huge influence particularly in the sense of his live performance and how she presents herself.

There’s also much love for the unorthodox output of singer-songwriter Scott Walker. “There’s these people who have this presence… who are singing about quite complex, psychological things.”

Like both of those artists, Gazelle Twin is telling a story which is ultimately a version of Bernholz’s own personality. Walker in particular 28 BN1 MAGAZINE

was cinematically expansive, while managing to remain abstract and strange. “He had this really big 60’s voice but was singing without an orchestra. He was just a real, believable powerhouse artist. Bowie was a bit more playful.

He had more of a sense of humour, and I love that.”

The ACCA show also sees Bernholz return to her alma mater, having studied music at Sussex in

2006. She’s developed a great relationship with the venue, with them giving her time to develop work in their superb performance space. There remains other ties to the university, with its Music Technology department now offering the Gazelle Twin Scholarship for Women. Intended to address a profound imbalance in the industry, it came after several seminars covering her own career. “I learnt how to produce on my first record, it became a necessity. So, I do wish I’d taken that route sooner.”

environment more welcoming.”

While developing her own set studio techniques, Bernholz says she’s reluctant to become too obsessive about how everything sounds. “I’m sure there are people who are audiophiles who will have stuff to say about it, but for me it’s about the ideas. So much of the production side is secondary. I appreciate incredibly produced music, because that is an artform; but I try not to get bogged down in that. I don’t go over my tracks and painstakingly smooth things out.” She says she’s comfortable leaving in small mistakes, believing the small glitches are what makes music sound unique. That’s the danger when we live in such a digital world, that things start to sound artificial.”

While it’s all down to personal taste, she says people becoming involved with music technology often feel they’ve got to live up to something. Which might be something else putting others from getting into the industry. “I made my first record as a demo and thought it didn’t sound good enough, because I hadn’t worked with a producer who sorted it all out and made it like a professional record. Over time, I came to see the songs are still good and it sounds OK. I still grew a career from that point. I could have easily not done that. But that is what makes things interesting – what happens naturally. In all art forms. Making mistakes, and those mistakes becoming part of their identity.”

Gazelle Twin comes to Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts on Fri 24 Nov. Her new album, Black Dog, is available now, via Invada Records.

www.gazelletwin.com www.attenboroughcentre.com

She says more women are becoming involved with the production side of music, but it can still be exclusive. “While a lot of women want to be involved in it, there is a fear. It can be very cliquey. Anything technological like that tends to lean towards one gender. It’s funny really, because when you look back at the greats of early electronic music, like Delia Derbyshire and Daphne Oram, there were a lot of women doing this. They were doing it by themselves.”

These two pioneers were mainstays of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, a unit established to provide sound effects for radio drama which evolved into creating experimental music.

“They were technically minded and massively progressed everything. It’s kind of bizarre that it wasn’t that long ago and things have shifted so quickly into a male dominated industry. It’s starting to change and technology helps that, by shifting what’s available away from institutions and clubs. People can just do it themselves.

There are some really amazing people out there who are sharing their skills, and teaming up with other women who want to learn and make that

MUSIC Photo Credit Teri Varhol

Where Will Art Take You?

Jesse Darling Ghislaine Leung Rory Pilgrim Barbara Walker

28 September 2023 to 14 April 2024 Free Admission townereastbourne.org.uk

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MUSIC

SMOOVE & TURRELL Northern Funk crew learn from the past and looks to the future

By Stuart Rolt

“

You spend so long with these people that compatibility is important.” Jonathan Scott Watson, better known as DJ and producer Smoove, is considering the fundamentals of keeping a live act functioning.

“You spend hours, days and years on end crammed into a van on the road. It’s like a family.

You’ve got to give each other room and respect all the time. I’m always conscious of that. Being a musician isn’t luxury by any means. You want to make them as comfortable as possible.”

Touring is tough work. The founder member of self-styled ‘Northern Funk’ act, Smoove & Turrell, is suffering a bit this morning. A string of shows in Europe culminated with a hugely delayed flight back home to Tyneside last night.

But he’s not complaining about this, or any other journey he’s been on. Originally forming as a duo with singer/songwriter John Turrell in 2007, he tells me it was inevitable the pair would meet.

Bonding over a shared interest in classic soul, they developed a unique style which fuses funk, hip-hop and electronica. After recording a debut album, they were swiftly asked to join the genrebending roster of artists on Brighton’s acclaimed Jalapeno Records.

The label is a good fit for a band which constantly refuses to conform. “We love soul.

And because we’re from the North, we got coined as Northern Soul. But we’ve never claimed to be that. For some reason the soul boys love the sound we make.” It’s indisputable that Smoove & Turrell provide the most authentic version you’ll find of that distinctive style, without seeming retro or contrived. This neat assimilation of different musical influences stretches back to Smoove’s first break in the industry.

Playing in a hip-hop band called Rubberneck in the 90s, Smoove got himself signed to the celebrated Big Life label – then home to De

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“You spend so long with these people that compatibility is important.”

La Soul and Naughty By Nature. “I’ve always collected records, and my background is predominantly rap and old-school. But I was all more into the music rather than the words.

Until I heard Sweet Tea. And then there was Big Daddy Kane. That was it. I discovered rapping as a percussive instrument. I tried it myself, and it didn’t feel right. So I knocked that on the head pretty quick!”

A few decades on, and he’s assembled a phenomenal group of musicians around him, which is never more evident than in Smoove & Turrell’s live shows. Building upon a solid funkdriven base, they mix in socially conscious lyrics which celebrate despair as much as joy - whilst always remaining in touch with their northern working-class roots. A few musical motifs linger from those heady days in the 90s though. “I’m obsessed with drums. That hip-hop ‘boom bap’ was a big thing, and still is for me. Now I hide it in there… But we didn’t sit down and say: ‘We need hip-hop beats, a soulful vocal and a great band with strings and bass.’ It’s something that’s organically happened.”

The band soon head out on the road again, adding to a series of packed Jalapeno Bop events at Hove’s The Old Market on Sat 2 Dec, which welcomes them for some fan favourites and material from new album, Red Ellen; alongside a live set from Wolfgang Valbrun and Bristol bomb-dropping DJs, The Allergies. The evening will also benefit from TOM’s brand-new immersive gig setup, which blankets the venue in dazzling digital projections.

Released last month, Red Ellen was three years in the making, and saw the band turn another creative corner after scoring a lockdown hit with their last offering, Stratos Bleu (a UK Dance Chart Number One and 6 Music’s Album of The Day). That also established a sizeable stylistic shift with a sparkling assortment of French disco and electronica accompanying the trademark funk influences. But, if their fanbase has learned one thing, it’s to expect the unexpected.

“We had started writing more stuff like that, but it began sounding like second-rate versions.

We scrapped quite a lot. Maybe it’s because our heads were in the wrong place.” Smoove chortles when describing Red Ellen (somewhat laconically) as the band’s ‘difficult seventh album’. But it stands as the work they all really wanted to make. They weren’t excessively preoccupied by expectations from fans or the record label, and the result sounds all the better for it. “Every artist will say that, and it’s nice to be comfortable where your fans will like the stuff, but you’ve got to take risks.”

He implies complacency is one of the worst things in music. “Someone once told me that if you’re stuck for influence, you should listen to new genres of music. You will find something in there. You can hear something like death metal and there might be a breakdown which is totally different.” While the sound might have evolved from the brash upfront sounds of early releases like Antique Soul, Eccentric Audio and Broken Toys, they still concentrate on music which makes people want to dance. The funk remains, but it’s accompanied by a new sense of ambition and urgency.

Everything opens with The Light, where the band involves legendary keyboardist, Ronnie Foster.

Working with everyone from Stevie Wonder and George Benson to The Jacksons, he’s elevated

some of music’s most iconic names with his flawless playing. “I’ve been a fan of his since I was a kid. He was signed to Blue Note when he was 17! We met at a festival in France, he was the nicest guy ever. So funny, and he looked so young. We kept in touch, and when he asked if we wanted to do a track together…. Well… We’re so proud of it.”

what I was saying about breaking out of your normal way of doing things.” In the early days, it would be just him and Turrell writing their music using samples. Now, they try to involve the touring band in the writing process as much as possible. “It gives longevity for them... They’re no longer performing material onstage which isn’t ‘theirs’ That must be quite rewarding.”

More evidence of the band pushing the envelope in all directions can be found on the track’s soaring gospel vocals, which urge the listener to ‘let the love shine in’. These were born from a collaboration with Jalapeno label-mate, Izo FitzRoy. “She did them in one day and sent them up. I was listening to the parts just gobsmacked, it was so beautiful. Everyone loves gospel.

But just to put those sorts of vocals on a track doesn’t instantly make it better. It must be a good song. But they really did make it shine...”

There’s no denial that the duo has developed a habit of giving their albums simple two-word names, which often involve some kind of in-joke.

“Yeah. I named the first two, and John said we should keep that going. It does get harder every year though!” While being slightly less oblique, this new album’s title pays homage to Ellen Wilkinson - a key figure in British socialism and feminism during the early 20th century.

Contributing to women’s suffrage and the early Labour movement, she also helped form the British Communist Party, was involved in the General Strike in 1926 and went on to become the first female Minister of Education. Originally the MP for the Middlesbrough East constituency, she went on to represent Jarrow; a town with one of the worst unemployment records in England.

A poignant piece about loss, Mary’s Song stands as a heartfelt homage to Turrell’s beloved late mother-in-law. Rich layers, not dissimilar to the atmospherics on much of Radiohead’s work, slowly give way to more electronic moments in one of the album’s stand-out tracks. Also exploring loss and grief, Empty Bottle Serenade could be seen as celebrating the life of Smoove’s own father. “We started writing about mundane tasks in life, like waiting for the washing machine to end… One night, we were talking about my dad, and I showed John the fingerprints on his records – which he thought was amazing. Then I started telling him more stories about my dad.

You’d never guess it was about him by listening to the record, but the references are in there.”

Smoove’s father undoubtedly had a musical influence on him as a youngster. “I’d been going to buy music at Hitsville in Newcastle but didn’t have a lot of money back then. There were no listening booths, so you had to go by reading the sleeves and taking a punt. I bought lots of cheap white labels, which were often crap. I once got home with this record by 2 Live Crew and turned it up really loud in my bedroom. Then the house started shaking, as my dad started playing the original sampled track by Jimi Hendrix. He was into a lot of rock stuff.”

He agrees that rap music often provided a gateway to new musical territory. Kids might be buying the records to annoy their parents but would be introduced to classic artists through the samples being pilfered. Osmosis aside, the intention was still to find something edgy and exciting. “Rap music like Gunshot and London Posse… that fast-paced stuff… I really liked. Looking back now, it’s the equivalent of kids playing punk rock. There’s that energy and attitude. I still love that stuff now, but there isn’t a place for it. You can’t go out and DJ with hardcore rap. You might impress one person on the dancefloor!”

In terms of his own production, Smoove tends to work best with musicians one on one. “I’m really good at working with people and getting great stuff out of them. But if there’s three people in a room, it can slow the process down. With this album, all six of us did get in a room together, with an idea or a half-written song and then seeing where it goes. That again goes back to 32 BN1 MAGAZINE

In 1936, she helped organise the iconic Jarrow march – where 200 unemployed workers marched on London to protest the austerity which had aided the industrial North’s economic decline. “The strength of a hundred men….

That’s what they used to say about her.” While Smoove says the album isn’t overtly political, it only takes passing research to find where its ideas spring from. The story of Wilkinson and her attempts to highlight basic inequalities in our society have become markedly relevant in recent years. “We’ve all gone full circle. This album is subconsciously about ten years of austerity, and the elite destroying our public services. The country has gone to shit, and everyone is almost standing by and watching it happen. I don’t think there’ll be riots, but something is coming.”

With little attempt to smash regional stereotypes, Smoove asserts people from the North East have a great sense of humour. “I guess you have to, just to get through the tough times.”

This is further emphasised by Turrell’s sociallyconscious song-writing, which blends dry

witticisms with a genuine pride in where the band comes from. “John is a brilliant lyricist. A lot of this album might suggest ‘fuck Brexit’ but it’s more subliminal. You could take a negative song that he’s written, but it will always sound quite positive and upbeat.”

Those familiar soulful vocals from Turrell and some complex digital arrangements are met with lush strings from Ben Lee on the album’s first single IGOTCHA, lending shimmering warmth, depth and intensity to the track. “He actually lives on my street, about four doors up! He arranged and recorded all the string sections.

To have that as well is such a beautiful thing. I dreamed of that as a kid. And now there I am mixing it all, going: ‘WOW!’” It emerges that the band, including guitarist Lloyd Wright and drummer Oscar Cassidy, all live within a mile of each other. Bassist Neil Harlan has performed with Above & Beyond, Joe Cocker and Katherine Jenkins, and keyboardist Mike Porter is… well, we do need to talk about Mike.

Smoove claims he’d never asked him to formally join the band. “He just turns up. He’s basically the frontman though. John just wants to sing, so he’s not interested in dancing or costume changes. Instead, Mike is up front, standing on his keyboard.” The irrepressible Porter’s onstage antics have become an essential part of the band’s live shows.

Smoove recalls one show at a packed festival in Ghent, where Porter jumping into the audience didn’t quite go according to plan. “He stagedived, and ended up being carried out… He was convinced someone was trying to steal his phone, so was wriggling like a fish.” Smoove is now heartily laughing at the memory. “You’re supposed to lie still in a cross. I think it’s on YouTube as the worst crowd-surf in history! He is a great guy. Really fun...”

Smoove & Turrell come to The Jalapeno Bop: Winter Edition at Hove’s The Old Market on Sat 2 Dec. Their new album, Red Ellen, is available now, via Jalapeno Records.

www.smooveandturrell.com www.theoldmarket.com

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home to this poetically intoxicating performance.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Tues Oct 31 - Sat Nov 11 - Theatre Royal Following a record-breaking threeyear West End residency, sold-out UK & Ireland Tour and Amazon Studios award-winning film, the smash-hit and critically acclaimed musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie will continue its run at Theatre Royal Brighton until Sat 11 Nov. Funny, fabulous and feel good, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie features an all-star cast including West End sensation Ivano Turco, EastEnders legend John Partridge, Coronation Street star Shobna Gulati, and Dancing on Ice royalty Hayley Tamaddon.

Gecko – Kin

Coram Shakespeare Schools Festival Mon 6 Nov - The Old Market

triumphant season at the Melbourne Comedy Festival Jordan returns to the UK to take on babies, boobies, bigots and Batman in this blistering music and comedy show.

After 10 years in the music biz (and a memorable run on The Voice), Jordan Gray has suddenly become one of the UK’s most exciting and celebrated rising comics, recently winning the Channel 4 Comedy Breakthrough Star Award. Jordan has been featured on the BBC, ITV, Sky and Comedy Central, and recently had ITV commission a pilot alongside Simon Pegg and Nick Frost.

Gecko is an award-winning and internationally acclaimed physical theatre company, led by Artistic Director Amit Lahav.

Join TOM this November for an exhilarating evening of live theatre, featuring a series of unique abridged Shakespeare productions by local schools.

See Shakespeare’s timeless stories brought to life like never before, and support young people from your community as they take to the stage.

Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation is a cultural education charity, transforming lives through the unique power of Shakespeare.

Our Festival provides a platform for up to 30,000 young people to express themselves and grow in confidence as they take to a professional stage.

These performances are the culmination of months of work in which young people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities have been finding their voice in school rehearsal rooms.

seems unlikely to be matched any time soon. He is also a Sunday Times bestselling author, Twitter phenomenon and enormously loved broadcaster, seen and heard on BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live, Would I Lie To You?, Have I Got News For You & QI. Sex, drugs, pop stardom, religious epiphany; love, a dream job, and the madness of grief. Some or all of this may come out as Richard lifts the lid on a life truly and truthfully lived.

An intimate evening with a unique national treasure embarking on a first full national tour because he’s done pretty much everything else a person can do.

The Enfield Haunting Tues 14 Nov - Sat 18 Nov - Theatre Royal

Adam Rowe - What’s Wrong With Me? Fri 10 Nov - The Old Market

The host of the global smash-hit podcast Have A Word and star of Live At The Apollo Adam Rowe is coming to TOM with his brand new stand-up tour.

Adam’s spent a bit of time selfreflecting and he’s come to the conclusion that there’s something wrong with him, although for a hypochondriac, that’s not exactly news. A hilarious insight into the mind and body of one of the fastest rising comedians on the planet.

Catherine Tate (Doctor Who, Queen of Oz) and David Threlfall (Funny Woman, Shameless) star in the world premiere of this major new play by Paul Unwin (co-creator of the world’s longest running medical drama Casualty) immediately prior to a West End season.

Based on the first-hand accounts of one of the ghost hunters, The Enfield Haunting is the true story of what happened when a dedicated single mother tried to protect her three children from something that is incomprehensible, deeply disturbing and is hurtling to a terrifying conclusion.

Weds 1 Nov - Sat 4 Nov - Brighton Dome Gecko is an award-winning and internationally acclaimed physical theatre company, led by Artistic Director Amit Lahav.

Gecko’s new show presents a provocative story of desperation and compassion, inspired by the epic journey from Yemen to Palestine that Amit Lahav’s grandmother Leah made with her family in 1932 to escape persecution.

At a time when the re-birth of community and acceptance seem vital to our survival, Gecko’s international devising performers bring their own experiences of migration, racism, empathy, and

Oedipus Electronica Jordan Gray - Is It a Bird?

Thurs 9 Nov Brighton Dome Fresh off a sold out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, a historic performance at The London Palladium, a game-changing set on Channel 4’s Friday Night Live, and a

Reverend Richard Coles - Borderline National Trinket Fri 10 Nov - Brighton Dome

Reverend Richard Coles is the only British vicar to have had a number-one hit single and to have appeared as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing - a claim which

Weds 15 Nov - Sat 18 Nov - The Old Market Jo is a playwright struggling with a commission deadline and the threat of an emergency hysterectomy.

Over 24 mind-bending hours, she feverishly writes her own Oedipus, the most explosive of Greek myths, and exercises her long-buried grief for the child that didn’t live.

Oedipus Electronica takes us to the

playground of the female psyche, in all its feral, carnal and creative glory.

Mella Faye (who performs, writes and directs) has created a multilayered powerhouse of a theatre show, driven by a muscular live band on stage. It’s a spectacle that is fearless, uncompromising and unlike anything else you’ve seen on the stage.

Off Menu: Live Sat 25 Nov Brighton Dome

The One Like Judi Love Fri 17 Nov - Brighton Dome Off The Kerb Productions presents The One like Judi Love. This show brings Love’s fresh, unapologetic and charismatic real talk to Brighton Dome on her first official tour.

Ed Gamble and James Acaster are taking the Dream Restaurant on the road for the first ever live tour of their smash-hit podcast, Off Menu.

Join the genie waiter and maître d’ as they quiz a guest about their dream cuisine – their favourite ever starter, main course, dessert, side dish and drink (not in that order) – live on stage. Featuring a different special guest each night, and a slightly different version of James’ Diet Coke story.

Expect unrelenting and hilarious anecdotes from Judi’s life!

Judi Love is a regular panellist on Loose Women and as seen on Taskmaster, The Jonathan Ross Show, The Graham Norton Show, 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown and The Royal Variety Performance.

Twelve Angry Men Mon 20 Nov - Sat 25 Nov - Theatre Royal Reginald Rose’s gripping courtroom thriller has been hailed as ‘the classiest, most intelligent drama playing on the West End’. It brings the 1957 three-time Academy Award nominated film, considered one of the great ‘must-sees’ of all time, to the stage.

A jury has murder on their minds and a life in their hands as they decide the fate of a young delinquent accused of killing his father. But what appears to be an open and shut case soon becomes a huge dilemma, as prejudices and preconceived ideas about the accused, the trial, and each other turn the tables every which way, until the nail-biting climax…

Sophie McCartney Tired and Tested Weds 29 Nov Brighton Dome From perky tits, to killing nits, join award-winning comedian Sophie McCartney as she ventures into the perilous world of parenthood.

A rollicking new stand-up show set to test pelvic floor muscles to the max(i) pad.

Sophie is a comedy writer and performer from Liverpool. Her debut book Tired and Tested: The Wild Ride into Parenthood went straight in at No.1 on the Sunday Times’ bestseller list, thanks to its laugh-out-loud relatability and close-to-the-bone calamitous charm. With cult status amongst knackered parents, she’s dubbed as Instagram’s funniest mum by Mother & Baby, won a prestigious Funny Women award, has racked up more than 250 million views on her social media channels, and is about to launch her debut fiction comedy novel Mother Hens.

T H E A T R E

& C O M E D Y

Studio 9 Interview: meet the design duo behind Brighton’s emerging interiors brand.

By Freya O’Malley

O

ne of the latest local interior design brands, Studio 9 Design, is to launch their brand-new homeware and furniture collection this month – Studio 9 Living.

Studio 9 are known for their elegant and considered aesthetic, they embrace culture, nature, and love to mix materials and textures to create timeless interiors.

I talked to Founders Alice Adamczewski and Bahar Nejad to discover more about the brand and to explore their inspirations.

Can you tell me about the journey of Studio 9 Design over the past 5 years and what inspired you to start the business?

The inspiration behind founding Studio 9 Design was our enduring friendship, which began 22 years ago during our time at Brighton University. Five years ago, while enjoying a cozy dinner in Brighton, we discussed our respective exciting projects. It was during that conversation that we both realized the potential of collaborating and decided to join forces. Everything that has happened since has been an organic, intuitive and heart driven journey.

We recognized that for our partnership to flourish, we needed to prioritize Studio 9 above ourselves. While working diligently as a team, we also ensured that our individuality was preserved and respected.

colours and try to make mindful and meaningful design decisions in our work.

How has your experience in interior design influenced the creation of Studio 9 Living, your new homewares brand?

In our interior design practice, we view each project as a unique narrative, and the depth of each story is greatly influenced by its components. In addition to spatial design, we have been dedicated to exploring materiality, texture, and colour.

Creating bespoke furniture for each project and meticulously selecting lighting, accessories, and artwork have become integral aspects of our service. We firmly believe that the overall aesthetic is crucial in conveying the complete narrative. This conviction inspired us to establish Studio 9 Living, with a primary goal of making our carefully curated aesthetic accessible to a broader audience at a more affordable price point.

What sets Studio 9 Living apart from other homewares brands in the market?

These past 5 years have been filled with thrilling architectural and interior projects. Despite the demanding workload, our partnership's foundation has always been built on honest and transparent communication.

We believe Studio 9 Living will strongly resonate with our customers, we have invested nearly 12 months in crafting new designs, scouring the globe for exquisite, high-quality products, and meticulously unearthing distinctive vintage treasures. This combination of contemporary and vintage pieces thoughtfully curated will empower and give confidence to our clients to “shop the look” and hopefully allow them to create interior design schemes at home they love.

What is the core philosophy or design ethos that defines Studio 9 Design's work?

What are your favourite pieces from your first collection?

Our style is always evolving and we continue to develop new passions and interest but we like our work to outlive fleeting trends. The fundamental principle of our design philosophy revolves around the fusion of diverse cultures and our style has been broadened with the discovery of new and old along the way. We are always experimenting with textures, materials and

We have such a variety of products on sale, from Christmas decorations, glassware and blankets to scented candles, cushions and larger furniture items. These are some of our favourites:

How do you envision Studio 9 Living evolving over the next few years?

We anticipate an ongoing journey of transformation, embracing new locations, stories, design styles, and more. Our plan includes taking bold risks by interpreting diverse sources of inspiration from our surroundings in unique ways.

2.

How has your partnership as female business owners contributed to the success of Studio 9 Design and Studio 9 Living?

1.

1. Our stool and ottoman collection feature four different sizes from smaller footstools and benches to oversized ottomans that double up as coffee tables. The more unique of these are covered in vintage kilim rugs and are truly one of a kind. Prices from £340.

2. We have designed a series of cushions for our first collection using natural linens, wools, and cottons. Our bolsters are made with fabric remnants supporting our commitment to minimise waste. Prices from £65.

As female business owners and mothers, we believe our sensitivity to our surroundings has played a significant role. We've provided each other with the support needed to balance motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Additionally, drawing upon our emotional intelligence, as women, has strengthened our relationships with clients. We recognize that each project revolves around storytelling, closely connected to our clients' narratives.

Are there any key partnerships or collaborations that have played a significant role in your business journey?

Our strong relationships and collaborations with local artists and suppliers have been instrumental in shaping our identity. We have a passion for uncovering emerging talent within the community, working alongside skilled creatives, and procuring distinctive products from local suppliers.

What are your long-term goals for both Studio 9 Design and Studio 9 Living?

We have several areas of growth in mind. Expanding our reach to a broader audience and getting closer to the actual production of our products, enabling us to make a meaningful impact, are among our aspirations.

3.

What excites you the most about the upcoming launch of Studio 9 Living, and what can customers look forward to?

4.

3. Our selection of pots and vessels include vintage pieces from across

Europe and Africa as well as contemporary travertine bowls, platters and wine coolers sourced from artists in the Netherlands. Prices from £3

4. The Studio 9 Living concrete table collection consists of three sizes

of tables, coffee tables, side tables and console tables in a selection of coloured concretes. The minimal shapes and simple lines compliment any space. Available for pre-order. Price on application

How important is sustainability in the products you plan to sell through Studio 9 Living?

We maintain a constant awareness of the origins of our materials. Whenever feasible, we prioritize the use of recycled materials and collaborate with local artisans. Our packaging is all either biodegradable or recycled.

The prospect of launching Studio 9 Living and witnessing our new showroom and website come to life is incredibly exciting. Customers will be able to shop online but also drop into see us near Hove Lagoon and purchase homewares and pre order our larger furniture pieces. Our showroom will also hold one off vintage furniture pieces that we have lovingly restored and reupholstered in stunning fabrics, these will be truly unique and something we hope our customers will love as much as we do.

Studio 9 Design and Studio 9 Living Unit 3 Ferry Wharf, Basin Road North, Portslade, BN41 1BD www.studio9living.co.uk @studio9designltd

By Freya O’Malley Interior Designer Studio FLO

Novellino Brighton is bringing back Kosher food to Brighton & Hove. A contemporary restaurant and bakery, offering delicious breakfasts and lunches with a Jewish and Middle Eastern twist.

Part of Hove's new Jewish Community Hub. Open to all.

OPENING HOURS: 8AM-3PM, SUN-FRI BNJC, 29-31 New Church Road Hove, BN3 4AD

@bnjcbrighton bnjc.co.uk

Scan to book a table

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DRAWING EVERYDAY MOMENTS.

S

outh Street Studio was set up by Mary Duckham. She divides her time between being a conservation architect and an illustrator. She was born and grew up in Herefordshire and studied Architecture at Cardiff University. After working and living in both Bristol and London, she settled in Lewes, where her father's family grew up. Her studio’s name is inspired by the street she lives in, as well as several of her drawings.

Over the past decade, Mary has worked on many prestigious historic buildings including Kensington Palace, Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle. She loves studying the history of buildings and their connection with the community and past. Stemmed from her love of historic buildings, East Sussex is a perfect setting for her illustrations. She loves to draw buildings and streetscapes that are often the unconsidered backdrop to our daily lives, from a twitten to the oldest brewery in Sussex, from Lewes's mediaeval Castle to the ornate Brighton Pavilion.

All her drawings are done on her iPad and she loves trying out a new medium and exploring its different techniques. She tried a few apps but she settled on Adobe Procreate. It allows her to easily draw on the move and she has found that the iPencil gives her the same effect as drawing on paper and it enables her to draw in many locations; when out exploring, commuting by train, or on the sofa in the evening.

Mary really enjoys drawing places that are important to others such as their homes, wedding venues, or businesses. She has undertaken many personal commissions to capture moments and places that are special to people, for example, places where people first met, your first home or a view that is particularly special. She works closely with her clients to ensure that her drawings capture the essence of the experience or place. She will often visit the place several times to experience it before starting drawing. Where certain colours, plants, or features are important, she ensures to incorporate these into the final artwork.

She has worked on several wedding invitations and stationery. A recent commission was for Brickwall House in Kent. The iconic black and white timber framed building was the centrepiece of the invitation. The couple loved to travel so Mary had the idea to create an image for each place they had visited together which became the table names at the wedding.

The drawing style is graphic. Mary uses line drawings for the architectural details which are then mixed with a pop of colour to create an iconic image. She loves the challenge of working with a limited colour palette to explore using textures and lines to create the final piece of art.

When she isn’t illustrating, she enjoys walking in the countryside with her two miniature wired-

haired dachshunds, Bear and Otto. These walks are often when she reflects on ideas and thinks about future pieces of work.

If you are interested in seeing more of Mary’s work or commissioning a piece of artwork, please visit her website or instagram as details below. southstreetstudio.bigcartel.com hellosouthstreetstudio@gmail.com insta:south.street.studio Mary is also part of the Makers Directory - a comprehensive, searchable directory established to help connect buyers directly with makers working in and around Lewes and Eastbourne, East Sussex - for mutual benefit.

The Makers Directory’s mission is to encourage people to discover, value and buy from the local Makers and Artists in this famously creative part of Sussex.

Mary will be attending the Artists and Makers Christmas Market at Lewes Town Hall on 1 & 2 Dec 2023 and as part of the Makers Directory she will be hosting a Christmas Market at Station Street Studio, Lewes on 7 Dec to coincide with late night shopping in Lewes. Please come and say hello if you are there. @themakersdirectory www.themakersdirectory.co.uk www.artistsandmakersfair.com/ BN1 MAGAZINE 39

practices. This technology offers a unique, personalised massage journey that understands and adapts to every contour of your body, simulating the intuitive skills of a human massage therapist.

Ideal for those who prefer their own space or wish to remain clothed, the 4D Chair Massage provides the sensation of a human-like touch without direct human contact. It’s an inclusive experience, ensuring that the transformative power of a massage is accessible to everyone, even those who might shy away from traditional methods. More than a treatment, it’s a pioneering approach to relaxation and well-being, inviting guests to explore new frontiers of comfort and tranquillity. little-jasmine.com/massage-chair-therapy/

Empowering Businesses with Corporate Well-being

Celebrating 15 Years of Little Jasmine: A Journey of Wellness, Community, and Innovation From Humble Beginnings to Holistic Well-being In 2008, nestled within a cosy Brighton apartment, a dream took root.

Kyriakos and May, two souls from distant lands, merged their cultural richness to embark on a transformative journey. What started in the back of a living room has, fifteen years later, blossomed into Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa, a beacon of holistic well-being in Brighton & Hove. Today, with three strategic premises, over 35 dedicated staff, and a legacy of over 100,000 served clients, Little Jasmine stands as a testament to resilience, dedication, and vision.

A Pillar of Community and Sustainability Beyond its tranquil rooms and therapeutic treatments, Little Jasmine's heartbeat resonates with community engagement and sustainable practices. The ethos extends far beyond business, weaving a tapestry of empowerment through partnerships with charities like Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK, and hands-on charitable work in Thailand. In celebration of their 15th anniversary, Little Jasmine has forged a meaningful partnership with Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, becoming a well-being partner. This collaboration emphasises their ongoing commitment to the local community's health and vitality.

Innovating Celebrations with Pamper Parties In the realm of shared joy and luxury, Little Jasmine’s Pamper Parties have redefined celebrations. These gatherings are not just events but curated experiences, weaving relaxation and bonding into unforgettable memories.

Each Pamper Party is an exclusive journey, where guests immerse themselves in a world of luxury, comfort, and shared happiness. From the moment they step in, they are enveloped in a sanctuary where every detail is tailored to elevate their collective experience.

The spa becomes a private haven where laughter, tranquillity, and companionship blend seamlessly with indulgent treatments. These parties, perfect for any occasion, transform milestones like birthdays, hen parties, or reunions into luxuriously therapeutic experiences. Guests leave not just refreshed and rejuvenated, but also bonded with shared memories that linger well beyond the spa’s doors. little-jasmine.com/pamper-party-packages/

Revolutionising Relaxation with 4D Chair Massage Embracing the future of relaxation, Little Jasmine introduces the innovative 4D Chair Massage, a cutting-edge experience that transcends traditional 40 BN1 MAGAZINE

In today’s high-pressure corporate world, Little Jasmine offers a sanctuary.

The bespoke Corporate Well-being packages are more than perks; they are a commitment to employee health and productivity. These thoughtfully designed programs infuse the workplace with rejuvenating practices, stress management solutions, and holistic health initiatives.

By transforming the workplace into a hub of rejuvenation, Little Jasmine is redefining the essence of employee well-being, proving that a caredfor workforce is a successful one. The initiative signifies a paradigm shift, acknowledging that true corporate success flows from the well-being of each individual. It's not just about mitigating stress but fostering an environment where creativity, clarity, and camaraderie thrive. In partnering with businesses, Little Jasmine sets a new standard, where work-life balance is not just an aspiration but a tangible, achievable reality.

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BRIGHTON’S CORN

EXCHANGE AND STUDIO THEATRE REOPENS After a lengthy and sympathetic refurbishment, Brighton Dome’s historic Grade I and Grade II listed Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre will officially reopen this month. It’s been a six-year project, which has overcome several adversities to deliver a superior visitor experience which both preserves the building’s rich heritage and offers cutting edge facilities.

“It’s really moving to see it come to fruition and to experience people enjoying the spaces for the first time,” says Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival Chief Executive, Andrew Comben.

“These venues are publicly owned, for everyone, and we want to make sure that everyone feels welcome and has a reason to visit.

“It has been an enormous task to restore and reimagine these precious historic buildings, to ensure their survival for another two hundred years and for two major performance and community venues to return to the heart of the city. So many people have given their expertise and their support to this project, which is a symbol of the importance of arts and culture in Brighton & Hove. “ The refurbishment marks the first phase of a Brighton & Hove City Council regeneration project, which will cement the Royal Pavilion Estate as a landmark UK destination for heritage and the arts. The £38 million budget has been met with support from Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership, alongside trusts and foundations and many individual donors. The refurbished spaces were designed by award-winning architects Feilden 42 BN1 MAGAZINE

- By Stuart Rolt

Clegg Bradley Studios, with a primary focus on ensuring the buildings became energy efficient and environmentally sustainable.

The building now also contains a brand new dedicated creative space called Anita’s Room, named in memory of activist, entrepreneur and The Body Shop founder, Dame Anita Roddick.

A trustee of Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival just before her death in 2007, The Roddick Foundation has supported the organisation in various ways, and enabled this flexible new area. “It’s a family-run philanthropic organisation,” adds Comben. “It’s dedicated to the support of visionary organisations and individuals demonstrating exceptional creativity, entrepreneurial spirit and courage.

Our aim is that Anita’s Room, and the wider work of Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival, will reflect that spirit.”

This new space can accommodate up to 40 people and is fully equipped with a lighting grid and mixing desk. Supporting works in progress, small scale performances and events, Anita’s Room will be made available to Brighton Dome associate artists, resident artists, visiting performing artists, community projects and creative learning organisations.

Adding to the visitor experience, other improvements include increased audience capacity in the Corn Exchange, new balcony seating in the Studio Theatre and two new bars and a restaurant, supported by Foyle Foundation and Garfield Weston Foundation, providing more spaces for audiences to relax before or after a show. There are also new and

Corn Exchange credit Andy Stagg

improved backstage facilities for performers, supported by the Backstage Trust.

Brighton Dome’s rich history spans more than 200 years. The main Concert Hall and Corn Exchange were originally commissioned as a stable block and riding house by the Prince Regent in 1803, while the Studio Theatre was first built as a supper room during architect Robert Atkinson’s Art Deco refurbishment of the venue in the 1930s.

The project has created new ways to come in and experience the spaces and making it easier to understand where you are; which was previously quite confusing. The heritage of the buildings and the people connected with them over the last two hundred years is celebrated in all sorts of different ways. The original wooden beams of the Corn Exchange’s unique 18 metre single span timber frame (the widest in the country) have been repaired, strengthened and restored to designs created by the building’s original architect, William Porden in the early 1800s. During the restoration, Roman numerals interpreting Porden’s plans were found carved into the wood by carpenters who would have had the skilled task of assembling the heavy beams into the roof. Additionally, 34 pilaster columns have been recreated from 200-yearold archive drawings and on the roof, 16,000 Welsh slate tiles have been replaced, weighing 55 tonnes. With support from American Express Foundation, The Leche Trust, Pilgrim Trust, Regency Society and Wolfson Foundation, 11 beautiful arched windows have also been lovingly restored by hand.

Regardless of the painstaking work and the projects complexities, Comben is adamant everything has been worthwhile. “The Corn Exchange is one of Brighton & Hove’s most beautiful buildings and just preserving it for future generations would in itself be worthwhile. But this project has achieved much more, bringing back vital space for artists and communities to showcase their work, involving more people in the unique heritage of these buildings and our city and making the venues more accessible and sustainable for the long-term.

“We’ve already welcomed over 75,000 visitors to Van Gogh Alive and look forward to an exciting programme this autumn, including international dance companies, touring theatre productions and community events. The Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre will also return as core venues for the annual Brighton Festival in May, showcasing new and worldclass art and performance.”

Festival Bar credit Andy Stagg

Gallery Bar credit Andy Stagg

Brighton Dome Redroaster credit Andy Stagg

The Studio Theatre’s original features, such as the crenellated windows which mimic the character of the Royal Pavilion, have been carefully conserved and its ceiling replaced with a new yet historically accurate version. Its exterior has been restored and repaired by numerous skilled craftsmen and the original copper roof has also been replaced to protect the interior of the building for years to come. In a nod to its history as a supper room, the ground floor has been transformed into a bright, contemporary all-day restaurant, run by award-winning, community-focused local company Redroaster.

Creating ever more inclusive spaces has been a top priority for the refurbishment, with improved access for visitors, staff and performers, including new accessible toilets and modern hearing assistance systems. A public lift provides wheelchair access to all levels of these historic buildings, along with low-level service counters provided at the bars.

“Crucial improvements backstage include more accessible dressing rooms and increased accessibility to backstage areas, making it easier for D/deaf, blind and partially sighted and disabled performers to take their places on the stage.”

These improvements have been made possible with support from Bruce Wake Charitable Trust, The Chalk Cliff Trust, Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust, The Lawson Trust and The Rampion Fund at Sussex Community Foundation.

For the new Gallery Bar, architectural design studio Drinkall Dean used the Corn Exchange’s original purpose as a riding house as inspiration for its decoration. A spectacular horse sculpture by West Sussex-based artist Graham Heeley is suspended in the atrium and an interactive digital timeline, from digital designers SquintOpera, allows visitors to explore Brighton Dome’s rich heritage - from the early 1800s to the present day. Downstairs, the wallpaper in the Festival Bar has been inspired by the artwork from Brighton Festival’s inaugural 1967 poster using imagery from artist Mike McInnerney, who has designed album covers for The Who, who formed part of the 1967 Festival line up. “Our architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, had a special approach from their first designs for the project, mixing a meticulous attention to the historic fabric of the buildings and heritage features with modern interventions and sustainable design. So, although we knew it would be wonderful, nothing prepared me for the experience of being in the finished Gallery Bar with its new light-filled atrium, windows overlooking the Corn Exchange and all the previously unseen brickwork of what were exterior, now internal walls surrounding the space. It’s somewhere that I believe people will instinctively want to bring first-time visitors to the city.”

For more information, performance details and tickets, head to www.brightondome.org

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Photo Credit Cameron Carver

PECHO MAMA Award-winning theatre company takes a fresh look at OEDIPUS Photo Credit Cameron Carver

By Stuart Rolt

“I wanted to reclaim it from a female perspective,” Mella Faye tells me. She then pauses and briefly looks away, as if contemplating several millennia of dramatic tradition. “When I was growing up, all my favourite movies were about men on a quest to discover themselves and the world. We are beginning to put females into those roles, but they’re just substitutes for men. The structure of the male protagonist story doesn’t fit the female that well. We’ve our own story to tell.” The Artistic Director of awardwinning theatre company Pecho Mama is now looking to right this imbalance with a concept which is as radical as it is simple.

Marrying contemporary urban grit with an uncompromising electronic soundtrack, they’ve reinvented a timeless tale of a doomed love triangle.

Photo Credit Cameron Carver

It follows on from their criticallyacclaimed Medea Electronica, a wild and imaginative retelling of an ancient tragedy transplanted into 80’s England.

Coming to Hove’s The Old Market on Weds 15 – Sat 18 Nov, Oedipus Electronica revisits a classical standard; one which originally sees a young man unwittingly kill his father and marry his mother. The woman then committing suicide when the horrifying truth of this relationship is revealed. “What’s so great about the Greek myths is that they are so intensely over the top. The first show we did was ‘mother kills her children to avenge her cheating husband. This one is ‘mother shags her son, who’s killed her partner’. You can’t get juicier in plot points. That allows us to go into the deep subconscious psyche, so we can mess around in places. The taboo is already on the poster.” Now Pecho Mama lends new agency to the star-crossed matriarchal character of Jocasta. She’s reimagined as a struggling playwright who finds she can’t carry her baby to full term. Facing both a commission deadline and an emergency hysterectomy, she explores both harrowing Greek folklore and her own personal grief.

“She’s living in London with a beautifully happy marriage and gets taken to the edge. She wants to just stay in her room and write this wild thing, which is swirling around in her crazed subconscious. She uses the wild dreamworld of her child that didn’t live and the one now battling to survive inside her to go on a mad journey,

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which she writes down and makes real in her mind.” Faye has written, directed and performs in this extraordinary search through the female psyche, in all its feral, carnal and creative glory.

I suggest that profound creativity and mental wellbeing can often be interconnected. She reveals the show originally addressed these themes, but it was removed in later drafts because everyone has the capacity to get lost in a story and need to fight their way out of it to become well again. But perhaps through exploration is how we can achieve that. “All of us are making up stories all the time. Like ‘you shouldn’t have done that to me’, or ‘one day I’ll be successful’. That’s often the root cause of so much mental unwellness, because we get stuck in something which is just an idea… Whether you think you’re unworthy or that nobody likes you.”

Accompanied by an uncompromising live band, Oedipus Electronica is a fascinating, boundary-defying and interweaving production. She tells me Pecho Mama is a band as much as a theatre company. She writes the script in tandem with the soundtrack, much like how a concept album might be composed. “Quite often we’ll start sessions talking about the scene it’ll be supporting, so we can get in the zone of how angry, desperate, sorrowful or sexy is required of the music. Then we’ll just get lost in playing together. We’ll record some bits of it and come back later to shape those into a score.” This piece is a natural progression from their last show, which predominantly featured musicians. It sees a big leap in production values, especially in terms of the technical, aesthetic and performance ambitions onstage.

Originally created pre-pandemic, the production was just about to go into ‘techweek’ before lockdown happened. “I was in complete denial. Theatres were calling me up saying we might have to postpone it, and I thought it was all going to be fine and blow over.” Originally created for 2020, it wasn’t staged until last year; essentially seeing two rounds of getting to the point where it could be staged and seen.

The isolation of lockdown did have a significant impact upon the show’s

Photo Credit Cameron Carver narrative. “I spent so much time on my own, and all I could do was look at the writing. I got in touch with my own experiences of the topics raised. And my understanding of the power of stories to transform us. I became a massive podcast addict on anything that was about story.” Faye found herself becoming increasingly fascinated with the power storytelling offers everyone to transform things which subconsciously dominate their lives. This means of catharsis and understanding would become the central heart of Oedipus Electronica.

There has been a reappraisal of the male domination of the performing arts since the 80s. The stories we’re told are no longer inevitably patriarchal in nature. But 5,000 years of tradition aren’t instantly overturned by the Barbie film.

Men are still presented as powerful and active, while women are often reduced to being passive objects. Reframing ‘the ladies’ as something more than characters to save or seduce might be a simple task, but difficulties could arise when trying to attract audiences who’ve been accustomed to seeing narratives presented with a male gaze.

Faye concedes that it’s uncharted territory. Even female makers are trying to work out what it is. “It’s like we’re at nursery school, and just getting the chance to speak our story for the first time in thousands of years. That’s the main thing I’m excited for; taking these ancient myths and wondering what they’d be like if told through the experience and voice of a female.”

The performance of Oedipus Electronica at The Old Market is also going to be filmed. “The camera men are dancers, and they’ll be moving around us. Which means the footage is really close and cinematic, as we move through the narrative. I’m really excited for the end product.” She admits having a fondness for filmmaking as a medium, but stresses that theatre is unique in its ability to bring people together in a way we all need.

With less of us attending church it’s become one of the main times where we come together to experience something human. “But it is struggling. There isn’t a lot of support for theatres and theatre makers. My kind has been toying with film for a while, as it seems to be a medium which can reach a lot of people.”

In a bid to nurture the next generation of performers, Faye will also be hosting a free theatre workshop during Pecho Mama’s visit to TOM. Taking place on Sun 5 Nov, she and participants will explore the joy and power of storytelling. “The idea is to present a session where I share my way of working, and then invite people to contribute the bones of an idea. Then we work to move that idea into being as a piece of art. As a group we collectively work with whoever’s volunteering their own experience into the mix.” She’s really keen for the experience to be just as much for those with little experience as it is for someone who is struggling through their sixth project and needs encouragement to advance.

Both the workshop and the production of Oedipus Electronica seek to offer a sense of how we can all be transformed by our own creativity, and perhaps encourage a willingness to accept all our darkness and joy. It’s unashamedly a powerful show, leaving a few people quite startled. But the central message is how we can elevate ourselves through shared experience and emotion. “We’re all trying to work out what it means to be here.

Theatre is a beautiful way of exploring that. A really good story doesn’t come up with a straightforward answer. But it instead asks all the questions. It’s a very human thing.”

Photo Credit Cameron Carver

Photo Credit Cameron Carver

Pecho Mama’s Oedipus Electronica comes to Hove’s The Old Market on Weds 15 – Sat 18 Nov

www.pechomama.co.uk www.theoldmarket.com

Photo Credit Cameron Carver

BN1 MAGAZINE 45

TUA C A Italian spirit and Brighton form unlikely connection

I

f you’ve spent any amount of time in Brighton & Hove, you’ve likely encountered Tuaca – whether it’s spotting the distinctive label on the shelves at an independent bottle store or noticing a flurry of excited bar-side activity in a nightclub, when someone proclaims: “Get the Wuacas in!”

It's a distinctive liqueur, which seems to be more popular in the city than anywhere else in the country. First created in Italy centuries ago, it tastes like somebody has removed the anise from Galliano L'Autentico to create something more enticing and smoother. But how did something (reportedly) created during renaissance times pick up such a following on the south coast?

Nightlife obviously plays a big part in the local craze, which has seen its popularity bloom since the late 90s. Former clubber Brian’s first encounter with its amber charms was a house night at the Sea Life Centre being hosted by legendary local sound system heroes Positive Sounds (how utterly Brighton…). “They had a pop-up bar by one of the exhibits,” he tells me.

“On offer was this exotic Italian shot, and people could not get their money out quick enough. That was the start of something for me. There’s been quite a few hangovers though...”

Brian’s experience will be familiar to many who sampled Brighton’s nighttime industry. Kathryn has been running pubs and bars across Brighton & Hove since around the time Tuaca began flooding into the city. She says a big part of its appeal is the sweetness and delicious vanilla notes. “I love introducing it to the new students in town. They ask what the hype is behind it as a Brighton-based shooter. Obviously, it’s not as strong as Jägermeister, but it’s certainly a lot smoother.”

The brand claims the recipe dates back to the Renaissance period, a not uncommon (but invariably poorly supported) claim. When two brothers-in-law, Gaetano Tuoni and Giorgio Canepa, ‘rediscovered’ the liqueur’s recipe in the 30s, they originally made it with milk. Soon, the dairy element was removed, and their booming product was named Tuoca after them. Spin forwards to the 60s, and the owner of a chain of liquor stores in San Francisco began selling it in the United States. To make it easier for locals to pronounce, he tweaked the name to Tuaca.

Andy used to work at the Kemp Town branch of Unwins – a Kent-based chain of 381 off-licences.

He remembers the first time encountering the brand, when a regular customer came in with a bottle. “He said he’d started importing this Italian liquor, which was being stocked in the pubs and clubs around Brighton.” They were given a bottle each. Later that evening, they went round to their manager’s home and finished them in one sitting. When the customer came in the next day

to find out what they thought of it, they were all quite keen to sell it. With the go ahead from an area manager wise enough to recognise a good opportunity, they secured a whole case; which was sold by the following night.

mouth. I think people connected to it because we were so passionate. We didn’t have 20 brands, there was just one. It was our life. It probably wouldn’t have worked in London, Manchester or anywhere else. How do you explain Brighton?”

“I think we sold more of that than the house vodka,” Andy tells me. “It just flew off the shelves.

He came in with another three cases, and they all went over that weekend. We didn’t even bother putting them on the shelves. We were just leaving it on the side and handing it to people. There were people driving down from Croydon to buy it.”

In normal circumstances, if someone launches a brand they’ll spend a million on advertising and market penetration. Poul and Sammy had £400 to start with. “I think it was to do with the brand and our belief. And it’s different as well. The nectar of the Gods they used to call it.”

He says they were the first shop in Brighton to sell it, suggesting its soaring popularity was due to a great price point and distinctive branding. “It looks really good with an interesting name. From a flavour perspective, it was very easy to get on with. It was quite boozy. I think it’s about 35% but it doesn't taste like that. You could do shots of it, and not really know the damage which is being done.” Another key to the drink’s success was getting bottles stocked in local pubs and bars, where it could spark the curiosity of a broad demographic with cash to burn.

Andy went on to work at a local beer and wine wholesaler and appreciates just how difficult it is to make an impact on the Brighton market. “People think there’s universities there and people try all kinds of stuff... They do, but then you’ve got to get it to last. With Tuaca it’s been an amalgamation of factors, but it might be just the right place at the right time.”

That customer turns out to be Poul Jensen, who then ran the landmark St James Tavern.

He personally discovered Tuaca while his partner, Sammy, was doing snowboard seasons in Colorado. “It was a big thing over there. We bought a bottle back and got a taste for it.” When he moved to Brighton and took over the pub, he visited the distillery to find out how he could secure a regular supply in Britain. It turns out the whole venture revolved around a bet as to who could first get the liqueur into Britain. “Yeah,” he confirms with a laugh. “It was for a bottle of Cristal champagne… Which I’m still owed!” After a couple of years of developing its reputation, the pair started to get it stocked in other pubs.

Working in the industry for several years, Poul had plenty of contacts who could help him get the spirit into other pubs. “Brighton is quite a small place, so it just went from there through word of

Poul tells me it’s a Demi sec liqueur, meaning the sugar content is lower than some competitors.

Vital information as the sugar has a notable impact on any following hangover. But what does it actually taste like? “I’ve said this so many times, but… it’s a brandy-based liqueur flavoured with vanilla, citrus fruits and caramel. The flavour profile means it’s so versatile. You could sell it to a cocktail bar, club or café.”

Poul and Sammy now run the Roedean Café, which offers awe-inspiring views of the Channel.

Eagle-eyed diners might also catch a glimpse of a giant-sized bottle of Tuaca behind the counter.

It’s so large it has a small brass tap near the bottom, so hapless barmen don’t need to lift it.

“When people first started selling it, I’d give them one of those. They’d never seen anything like it.

These haven’t been produced for 10 or 15 years.”

It’s a memento of a brilliant time for Poul and Sammy. With a lot of love and effort, they can honestly claim to having enabled a Brighton institution. “It was a cracking ten years of my life. It’s one of those things that, if I hadn’t done it, I might not be where I am now.” The liqueur’s fortunes have slowed slightly since those heady nights. The original, independent distillery was acquired by a progression of multinational corporations and now stands as just a single entry on a long list of premium products. Poul suggests the brand now won’t reach its potential to dominate the British drinks industry. “For them, it’s just another notch on a clipboard to sell.

There’s no personality anymore. Tuaca is just…

Tuaca. It has its own personality.” www.tuaca.com www.roedeancafeandminigolf.co.uk

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Visit Hanningtons – The Lanes, And shop small this Christmas Step into Hanningtons, the pulse of Brighton's shopping scene, nestled within the enchanting Lanes and moments from the Pavilion and seafront.

This historic hub boasts a rich selection of unique independents and high-street favourites. Wander the pedestrianised Hanningtons Lane, a sanctuary of creativity, adorned with history and art, offering respite from the city's buzz.

With the festive season upon us, Hanningtons Brighton is a treasure trove of boutiques brimming with perfect Christmas gifts. Discover handcrafted wonders, sustainable treasures, and bespoke delights that promise to make your festive giving truly special.

For a magical blend of retail, culture, and dining, Hanningtons is your quintessential Brighton experience in The Lanes. www.hanningtonsbrighton.com

SHOP: & halt

A curated edit of contemporary homewares with a story and a purpose. 7 & 9 Hanningtons Lane.

SHOP: PAXTON + GLEW a unique independent art gallery nestled within Hanningtons Lane

With exciting contemporary art exhibitions curated in line with the seasons and current trends.

The gallery is a treasure trove full of collectable British artists and designers who push the boundaries and offer something out of the ordinary.

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The current Winter Exhibition houses 40 exceptional British artist’s work including paintings, prints, sculpture, photography, homewares, jewellery and distinctive gifts. Workshops will run on Thursday evenings throughout November and December, see paxtonglew.com for more info.

SHOP: BouSham Gallery

@boujewellery and @shyamaruffell present their jewellery and art work with selected work from local artists and makers. 14 Hanningtons Lane.

ThINKing outside the box

By Matt Russell

Simone Jane Piper is a woman on a mission.

Having had the opportunity to speak to this formidable, fashionable and fascinating force it seems conformity was never going to be in her wheelhouse.

Be it modelling, or a knack for intriguing the outside world with high end designer 90s and 00s clothes via her business, Double Drop Vintage this firebrand has now entered pastures new.

I had the pleasure to sit down with Miss Piper to ask a few questions about her newest venture, Stay Much Better Tattoo.

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When did you first become enamoured with the art of tattooing?

You currently run Stay Much Better Tattoo with your partner, Tom. What are the positives of working alongside someone you’re enamoured with?

ca pt ur ed

With the first tattoo dating back to 3370 BC, it’s no wonder what is regarded as one of the world’s earliest art forms is still alive and thriving among those wanting to express how they feel on the inside, on their outside.

clients. From day one Tom and I have wanted to create a studio environment where EVERYONE who walks through the door feels welcomed and appreciated. We have clients ranging from 18-year-olds getting their first tattoo to a 90-yearold lady. We are proud to say that our artists have tattooed the same client 18 times, emphasising our true priority is being customer-focused and making every visit a special and positive one.

To see our incredible dream come into fruition, working alongside each other every day, doing what we love. We are truly blessed to have the most amazingly talented team and wonderful

There's a certain 'etiquette' when getting tattooed.

For example, if someone came in asking for a face tattoo and they didn't have any other visible tattoos around the neck and chest area the artist has a duty to educate the client and discuss other options for placement. We understand that a tattoo is a lifetime commitment, and we care for our clients.

Quite the opposite actually. The tattooing landscape in general has changed dramatically and is now far more accepting than it ever has been.

Brighton in particular is a city which both celebrates individuality and loves tattooing culture.

Amid such a fractious time in the current economic climate, what was it that made you take the leap to open your own parlour?

While clearly a risk, it appears that the formula has been worth it. What are the elements of the new business that get your heart pumping and your face smiling?

Are there any tattoos projects you would potentially decline to do, and if so, why?

Do you feel there are any negative misconceptions surrounding tattoos?

The first time I met my partner, and co-founder of SMB Tattoo's tattooing style (Tom aka Mister Sorn,) all I could think was how iconic it looked.

Encompassing both his graffiti background and unique lettering style and my love of art, it was pretty much destiny. The world of tattooing has been close to my heart ever since.

Having worked in a corporate job for the past 12 years, this really was a huge change in career path for me. And, while daunting, it also felt like a chance I couldn’t risk missing. Expanding the tattoo studio together was a no-brainer as Tom had made a success of the SMB Tattoo street shop over the past seven years.

SMB originally began as a hip hop collective with Tom being a graffiti writer and a designer for the crew. The musicians went on to achieve their own notoriety within High Focus Records (including Rag 'n' Bone Man, Dirty Dike, Jam Baxter.)

Successfully designing their artwork and merchandise, SMB Tattoo is a proven formula - the proof’s in the pudding and I couldn't wait to get on board.

Double Drop Vintage is your dose of 90s and 00s high end designer vintage clothing and premium street wear. I hand pick designer brands including C.P. Company, Evisu, Iceberg, Moschino, Stone Island, Versace etc. Not only can you browse and shop in the SMB Tattoo studio but Double Drop Vintage is available for styling projects such as music videos and photo shoots too. DDV have styled music videos for celebrities including UK Hip Hop Legends Illaman, Dabbla, Dubbledge and Pitch 92.

While you do still have other businesses in your one-woman wheelhouse, what are your plans for the future for Stay Much Better Tattoo?

Making a future for ourselves doing what we love together. Creating the amazing culture and family that is SMB, it just really feels like a movement to me.

The new studio looks both ferociously beautiful and utterly individual. Was it designed by yourselves, or did you have help in its development?

It was indeed but we can in no way take all the credit for the unbelievable finish. We are bowled over by the generosity and support from our friends and family. To credit a few of the skilled contributions see the handles below to see their work: Graffiti Murals, insta: @hokum_pokus / @morf_ / @airsrok Flooring: Judge Flooring Could you tell us a little about Double Drop Vintage?

Our aim is to grow the SMB Tattoo family and our incredible client base. We would love to see you for your next tattoo. To book in please e-mail shop@ smbtattoo.com or you can call the studio on 01273 564494 to discuss your ideas - I'll be happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

How many staff do you have working with you all, and do you get any guest artists in?

For the first time taking on a managerial role, I sure have taken on a large and ever expanding team of talented professionals. We have eight resident artists and are always on the lookout for new and exciting individuals to join the team. Currently working here at SMB Tattoos we have: @mister_ sorn, @shorty.tattoos, @floydraw, @bradcaskettattoo, @hayleyploos, @lizz.hell, @delargetattoos, @handling.tattoos We also have five regular guest artists: @sophiesparrow_tattoo, @iambratwurst, @boontattoos, @hurricanedanatattoos, @londonboy_tattooer

And we frequently host the hottest talent tattoo-wise from across the globe in the form of guest artists. The next guest artists who we are super excited to have working with us & the SMB team: @venusxtattoo, @ dirtybertytattoo, along with @vinsmoketattoos (all the way from Canada.)

We are currently seeking full-time resident artists and guest artists to join the SMB family.

Where on the body is the most painful to get tattooed?

Now this is completely subjective and differs hugely from person to person. Interestingly there are actually diagrams which identify the pain intensity on different parts of the body which you can find online. Again, what one person finds painful might be completely different to the next person. The pain is also very dependent on the artist and the technique of tattooing. For example, a heavy black tattoo is going to hurt a heck of a lot more than a fine line tattoo. For me it was the base of my back! To help prepare your body for any tattoo, sleeping well the night before and eating well, especially a substantial breakfast will give you the best chance of sitting well for the duration of your tattoo, as well as all the sweets we provide.

On the other hand, there have been many clients that have fallen asleep while getting tattooed under Shorty Tattoo's gentle hand! You’ll have to book in with one of our amazing artists and find out for yourself.

Promotion-wise do you have any deals at your shop when it comes to tattoos?

As mentioned, SMB is heavily rooted in hip-hop culture and it’s hip hop’s 50th birthday this year! To celebrate

we are holding a hip-hop Flash Day on Saturday 11th November where you can choose from pre-drawn tattoo designs starting from £50 with various deals on multiple tattoos. Look out on our Instagram and Facebook pages for our artists’ available designs and how to book. Our Flash Days are always mega popular so pre-booking your appointment is advised although we do offer walk-in appointments on the day.

We also offer Student Discount 10 percent all year round.

What’s the smallest tattoo you’ve ever had to do, and conversely what’s been the biggest project?

One of the biggest tattoo projects is actually on myself by Mister Sorn. He has created a series of back pieces incorporating singular letters and organic shapes and forms. Mine is a truly stunning tattoo centred around the letter ‘S’ and is surrounded by filigree, feathers and leaves. It starts from the base of my head, flows down my neck, entire back and all the way to the top of my legs. A true work of art that fits my body exquisitely. Mister Sorn has been working on this piece for a year now where we have been tattooing for half day sessions at a time, even completing part of it at the Urban Land Tattoo Expo in Rome last year in 35 degrees heat. Let me tell you, that was an experience! I cannot wait to have this one finished, there should just be a few more half day sessions left to go.

Link to website www.smbtattoo.com Link to Instagram @smbtattoo

SMB TATTOO Don Gull Artwork by @morf_

Simone back Tattoo

Double Drop Vintage at Stay Much Better Tattoo Image Credit: Isobela Lugosi

BN1 MAGAZINE 51

O N B E I N G M E N 52 BN1 MAGAZINE

Yaron Engler

ENCOURAGING MEN TO BE THE BEST VERSIONS OF THEMSELF - BN1 CHATS WITH FOUNDER OF ON BEING MEN, YARON ENGLER BY AMY STANBOROUGH

If everyone in the world would encourage personal development and the growth of others in the same way in which Yaron Engler does, the world would be a much more positive place. On Being Men is not about spirituality, mental health, or becoming omnipotent, yet it has elements of these things.

What Engler’s program is about is finding clarity in who you are, reconnecting with your truth, and becoming the best version of yourself to ultimately improve every sector of your life.

“It is a space for men to find more freedom and growth; confidence and clarity in the areas of relationships, purpose and leadership,” Engler introduces.

The journey for Engler began in 2014 when he went to an event and heard people talking about a men’s group.The men that he saw “were very healthy and clear on business, and had sharp qualities. But at the same time they were very compassionate and had a wide range of just what I see as a beautiful being.”

Curiosity led him to meet John Wineland who hosted a men’s workshop that Engler went along to in London. “That weekend blew my mind completely.

I felt that I was challenged in so many ways to discover who I am, but also to connect with other men on that level.” Engler committed to the work and stayed connected to LA-based Wineland. Then, Engler became an assistant to Wineland in 2016, travelling across the states in doing so. Two years later, it all stopped as the peer group collapsed and the travel was not totally sustainable anymore.

The energy and level of work that Engler wanted was unmatched elsewhere, so he took it upon himself to create that space. From 2019, it has been growing consistently to become the On Being Men that exists today.

Encouraging men to join the group is possibly the hardest part: to motivate them to be vulnerable and discuss themselves and their values. “The guys that do join, they stay for a long run because they experience how much [On Being Men] gives them,” Engler asserts. It is “a safe space which is very challenging but also very loving, and we need more men to come on board with that.”

I ask to what extent the workshops are about mental health and to what extent they are about succeeding in business or finance, but Engler tells me On Being Men is about both and neither of these things.

“Of course it is mental health related because for people to open up and discover who they are, it will improve their mental health, but I am not focusing on that.” “For a lot of guys it is just a space to speak freely about what they are thinking. They can discover ‘what do I want.’”

The framework for On Being Men’s program is structured around the CROP Method, designed by Engler. “I never chased certificates,” Engler explains on constructing this framework, “and I had depression for many years which led me to personal exploration. I found a lot of methods but never really looked at a structure or a certificate, I was more interested in connection. But a lot of people asked me ‘what do you do?’ and I realised there is a system in my work and I call it the CROP.” CROP relates to the idea of putting a seed in Earth and planting something in order to nourish ourselves. The other meaning is in relation to photo editing; how can we crop work, mortgages, health and the rest of life’s noise down to what truly matters to us?

P stands for play/potential. “This is where life feels exciting and has purpose.

This is what we are aiming for but in order to get there we need a strong ‘O’.

The O stands for Observation. You need to be able to notice your patterns to

develop a strong self awareness.” “The more I develop my self awareness, the more I can play with life because I can see what is going on in the world.”

Engler continues, “in order for me to Observe the right things, I need to do the R. The R is Reconnecting. This can be intuition, truth - we all have a deep purpose in us.” In order to understand who you are, the first part of the process - Cleansing and Clearing - needs to begin. “This means starting to let go of everything and everyone that is pushing you down, and preventing you from progressing from where you want to be.” The ‘C’ is broken down even further into parts: What type of information do you consume? What food and substances do you consume? Is the environment around you clean and organised? Are there people in your life that are holding you back?

Listen to music instead of watching the news. Be conscious of what you eat and drink. Unsubscribe to those pointless emails. Create space for welcoming positive people into your life.

With this process of cleansing, you have more capacity to connect with yourself and uniting things which are true to you. “From there you have a different perspective,” Engler summarises, allowing you to think about what you can contribute to the world, rather than trying to fit in.

One man who has participated in the ideas of the group for seven years shared with Engler that life becomes more challenging as you go on with the cycle. This is because he feels he is playing a higher level of life’s game.

Engler says, “CROP is a constant cycle which you can go deeper with, allowing you to find another layer of yourself.” The results show an ability to stay grounded and hold attention, so there is more joy and fulfilment in life. It is proof that with sacrifice and challenge comes rewards.

On this note, I ask if there are different moments of struggle for men throughout the process. “The thing that makes it very difficult for men at the start is the fear of sharing,” implying that joining the group is the hardest part. However, as soon as other men share their thoughts and feelings, they suddenly realise that they are not alone. “The second fear I think that exists is facing the concept of investing in the self,” Engler continues. “But I say, is there anything better than investing in yourself?”

It has been summarised by the participants that connection is desired above all. Another value for the group is an ability to break personal barriers and habits. “In a group setting, the men can benefit from listening to others’ perspective,” Engler elaborates.

“You have constant support and a space to come and talk.” It allows you to be a King amongst other Kings; a space to be surrounded by other people who want to grow. “It is the same equivalent for wanting to be a Queen amongst Queens.”

Engler spends his career inspiring other men, so it is only natural I ask him who his biggest influence in his life is. “The person who introduced me to this whole work, the person I referenced earlier, John Wineland. He helped me to save my marriage back in 2015. Another person is Hofesh Schecter, who is a great friend of mine and a great choreographer. We have been friends for more than twenty five years, since we were back in Israel together.” Engler worked with Hofesh’s dance company as a drummer on huge works like Political Mother. “He is an incredible artist and opened my mind to always think more openly.”

“My depression also inspired me,” continues Engler. “My depression was vicious, but that led me to do this work so I am grateful for that. The amount of failing relationships and toxic relationships, including my parents unfortunately - seeing that has also been a big drive for me as well.”

To round things up, I ask what someone can do immediately in order to better themselves today. After a considerable pause, Engler says “take a deep breath.” “If we just stop for a second and take a deep breath and slow down, it makes a huge difference. Set an alarm on your phone for every hour of the day as a reminder to take a deep breath.”

Learn more about On Being Men and join the program at

www.onbeingmen.com BN1 MAGAZINE 53

A November of music at Brighton’s iconic venue,

KOMEDIA

WEDS 1 NOV JOSIENNE CLARKE + WANDERLAND

FRI 3 NOV ART SCHOOL GIRLFRIEND + SPECIAL GUESTS

SUN 5 NOV BERNARD BUTLER + SUPPORT

Polly Mackey’s second album, Soft Landing is the culmination of Art School Girlfriend’s contemporary artistic testament. It represents a tonal shift and tenure in a much more contented and philosophical state of being. Alongside her own headline tour and festival dates, Art School Girlfriend has toured Europe alongside Marika Hackman, the UK alongside Orlando Weeks and the US alongside The Japanese House. Outside of her own artist project she runs a monthly ambient/electronic show for Peckham-based female-led radio station, Foundation FM.

Butler has been noted as one of Britain’s most original and influential musicians. In 1989 he formed Suede releasing the Mercury winning No.1 debut Suede and the era-defining Dog Man Star. He released two solo albums on Creation, and received a Brit nomination before moving into a celebrated period as producer and songwriter This included seminal releases by The Libertines, Tricky, Kate Nash, The Cribs, James Morrison, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Texas, Paloma Faith and others. In 2005 he began a collaboration with Duffy spawning her five million-selling, Grammy and Brit Award winning debut Rockferry, whilst Butler won the Producer’s Award at the 2009 BRIT Awards.

TUES 7 NOV YABBA + POLITE BUREAUX

WEDS 8 NOV MATTHEW AND THE ATLAS + SPECIAL GUESTS

WEDS 8 NOV SUNNBRELLA + LUCID EXPRESS

Josienne Clarke is blessed with a voice of crystalline beauty and clarity. It’s a voice that has been compared to Sandy Denny. A Rough Tradesigned, Radio 2 Folk Award-winning artist, she has also been hand-picked as main tour support for folk legend Richard Thompson. Her varied background and effortless musicality mean a cover of Radiohead is just as likely to appear on the setlist as Nick Drake, and so fits Shrewsbury Folk Festival as easily as End of the Road. Here is an artist singularly unafraid to express herself via her art and is naturally armed with all the verve and ability to do so – and bring the audience with her.

YABBA takes the genre of rock n’ roll to dark places and spits it back out with its own gritty formulaic progressions carved into it. Within the first year of their existence, YABBA have seized attention with their dark and venomous sound.

More a collective than a band, they do everything, they go everywhere musically, no limits. They go above and beyond all cultural norms to find a feeling in music that specialises in the dark and danceable.

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Founded by Matthew Hegarty, Matthew & The Atlas was borne of the folk rock movement as they became regulars at the West London Communion Club Night. He released his first EP in 2009 on the club night’s record label, Communion Records.

Since then he has released three albums, traversing a range of musical territories from classic acoustic folk, to dramatic synth-laden electronica, and urgent guitar led alt-rock.

Sunnbrella (solo project of Prague-born, Londonbased musician David Zbirka) creates sunbleached, shoegazing, beat-driven melancholy, as diverse in its sonic palette as it is rich in emotive sentiment. Their debut album Heartworn was listed as one of the best albums of 2023 by Toronto Star.

Lucid Express is the name of five young dreamers creating an airy blend of shoegaze and indie pop amongst the skyscrapers, mountains, and packed alleyways of Hong Kong.

SAT 11 NOV DECLAN WELSH & THE DECADENT WEST + SUPPORT

Declan Welsh, frontman and namesake of one of Scotland’s most exciting fledgling bands, is a songwriter, musician and poet from Glasgow.

Together with his band The Decadent West, they have been making waves in the Scottish, and indeed the wider UK, music community since their debut EP All My Dreams are Dull was released in 2018.

With influences such as Arctic Monkeys, Amazing Snakeheads, Courtney Barnett, Pulp and Billy Bragg, Welsh has been compared to Joe Strummer due to his biting lyrics and vocals, and the Punky nature of some of his songs.

TUES 21 NOV

TOM A SMITH + TOM ABISGOLD AND HARVEY JAY DODGSON Despite still being a teenager, Sunderland-based newcomer Tom A. Smith has already achieved more than most artists do in a lifetime. He played his first ever gig aged just eight, supporting local psychedelic rockers Detroit Social Club at legendary Newcastle venue The Cluny, performed at Glastonbury before he was even in secondary school, and Tim Burgess handpicked him to play his stage at Kendal Calling, making him the festival’s youngest ever performer. He has played live with local hero Sam Fender and Catfish & The Bottlemen, as well as supported other Northern acts on the rise like The Lathums and The Mysterines.

WEDS 15 NOV RHUMBA CLUB + SPECIAL GUESTS

TUES 21 NOV KRIS DREVER + SPECIAL GUESTS

WEDS 22 NOV LILY KNOTT

THURS 23 NOV DERYA YILDIRIM + SUPPORT

Rhumba Club is the moniker for London based, Jersey born synth-pop artist Tom Falle. His 2021 debut album Welcome To The Rhumba Club, saw Tom tipped as a ‘one to watch’ by GQ and BBC Introducing. Since then, he has been busy composing music for fashion giants Hermès and Fendi, touring the UK supporting Molchat Doma, and has just released his sophomore album, Love Apokalypto.

Lily Knott has already secured 2 out of 2 sold-out headline shows in London, at venues; The Social and The Lower Third. She has been titled both ‘Artist of the Week’ and ‘Track of the Week’ by BBC introducing and crossed off playing a BBC live lounge from her bucket list. After recently opening for Noel Gallagher for Brighton’s On The Beach festival we expect Lily to be one to watch as she joins the class of best new music.

THURS 23 NOV BEE ARNOLD Bee Arnold returns to Brighton to kick off her first ever UK tour. The Essex pop princess has been busy in the studio writing lots of new music and to celebrate her releases yet to come in 2023 she is touring the UK in her favourite hotspots.

Scottish folk singer songwriter Kris Drever will be joining Melting Vinyl for this very special headline show in support of his best of compilation covering both his solo & Lau material. Drever is a Scottish folk singer songwriter, who has won multiple awards and much acclaim for his solo recordings and concerts including glowing reviews from The Herald, The Guardian, Mojo and Q Magazine.

Derya Yıldırım & Grup Şimşek is a fresh and modern pop-group which combines Anatolian Folk and contemporary grooves, often contaminated by Psychedelia and progressive rock flavours.

Led by Derya Yıldırım’s hypnotizing bağlama and vocals, the group draw a meaningful continuity from the Turkish folk repertoire to their original song writing, with a strong sound identity and a dancefloor- friendly energy.

FRI 24 NOV THE DRYAS + SPECIAL GUESTS Exciting news from Brightonsfinest! Join us for The Dryas’ highly anticipated headline gig at Komedia Studio. The Dryas have become BBC Introducing and Spotify favourites, making waves on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram.

SUN 26 NOV

WEDS 29 NOV BROOKE COMBE + SUPPORT

A night of doom, riffs and heaviness as Gévaudan bring their new album, Umbra, to Brighton as part of a southern UK tour. Gévaudan will be playing their latest offering in full: a single concept exploring depression through the eyes of eldritch horror. Epic, progressive, emotive and highly dynamic doom.

Brooke Combe discovered a love for music aged just 5 years old, after getting her first toy drum kit.

Combe, influenced by the ‘90s R&B, developed a love of great songwriting and vocalists and lyricists with their own idiosyncrasies – such as Amy Winehouse and Fleetwood Mac – before beginning to work on her own material. She’s stunned crowds supporting the likes of Blossoms and Miles Kane. Now Brooke Combe brings her succulent soul-infused indie pop to Brighton.

A NIGHT OF DOOM: GÉVAUDAN, SEA BASTARD & CROWGOD

Local Brighton doom giants Sea Bastard will be delivering their unique brand of doom covering songs old, and new in their first local appearance for some time. Opening the night, CrowGod will be serving up their mesmerising riffs and brutal vocals.

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WEDS 29 NOV CRYWANK + THEO VANDENHOFF

Crywank is a British anti-folk band based out of Manchester, England. The band is a duo consisting of vocalist/guitarist and founder Jay Clayton and drummer Dan Watson, who joined in 2012. Allmusic describes their body of work as containing “sadness, paranoia, misery, and dry humour“, comparing them to AJJ or ‘a sarcastic Bright Eyes‘.

MO-MO-MO IT’S CHRISTMAS!

SUN 3 DEC

brightoncentre.co.uk Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows.

BN1 MAGAZINE 57

Music previews Nov 2023 ART SCHOOL GIRLFRIEND Fri 3 Nov Komedia, Brighton

Polly Mackey’s unbending solo project showed increasing promise with the release of her phenomenal new song, Heaven Hanging Low. The third track from her forthcoming second album, Soft Landing, it signals a substantial step-forward since her debut. Packed with religious imagery, it offers a queer love song about finding that celestial and sublime euphoria in your closer, more domesticated surroundings.

This album promises to be a collection packed with curiosity and playfulness, with songs which sound like they are falling effortlessly into place.

JAH WOBBLE Fri 3 Nov The Venue, Worthing The king of Dub returns. Celebrated for forming Public Image Ltd, with Keith Levene and Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon, Wobble’s collaborations have since included Brian Eno, Bjork and Sinead O’Connor, and his groundbreaking and innovative bass playing has cemented his place in music.

As part of his relentless touring schedule, he comes to Worthing with his full band, Invaders Of The Heart, for a majestic blend of bassdriven global music, reggae, fusion and punk influences.

HIS LORDSHIP Weds 15 Nov Hope and Ruin, Brighton With both a brilliant new single in Jackie Works For The Nhs and a debut self-titled album promised for January, it’s exciting times for His

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Lordship. A maximum rock’n’roll trio conceived during lockdown to blow the cobwebs away, they remind us of what music has been missing for quite a while. They sold out their debut UK tour last year, which led to them joining Jason Isbell on a blockbuster European tour. If you’ve seen them before, you’ll know what the fuss is about.

SUPALUNG Weds 15 Nov The Folklore Rooms, Brighton Fresh after the release of their soaring fourth single Shadow, taken from their upcoming album I’M ALIVE, this invigorating new indie-rock outfit head out on a huge tour. Formed by critically renowned singer-songwriter Sam Brookes and multi-instrumentalist, producer Pete Josef, they bring a sound which is indisputably joyous, melodic and experimental. They’ve drawn from all of the great music which has accompanied their lives, to create an album which is destined to make audiences smile, dance and shout.

MILLIE MANDERS AND THE SHUTUP Thurs 16 Nov Hope and Ruin, Brighton After the recent release of new single, Shut Your Mouth, this London-based cross-genre punk band are out on tour again.

Renowned for their ferociously joyous live shows, grinding guitars, irresistible horns and pop appeal, they’ve recently been championed

by BBC Introducing, Radio X and Vive Le Rock. With their dynamic sound and candid lyrics, the band explore themes like loss, betrayal, anxiety, heartbreak, environmental concerns and political unrest, all while exuding the prowess and uncompromising attitude which sets them apart from the rest.

DEKKER Fri 17 Nov Dust, Brighton Fresh off the back of a busy festival season, Brookln Dekker is about to drop For Repair this month, the third track to be taken from his highly anticipated third studio album Future Ghosts. He’s acclaimed for a singular sophisticated brand of fluttering alt-pop. It all sits somewhere indie and folk, packed with lilting melodies, simmering percussion and a mellow approach to vocal delivery – all delicately pinned together with a silken sheen.

Check him out early, because he’s going to be huge.

FUNKE AND THE TWO TONE BABY Sat 18 Nov The Brass, Hastings Existing on the periphery of the grassroots circuit for over a decade, Funke and the Two Tone Baby has snowballed his way across the festival circuit and beyond. His set at last year’s Beautiful Days Festival attracted the largest ever opening crowd in the event’s history. And 2023 seems to be the year this oneman band truly makes his mark.

With a shiny new album and a big headline tour, nothing much can stop him now.

AQUALUNG Mon 20 Nov The Old Market, Hove

Songwriter, producer and multiinstrumentalist, Matt Hales, seized the imagination of right-thinking music fans everywhere with his inventive melding of classical composition and fuzzy lo-fi aesthetics. It might seem like an unlikely pairing, but his keen ear for a pop tune and a persistent love of melody, accompanied by his heavenly vocals gave us hits like Strange & Beautiful (I’ll Put A Spell On You) and Brighter Than Sunshine. His most recent album, last year’s Dead Letters, shows us that he’s lost none of his deft touch.

CIAN DUCROT Mon 20 Nov Brighton Dome After scoring a number one hit with his debut album Victory in August, along with huge singles like I’ll Be Waiting and Part Of You, Cian Ducrot unveils his biggest tour yet. Raised in Cork, Cian was surrounded by music growing up and soon excelled himself, learning piano, classical guitar, saxophone, percussion, drums, violin and the flute. Studying at London’s Royal Academy of Music from the age of nine, he soon felt split between his classical training and his desire to make pop music. After a period of busking, surfing sofas and taking on random jobs to fund writing trips to London and LA, his breakthrough on TikTok led to his debut EP, Make Believe. From pub gigs in Cork to the upper reaches of the charts, he now seems unstoppable.

DUB PISTOLS Sat 25 Nov Concorde 2 Britain’s greatest reggae/breaks/ jungle mash-up masters return!

These gangster-swaggering, festival stalwarts’ rollercoaster story reads like a rock’n’roll cautionary tale on a grand scale. They’ve burned

Music previews Nov 2023 through different members and hundreds of thousands of pounds on assorted capers and hedonism but have always remained true to the ethos of bringing the biggest beats and the rawest sounds. The epitome of everything which is brilliant about soundsystem culture, the Dub Pistols will be rocking the show like only they know how.

THE CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN Sun 26 Nov Lewes Con Club

EDDIE & THE HOT RODS Weds 29 Nov Lewes Con Club

One of the most highly influential and recognisable names from the English Rock scene, Eddie & The Hot Rods have enjoyed a career that has now spanned nearly 40 years.

The energy and attitude certainly endeared them to the punks, but the hard and fast style has made them one of the most exciting bands of the era and has never really dated or gone out of style. Included in Mojo’s Top 100 of most influential bands, they continue to get out and make some noise.

One of British music’s true renegades heads to Lewes to show he’s more innovative and dangerous than bands a third of his age. Synonymous with his 1968 hit Fire and the Hammond-driven Crazy World, he’s much loved for flamboyant theatrical performances and his powerful, wide- ranging operatic voice. He has been a major influence on a wide range of musicians, due to his wild stage persona and concepts, and is Brighton-ad.pdf 21/09/2023 rightly considered a pioneer of 3shock rock and prog.

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There’s No Place like

The Pond

By Eleni Spirou

The first time I tried Baby Bao at The Pond was after a long journey home from university in Manchester for reading week.

The journey had been cantankerous, with delayed trains, heavy luggage and football hooliganism, and so I was overjoyed to see my smiling parents waiting for me in Brighton station’s car park. We headed straight to The Pond and caught up over a few bao buns, marvelling at how good they were and happy to be in each other’s company again.

This homecoming experience has stayed with me and so when I heard that the November issue’s theme would be ‘Home’, I knew I wanted to write about The Pond and try their updated menu. I visited with my parents once again, only this meal didn’t have such an idyllic start as the last.

The atmosphere between us all was tense, exacerbated by a mixture of a hangover, standstill traffic and a lack of caffeine.

Terse words had been traded and the mood was positively sour. I sat glowering as my dad went and ordered. We stared into our pints (a crisp Blue Moon for me, the low alcohol Big Drop Paradiso IPA for my designated driver dad, and a cold brew negroni, in my mum’s case) without much to say to each other.

However, this all changed once the food arrived. An array of colourful and exciting dishes were soon spread across our table and we were united in our collective excitement. A smile crept across my face as we clinked our glasses, eager to dig into the selection in front of us. At first, we gingerly plucked a couple of fries from the Baby Bao Chips, but soon enough we were chowing down on each other’s buns, and groaning in mutual adoration.

The Korean Buffalo Cauliflower was crunchy and sweetly sticky, with a hint of heat that lingered beyond the initial bite. This heat was also present in the delightfully spicy and sour Atchara (Filipino pickles) that were served alongside the Sticky Fried Chicken. This dish was a stand-out: bright and zingy, crisp and sweet from the honey dressing. The Baby Bao Chips were great and moreish, but in hindsight could have been replaced in our order with something more exciting.

As for the bao buns, they were pillowy and soft like clouds, acting as the perfect vehicle for the burst of flavours each filling offered. The Pork Belly Bao is a classic for a reason, and a staple on the menu.

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The combination of the tender pork and rich hoisin sauce, brightened by the freshness of the cucumber and spring onion makes it a must-order for me every time. The Karaage Aubergine Bao was crisp, and the black vinegar mayo was an interesting addition, but the flavour profile was less complex than the other dishes, and not quite as exciting. On the other hand, the Pulled Ssamjang Chicken Bao was incredible, with the Atchara once again cutting through the sweet and spicy Korean chicken, and the chicken fat crumb providing a slight crunch, almost reminiscent of popping candy.

I was tempted by the Miso Ice Cream Donut as a sweet ending to our meal, but unfortunately, we were full to the brim already. It simply means I will have to return and give some more of the menu a try.

We left the Pond feeling rejuvenated and reunited. What had started as a less than harmonious day for us, was saved by the delicious food that Baby Bao is serving up.

For a family of food lovers, homecoming is often celebrated with a meal of some kind, and this Sunday lunch at The Pond reminded us how lucky we were to be spending time together. A lot has changed in my life since my last visit, but remaining unchanged is the outstanding food and incredible atmosphere of The Pond.

The Pond 49 Gloucester Road, Brighton,

AUTUMN RECIPES Blend the Soup: 1.

2.

Remove the bay leaf.

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can work in batches with a regular blender, but be careful with the hot liquid.

Final Touches: 1.

Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, if using, and heat through.

Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve: November is a wonderful time for warm, comforting recipes that make the most of autumn's bounty. Here's a recipe for a Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, which is a classic autumn dish that is both nourishing and warming as the weather turns cooler:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 medium onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme) 4 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock) 1 cup apple cider (not apple cider vinegar) ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg 1 bay leaf ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for a vegan version) Pumpkin seeds, for garnish (optional) Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions: Roast the Squash: 1.

2.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Toss the butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the pieces out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Turn the pieces halfway through the cooking time.

Sauté the Aromatics: 3.

4.

5.

While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Simmer the Soup: 1.

2.

Add the roasted squash to the pot along with the vegetable stock, apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bay leaf.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors together.

1.

2.

3.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with pumpkin seeds if desired.

Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

This soup captures the essence of November in a bowl, with its use of seasonal produce and warm spices. It's a versatile recipe, so feel free to adjust the spices to your taste, or add in other seasonal ingredients like carrots or apples for a twist. Enjoy your cozy autumn meal!

Crimson Apple Tarte Tatin

Turn over a new leaf this autumn with this delightful upside-down caramelised apple tart.

Ingredients: • • • • • • •

6 medium-sized crisp red apples (e.g., Honeycrisp or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and quartered 1 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

Sprinkle sugar evenly over the melted butter. Allow the sugar to melt and become a golden caramel. Do not stir but gently swirl the pan as needed.

Once the caramel is golden, arrange the apple quarters in a circular pattern in the skillet.

Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples.

Lay the puff pastry sheet over the apples, tucking in the edges.

Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, carefully invert the tarte onto a large plate.

Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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PLACES TO GET OUTDOORS THIS AUTUMN

BY ROSIE PALDI EDWARDS

Everyone should be able to experience and immerse themselves in the glorious English countryside and landscape. Here is a variety of beautiful accessible spaces - parks, common land or public footpaths. The importance of which cant be overstated.

Shockingly, the public has actually very little access to the countryside in the UK. We have the Right to Roam on 8% of England, while the other 92% remains off limits. The campaign for Right to Roam is a nation wide movement working to enable more public access.

Support campaign here: www.righttoroam.org.uk

STANMER PARK Nestled into the hills of the South Downs, this park was designed in the 18th century and hosts an array of beautiful specimen trees, woodland and open fields to enjoy in this grade II listed landscape. There is a handsome manor house at the bottom of the park, which sells a collection of delicious food and drinks that you can sit back and enjoy after a long walk or before one has even begun! A quick bus ride from central Brighton, Stanmer Park is easy to get to for any city folk.

The park also calls home to The Earthship, a fully sustainable alternative building that is used as a sustainable community centre.

The space is used for all things horticultural and agricultural, a hub of learning and caring for organic growing techniques and more.

The Low Carbon Trust provides regular public tours of The Earthship to educate people and to inspire them about sustainable living. There are also other events held on the grounds of Stanmer at One Garden including fairs and workshops.

MEWSBROOK PARK Popular since it opened in the 1930s on Littlehampton seafront, this grand park still boasts its original art deco shelters. It’s known for its colourful flower beds with a mixture of permanent and annual planting. A tranquil lake is set in the middle of the park which hosts a range of activities and facilities for all ages. Boating or water activities can be booked at the lake or grab a coffee at the cafe. There are so many activities at this park like the tree walk, children’s play park and a conversation area known as Ruby Gardens. If that doesn’t interest you, why not check out the park via their miniature railway?

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DEVIL’S DYKE Devil’s Dyke is a spectacular deep v-shaped valley. At nearly a mile long, this valley is the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK. It has outstanding 360 views of Brighton and the undulating hills of the South and North Downs. If you venture deeper into the hillside you will find the whole ground covered in a bed of flowers, patches of woodland and lots of interesting and colourful insects.

It is easily accessible by bus from Brighton, or by car as there is a car park right next to Devil’s Dyke Pub at the top of the Downs.

The pub caters for all your food and drinks needs before you head off on your outdoor adventures.

RAILWAY LAND PROJECT This disused land used to be a railway marshalling yard, but has now been taken over and reclaimed by the all powerful mother nature. The trail is a collection of footpaths that follow right along the river Ouse. Starting in town you can follow the river through woodland, fields and marshland all whilst taking in the stunning chalky cliffs in the background.

The nature reserve is owned and managed by Lewes District Council, in close partnership with the Railway Land Wildlife Trust.

This wild spot in the centre of Lewes highstreet is only a train ride away from Brighton. Disabled access is available and with a public car park around the corner, it is easy and cheap to get to.

PRIORY PARK Lewes Priory is a partly demolished Mediaeval cluniac priory, with its historic remains and perfect green fields, it creates an air of calm as you walk through this old priory in harmony with nature.

As you move through the old ruins, it allows you to imagine how the buildings once looked and how the monks lived. There is also a herb and kitchen garden that is dedicated to teaching what herbs and vegetables were grown during mediaeval times. All of this is set in a sweeping view of the South Downs and provides a historical and nature filled afternoon.

TILGATE PARK BUCHAN COUNTRY PARK Buchan park is set in 170 acres of gardens, fields, lawns and trails into the woodland. There are also beautiful sculptures throughout the park to keep an eye out for. They offer seasonal events for children like apple pressing, pumpkin carving or the latest event for adults is Fungi Foray on Sun 1 October. The event looks into the kingdom of fungi and how it is essential for life on earth, you can book a ticket online now.

DUTD (DON’T URBANISE THE DOWNS) TRAIL Don’t Urbanise the Downs is a collection of stunning public footpaths through the fields of Plumpton. The footpaths follow over streams, under trees and through hedgerow and grassy fields. The trail was created to highlight the negative impacts on the countryside of building a brand new town in these very fields, which is what the land owners Eton College plan to do.

It is important to protect this land and you can support the trail by sharing your experience on social media with the hashtag DUTD. It is open all year round, but is particularly delightful to go to in summer when three of the fields are completely over-flowing with sunflowers.

Tilgate Park has so much to offer with stunning lakes, gardens and miles of woodland. In the woodland they offer Go Ape courses through the treetops as well as Tilgate Park Tree Trail, which is a fun activity for all the family. The trail picks out thirty of the best trees of that particular species ranging from all over the world and brings them all together in one easy trail.

For animal lovers, the nature centre at the park hosts over 100 different species of animals to visit and check out. The lakeside cafe offers refreshments if you want a break from walking, or maybe check out the many different themed gardens offering insight and inspiration for garden design and planting. The parking charges are minimal and well worth the travel.

DITCHLING COMMON Ditchling Common is a quiet and serene place just past Ditchling Village. It hosts a selection of classic countryside views in its 76 hectares of woodlands, heathland, bridleways and a large lake. Perfect for a lazy afternoon feeding the ducks or for fishing finatics, this common land is only on the other side of the Downs and with a free car park you can be there for as long as you want.

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TV GUIDE SCOTT PILGRIM TAKES OFF FRI 17 NOV NETFLIX

After Edgar Wright scored a massive indie hit with Scott Pilgrim Vs The World, audiences can now return to a more faithful retelling of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s classic comic series. Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Satya Bhabha, Kieran Culkin, Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Brie Larson, Alison Pill and Aubrey Plaza (an astonishing cast by any measure) all reprise their roles from the live-action version in this animated adaptation, which adopts the original material’s dynamic visual style.

Scott Pilgrim meets the girl of his dreams, Ramona Flowers, but learns he must defeat her seven evil exes in order to date her. Then things get even more complicated.

THE BUCCANEERS

THE CROWN

ARCHIE

Inspired by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edith Wharton’s unfinished final novel of the same name, Katherine Jakeways (Episodes, Mid Morning Matters With Alan Partridge) unveils a show about a group of young American women exploding onto Victorian London’s social scene.

Get ready for the inspiring story of a family forced to do the weekly shop in a horse-drawn carriage made of gold. This is the season you’ve all been waiting for… And there will be tears.

Award winning screenwriter, Jeff Pope (Stan & Ollie, Pierrepoint) explores the life of Hollywood’s most iconic leading man - Cary Grant. Starring (hello to) Jason Isaacs in the leading role, it charts a journey from being the unassuming Archibald Leach to becoming one of cinema’s greatest heartthrobs.

WED 8 NOV APPLE TV+

An Anglo-American culture clash kicks off, as the land of the stiff upper lip is infiltrated by a refreshing disregard for centuries of tradition.

Starring Kristine Frøseth, Alisha Boe Aubri Ibrag and Josie Totah, the ‘Buccaneers’ are here to secure husbands and titles. But their hearts are set on much more than that; and saying I do is only the beginning!

THURS 16 NOV NETFLIX

A relationship blossoms between Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed, before a fateful car journey has devastating consequences. Prince William tries to integrate back into life at Eton after the loss of his mother, while the monarchy has to ride the wave of public opinion. As she reaches her Golden Jubilee, the Queen reflects on the future of it all, while a new Royal fairytale kicks off with William meeting Kate.

THURS 23 NOV ITVX

Archie faces a relentless struggle to escape the demons which plague him. But his obsessive need for control, his fears, his weaknesses, his loves and his losses, threaten to dominate everything. This is the story of the man behind the legend, who went from growing up in Bristol to wowing global audiences with films like The Philadelphia Story, North by Northwest and Bringing Up Baby

FOR ALL MANKIND

INVINCIBLE

ARTFUL DODGER

The most optimistic of all sci-fi shows rockets into season four, with even bigger ambition and deeper intrigue. Now entering the 21st century (an eight year jump since season three’s epic closing episode), we catch up with humanity’s colonisation of our solar system.

Based on the groundbreaking comic book

by Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley return for season two of this superhero animation. We catch up with 18-year-old Mark Grayson, who’s just like everyone else - except his father is (or was) is Omni-Man; the most powerful person on the planet. Not only does Mark have to contend with the daily tribulations of a teenager, but he has to defend the planet as well!

Featuring characters from Charles Dickens’s classic Oliver Twist, this spin-off invites us to again inhabit a simmering criminal underworld.

Features Thomas Brodie-Sangster (The Queen’s Gambit) as the eponymous Artful Dodger, David Thewlis (Fargo, I’m Thinking of Ending Things) as Fagin and Maia Mitchell (Good Trouble, The Last Summer) as Lady Belle Fox, this eight-part series was created by James McNamara, David Maher and David Taylor.

Still reeling from Nolan’s betrayal last season, Mark struggles to rebuild his life as he faces a host of new threats, all while battling his greatest fear - that he might become his father without even knowing it.

In Australia during the 1850’s, Jack Dawkins worked as a seemingly respectable surgeon.

However, when an old acquaintance resurfaces, so does his penchant for a life of crime from his time as notorious London-based pickpocket called Artful Dodger.

FRI 10 NOV APPLE TV+

Happy Valley has rapidly expanded its footprint on Mars by turning former foes into partners.

Now the space program has turned to the capture and mining of extremely valuable, mineral-rich asteroids which could change the future of both Earth and Mars. But simmering tensions between the residents of the nowsprawling international base threaten to undo everything they are working towards.

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FRI 3 NOV PRIME VIDEO

WEDS 29 NOV DISNEY+

We understand that finding the right support can be challenging, so let us make that search easier for you Our Brighton & Hove-based team can advise about free local support services, connecting you with others and improving your mental wellbeing

Freephone: 0808 196 1768 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)

Chat with us by email: chat@uok.org.uk

Arrange a call back at: www.uok.org.uk/talk-to-us BN1 MAGAZINE 65

FILM GUIDE THE MARSH KING’S DAUGHTER FRI 3 NOV

A woman with a secret past decides to venture into the wilderness she left behind, with the intent of confronting the most dangerous man she’s ever met: her father. Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth. Her estranged father is the infamous Marsh King (Ben Mendelsohn), a man who kept her and her mother captive for years.

When her father escapes from prison, Helena will need to reassess her entire life. Knowing that he will hunt for her and her family, she must find the strength to face her demons and outmanoeuvre a man who taught her everything she knows about surviving in the wild.

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM FRI 10 NOV

A beacon of hope comes to the Middle East.

Antonio Banderas, Milo Manheim and Geno Segers star in this contemporary retelling of possibly mankind’s greatest story. A young woman carrys an unimaginable responsibility, while her husband is torn between love and honour. Operating in the background is a jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown.

This live-action Christmas musical celebration weaves classic festive melodies into new pop songs, in a dazzling retelling of the timeless story of Mary, Joseph and the birth of Jesus. A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classics, this epic Nativity tale is unlike anything else.

THE HUNGER GAMES: THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS & SNAKES FRI 17 NOV

Suzanne Collins’s blockbuster dystopian young adult franchise returns to our screens. Set long before Katniss Everdeen volunteered as tribute or Coriolanus Snow became the tyrannical President of Panem, we find out how everything started.

A young Coriolanus (Tom Blyth) is the last hope for his failing lineage. The once-proud Snow family has fallen from grace in a post-war Capitol. With his livelihood threatened, Snow is reluctantly assigned to mentor Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler), a tribute from the impoverished District 12. Lucy’s charm captivates the nation’s impressionable audience, and Snow sees an opportunity to shift their fates. But will his plan prove to be good or evil?

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THE MARVELS

NEXT GOAL WINS

Carol Danvers (the indomitable Captain Marvel) has reclaimed her identity from the tyrannical Kree and taken revenge on the Supreme Intelligence. However, the unintended consequences of these actions forces her to begin shouldering the burden of a destabilised universe.

Academy Award Winner Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit, Thor: Ragnarok) turns his attention to something on a slightly smaller scale… but it’s no less compelling. Based on a true story, Next Goal Wins follows American Samoa’s football team, who made headlines after their brutal 31-0 loss at the hands of Australia in 2001.

When her duties send her to an anomalous wormhole linked to a Kree revolutionary, her powers become entangled with two other superheroes. Step forward fan-favourite Ms Marvel and Monica Rambeau, both fresh from their glittering debuts on the MCU’s small screen offerings. Together they form The Marvels, a trio ready for another action-packed feast of running, punching and jumping, as civilization is threatened by a foe more dangerous than ever seen before.

An all-star cast assembles to cheer the squad on, including Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, David Fane, Rachel House, Beulah Koale, Uli Latukefu, Will Arnett and Elisabeth Moss. With the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, the team hires down-on-his-luck, maverick coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) hoping he can turn the world’s worst soccer team around in this heartfelt underdog comedy.

NAPOLEON

THE ETERNAL DAUGHTER

Ridley Scott (Gladiator, The Last Duel) is possibly the only person who could successfully bring this historical epic to the screen. Joaquin Phoenix (Walk The Line, Joker) assumes the role of French military commander Napoleon Bonaparte; a character as complex as he was famous.

An artist and her elderly mother (both played

by Tilda Swinton) confront long-buried secrets, including a miscarriage and the death of a family member during WWII, as they return to a former family home - now a hotel haunted by its mysterious past. At first, the pair regret dredging up the pain but then start to realise there are still plenty of happy memories.

FRI 10 NOV

WEDS 22 NOV

The film focuses on his origins, the French Revolution and his swift, ruthless climb to Emperor; all viewed through the prism of his addictive, and often volatile, relationship with his wife and one true love, Josephine. Expect plenty of warfare, courting rituals, political intrigue and some glorious period costume, as this notorious and fascinating dictator gets a modern revaluation for modern times.

FRI 17 NOV

FRI 24 NOV

Featuring a towering, deeply moving performance by Swinton (Asteroid City, We Need To Talk About Kevin), acclaimed filmmaker Joanna Hogg’s (The Souvenir, Exhibition) beguiling film is a brilliant and captivating exploration of parental relationships and the things we leave behind.

The beating heart of Brighton

3 December – 2.45pm Winter Solstice

Winter Season

Sibelius Symphony no. 2 and Arvo Pärt Spiegel im Speigel and Lamentate: our winter programme brings together two great composers in a concert of meditative, snowy beauty and drama.

15 December – 6 & 8pm 31 December – 2.45pm Charles Dickens’ New Year’s Eve A Christmas Carol Viennese Gala Christmas arrives early with two festive performances of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol with acclaimed actor Pip Torrens and the BPO Brass Quintet.

Performances at St George’s, Kemptown Tickets from £13 available via the Brighton Dome Ticket Office brightondome.org brightonphil.org.uk

Out with the old and in with the new: what better way to celebrate, than with soprano, Ellie Laugharne at the BPO’s sparkling Viennese concert on New Year’s Eve?

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