Cambridge Edition March by Bright Publishing

Cambridge MARCH 2015

Your monthly fix of local life www.cambsedition.co.uk

INSIDE THIS ISSUE...

ARTS

FREE MAGAZINE

CULTURE

CAMBRIDGE SCIENCE FESTIVAL NIGHTLIFE

GIG GUIDE Cambridge

cambsedition.co.uk CE03_001 newest(COVER)ljc.indd 2

20/02/2015 14:18

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 2

20/02/2015 14:49

CONTENTS

MARCH 2015

Welcome 20

60 • INTERVIEW: LUCY WORSLEY Jenny catches up with the presenter and curator ahead of her Cambridge visit

Spring has sprung and Cambridge is ushering in the new season in style, offering up a calendar fizzing with fantastic events. On Sunday 8 March, International Women’s Day, celebrate the achievements of women the world over with a day of fascinating workshops, talks and family activities at the Women of the World Festival. The event, which takes place at Cambridge Junction, is something that I’m proud to be a part of – even if in a very small way! Pop along and you might catch a glimpse of me discussing the challenges facing women, as well as divulging some cringeworthy secrets about my teenage self! That aside, it promises to be an inspiring and invigorating day, featuring some great speakers, music, poetry, speed mentoring and – definitely my pick of the bunch – a Beyoncé dance class! Turn to page 31 to get the low-down. Also up this month is the brilliant Cambridge Science Festival, which is offering up a typically dazzling programme of events, 9-22 March. Turn to page 28 and read our highlights of the almost 300 events taking place around the city. I’m pleased to report that things are hotting up on the foodie circuit too, with a hip new burger joint popping up on Market Street and a stylish new café opening its doors in recent weeks, as well a brilliant sounding aprés ski themed feast at Gogs to look forward to (cheesy Euro pop disco included!). Find out more from pages 35-45. There’s lots more to get stuck into as well, so grab a cuppa and get planning your month – enjoy the issue!

65-71 • WEDDINGS SPECIAL Saying ‘I do’? Be inspired by our guide to getting hitched in Cambridgeshire

NICOLA FOLEY, EDITOR

5 • FIVE THINGS TO DO Our pick of the best things to do in Cambridge this month

55 • FAMILY Activities for you and your brood to get stuck into this March

7-10 • NIGHTLIFE Comedy, live music, clubs and bars… Where to go in the city after dark

57 • COMPETITION Give your home a makeover with this fab prize from Shuttercraft, worth £500!

13 • MUSIC BLOG Our insider guide to the best live gigs

58-59• MOTHER’S DAY IDEAS Treat your mum this month with these lovely local ideas

14-15 • CAMBRIDGE SOUND How Sound Pi is combining art and technology with dazzling results 17-24 • ARTS & CULTURE We round up the best shows, exhibitions and entertainment in the area 27 • INTERVIEW: JASON DONOVAN The Oz star talks about his new stage role 28-29 • CAMBRIDGE SCIENCE FESTIVAL Your guide to the science-tastic events taking place around the city this month 31-33 • WOW FESTIVAL CAMBRIDGE A celebration of women the world over, taking place at Cambridge Junction 37 • FOOD COLUMN Chef Alex Rushmer laments the rise of the foodie trend 38-45 • FOOD NEWS The latest from the dining and drinking scene, from new openings to supper clubs 46-48 • RECIPES The owner of Afternoon Tease, Jo Kruczynska, shares some favourite recipes 51 • REVIEW Jenny Shelton pays a visit to the charming Plough in Great Chesterford 52-53 • LISTINGS Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on in Cambridge in March

74-75 • GET CRAFTY Learn how to give furniture a new lease of life

77 • INDEPENDENT OF THE MONTH We pay homage to the brilliant Cambridge Science Centre on Jesus Lane 79 • COMMUNITY The latest word from your local hub, from charity events to community gatherings 85-88 • FASHION Top trends for him and her, plus details on Cambridge Style Week 91 • WELLNESS How to feel fabulous – inside and out

EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTORS

Editor Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com

Alex Rushmer, Angelina Villa-Clarke, Charlotte Griffiths, Daisy Dickinson, Jordan Worland, Ruthie Collins, Jo Kruczynska, Heather Martin, Simon Armitage, Wesley Freeman-Smith, Kris Griffiths

Features editor Jenny Shelton 01223 499463 jennifershelton@bright-publishing.com Sub editors Lisa Clatworthy, Hannah Bealey & Debbie Poyser

ADVERTISING

92-94 • BEAUTY Charlotte and Daisy look at wedding beauty trends

Sales executive Lauren Widdowson 01223 499451 laurenwiddowson@bright-publishing. com

97-99 • EDUCATION How Twitter can provide a treat for language students and innovation can be used to enrich the learning experience

Key account manager Maria Francis 01223 499461 mariafrancis@bright-publishing.com

101 • BUSINESS NEWS Cambridge’s latest business news

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Designer Emily Stowe 01223 499450 emilystowe@bright-publishing.com Ad production Lucy Woolcomb 01223 499468 lucywoolcomb@bright-publishing.com

MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck 01223 499450

www.bright-publishing.com

CAMBRIDGE EDITION MAGAZINE • Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire CB22 3HJ, 01223 499450, www.cambsedition.co.uk • All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of the publishers. • Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Cambridge Edition or Bright Publishing Ltd, which do not accept any liability for loss or damage. • Every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct. • Cambridge Edition is a free publication that is distributed in Cambridge and the surrounding area

CE03_003 (CONTENTS) ljcdp.indd 3

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 3

20/02/2015 12:47

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 4

20/02/2015 14:49

5 THINGS TO DO

1. LEARN TO PLAY

Cambridge music shop Millers is hosting free music taster sessions this month, aimed at encouraging locals of all ages to pick up an instrument. On 21 and 22 March, mentors will be in store teaching the ukulele, harmonica and a variety of brass, wind and string instruments. Says Millers MD Simon Pollard: “Learning an instrument shouldn’t be daunting or scary. Come and give it a try!” www.millersmusic.co.uk

3. NEON MOON SPRING BALL

WIMPOLE AFTER DARK

Make your way to Wimpole Hall on the evening of 7 March when the grounds will come alive with gypsy music, dancing shadows and flickering fires. Wimpole After Dark invites you to experience this magnificent stately house and grounds in a whole new light, through night-time tours, an illuminated sculpture trail and live music from gypsy jazz band Parisian Swing. There may even be marshmallows! Gates open 5.45pm (£8 adult, £5 child). The event coincides with the Wimpole Night Run, a picturesque and atmospheric 2k or 6k route leaving at 6pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

THINGS TO DO

THIS MONTH...

The daring and delectable cabaret club is back and full of the joys of spring with a new burlesque event, taking place on 28 March at a brand new venue: the Cambridge Union Society. The Gilded Birdcage invites attendees to shake their tail feather and unleash their inner pin-up, showgirl or dapper gent and party til the small hours to retro tunes. Meanwhile Neon Moon’s exquisite performers will keep you spellbound with cheeky routines and circus magic. Dressing up is the norm: think exotic plumes, lavish feathery headdresses and graceful, glitter-dusted wings… Tickets are £28 in advance (£35 door). www.theneonmoonclub.com

4. GET SET FOR CAMBRIDGE LIVE

A day of free entertainment is planned for the city on 1 April for the launch of Cambridge Live. Bollywood music and dance, folk shows and classical piano recitals are in the mix, along with an exclusive set from rising young boy band The Cogo. Cambridge Live is a new charity set to take over the running of artsy goings-on in the city such as the Folk Festival, fireworks and events at the Corn Exchange. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

5. DRAGONBOAT FESTIVAL 2015

Entries are now open for the 2015 Dragon Boat Festival, taking place in Cambridge this summer. The huge river race, held at Ditton Meadows each year, sees local teams and businesses go head to head in a series of lively races taking place throughout the day. Teams of up to 10 people (plus a drummer) must propel their traditional-style dragon boat along a 200m stretch of the Cam, watched by several hundred cheering spectators. This year's charity partner is Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT), and the event takes place on 12 September. All are welcome – no experience necessary, and as proud media partners once again for this great event, Cambridge Edition will be keeping you posted with more information ahead of the big day. www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk

CE03_005 (5 THINGS) ljc.indd 5

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 5

19/02/2015 11:26

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 6

20/02/2015 14:50

NIGHTLIFE

LUCY ROSE The elfin Lucy Rose has been winning over ever-growing crowds during the past few years, progressing from London’s open-mic night circuit to headlining her own tour, which comes to Cambridge on 23 March. Hailing from Warwickshire, this singer-songwriter was previously best known as the unofficial fifth member of Bombay Bicycle Club (frontman Jack Steadman is a close friend), but has recently been determinedly stepping into the spotlight under her own steam. The Independent labelled her the “standout female vocalist of the weekend” after last year’s Glastonbury performance, and her forthcoming album looks set to continue this upward trajectory. The show starts at 7pm and tickets are £14. www.junction.co.uk

CE03_007-010 (NIGHTLIFE)dpkg.indd 7

THE STRANGLERS Celebrating an impressive 40 years of making music together this year, The Stranglers form part of the canon of British rock greats. Formed in an off-licence run by drummer Jet Black in 1974, the group cut their teeth gigging with the likes of Patti Smith and The Ramones. They put out their first three albums (Rattus Norvegicus, No More Heroes and Black And White) within just over a year, quickly trademarking their signature sound. They might be best remembered for iconic hits such as ‘Peaches’ and ‘No More Heroes’, but they also go down in history as the snarling bad boys of the punk scene, reportedly brawling with The Clash, gaffer taping a journalist to the Eiffel Tower (400ft off the ground), ingesting copious volumes of drugs and inciting a student riot in Nice, to name but a few incidents (we wonder if they’ve mellowed in their old age?). Join them at the Corn Exchange on 20 March at 7.30pm. Tickets are £25.50. www.cornex.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 7

19/02/2015 11:33

NIGHTLIFE

ANDY C Drum and bass pioneer Andy C is known for his lengthy sets, but he’s upping his game this month with a monster eight-hour stint on the decks at Cambridge Junction. The Andy C All Night tour does exactly what it says on the tin, offering a chance to see this behemoth of the scene (he’s won the award for best DJ in the Drum&BassArena awards many, many times) doing what he does best: knocking out crowd-pleaser after crowd-pleaser in a venue packed full of ravers. Will he collapse/start hallucinating from exhaustion? Who knows! Find out on 7 March, 10pm-6am, tickets are £16 in advance. www.junction.co.uk

AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE Things are about to get rather risqué at the Corn Exchange this month, with the arrival of Britain’s biggest burlesque show on Saturday 28 March. Coming to Cambridge direct from London’s West End, the performance promises a Vaudevillian romp through the exotic world of burlesque, featuring Arabian Nights-style temptresses, foxy forties sirens and fabulous fan dances. Expect dazzling choreography, gorgeous couture costumes and plenty of surprises at this witty, slickly produced cabaret. The show starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £15.50-£27.50. Over 18s only. www.cornex.co.uk

RICHARD HERRING Having rattled through some of the big topics (death, religion, genitals) in previous stand-up shows, Richard Herring is in a more frivolous frame of mind for Lord Of The Dance Settee, his new offering, which arrives at Cambridge Junction this month. In it, he’ll be bouncing joyously on the sofa, considering whether the term ‘cool comedian’ is an oxymoron and coming to terms with the fact that his entire career is a failed attempt to top a piece of visual slapstick comedy he came up with at the age of 16. Can he revisit this comedy high point 30 years on or will it smash his old bones? Find out on 27 March at 8pm, tickets are £16. www.junction.co.uk

8 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_007-010 (NIGHTLIFE)dpkg.indd 8

19/02/2015 11:33

NIGHTLIFE

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE Floyd fans, listen up. Celebrating 40 years since the release of the seminal Wish You Were Here, The Australian Pink Floyd Show is embarking on a huge 2015 European tour, due to hit Cambridge in March. Performed by skilled musicians and with mind-blowing visuals and staging, this is a far cry from your average tribute act, described by The Times as “the gold standard”. The concert will pay homage to the iconic Wish You Were Here, Floyd’s ninth studio album, as well as drawing heavily on The Dark Side of the Moon and The Division Bell to create an exquisitely crafted show which promises to be a must-see for any fans of the band. Catch it on 9 March, Corn Exchange, tickets £31-£42 – or hardcore fans can upgrade to the Crazy Diamond Package or the Strat Package. www.cornex.co.uk

now

booking

MEXRRISSEY 29 April, Corn Exchange, £17.50 Watch this extraordinarily talented band from Mexico City give the brooding music of Morrissey a colourful new spin. www.cornex.co.uk

UB40 12 May, Corn Exchange, from £32.50 Best known for hit singles like Red Red Wine, Can’t Help Falling in Love and Kingston Town, reggae stars UB40 are one of the most successful British groups of all time. Relive their hits at the Corn Exchange in May. www.cornex.co.uk

WATCH OUT FESTIVAL

PAUL WELLER Enjoy an evening in the company of the Modfather himself this month, when the legendary Paul Weller stops by at the Corn Exchange as part of a 14-date UK tour. From his first hit with The Jam in 1977 (In The City) to his 2012 solo offering Sonik Kicks, Weller has knocked out six number ones and more than 6.5 million album sales (in the UK alone), while picking up ten Brit Award nominations and an Ivor Novello award. Now well into his fifth decade in the music biz, his varied career has seen him progress from punk hero in the 1970s through the soulful sounds of the Style Council to the more recent psychedelic rock of his latest solo material. With a new album out this spring, this gig promises brand new material to get your ears around too. 13 March, Corn Exchange, tickets £40.50, 7.30pm. www.cornex.co.uk

CE03_007-010 (NIGHTLIFE)dpkg.indd 9

23 May, Cambridge Junction, £15 Following the Junction’s Night Watch event last year, the Watch Out festival will bring a daylong showcase of innovative new theatre and dance shows. www.junction. co.uk

RUBY WAX 30 & 31 May, Cambridge Junction, £21 The much-loved American comedienne brings her Sane New World show to Cambridge, promising a hilarious guide to holding onto your sanity… www.junction.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 9

19/02/2015 11:33

NIGHTLIFE

LEE NELSON

GLASS ANIMALS

Cheeky chap Lee Nelson is back for 2015 with a brand new tour, Suited and Booted, coming to Cambridge Junction this month. The creation of comedian Simon Brodkin, Lee Nelson rose to fame as the chavtastic South London geezer on BBC3’s hit Well Good Show. Packed with killer gags and cringe-making audience interaction, this new live show will add to a varied CV for Brodkin, who is in fact a qualified medical doctor, stood (in character as Lee Nelson) in the 2013 South Shields by-election, and famously got arrested for running onto the pitch at Goodison Park and attempting to warm up with Manchester City ahead of a Premier League match with Everton (this time in character as gaffe-prone footie star Jason Bent). Catch him doing his thing on 20 March, tickets are £16. www.junction.co.uk

If you’re keen on the kind of off-kilter electronic grooves purveyed by acts like The xx and Animal Collective, be sure to check out Oxford four-piece Glass Animals, who play Cambridge Junction on 2 March. The band are the first signing to new label Wolf Tone, the brainchild of super-producer Paul Epworth who’s had huge chart success with the likes of Adele, Florence and the Machine and Friendly Fires. They’ve drawn comparisons to bands like Alt-J and Wild Beasts for their quirky, intelligent brand of pop, which combines catchy melodies with intricately crafted beats. Well worth a look. Starts 8pm, tickets are £11. www.junction.co.uk

10 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_007-010 (NIGHTLIFE)dpkg.indd 10

19/02/2015 11:33

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 11

20/02/2015 14:50

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 12

20/02/2015 14:50

MUSIC

Jordan Worland from local music website Slate the Disco selects his must-see gigs in Cambridge this month he spring months are the most glorious in the music calendar, with a constant stream of new releases and acts hitting the road to clock up stage time before the festival period. March is hands-down the busiest month for live music so far in 2015, and there are some real treats to take in. The Portland Arms begins the month with the slightly spooky melodies and reflective folk of Texan songwriter Jarrod Dickenson on the 1st. On new album Maximum Entropy, Welsh duo Man Without Country merge sleek electronic minimalism with a love of classic pop music, combining the pared-back synths of Ulrich Schnauss and East India Youth with the adventurous quest to redefine pop shared with early electronic pioneers such as The Human League. They bring their new record to The Portland on 2 March. Other highlights at The Portland Arms include the art punk stylings of Zun Zun Eugi on the 3rd, Feeder frontman Grant Nicholas with his wonderfully crafted solo material on the 4th and the return of the eccentric John Otway on the 5th. One of the last remaining bastions of the British hardcore scene, Funeral For A Friend are at The Portland on the 8th. It promises to be a busy night, as the British emo veterans returned reinvigorated with their seventh album in January. Last seen in Cambridge opening for Twin Atlantic at their sold-out Junction show, Nothing But Thieves headline the Portland in their own right on the 9th. The hotly tipped Southend outfit mix Jeff Buckley-like vocal acrobatics with intense, inspired guitars. Anyone who caught Steven James Adams in Cambridge last year will know that his return to the Portland on the 13th is not to be missed. The former frontman of the lauded Broken Family Band released his gorgeous debut solo album last year. Frontman of seminal noughties emo/rock band INME, Dave McPherson

returns to Cambridge in the intimate surroundings of CB2 on 26 March, in support of his new solo record Journal of a Journey Buoy. Our pick of the shows this month – a hard call given how busy March is – takes place at the Cambridge Junction J2 on 2 March. Pitching somewhere between Radiohead and The xx, but with polished, pulsing indie electronica-by-way-of-RnB, Glass Animals released one of the best debut albums of last year. Also appearing at the J2 this month is virtuoso guitarist, independent musician and viral success story Jon Gomm, who offers his mesmerising acoustic guitar skills on the 23rd, while Martha Tilston brings her striking folk sound to the J2 on the 30th. The main stage at the Junction hosts some top shows this month, notably the return to Cambridge of the majestic Lucy Rose on the 23rd. On her first tour in 18 months, Rose will undoubtedly be roadtesting material from her forthcoming second album, due later this year. Duke Special releases his fourth album this month. In celebration, he's mapped out a no-stone-left-unturned tour of the UK throughout the springtime, taking in a whopping 21 dates across the country with his full live band in tow, and playing Cambridge on the 21st. Formed in 1977, Punk rock legends Stiff Little Fingers are still going strong, releasing their latest album back in January, and the

CE03_013 (MUSIC)dpkg.indd 13

band play the Cambridge Junction on the 22nd in support of its release. The Corn Exchange plays host to two high-profile shows this month. Former Cambridge students Clean Bandit released one of the biggest hits of 2014, and return to the city where they all met on the 8th. Another returning act, the legendary Paul Weller, plays Cambridge once again on the 13th. Both shows are long sold out, so keep your eye on social media to see if there are any returned tickets to get hold of. Steven Wilson, four-time Grammy nominee, multi-instrumentalist, producer and one of the hardest working artists in music, plays the Corn Exchange on the 12th, while legendary blues, funk and rhythm and blues maestro Dr John plays the same venue on the 10th. Tell us about your gig at www.slatethedisco.com

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 13

19/02/2015 11:35

CAMBRIDGE SOUND WORDS WESLEY FREEMAN-SMITH

THE CAMBRIDGE

SOUND

#Sonic Pi: New Frontiers in Electronic Music & Education With Aphex Twin releasing blimps all over the shop, and contemporaries like Squarepusher playing around with robot drummers, the future apparently is upon us. Technology can be a beautiful thing when nurtured correctly, and Cambridge isn’t without a few innovations of its own. This is Silicon Fen, after all, and if you’re looking for ways in which art and technology overlap there are certainly worse places you could start. Sonic Pi is the brainchild of Dr Sam Aaron, a programmer and musician I first met through his live performances – electronic music improvised using raw

14 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_014-015 (CAMBS SOUND)dpkg.indd 14

lines of code, typed out before your very eyes. A multifaceted jewel if ever there was one, Sonic Pi is predicated on a simple idea: “Computer code is everywhere: running; executing; controlling; all hidden from sight. We wanted to take that code and turn it into music, but instead of hiding it, we wanted to expose it to our audiences.” We come in, as is always the case, halfway through the story. Broadcom Foundation, manufacturers of Raspberry Pi’s affordable computer chips, found themselves with a pot of money dedicated to supporting computer

science and music in schools. Impressed by the Overtone software Sam and a colleague built to perform coded music, they funded a new trial version for use in the classroom – one that was easy enough for kids to use, but powerful enough that it could help produce some genuine tunes. After the success of their affordable computers, the Raspberry Pi Foundation saw its potential as a teaching tool. This is where Sonic Pi fitted in, and the charity continued to support the project. Both Overtone and Sonic Pi sit atop the same engine, but the former is for

19/02/2015 11:39

programmers, while the latter is designed for those starting to learn. It does lots for you, and makes things easier to pick up than you might expect. Cambridge-born charity Raspberry Pi’s remit is to remove as many restrictions to getting into computing as possible – making basic computers affordable and accessible, and encouraging young people to come and play. “Part of their DO is actually to not provide an equivalent to an iPad, where everything is super-polished and just works, but to provide a bit of friction,” says Sam. “That friction is the educational part, and gives people a real experience of what computers actually are.” From an artistic perspective, technological limitations turn out to be a lot more beneficial. “When I’m performing I don't want to be building and manipulating synthesizers – I want to be playing them.” Not only is this software friendly towards live performance, it’s also completely open-source and free to download on a number of platforms – not just Raspberry Pi. The message throughout is that music is achievable – that you can start right now, if you like, and you don’t need access to a high-end studio (or years of laborious study) to unlock your creativity. Accessibility, community, education – these are the values that underpin the project. “Going on stage and providing some decent music is one thing, but I think if people watching have some understanding of how that music is made, it enhances the experience.” Seeing a guitarist play with great virtuosity is something we understand – most of us have fingers, so can appreciate how expertly they're being used. A face peering at a laptop is a poor way of communicating with an audience, unless you happen to be sending them friend requests. The link between what a performer’s doing and what you’re hearing is completely abstracted. Part of the solution to this is in finding a common language – something that people can understand as readily as they understand strings producing notes. “If that language is impenetrable, so sophisticated that it's only understandable by professional programmers, you’re going to have a very limited audience. Whereas if it’s understandable by ten-year-olds, which Sonic Pi is, then hopefully it’ll be

CAMBRIDGE SOUND

easier to appreciate the relationship between the live code and the music it’s controlling.” The potential of such an idea is vast, bigger at first than it seems. Provided the language of code is understood, it can be manipulated by anyone. And anywhere; edited, reworked or remixed by others near or far. Live streaming could become a mass-participation experience – musicians across great distances could respond to each others’ work in real time as part of a creative community or an open forum. There was also the ‘Pop Pi’ project,

Accessibility, community, education - these are the values that underpin the project SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

CE03_014-015 (CAMBS SOUND)dpkg.indd 15

a series of videos commissioned to artists to make new work with Sonic Pi. It’s not just the software that’s opensource, but everything else too – the code for all tracks is exampled online, there for you to tweak, edit and learn from. It’s a generous, expansive project, designed to reduce as many barriers to participation as possible. “Regaining connectivity with electronic music is something the project has been striving to do, and I think we’re gaining considerable ground,” says Sam. “I’m much more interested in getting more people making music than I am about being the most unique thing out there.” sonic-pi.net

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 15

19/02/2015 11:39

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 16

20/02/2015 14:51

ARTS & CULTURE

We explore the arts and culture scene in Cambridge, showcasing some of the many exciting exhibitions and shows taking place around the city

AUSTENTATIOUS: AN IMPROVISED JANE AUSTEN NOVEL Help create a brand new, hilarious and totally unique Jane Austen adaptation as improvisational comedy troupe Austentatious return to Cambridge Junction. What would happen if Eleanor and Marianne stowed away on a pirate ship and ran away to sea? If Pemberley was invaded by aliens? Or if Mr Darcy formed an 18th century rock group and took on Wickham

in an epic, leather-studded Battle of the Bands? Let your imagination run riot and see what entertaining results emerge when five actors in Regency costume act out a spontaneous Jane Austen-style drama based on audience suggestions. Expect a mad miscellany of modern culture and Austen-style mannerisms and motifs. Turn up early for a chance to drop your suggestion

CE03_017-024 (ARTS AND CULTURE)dpkg.indd 17

for the show’s title into a box: previous suggestions have included Kinky Bonnets, Northanger Rabbi and Snakes on a Horse Drawn Carriage. We’re chucking in Mansfield Parklife and Suspense and Sensibility – you can have those for free. Takes place at 8pm, 28 March; tickets are £13. www.junction.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 17

19/02/2015 11:59

ARTS & CULTURE

REBECCA One of the finest and best-loved novels of the 20th century comes to the stage this month, as Kneehigh present Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca. Set in 1930s Cornwall, this slow-burning masterpiece of mystery is responsible for one of the most atmospheric opening lines in literature: “Last night I dreamed I went to Manderley again”. The writer described it as “a study in jealousy”, inspired by du Maurier’s own struggle to come to terms with her husband’s first fiancée. Rebecca features not one but two heroines – one an absent presence and the other a timid, nameless young woman living in her shadow. Brought to live at Manderley as the new bride of the enigmatic Maxim de Winter, the story’s narrator quickly realises that her new home – and her new husband – hold many secrets. Out of her depths in this new, high-society world, and intimidated by the sinister housekeeper Mrs Danvers, she is surrounded by the memory of Rebecca, her far more glamorous and beguiling predecessor. But all is not what it seems. What starts out as a Gothic, stately home romance in the style of Jane Eyre soon gathers pace and intrigue, culminating in one of literature’s most gripping trials – with a deadly twist. See it from 23 to 28 March, 7.45pm. Tickets from £15. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Though Menabilly in Cornwall inspired the setting of Manderley, the house itself is based on Milton Hall in Cambridgeshire, which du Maurier visited.

ARCADIA One of the great plays of the last 50 years, Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia comes to Cambridge as part of a national tour. This play of ideas and the clash of past and present recounts events more than a century apart at a country house. At the start of the 19th century rivalries and desires simmer, and a girl makes a startling discovery, while in the present day a pair of academics research the history of the house, where Lord Byron once stayed. This production by English Touring Theatre stars Dakota Blue Richards (Lyra in The Golden Compass) and promises to be a highlight of Cambridge’s theatrical calendar. Arts Theatre 30 March-4 April, 7.45pm (2.30pm Thur & Sat matinee). Tickets from £15. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

18 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_017-024 (ARTS AND CULTURE)dpkg.indd 18

EUROPEAN UNION CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Always popular with Cambridge audiences, the European Union Chamber Orchestra returns on 5 March, when conductor Hans-Peter Hofmann will lead a programme of music by Holst, Grieg and Mozart. St Paul’s Suite by Holst, considered one of the masterpieces of Western culture, is brought to life in all its splendour by this renowned orchestra. Emma Johnson on solo clarinet will also lead a performance of Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto. The concert takes place at Cambridge Corn Exchange at 7.30pm, tickets £28.50-£38.50 (£12.50 concessions). There's a pre-concert talk by classical music expert James Day at Cambridge University Press Bookshop, free to ticket holders. www.cornex.co.uk

19/02/2015 11:59

ARTS & CULTURE

RUSSELL WATSON

BYARD ART An immortal subject through the ages for artists of all kinds, the human figure forms the basis of Byard Art’s current exhibition, Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. The modern gallery on King’s Parade has gathered together the work of six talented artists to exhibit the many different ways the human form can be observed, captured and celebrated using pen and paint. From delicate, beautifully formed nudes to quirkier portraits, each artist reveals their own approach and style, making creative use of mixed media, glitters, glosses and gold leaf on aluminium, textile, print and ceramics. Artists featured include Louise Dear, Veta Gorner, Susan Macarthur, Annabel Mednick, Maria Rivans and Fletcher Sibthorp. Alongside these 2D artists will be figurative ceramics by Jane Muir, Guy Routledge and Ingrid Saag. The exhibition runs until 22 March. www.byardart.co.uk

One of the world's biggest classical superstars with global album sales totalling seven million, Russell Watson is this month inviting fans to an intimate evening of music at Cambridge Corn Exchange. Starting out as a pub singer to support his young family, Watson won a ‘Search for a Star’ competition in 1990, then cut his first record, The Voice, in 2001, which became a UK and US number one. He has since made nine albums to date, picking up a quartet of BRITs on the way, and has performed for The Queen, the Pope and former US President Bill Clinton, while collaborating with pop superstars from Meatloaf to Cliff Richard. The New York Times said of the tenor: “He sings like Pavarotti and entertains like Sinatra.” He’ll be in town on 18 March, 7.30pm, and tickets are £27.50-£47.50. www.cornex.co.uk

PIONEER If you enjoyed Interstellar and Gravity, you’ll probably like Pioneer, a play coming to Cambridge Junction. Presented by Fringe First winners Curious Directive, this sci-fi thriller catapults us into the future, where four stories intertwine. It’s 2029 and the second manned mission to Mars sets out in search of answers, the first having vanished without a trace. Meanwhile, two brothers reconnect as they search for the birth of space travel in Siberia. At the bottom of the sea, Maartje holds onto a family secret, while on Mars, a young Dutch couple are mysteriously separated. This event is part of the Cambridge Science Festival and takes place 18-19 March. Showtime is 7.30pm and tickets are £8-£12. www.junction.co.uk

CE03_017-024 (ARTS AND CULTURE)dpkg.indd 19

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 19

19/02/2015 11:59

ARTS & CULTURE

THEATRE AT THE ADC

WATERSPRITE Wolf Hall and Call the Midwife star Jessica Raine is among the celebrity speakers set to appear at international student film festival Watersprite this month. Running 6-8 March, Watersprite began in 2010 as a platform for budding young filmmakers to showcase their work and gain valuable experience from industry professionals. This year the organisers have received a record number of entries: over 300 students from across all six continents. Winners will be selected from a variety of categories in a BAFTAs-style closing ceremony. As well as the awards, events will include the ever-popular Script Lab, a Q&A with Stacey Dooley on documentary making, and talks on the British film industry, how to pitch your film and getting started in directing. There's also a chance to shoot your own stop-motion animation - the best of which will be streamed in the main foyer throughout the festival. Festival chairman and Emmy award-winning producer Hilary Bevan Jones says: “Once again we have a fantastic array of nominated films that can be viewed over the weekend. These films, combined with our amazing programme of speakers, will make this year’s Watersprite a festival that continues to inspire the best of filmmakers from around the world.” Past speakers have included Eddie Redmayne, Jim Broadbent, Rob Brydon and Victoria Wood. More 2015 speakers to be confirmed - check online for updates. www.watersprite.org.uk

Cambridge University’s student theatre has some superb shows lined up this spring. On 3-7 March, catch The Strip, which originally premiered at the Royal Court in 1995. This bitterly funny exploration of the modern obsession with celebrity culture seems even more relevant today. 7.45pm, £7-£12. A group of friends struggle to make it in the big city under the shadow of AIDS in Rent, performed by the Cambridge University Amateur Dramatic Club, 11-21 March. It won the Tony Award for Best Musical and continues to hit home with its themes of love, finding your voice and living for today. 7.45pm, £9-£14. Finally Our House, 24-26 March, is inspired by the songs of Madness, who collaborated with Tim Firth on the project. It follows 16-year-old Joe who, after tangling with the police, makes a decision that will affect his life forever. 7.45pm, tickets £9-£14. www.adctheatre.com

CAMBRIDGE PHILHARMONIC Hear music by three of Britain’s most celebrated composers in this fantastic concert by the Cambridge Philharmonic. Its president, Paul Patterson, is one of the most accomplished composers for the harp, while Elgar Howarth, who celebrates his 80th birthday in 2015, has had a glittering career as trumpeter, composer and conductor. And lovers of choral music will particularly enjoy the work of Jonathan Dove. The concert will open with A Song of Joys, known to millions as the theme to the BBC Proms, and will be conducted by Timothy Redmond. Many of the pieces are either Cambridge, UK or world premieres, so classical fans are in for a real treat. The show takes place at West Road, 14 March, 7.30pm. Tickets £12-25 (£10 on the door for students). www.westroad.org

20 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_017-024 (ARTS AND CULTURE)dpkg.indd 20

19/02/2015 11:59

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 21

20/02/2015 14:51

ARTS & CULTURE

OH WHAT A LOVELY WAR Terry Johnson’s hit revival of Oh What A Lovely War marches into Cambridge, promising an entertaining and moving response to the events of 1914-18. The musical premiered in 1963, featuring songs such as ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary’, and was revived for the centenary of the outbreak of WWI. The production stars Wendi Peters, (Coronation Street’s Cilla Battersby) and the director’s other credits include the wonderful End of the Rainbow. Cambridge Arts Theatre 2-7 March, 7.45pm (2.30pm matinee). Tickets from £15. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

CIRQUE DE L’EXTRAORDINAIRE Described confidently as “the most daring and audacious extravaganza Cambridge has ever seen”, on 4-7 March four sketch writers will attempt something that has never been done before: a sketch show set in a circus. Dressing up as a clown, a magician, a mime and a lion tamer, the foursome plan to create their circus from scratch, using the powers of comedy and imagination. Join them at the ADC Theatre, 11pm. Tickets £5/£6. www.adctheatre.com

22 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_017-024 (ARTS AND CULTURE)dpkg.indd 22

TREASURED POSSESSIONS This spring, a show of beautiful items from the 15th to the 18th centuries will chart how the Western world first fell in love with shopping. Opening at the Fitzwilliam Museum on 24 March, Treasured Possessions From Renaissance To Enlightenment features some 300 stunning objects, each revealing the tastes and aspirations of their owners and the skill of the hands that made them. Following different collections, see how Europeans brought the world into their homes and sowed the seeds of consumerism. The journey starts with bespoke Renaissance luxuries made in glass, bronze, and beautiful maiolica, then moves east, as more distant trade routes were opened up. Soon shoppers were seduced by the glamour of the exotic, lusting after Arab designs and becoming infatuated with all things Chinese and Japanese. In a single generation, the idea of luxury was flipped on its head, from being the preserve of the elite to a universal desire. So ‘populuxe’ – popular luxury – was born. This exhibition invites you back to the bazaars and workshops of the distant past. From gorgeous silks, silverware, jewels and porcelains, via shoes, armour and embroideries, to snuffboxes, teapots, fans and pocket watches, Treasured Possessions sets strange and extraordinary items alongside objects that we still use every day. The exhibition has been co-curated by Dr Victoria Avery of the Fitzwilliam Museum and Dr Melissa Calaresu, Dr Mary Laven and Professor Ulinka Rublack from the History Faculty of the University of Cambridge. Says Dr Laven: “Today, we spend half our lives shopping and many of our acquisitions end up on the scrap heap or boxed away in a garage or attic. Before industrial mass production, purchasing took much more skill and effort, and was often the result of complex negotiations between maker and shopper. The most significant things in life were not bought and sold off the shelf, but were handcrafted in homes and workshops, customised for their owners. Acquisition was an art.” The occasion also offers a glimpse of the many hidden wonders that remain off-view at the Fitzwilliam. Over 80% of the objects that will be on show are taken from the Fitzwilliam Museum’s reserves, including a silver pocket watch shaped like a skull and a fabulous pair of bright yellow embroidered high heels. In fact, some of these incredible items have never been seen publicly at all. Every object on display is a window to a past world, showing changes in history and society through intimate personal belongings. Treasured Possessions will be complemented by two companion exhibitions: Close-up and personal: eighteenth-century gold boxes from the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection (a loan show from the V&A), and A Young Man's Progress by photographer Maisie Broadhead, a fictional modern narrative inspired by the costume book of Matthäus Schwarz, a 16th-century German accountant, who recorded the clothes he wore throughout his life in what has become known as 'The First Book of Fashion'. Treasured Possessions From Renaissance To Enlightenment runs 24 March to 6 September 2015, and admission is free. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

19/02/2015 11:59

ARTS & CULTURE

THE WOMAN IN BLACK

THE CAMBRIDGE PASSION The story of Christ’s Passion will be told anew this March in a charity student theatre production at Emmanuel United Reformed Church. The Cambridge Passion is the brainchild of third-year Westcott House-ordinand James Pacey who, prior to training, worked as a theatre director. The production uses words, music and action to tell the story of the last week of Jesus’s life on earth. It is based on the popular Newark Passion, which Pacey directed in 2011 in Nottinghamshire. Pacey explains: “Every year, as students at Westcott House, we find ways to spread the message of the Gospel in the community, by talking to people and by acts of service. The Gospel isn’t just for the libraries and lecture theatres of this city, but for our homes and shops and offices. “This year, part of the focus of our mission will be on telling the good news through theatre. The story of Christ’s passion is very familiar but we hope that by retelling it as drama, people will be freshly gripped as they share very directly with Jesus in the events of the first Good Friday and Easter.” Those taking part in the Cambridge Passion include students at Westcott House and Ridley Hall, many of whom are attached to Cambridge colleges. Jesus is played by Angus Reid, a student at Westcott and attached to Corpus Christi. The event is open to all and performances take place on 13 and 14 March. Tickets are £7 from ADC Ticketing and all profits will go to charity. www.cambridgepassion.co.uk

One of modern theatre’s big success stories, The Woman in Black returns to the Arts Theatre stage for a thrilling evening of suspense. Never mind the hammy Daniel Radcliffe movie, Stephen Mallatratt’s stage adaptation of the story by Susan Hill is, as the Daily Telegraph puts it, “the most brilliantly effective spine-chiller you will ever encounter”. Called out to a remote village to attend the funeral of a client, junior solicitor Arthur Kipps glimpses the figure of a pale woman dressed all in black. Examining his deceased client’s papers at her desolate mansion, he comes to understand the terrible plight of the woman in black. Just two actors play out the intense story against a minimalist set. The show is now in its 25th year and runs in Cambridge from 16 to 21 March. Showtimes are 7.45pm (2.30pm) and tickets cost £15. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

KAZUO ISHIGURO UNVEILS NEW BOOK Celebrated author Kazuo Ishiguro will make a rare appearance in Ely this March to talk about his first novel in a decade, The Buried Giant. Ishiguro first came to prominence with The Remains of the Day which won the Booker Prize in 1989, and he was shortlisted again in 2005 for Never Let Me Go. Released this month and eagerly awaited, The Buried Giant will be his first novel since then. It is a story of “lost memories, love, revenge and war” set in a murky, mythical past where Britain is falling into decay following the departure of the Romans. Here, an ageing couple, Axl and Beatrice, undertake a dangerous journey in search of their long-lost son. See Ishiguro at The Octagon, Ely Cathedral, 9 March; starts promptly at 7.30pm. Tickets £8 in advance. www.toppingbooks.co.uk

CE03_017-024 (ARTS AND CULTURE)dpkg.indd 23

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 23

19/02/2015 12:00

ARTS & CULTURE

Taylor

THE ART INSIDER

pring is here! Green shoots, reminding us of warmer days. I’m kicking off my month celebrating International Women’s Day by curating a show, NEW INFLUENCES: Female Voices, Cambridge. It’s a city-wide intergenerational celebration of women in partnership with Romsey Mill and Cambridge WOW, our very own chapter of Southbank’s fantastic Women of the World Festival. Come along to Cambridge WOW at the Junction on 8 March to watch interviews with leading ladies in the community, expertly led by a group of young women from Romsey Mill; spot portraits of female role models such as Cambridge Mayor, Gerri Bird, illustrated by the likes of Aurora Cacciapuoti, or hunt for feminist posters featuring inspirational female voices in the city, including conversations facilitated by Sa’adiah Khan’s installation, The Women’s Room. We even have a fundraiser from Sofar Sounds Cambridge, who are hosting an all-female secret gig on the evening of 8 March too (check out their Facebook page). March also means Mother’s Day (it’s on the 15th – don’t forget!). So why not pop into Cambridge Contemporary Crafts for the perfect pressie by the likes of Cambridge illustrator Jo Clark? You can also buy fabrics of her gorgeous designs through Cloud 9. Or check Crafty Cambridge, run by the lovely Faye Wright, who has an eclectic market stall every week on Market Square and has been curating a range of quirky shows at Changing Spaces since December. Or just buy your mum a bunch of flowers (she’ll be touched). The Fitzwilliam Museum launches a new key show, Treasured Possessions, exploring a 300-year love affair with shopping on 24 March. Because, of course, people didn’t always just go to Primark (thank goodness) – the acquisition of coveted things used to be far more of an art form, with many luxury items being crafted especially for the buyer. Watch out for ‘never seen before’ items from the Fitzwilliam’s collection, such as a bright yellow pair of embroidered heels and a pocket watch shaped like a skull.

24 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_024 (RUTHIE) ljckg.indd 24

Chill out with local artist Kuba's Time By The River album

n e 'F irst Boo k uIry: Bri n gin g thth nt 21st ce Fa shion to heea d's im a g e s d a ro M a isie B t th e F it zwillia m a

There’s also not one but two other companion shows to Treasured Possessions – Close-up and Personal, featuring 18th century gold boxes from the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection (on loan from the V&A), plus A Young Man’s Progress from photographer Maisie Broadhead, a modern-day response to what’s apparently known as ‘The First Book In Fashion’. It’s a kind of ‘clothes log’ from 16th century German accountant Matthäus Schwarz, the first-person ever to bother writing down what clothes he wore. And not just to a particularly fancy party, but throughout his entire life. Meanwhile, those looking for the perfect excuse for a day trip to Suffolk should visit Machines To Crystallize Time from Cambridge-based CJ Mahony and Georgie Grace at Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds, before the 14th. A gallery inside a Grade I listed 18th century building, Smiths Row is an elegant setting for this new commission

Take a trip to Bury St Edmunds to see Machines to Crystallize Time from two of Cambridge’s most engaging voices in our contemporary arts scene. Expect to be inspired by light interventions, large scale structures, video and sound. You can also see a solo show from Georgie open on 7 March at Eastside Projects in Birmingham. Finally, for those of you in need of some spring chill time, look no further than one of Romsey town’s leading electronica artists, Kuba. With an underground following from all corners of the globe, he’s a regular on the international festival scene (and also Mill Road’s Black Cat Café), collaborating with the likes of Youth (producer on Pink Floyd’s new album) and Dreadzone’s Brother Culture. For soulful, ambient wizardry, purchase the top-selling Time By The River here: http://kuba1. bandcamp.com/album/time-by-the-river. Watch out for Voice Of Spring – perfect for all those lazy springtime Sundays!

19/02/2015 11:43

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 25

20/02/2015 14:52

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 26

20/02/2015 14:52

INTERVIEW

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

Oz’s golden boy Jason Donovan tells Jenny Shelton about his latest role ustralia’s influence on British culture extends much further than TV soaps and lager. In 2010, the story of the failed actor from Adelaide who helped the King of England find his voice captured our imaginations in The King’s Speech, the Oscar-decorated movie starring Geoffrey Rush as maverick speech therapist Lionel Logue. The film was based on a play, which has been revived for a national tour calling at Cambridge Arts Theatre this month and starring another of Australia’s most iconic exports: Jason Donovan. “It has a wonderful heart, and at the centre is a relationship between two men who are complete opposites,” says Donovan. “The underlying theme is fear: something we all face whether you’re the King of England or from the back streets of suburbia. We all have hurdles we have to learn to overcome, and that’s the journey of self-discovery that the king goes on.” Is the play very different from the film? “It’s written a bit like a movie,” says Donovan. “But the play is more political: I don’t think the film went too much into the abdication and the effect that had.” Logue had worked with victims of shell shock before being approached by George VI to help him conquer his stammer. Says Donovan: “He’s a great character and I’ve found something in there that I’ve never found in a role before.” Donovan, who shot to fame as Neighbours’ wholesome heart-throb Scott Robinson in the 80s, is no stranger to the stage. Following a definitive performance in the title role of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, he returned to the West End with The Rocky Horror Show and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. “I love the energy of theatre,” he says. “Theatre is alive. And it’s a lifestyle; you’ve got to look after

Donovan as Logue with Raymond Coulthard as King George VI

yourself. I juice every day and try not to go out and go too hard…” He laughs, but Donovan knows only too well the dangers of overdoing the showbiz lifestyle. The actor has spoken candidly about his drug addiction, caused by wanting to shake off his ‘golden boy’ image. Meeting the right woman turned him around. Donovan married stage manager Angela Malloch in 1998, but in 1989 his on-screen marriage to co-star Kylie Minogue was all the world could talk about. The soap celebrates 30 years this month – but don’t get too excited about any surprise Scott-Charlene reunions. “It was 30 years ago,” says Donovan, somewhat wearily. “I always wanted to

CE03_027 (JASON INTERVIEW)dp.indd 27

Especially for You: with on- and off-screen sweetheart Kylie

become an actor and I fell on my feet with Neighbours. I’m very proud to have been part of it but I don’t spend all my time thinking about it. “I think [the reunion] is more of a press thing than something developed by any of the actors so no, it’s not something I’ll be doing.” Lately Donovan has proved something of a reality TV favourite. In 2006 he did a stint in the jungle for I’m A Celebrity and in 2011 finished third on Strictly Come Dancing. “I got a lot out of Strictly,” he says. “It was a bigger challenge: I’m A Celebrity was a well-paid suntan.” What are his plans after the tour? “I’ve got a couple of dates for some 80s shows but nothing really as yet. Let’s hope this goes other places – we’ll see. It really is a great piece of theatre,” he continues. “There are certain roles in life that are made for you, and maybe this is one of those. I’d certainly say I’ve found a home in this play. And no-one can criticise my accent.” The King’s Speech, Cambridge Arts Theatre, 9-14 March, 7.45pm. Tickets from £15. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 27

19/02/2015 11:44

SCIENCE FESTIVAL

WORDS NICOLA FOLEY

9-22

MARCH Catch some science stand-up, learn the secrets of code-breaking or discover a real-life invisibility cloak during two weeks of fascinating scientific activities ack in town for its 21st instalment and gearing up to ask the big questions about life and the universe, the Cambridge Science Festival returns this month, bringing with it an eclectic line up of science-based activities, talks and workshops. This year’s festival, which takes place from 9-22 March, will be the biggest yet, offering a total of 275 events covering everything from the environment, neuroscience, health and well-being through to space, religion, art and much more. “Every year, the Science Festival grows in both size and popularity and this year is no exception,” says Dr Lucinda Spokes, the Science Festival coordinator. “We’re

28 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_026-027 (SCIENCE FESTIVAL)dpkg.indd 28

delighted to host yet another Festival that promises to be a spectacular presentation of scientific ideas and discoveries. As ever, the calibre of speakers and the quality of the events showcasing the latest in scientific research to the public is outstanding. ” Among the impressive line-up of speakers this year are comedian Robin Ince; seven of the new Fellows of the Royal Society; author, journalist and TV presenter Simon Singh, and the Astronomer Royal, Professor Sir Martin Rees. In addition to the talks, debates and activities that will be on offer this year, there’s also a heady mix of science comedy, theatre and art, promising something for everyone.

WEEK ONE The Science Festival kicks off with a bang on Monday 9 March, with the opening day yielding a varied line-up of talks and events, from the African Scientists Research Showcase at Hughes Hall to the final of FameLab, an international science competition. The Arts Picturehouse will also once again play host to Cambridge Shorts, showing a series of exciting short films produced by Cambridge University researchers and film-makers on topics including dementia, decision-making and ancient stories about the Buddha’s past lives. On 11 March, join a fascinating debate on engineering our climate – which will

19/02/2015 11:42

SCIENCE FESTIVAL

explore whether it’s possible to fix the damage we’re causing with CO2 emissions through ‘geoengineering’ – and the technical challenges involved therein. Also up for discussion in week one is the question of how work can make you healthier, how the universe is like a lightbulb, whether there’s a right diet for each individual and the mathematical theory of chaos.

SCIENCE ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY Moving into the first weekend of the festival, it’s all about Science on Saturday, the busiest day of the whole event, which features a dizzying array (100 to be precise) of hands-on activities and workshops for all ages. Head to the Corn Exchange from 11am-4pm and get stuck into the science of eating, discovering DNA and bottling your genes. Come 6pm, there’ll be an opportunity for the grown-ups to enjoy the activities (without worrying about pushing in front of kids) with a session just for adults until 8pm; grab a drink and have an explore. The Guildhall will also be a hive of activity on Saturday 14 March, offering activities including ‘The Eyes Have It’, a look at the amazing tricks your brain plays with your eyes, as well as an agility test designed for basketball players and an action-packed demonstration by Dr Peter Wothers on the chemistry of light. There’s plenty more to marvel at, too, including a peek into the secret world of code-breaking, custard fireballs, vacuum bazookas and big bangs. On Sunday, there’s another busy day of activities at the Guildhall and Corn Exchange, plus plenty more at the Cambridge Science Centre – including slime making!

WEEK TWO The festival continues apace for its second week, offering up treats including a special screening of Jurassic Park on Monday 16 March, complete with a talk by a dinosaur expert, plus talks on stem cell research and experimental studies into drug addiction.

For something completely different, head along to ‘Sex by Numbers: Statistics of our Intimate Lives’ on 18 March, when renowned statistician Professor David Spiegelhalter will explore findings from the latest survey of sexual behaviour in Britain. On the same day, join an interactive talk in celebration of the 2015 Year of Light, which will look at the great experiments that have shaped our understanding of the nature of light and colour, or explore the mind at the MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit on Chaucer Road. For a bit of light relief on the 18th, join Cambridge’s troupe of science boffs turned stand-up comics at The Portland Arms for a night of comedy based on their work, or take a journey through the digestive system

CE03_026-027 (SCIENCE FESTIVAL)dpkg.indd 29

at ‘Fartology’, an intriguing look into the science behind our own chemistry lab. For the second ‘Science on Saturday’, The Centre for Mathematical Sciences, The Institute of Astronomy and departments on the West Cambridge Site open their doors, offering an exciting day of talks and exhibits including laser lab tours and a real-life invisibility cloak. The festival finishes on Sunday 22 March with a day of talks by leading medical research scientists at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, plus hands-on activities and a look at the power of science in popular culture, led by actor Stephen McGann, the doctor on BBC’s Call the Midwife. www.sciencefestival.cam.ac.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 29

19/02/2015 11:42

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 30

20/02/2015 14:53

WOMEN WORDS JENNY SHELTON

8 march

On International Women's Day, Cambridge Junction hosts the Cambridge WOW Festival, celebrating the achievements of women the world over arch 8 is International Women’s Day, and Cambridge will be celebrating women and their achievements by hosting Women of the World (WOW) Festival: a day of inspiring debates, workshops, poetry and more on topics from domestic violence to women in sport. There’s even a Beyonce dance workshop. WOW Festival originated at London’s Southbank Centre in 2011 and comes to the Junction in association with the University of Cambridge. Sigrid Fisher is Cambridge University’s head of equality and diversity and is responsible for putting the world-leading institution’s equal opportunities ethos into practice. She says: “The WOW model celebrates the achievements of women and addresses

the challenges facing women and girls. Improving situations for women can only be beneficial; it’s not in anyone’s interest to prevent women from reaching their potential: who knows what that person could contribute to the world?” Cambridge has become the first place in England to host a WOW festival outside of London. Sigrid continues: “Founder Jude Kelly came to speak at the university and we found out that she was interested in taking WOW outside of London. We told her we’d love to have it. If Cambridge is a leading institution, it needs to be shouting a very loud message that

The WOW Festival celebrates the achievements of women and addresses the challenges facing women and girls

CE03_029-031 (WOW FESTIVAL) kgdp.indd 31

under-representation of women or discrimination against women is not OK and needs to be changed.” The festival, which is open to everyone, will welcome speakers from all walks of life and industries. “We’ve got Natasha Walter doing a talk, ‘From Twitter to Westminster’, looking at the rise of social media activism,” says Sigrid. “Sharing the platform with her is Lucy-Anne Holmes from No More Page Three. The focus is on women in social media who bring about change. “Professor Pauline Rose, who is an expert on international education, will

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 31

19/02/2015 12:03

WOMEN

also be speaking. She’ll have Zoah Hedges-Stock on the panel, who was part of the traveller community and got a first from Cambridge. “We’ve also got something on women who’ve been hidden by history – for example, lesbian suffragettes, women in the forces and black feminist activists.” Men and feminism will also be a focus, as will women in business and, more specifically, women in science. Sigrid explains: “I don’t think enough people are aware how many women are behind important discoveries and how much they’re doing out there in the world.” One such woman is space scientist Monica Grady, who will be appearing at the festival. You may remember her as the lady who got very excited about the Rosetta comet landing in November las year, and rightly so: she built one of the instruments that was integral to the mission. “We also want to look at issues surrounding being a woman or girl, from a biological point of view, across the ages. Like changes in attitudes to body hair and how, not that long ago, it was considered shameful to have a period. There’ll be a chance

WOW founder Jude Kelly

for people to talk about their own inter-generational experiences.” And the Beyonce dance workshop? “It burns 400 calories per hour, apparently,” confirms Sigrid. “The aim, by 2018, is to have WOW Festivals all across the world. It should be a positive experience for women and girls of all ages, and men too, and a comfortable place to explore gender equality issues. “We hope that audiences will hear things they hadn’t thought of before and go away feeling inspired and more connected to these issues,” says Sigrid. “The festival is designed to allow a multiplicity of perspectives. It doesn’t blame anybody and we don’t take a position on a topic, we introduce a subject, then try to have a broad discussion. At the London WOW, they had Lucy-Anne Holmes from No More Page Three on the same platform as Katie Price, which I think is wonderful. As Jude Kelly, who started WOW, said: ‘If you truly believe in the diversity of women, we must let the diversity speak.’” Asked how Sigrid views the progress that is being made in terms of gender

32 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_029-031 (WOW FESTIVAL) kgdp.indd 32

19/02/2015 12:03

WOMEN

what's on at

12 noon: Is Feminism in Fashion?

With major magazines and influential celebrities on board, it seems as though feminism is back in fashion. Find out how and why attitudes to feminism have evolved with activist and designer Katharine Hamnett.

3pm: Women's Bodies, Private Places

What a piece of work is a woman! Share your experiences and listen to a panel of exterts as they discuss everything from boobs to body hair, and changing attitudes towards women's bodies. equality, she replies: “Issues of equality are always on the move and progress is definitely being made. Women speaking loudly about these things helps. “You don’t have to look very far back to see that there has been massive improvement. It wasn’t too long ago that women weren’t entitled to own property or have an income, and there are women around for whom that has happened in their lifetime. And it’s only recently that gay couples have been able to get married. Some of these changes have been quite immediate and can happen as a result of public opinion. “We have to be mindful also of the fact that this is International Women’s Day and that whilst we might be able to point to ways in which we’ve progressed here, there are still some serious problems for women worldwide and we need to make sure our commitment isn’t just to ourselves but to the world that we live in.”

4pm: Making Waves

In recent years there has been a marked increase in active feminism and debate about women’s issues, from No More Page 3 to campaigns against the detention of refugee women. Natasha Walter invites a panel of speakers to discuss these issues and how we can make a positive change in the world. Tickets £5.

6pm: Dance Like Beyonce

Learn how to move like the pop goddess herself with Seen on Screen. No sportswear needed: just turn up for a fun, fierce dance session to Run the World (Girls). Smoke machine included. All welcome.

8pm: The Fair Intellectual Club

A new play by comedian Lucy Porter, The Fair Intellectual Club is a story of three young women in Edinburgh who formed a society in 1717. Together they studied literature, science and philosophy with the aim of discovering “what we might attain unto if we were as industrious to cultivate our minds as we are to adorn our bodies.” The Fair Intellectuals took an oath to preserve the absolute secrecy of their organisation but were betrayed by an enemy within, who exposed her sisters to ruin. Porter based her play on the original manuscripts of the Club and achieved sell-out success at its first performance in Edinburgh, 2014. Tickets £7-£9.

WOW Festival, 8 March, Cambridge Junction. For individual events, go online. www.wowcambridge.cam.ac.uk

CE03_029-031 (WOW FESTIVAL) kgdp.indd 33

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 33

19/02/2015 12:03

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 50

20/02/2015 14:55

FOOD DRINK A N D

GET THE INSIDE TRACK ON CAMBRIDGE'S FOODIE SCENE WITH EDITION'S MONTHLY SUPPLEMENT

Exclusive Recipes ASK THE FOODIE

Restaurant Review

CE03_035 (FOOD OPENER)dp.indd 37

Cambridge Edition | July 2014 | 37

19/02/2015 11:49

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 36

20/02/2015 14:54

FOOD

WORDS ALEX RUSHMER

A MOMENT ON THE LIPS IS CAULIFLOWER THE NEW KALE? IS RAMEN STILL HOT? DOES ANYONE ACTUALLY CARE? ALEX RUSHMER LAMENTS THE RISE OF THE FOOD GIMMICK read recently that 2015 was to be the year of the cauliflower. And that kale has had its moment. As a firm advocate of the culinary potential of the cauliflower (see January’s Cambridge Edition), I was thrilled by this endorsement. And I made the immediate decision to remove kale and all its derivatives from my menu, lest I be viewed as a chef who is woefully out of touch with the trends and fashions that I read about in columns much like this one. Except I didn’t. Of course I didn’t. Kale is delicious. It was delicious before LA health nuts started juicing it into smoothies and it was delicious before a few journalists needed a spurious claim to fill in copy for another tedious ‘What’s hot and what’s not in the food world’ column. And it will

continue to be delicious long after it is deemed unfashionable. Kale remains on my menu. As does cauliflower which, I hasten to add, has been a solid fixture in my cuisine for considerably longer than the last eight minutes. The speed at which food trends now move is terrific. No sooner has the jerk chicken empanada been deemed the musteat item of the year than it is relegated to a plate of shame to be ridiculed and mocked – as passé as bootcut jeans. It is almost impossible to get to the bottom of that enormous bowl of barbecue brisket kimchi ramen without being told that it is no longer on the menu because it has been replaced by poutine stuffed dumplings. Or the entire restaurant has stopped serving savoury food to cater for the surge in demand for spotted dick and custard. Of course, there have always been changes in fashions and tastes – any flick through a cookbook collection that

CE03_035 (FOOD COLUMN) kg ljc.indd 37

covers the last four decades is enough to reconfirm that conclusion – but the speed at which these trends ebb and flow is fast gathering pace. This increased fetish for constant one-upmanship is tiresome and reminds me of the ‘cool kid’ at school who never liked the band today that they did yesterday because they had become popular. Overnight. To relegate food to the vagaries and whims of a select few trendsetters and overly vocal tweeters both negates the importance of food, which has a far greater role than that of a fashion accessory, and the hard work of those who slog behind the scenes to create sustainable long-term hospitality businesses relying on far more than the herd mentality of a minority of fickle diners for whom their Instagram account is more important to them than their bellies. What is delicious today doesn’t cease to be tasty tomorrow just because something more exotic has usurped it in the trendy stakes. So, for the sanity of everyone involved, can we all just slow down please?

Cambridge Edition |March 2015 | 37

19/02/2015 11:45

FOOD

FOOD NEWS A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF GASTRONOMIC GOINGS-ON IN CAMBRIDGE AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

GET SET FOR

EAT

2015!

Now entering its third year, Eat Cambridge, our city’s hugely popular food festival, is set to return on 9-24 May. A celebration of Cambridge’s blossoming indie foodie scene, the event features a packed schedule of dining events, tours, talks, workshops, pop-ups and more, at venues across the city. The main food and drink fair will also return on Saturday 23 May, offering the chance to buy and try the wares of some of the region’s finest food and drink suppliers. The festival’s fringe line-up is looking more exciting than ever, with events already confirmed including supper clubs at Gog Magog Hills Farm Shop on 14 and 15 May, plus a 'Sunday Best' event that will feature a huge-scale roast dinner at their glorious rural site. There will also be a top-secret cocktail bar and the annual Eat Cambridge debate, plus the night-time street-food market will make a welcome return. Edition’s food writer Alex will be getting involved once again, offering a Cambridgeshire-inspired tasting menu at his acclaimed restaurant, the Hole in the Wall in Little Wilbraham. Madingley’s Three Horseshoes, meanwhile, will offer a tasting tour of the most famous restaurants in the world – think Noma comes to Cambridge, for one night only. There’ll be some new faces joining the line-up too, including the likes of the much-loved Shelford Deli and the Geographer at Histon, plus plenty more to be announced. Stay tuned to Cambridge Edition for more news. www.eat-cambridge.co.uk

38 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 38

9-24 MAY

19/02/2015 11:55

FOOD

CHATIME BUBBLE TEA

BUTCH ANNIE’S There was more great news for the Cambridge dining scene last month when burger joint Butch Annie’s opened its doors on Market Street on 14 February. This new eaterie, which is located in the building formerly home to Café Carringtons, celebrated the opening on Valentine’s Day by giving away 250 of its mouth-watering gourmet burgers free of charge, wooing hordes of local foodies in the process. On the small but perfectly formed menu you’ll find a selection of hand-crafted burgers created with quality ingredients and served in a freshly baked brioche bun. For your patty, you can choose between cured 28-day-aged Hereford beef and, uniquely, pork burgers made from Iberian black pigs – a treasure of Spanish cuisine. There are also vegetable patties on offer, and toppings such as oven-roasted tomato and pickled gherkin (the Ooh La La), and spiced yoghurt, chilli and black bean topping (the Wild Eyed Coyote). Sides-wise, you can choose between handmade skin-on chips, onion popcorn and classic slaw, all washed down with craft beers, farm-pressed ciders, natural wines and bourbon. For dessert, meanwhile, you can expect a range of artisan ice creams and sorbets, available in tubs or cones, and with flavours including apple crumble, salted caramel and double choc chip. The owners have completely revamped the building, too, creating a vibrant space with artworks on the walls and great funk and American soul on the stereo. What’s not to love? Burgers start at £6.90. www.butchannies.com

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 39

If you’re one of the bubble tea craze’s ever-growing army of fans, you’ll be pleased to hear about Chatime, which has recently opened its doors in the city. Located on Regent Street, this new store will offer customers a whopping 63 varieties of tea, with a choice of eight different toppings. The bubble tea phenomenon emerged in the 1980s, when Taiwanese street food traders would come up with ever-more colourful and elaborate tea-based concoctions in order to attract customers. Served ice cold or piping hot, this rejuvenating drink consists of fruit teas and milk teas served with chewy tapioca balls. At Chatime you can also pick up slushy-style drinks made with ice and syrup for a refreshing treat, as well as smoothies, mousses and coffees. Milk teas include Oolong, jasmine, banana, hazelnut and chocolate, or mix it up with tempting-sounding combos like Lychee Black Tea with Coconut Jelly and Peach Green Tea with Pearl – or the intriguing Roasted Milk Tea with Grass Jelly. The menus change regularly so there’s always something new to discover, and you can sample different combinations before you buy to find your favourite. “We are all very excited about welcoming in the people of Cambridge to try our delicious selection of bubble teas,” says Peter Wong, founder of Chatime UK. “We’re thrilled to have secured a site in the heart of this beautiful, historic town and we look forward to further UK expansion later this year.” www.chatimeuk.com

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 39

19/02/2015 11:55

FOOD

ESPRESSO LIBRARY Good coffee, chic interiors and a safe place to store your bike: what more could any Cambridge coffee connoisseur desire? After a long wait and much excited chatter on the local foodie scene, Espresso Library on East Road finally opened its sleek and shiny doors in February with a glamorous launch party. Located at the base of the new Parkside Place development, by Cambridge Fire Station, Espresso Library puts its emphasis primarily on providing top-quality coffee. Their coffee machine is a serious bit of kit and they’ve got trained baristas manning the beans. Food-wise, think home-made cakes and fresh pastries, tasty soups, salads, lunchtime ciabattas and slow-roasted pork brioche buns. Their most unique feature, however, is their rather stylish set of bike racks, allowing customers to bring their cycles into the spacious venue and mount them artfully on the wall while refuelling with a well-earned coffee and cake. The café is run by Malgo and partner John, himself a keen cyclist. He met Malgo when she worked at Cambridge coffee shop Hot Numbers. “He was always popping in or cycling past, and became something of a regular. I thought he either lives really close by, or he fancies me!” grins Malgo. “I asked him out in the end and we went jogging for our first date: a mistake, since he was training for an Iron Man!” www.facebook.com/espressolibrary

40 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 40

THE SKI SHACK AT GOGS

After their festival-style sundowner events and a Southern soul food spectacular, we’re delighted to announce that Gog Magog Hills Farm Shop will be utilising their super cool indoor-outdoor space for another event this month, and we reckon it’s the best concept yet! Head down on 14 or 21 March and you’ll be transported to an alpine hideaway as Gogs presents the Ski Shack, a night of indulgent après ski-style fun and food. With prizes on offer for the best outfit, it’s time to dig out your best ski gear – we’re talking goggles, salopettes, fur and neon (extra points for retro attire of the 1970s and 1980s variety). The menu will feature lots of indulgent ski-break favourites like Tartiflette (a dreamy concoction of Reblochon cheese, bacon and potatoes which hails from the Rhône-Alpes region) washed down with ski-themed cocktails, vodka and schnapps shots. Once you’ve had your fill of après ski cuisine, the DJ will be cranking up the volume on a pure gold Europop playlist to get all the ski bunnies boogying – and there’s even going to be a ski-jump luge for extra giggles! Tickets will be available from the Gogs website. www.gogmagoghills.com

19/02/2015 11:55

FOOD

MILL ROAD FEAST We’re pleased to report that the muchloved Mill Road Feast is back in town for another foodie jamboree on the first of the month. Inspired by the street feasts of London, this popular event presents a showcase of the great independent shops and international eateries of the vibrant Mill Road area and beyond. This month’s event takes place at Donkey Common (near Parkside Pool) and will feature a host of fantastic food traders and producers selling everything from gourmet brownies, hot churros and artisan chocolates to tasty homemade curries. There’ll be local cheeses, charcuterie, bread and

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 41

patisserie available to try and buy, plus street food from the likes of the Duke of Pork, Steak and Honour, Fired Up Pizza and Inder’s Kitchen. You’ll also be able to try Caribbean cuisine from The Lick Cambridge, coffees and cakes from Caffe Mobile and sweet treats from the Hungarian Cake Factory. Be sure to check out Azahar Spanish Foods too, who stock a range of delicacies including Iberico ham, artisan Manchego and other regional cheeses, and a selection of extra virgin olive oils. The event runs from 10am-3pm on 1 March. See Mill Road Feast on Facebook for more info.

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 41

19/02/2015 11:56

FOOD

SMOKEWORKS DOUGHNUTS One of the most talked about openings of the past year on the Cambridge dining circuit, Smokeworks continue to make our mouths water with their tasty menu additions. The latest to tickle our fancy is the Smokeworks Doughnut – but true to form, Smokeworks have added their own spin on this classic confection, with head chef Vladimir Hromek getting creative with innovative flavour combinations. The Signature doughnut, for example, combines smoky, sweet and spicy, filled with pulled pork and bacon jam, and coated in paprika sugar, while the Strawberry Cheesecake will be a total winner with kids. Our favourite of all, however, has to be the Mojito Filth: a lip-smackingly good, light and fluffy doughnut oozing tangy lime, rum and mint cream. Got an idea for a dreamy doughnut? Tweet @SmokeWorksBBQ with your suggestions and you might just see your flavour gracing the menu in weeks to come! Smokeworks doughnuts are priced at £1.50 each or three for £4, and are available to eat in or take away at the weekends. www.smokeworks.co.uk

NEW LOOK FOR THE SNUG Edition popped over to East Road last month for the relaunch of the Grafton Snug with its tasteful new look. The cocktail hotspot, famous for its generous happy hour (still 3-9pm every day!), now boasts enviable vintage-inspired interiors and an altogether cosier, more sophisticated feel. Delicious mini burgers and tapas bites were served, and VIPs treated to cocktail lessons at the quirky ‘Mojito bike’. Owner Giles Fry said: “With our makeover, we wanted to update the décor, making it even more warm and welcoming but bang on-trend.” Manager Kayleigh added: “We’ve extended our burger menu and there are lots more vegetarian options too – being one myself, that was really important. We also serve what we think is the best all-day breakfast in Cambridge!” The neighbourhood bar and restaurant launched in 2009, four years after the first Snug, on Lensfield Road, opened. The original Snug is due for its own makeover in September. www.thesnugbar.co.uk

42 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 42

19/02/2015 11:56

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 43

20/02/2015 14:54

FOOD

ASK THE FOODIE

HEIDI WHITE AKA THE MOVING FOODIE ANSWERS ' ' YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS ON THE CAMBRIDGE FOOD SCENE

NEW MENU FOR THE VAULTS As we reported last month, The Vaults on Trinity Street has recently been given a new lease of life, having come under new ownership at the end of last year. They’ve now unveiled their revamped menu, and we’re very excited indeed! The dining concept is focused on gourmet hot dogs, priced at £6 a pop, with a range of sides that includes skin-on rosemary fries, beer-battered giant onion rings and chunky wedges with salsa. Choose between the Satan’s Whisperer – a fiery combo of extra-large frankfurter served with garlic mayo, mustard and chopped jalapenos on ciabatta – or the Vaults Classic: smoked sausage slathered in mustard, ketchup and crispy onions, served on a plump brioche roll. Pay a visit during happy hour (5pm-9pm), and you can pick up a dog, side dish and drink for the bargainous price of £10. www.thevaults.biz

Q:HOW DOES ONE SURVIVE THE “HUNGRY GAP” IN CAMBRIDGE? For the keen gardeners and seasonal eaters amongst us, March spells an empty veg patch and dwindling winter food stores: the hungry gap between the last hardy brassicas of the winter and the first new-season broad beans of spring. It’s certainly a challenge to continue eating with the seasons this month, but a tasty one. Bridge the gap by seeking out the best local produce you can find, and maybe even forage for your own seasonal treats too. At farm shops and market stalls look out for new crops of purple sprouting broccoli – surprisingly versatile and easy to transform into a feast, stalks and all – and the last of the kale, leeks and parsnips. And, if you can still face them after Christmas, sprouts. Radishes start to appear in March, bringing a welcome pop of colour and flavour after a long winter of comfort food. The Sunday market in Cambridge city centre is a good starting point for fresh produce, as is the local organic selection at Burwash Larder in Barton. Radmore Farm Shop on Chesterton Road is another favourite. The supermarkets can be a little trickier to rely on for

seasonal British goods, so check the labels first. If you’re willing to work with what you’re given, try a seasonal veg box delivered to your door every week by The Cambridge Organic Food Company (www.cofco.co.uk). Bulk up your bounty with some seasonal treats requiring a little extra effort: March is the time to start foraging for wild garlic and nettles, often the first greens to emerge in spring. Use young garlic leaves in salads and to add flavour to soups and stews. Make the most of nettles' purifying qualities (known also to help reduce blood pressure) and gather up the plentiful young plants to pack into healthy soups. For something special on the side, don’t forget this season’s fresh fish: catch the last of the winter mussels, new stocks of plump scallops, and wild salmon. Ask your fishmonger what’s good, or track down a weekly fish van and stock up (Newnham, Saturday mornings; Chesterton Road, Wednesday 8am-3pm). If you’d rather not do the time at the markets, pay a visit to one of Cambridge’s restaurants paying close attention to the seasons. The finest and freshest ingredients take pride of place on the menus at Alimentum, The Hole in the Wall and Pint Shop, so you can guarantee a seasonal feast whatever the time of year.

For more top tips on eating and drinking in Cambridge, visit Heidi’s blog www.movingfoodie.com Got a question for the Moving Foodie? Tweet us at @cambsedition or @TheMovingFoodie and hashtag #askthefoodie

44 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 44

19/02/2015 11:56

FOOD

CAMBRIDGE CHEF SERVES UP BEST OF BRITISH Alimentum’s Mark Poynton has been appointed resident chef at this year’s prestigious Taste of Britain Curry Festival, which takes place on 6-9 March in Chennai, India. The event, organised by Curry Life magazine, showcases both the finest homegrown Indian cuisine and British takes on traditional Indian dishes, in a glittering ten-day celebration of the curry industry at the Regency Hyatt Hotel. It’s the first time Mark has visited India, and he’s planning to cook up a gourmet feast of the country's cuisine, demonstrating the unique style of cutting-edge gastronomy that earned him a Michelin star for Alimentum, at which he’s the chef patron. “I’m really looking forward to showcasing high-quality British food in India using a menu of fresh, original dishes full of vibrant flavours” he says. “I am a very big fan of curry and what really excites me even more is that I will be with a team of some of the best curry chefs from the UK. I'm really looking forward to working alongside them and flying the flag for British cuisine in India. Hopefully we will get a chance to try some local dishes too.” Mark’s ‘Best of British’ menu features dishes including roast breast of duck served with charred and puréed broccoli and crispy black rice, and cod rolled in onion ash with onion salad and red lentils. He’ll be joined at the hobs by a number of the UK’s leading curry chefs, who will be serving up beloved high street favourites like chicken tikka masala, balti, jalfrezi and madras – formerly the name of the city of Chennai – which remains the top choice at Indian restaurants around the country. www.restaurantalimentum.co.uk

PROHIBITION COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS Experience the covert thrill of a Prohibition era drinking den this month at the glamorous Hotel du Vin on Trumpington Street, when you can make and try a range of delicious concoctions and perfectly matched canapés at a masterclass on 25 March. Priced at £35 per person, the drinks menu includes an Earl Grey infused Old Fashioned, along with a traditional Manhattan with a beetroot twist. You'll also get to try your hand at a Sazerac with rye whisky and cognac, all under the watchful eye of the hotel's skilled mixologist, whilst the chef will be on hand to offer up light bites to complement your boozy creations. www.hotelduvin.com

CE03_038-045 2(FOOD NEWS) kgdp.indd 45

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 45

19/02/2015 11:56

RECIPES

WORDS JO KRUCZYNSKA

Recipes This month, local baker extraordinaire Jo Kruczynska, owner of independent cafe Afternoon Tease, shares two of her favourite recipes. The ﬁrst, for her mum's Seville orange marmalade (the same delicious stuff they serve at Afternoon Tease!), and the second, for brioche bread and butter pudding, with a marmalade twist...

46 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_046-048 3(RECIPES)dpkg.indd 46

19/02/2015 14:04

RECIPES

Seville orange

marmalade (makes approx 3-4 litres)

Ingredients

• 900g Seville oranges • 1 lemon • 1.8kg granulated sugar • 2.3 litres water

“The prep work for making marmalade is what takes the most time, but once it's done and you are confronted with jars upon jars of beautiful jewel-like marmalade (that you made with your own fair hands), these stages will all be a distant memory.”

Step by step Guide 1. First of all, you need to wash your fruit well. Cut each orange in half and juice it into a bowl. Keep any pips/pith to one side: these play an important part later in the process. 2. Chop each empty orange half into six segments and remove the pith by scraping it out gently with a sharp knife. Put all of the pith and pips into a piece of muslin and tie it up into a little bag. Use more than one if you need to. 3. Thinly slice the peel. Be warned: this will feel like it's going to take forever!

Once again, just keep thinking about your delicious marmalade on toast. 4. Juice the lemon and put its pith and pips into another muslin bag. 5. Place all of the sliced peel, juice from earlier and the muslin bag(s) containing the pips and pith into a large saucepan (preferably a preserving pan), then add the water. Leave this to soak overnight. 6. The next day, put your pan onto the heat and simmer for two hours (until the peel is soft). At this stage, it's a good idea to don some rubber gloves, because you need to squeeze out all of the muslin bags. You will see lots of gooeyness coming from the bags as you squeeze. This is the natural pectin released from the pith and pips, and

Afternoon Tease café is located at 13 King Street, Cambridge. afternoontease.co.uk

CE03_046-048 3(RECIPES)dpkg.indd 47

it's what will make your marmalade set, so squeeze for your life - don't waste a drop! 7. Now add the sugar and stir the mixture until it has dissolved. 8. At this point, you should prepare your jars. They need to be sterilised. You do this by washing them in warm soapy water, rinsing them well and then popping them into the oven (at 100°C). By the time your marmalade is ready, the jars will be dry and sterilised. 9. Boil your marmalade rapidly until setting point is reached. There are two ways for you to know if you have reached setting point: if you're using a jam thermometer, it will reach 'Jam' point at 105°C, or you can put a blob of marmalade onto a chilled plate (put it in the fridge when you add the sugar to your pan). As it cools, the blob should wrinkle if poked with your finger. The thermometer method is probably more reliable but less fun! 10. Once you are happy that setting point has been reached, turn off the heat and leave the marmalade to cool for 20 minutes (don't skip this stage, or all of your peel will float to the top of your jars). 11. Ladle the marmalade into your jars, fresh from the oven – but be careful: everything is going to be pretty hot! Seal the jars immediately and leave to cool. 12. Get stuck in!

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 47

19/02/2015 14:04

RECIPES

Marmalade brioche bread & butter puddings (makes 12) Ingredients • 12 slices of brioche • Butter and marmalade for sandwiching • 95g caster sugar (plus extra for sprinkling on top) • 2 eggs • 225ml double cream • 225ml milk

Step by step Guide 1. Preheat oven to 170°C and grease a 12-hole muffin tin with melted butter. 2. Warm the milk and cream with the sugar in a pan until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and beat in the egg. 3. Make six butter and marmalade sandwiches. Cut diagonally into four. 4. Dip them into the eggy mixture and squash two mini sandwiches into each muffin tin hole. 5. Pour any remaining liquid into the holes. 6. Sprinkle over some caster sugar. 7. Stand the muffin tray on a baking tray, just in case, and put in the oven for 35 minutes, or until brown and crispy on top.

48 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_046-048 3(RECIPES)dpkg.indd 48

19/02/2015 14:04

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 49

20/02/2015 14:54

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 34

20/02/2015 14:53

EATING OUT

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

RESTAURANT REVIEW

The P lou lougggh,h, Great Chesterford With pubs closing at a dizzying rate, Jenny Shelton is pleased to find that community spirit is alive and kicking at this traditional village local

nce the hub of the community, the great British pub is becoming something of an endangered species. In 2014 CAMRA reported that British pubs were closing at a dizzying rate of 29 per week. According to the Lost Pubs Project (that such a website exists is troubling in itself), 837 pubs have closed in Cambridgeshire and 846 in Essex. It’s a sorry state of affairs but, happily, it’s not the story everywhere. The Plough in Great Chesterford, owned by David and Juliana Shipley, is everything that’s right about village pubs. Situated on the Cambridge/Essex border, in a neighbourhood lined with wonky thatched cottages, the pub has charm and character to match. Originally built as a row of cottages in the mid 18th century, there has been a pub on the site for the last 150 years. Its glowing fire and rustic beams were a welcome refuge on the chilly spring night of our visit, and we were quick to admire the cosy, tasteful décor. The Plough is Cask Marque accredited, to my dining partner’s great pleasure: he ordered a guest ale while

I enjoyed an excellent Rioja. The menu demonstrated great variety, including modern pub favourites like Three Prior’s Hall sausages and mash and a range of ‘from the grill’ options. Diners can also choose from a small selection of Bulgarian dishes, inspired by Juliana’s home country. I decided on the 28-day aged steak with sweet potato chips, mixed vegetables and a peppercorn sauce, and wasn’t disappointed. The steak (medium) was just right: tender and juicy with a gentle chargrilled flavour. I loved the sweet potato chips – surely healthier than regular fries – and rather than a dish of plain boiled veg, ordered separately as a side, my included accompaniment was a colourful arrangement of lightly stir-fried cabbage, carrot and seasonal greens. All this, with a large flat mushroom and on-the-vine cherry tomatoes came to £16.95 (just an extra £2.50 for the sauce) – not bad at all. For the similarly meat-inclined yet indecisive diner, like my partner, there’s the mixed grill: a huge platter of beef, lamb and pork steak, lamb kidneys, egg, flat

The Plough in Great Chesterford is everything that's right about village pubs SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

CE03_049 (REVIEW)ljc.indd 51

mushroom and tomato with chips. Another generous portion, and another winner. Desserts at The Plough continue the traditional, home-cooked vibe, with choices of date and walnut sticky toffee pudding, cheesecakes and ‘real’ ice cream. As dessert is only dessert if there’s chocolate involved, I went for the chilled salted caramel and chocolate torte, served with vanilla ice cream. After so much meat, we decided one pud between us was wise, and were both pleased with the smooth texture and taste of the chocolate (and delicious crumbly biscuit base), given extra zing by the sharp salted caramel. A quip from a fellow diner, seeing me call the shots over pudding, got us talking and it became clear that this is a well-loved pub, with regulars coming from some distance. Our neighbour had been here for Christmas dinner, and owner David chatted with other guests making for a very cordial ambience. This, teemed with excellent food and service, is just what a village local should be. Other pubs, take note. The Plough, High Street, Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden CB10 1PL, 01799 531651 www.ploughgc.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 51

19/02/2015 12:06

LISTINGS

WHAT S ON A ROUND-UP OF EVENTS IN AND AROUND CAMBRIDGESHIRE FOR MARCH 2 March

GLASS ANIMALS Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £11 Description: The Oxford indie-electonica outfit will be paying Cambridge a visit after releasing one of the best debut albums of last year. junction.co.uk

TRUE WEST Time: 7.30pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £6-£10 Description: A new work which re-imagines Sam Shepard’s True West. junction.co.uk

6 March

JESTERLARF Time: 7.45pm doors Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £13 Description: Former 8 Out Of 10 Cats team captain Rob Rouse headlines The Junction’s monthly comedy night, now in its 12th successful year. Support from Fern Brady, Silky and Michael Legge. junction.co.uk

6 March

RETRO VIDEO GAME NIGHT Time: 7pm Location: Centre for Computing History Price: £8 Description: A night of retro video games to celebrate the museum founder’s birthday – and everyone’s invited! BYOB. computinghistory.org.uk

52 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_052-053 (LISTINGS)dpkg.indd 52

March TIFF STEVENSON Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £13 Description: The straight-talking stand-up and writer delivers a routine on staying optimistic in a world of gun crime, the Kardashians and Everyday Vodka. junction.co.uk

11 March

March FOOTLIGHTS & FRIENDS Time: 11pm Location: ADC Price: £6/£7 Description: Our own University comedy troupe invite The Leeds Tealights and the Bristol Revunions to present an eclectic show packed with music, stand-up, sketches and silliness. adctheatre.com

5 March

March WOW FESTIVAL Time: All day Location: Cambridge Junction Price: Free-£6 Description: Be inspired by the achievements of women and join in discussions about gender and equality at the Women of the World Festival. junction.co.uk

9-10

March NURSING LIVES Time: 7.30pm Location: Mumford Theatre Price: £8.50-£12.50 Description: An elderly lady revisits her memories of working as a nurse during the Second World War. Hers is a story of friendship, courage and hard work. But is her version the truth? anglia.ac.uk

19 March

EUROPE & BLACK STAR RIDERS Time: 7.30pm Location: Corn Exchange Price: £28.50 Description: Scandi-rockers Europe are back, bringing their UK tour to Cambridge with support from Black Star Riders. Both bands have new albums out this spring. Start the (final) countdown… cornex.co.uk

March OLIVER! Time: 7.30pm Location: Saffron Hall Price: £4/£8 Description: A production by Saffron Walden County High School of the sensational musical, based on Dickens’ classic tale of poverty and love in the backstreets of Victorian London. Runs until 20 March. saffronhall.com

12 March

18 March

STEVEN WILSON Time: 7.30pm Location: Corn Exchange Price: £25-£35 Description: The four-time Grammy botherer, multi-instrumentalist and producer will be touring in support of his fourth solo album, Hand. Cannot. Erase. It’s out this month. cornex.co.uk

RUSSELL WATSON Time: 7.30pm Location: Corn Exchange Price: £27.50-47.50 Description: What’s sure to be a sensational live concert with officially the world’s biggest-selling classical artist, who has worked with Pavarotti, Lionel Richie and Meatloaf. cornex.co.uk

MAR

PAUL CARRACK Time: 7.30pm Location: Corn Exchange Price: £31-£41 Description: Few musicians have contributed their talents to so many different bands, from singing with Squeeze and Roxy Music to touring with Elton John, songwriting for Ace and establishing a successful solo career. cornex.co.uk

19/02/2015 17:14

LISTINGS

IMAGES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Catch new-generation comedy talent at the ADC on 3 March; meet Lee Nelson on the 20th at Cambridge Junction; and go on a nostalgia trip with retro video gaming, 6 March at the Centre for Computing History.

24-26 March

20 March

MAR

THE STRANGLERS Time: 7.30pm Location: Corn Exchange Price: £25.50 Description: The New Wave pioneers celebrate 40 years in the business with a huge UK tour. Expect all the classics, such as Peaches, No More Heroes and Golden Brown, plus some lesser-performed tracks. cornex.co.uk

20 March

LEE NELSON Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £16 Description: A chance to see the lovable chav in his latest live UK tour, Suited and Booted. Nelson is the alter-ego of comedian Simon Brodkin, who is also a qualified doctor, don'tcha know? junction.co.uk

OUR HOUSE Time: 7.45pm Location: ADC Price: £9-£14 Description: A musical about love, loss, right and wrong, set in London’s Camden Town. It features music and lyrics by Madness, topped up with plenty of their roguish charm. Performed by the Perse Players. adctheatre.com

March RICHARD HERRING Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £16 Description: The perpetually daft ‘King of Edinburgh’ is back with a new show, Lord Of The Dance Settee, in which he’ll revisit some slapstick comedy he performed as a teenager. junction.co.uk

25 March

NAKED SCIENTISTS Time: 7pm Location: Science Centre Price: Free Description: See science stripped back as Cambridge boffins The Naked Scientists reveal the fascinating science behind everyday life and objects. The show will be recorded as part of their regular BBC radio programme. adctheatre.com

22 March

STIFF LITTLE FINGERS Time: 7pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £19.50 Description: The 70s punk rockers from Belfast, still with as big a fanbase as ever, released a new album, No Going Back, last year and are currently on tour performing songs old and new. junction.co.uk

MAR 28

March AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE Time: 7.30pm Location: Corn Exchange Price: £15.50-£27.50 Description: Britain’s biggest burlesque extravaganza arrives from London’s West End to thrill, dazzle and entertain. Dress in your best burlesque get-up and come join the cabaret! cornex.co.uk

23 March

23 MAR

CE03_052-053 (LISTINGS)dpkg.indd 53

LUCY ROSE Time: 7pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £14 Description: Fresh from playing Hyde Park and Glastonbury, the singer-songwriter – who has had an incredible couple of years – returns to Cambridge Junction as part of her first headline tour. For fans of Laura Marling and simple, stripped-back acoustic music. junction.co.uk

28 March

BETTE & JOAN Time: 7.30pm Location: Mumford Theatre Price: £8/£10 Description: An exploration of the fractious relationship between two of the biggest stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, as they star against each other in What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? anglia.ac.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 53

19/02/2015 17:15

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 54

20/02/2015 14:55

FAMILY

Animal arts & crafts DROP-IN Children’s Book ILLUSTRATIONS SHOW

Around 65 graduates are displaying their work this month at the Ruskin Gallery, Cambridge, as part of the MA Children’s Book Illustration Graduation Show. Many of the artists are already signed up to publishers around the world, and the exhibition includes winners of the MacMillan Prize for Children’s Picturebook Illustration and the Penguin Design Awards. It’s a chance to absorb work in a range of styles, on a diversity of subjects. The show is on from now until 14 March. www.anglia.ac.uk/ruskin

The Doodle

Join in a morning of cutting, sticking and general creativity at Wood Green’s Godmanchester centre. It’s a chance to get well and truly messy: try hand-printing chickens, making pom-pom sheep and fashioning dogs from cardboard tubes! It’s suitable for toddlers and upwards (all children must be supervised by an adult) and takes place on 31 March, 10am-midday. Places are £5 per child. The Godmanchester centre is Wood Green’s HQ and home to a variety of rescued animals in need of a home, from ponies and ferrets to cats and dogs. Warning: not for the weak-willed! www.woodgreen.org.uk

DANCE SHOW If your kids like drawing or dancing (or both) we’ve got just the show for you. The Doodle Dance Show, coming to Cambridge Junction this month, is an interactive show like nothing you’ve seen before. Instead of taking their seats in the dark and expecting something to happen, the audience will find themselves faced with an enormous blank piece of paper, then asked to get up and help fill it with doodles and drawings, to create a weird and wondrous paper world full of crazy characters. Can you dance a scribble, or draw a sneeze? There’s only one way to find out! The show has been created by award-winning performers Anna Williams and Tom Roden, and produced by Greenwich Dance. It’s on at 11.30am, 2.30pm and 4.30pm, 1 March, and tickets are £6-£10. www.junction.co.uk

Wildlife WATCH

Birds nesting, days lengthening and trees bursting into bud: spring is a great time to spot wildlife. On the first Saturday of every month, The Wildlife Trust (Beds, Cambs & Northants) meet at Milton Country Park to lead a morning Wildlife Watch. Created from old gravel pits, the park is a haven for wildlife, from ducks and other waterfowl to small animals. The session takes place from 10.30am-12noon and costs £1. www.wildlifewatch.org.uk

29 Mar Red RIDING HOOD

See the story of Little Red Riding Hood beautifully retold using puppets and live music. The Norwich Puppet Theatre will bring a fresh look to the story we all think we know so well: it’s about the young girl in the red coat who must escape from a hungry wolf, isn’t it? Maybe not. This adventure into the woods may unfold in ways you don’t expect… after all, there are two sides to every story. The puppets, handmade in wood, have been designed by Peter O’Rourke, one of the country's leading puppet makers. Their show is funny, dramatic and a little scary in parts, but guaranteed to be an imaginative theatrical experience from start to finish. It takes place at Cambridge Junction on 29 March, 11.30am and 2.30pm. Tickets £6/£10. www.junction.co.uk

CE03_083 (FAMILY)dpkg.indd 55

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 55

19/02/2015 12:16

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 56

20/02/2015 14:56

COMPETITION

Win!

WIN SHUTTERS FOR YOUR HOME WORTH £500! legant and practical, shutters can add the finishing touch of style to any room. This month, Edition has £500 worth of shutters to give away in association with Shuttercraft, the Cambridge suppliers of quality internal shutters. Shuttercraft offers six ranges of shutters in MDF, Real Wood and 100% Waterproof, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste, requirement and budget. Shutters look

fantastic all year round, keeping out the cold in winter and letting air circulate, while offering a shield against dazzling sunlight, in summer. Established by Ryan Jarvis, Shuttercraft has been supplying quality, made-tomeasure products to Cambridge and beyond for more than eight years. Shuttercraft’s experts can also advise on customising shutters be it through colour (selecting the right paint is key)

CE03_055 (COMPETITION)ljcdp.indd 57

or size. And because all their shutters are made to order, any awkward shapes and preferences are easily taken care of. See more from Shuttercraft on page 24 of Property & Home Edition, and to be in with a chance of winning this great prize, visit the members’ area at www.cambsedition.co.uk. 01223 853034 www.Shuttercraft-Cambridge.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 57

20/02/2015 14:10

MOTHER'S DAY

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

MARCH GET COOKING! Relive those childhood days spent in the kitchen together making crispie cakes with this grown-up cookery day at the lovely Cambridge Cookery School. At their chic, contemporary kitchen off Hills Road, an expert chef will teach the secrets of good Italian cooking. Learn how to make fresh pasta and bread, plus a range of dishes and desserts, then sit down to a delicious lunch to sample the fruits of your labour. Takes place 14 March, 10am-2pm. Tickets £125 per person. www.cambridgecookeryschool.com

WINE TASTING WITH MATTHEW JUKES Beat the Mother’s Day rush and get together on Wednesday 11 March when wine wizard Matthew Jukes will be hosting a tasting event at Cambridge Wine Merchants' Bridge Street premises. One of the world’s leading wine experts, especially in Australian wine, he will be showcasing 50 fabulous examples in this informal dropin session running from 6pm until 9pm. It’s part of his current 100 Best Australian Wines Roadshow and a great opportunity to discover the star wines of the New World. Tickets £15. www.cambridgewine.com

SPA DAY Treat your mum (and yourself!) to a day at The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel and enjoy some quality time together. The spa, which opened in 2013, is one of the plushest in the area, situated just outside Newmarket town centre. Their Mother’s Day Treat costs £105 for an ESPA personalised facial, massage or dry flotation experience; cream tea for two; use of the heat and hydrotherapy facilities, and a lavender plant gift to take home. Fluffy robes and slippers are provided, naturally. The offer is available 1-31 March. www.bedfordlodgehotelspa.co.uk

58 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_056-057 (MOTHERS DAY)dpkg.indd 58

20/02/2015 09:53

MOTHER'S DAY

AFTERNOON TEA AT ANGLESEY ABBEY Take a springtime stroll around the grounds of Anglesey Abbey in Lode, currently bursting with blooms and awakening wildlife. Apparently there are five species of orchid to be spotted, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore the grassy meadows. A National Trust day out wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the tea room, and Anglesey’s homemade scones are some of the best around, in our opinion. The house is open 11am-3pm; gardens 10.30am-4.30pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey

HOTEL DU VIN Enjoy a flavour of France at Hotel du Vin this Mother’s Day. The smart citycentre hotel will be transforming its bistro into a French table market – with a touch of Hotel du Vin luxury – on Sunday 15 March. Come along to enjoy a choice of fresh seafood, freshly baked artisan bread, pates, rillettes and salads to start, followed by a traditional Sunday roast and a selection of desserts to finish. Plus get an exclusive gift and glass of bubbles for mum. And best of all, you can leave the washing up to someone else! The offer is priced at £34.95 pp for four courses (children under 12 dine for £9.95). www.hotelduvin.com

ORCHID FESTIVAL

AFTERNOON TEASE EVENT We’re pleased to report that after the huge success of last year’s event, King Street’s Afternoon Tease will be hosting another Mother’s Day afternoon tea on 15 March. Pick up a ticket for you and your mum and you’ll be treated to sweet and savoury homemade treats aplenty at this gorgeous little café, known for its fabulous cakes and excellent coffee. Keep an eye on Twitter @afternoontease and the Afternoon Tease Facebook page, more details will be revealed soon! afternoontease.co.uk

SOAK UP SOME CULTURE This month, the Fitzwilliam Museum is hosting Moonstrips: Eduardo Paolozzi and the printed collage 196572 – a colourful exhibition of work by one of the forefathers of Pop Art. Paolozzi used images and words cut from popular magazines and journals to create his vibrant collages. His work echoes the popular culture of the day – featuring lots of space-age references – and played a huge role in the development of British art in the 1950s and 60s. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

CE03_056-057 (MOTHERS DAY)dpkg.indd 59

See the glasshouse at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden transformed for their annual Orchid Festival, in situ until 22 March. Colourful, strange and alluring, orchids have evolved in all sorts of ways to attract the insects that pollinate them. Alex Summers, glasshouse supervisor, explains: “We’ll be creating a magnificent display of popular orchid species and hybrids, including suspended globes of Oncidium and pedestals of slipper orchids, Paphiopedilum, floating over open water. Throughout the tropical rainforest displays we will focus on wild orchid species. These will be grouped to show particular adaptations, and we’ll be using some new and fun ways to engage our visitors with the ingenious biology of orchids.” www.botanic.cam.ac.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 59

20/02/2015 09:53

INTERVIEW WORDS JENNY SHELTON

STORY Jenny Shelton gets a history lesson from presenter, curator and all-round clever clogs Lucy Worsley ot everyone remembers history lessons with great fondness – all those dry dates, indistinguishable kings and endless wars… But there’s more to history than names and numbers, as Lucy Worsley well knows. Presenter of Harlots, Housewives and Heroines and Tales from the Royal Bedchamber, she’s also joint chief curator at Historic Royal Palaces and enjoys nothing more than rifling through the knicker drawer of history to uncover its more intimate secrets. She’s currently planning celebrations to mark the 500th anniversary of Hampton Court Palace and is excited about a recent acquisition: not a jewel-encrusted crown or a Holbein painting but a Tudor potty. “It was excavated at Hampton Court and it’s still got traces of genuine Tudor piss in it. Isn’t that fantastic? It’s such an everyday object and they wouldn’t have looked at it twice at the time, but 500 years later it’s just a great thing to hold in your hands.” Since her first programme in 2011, If Walls Could Talk, Worsley – with her trademark bob and twinkling eye – has taken viewers through 17th century childbirth, royal illnesses and Tudor wardrobes: domestic details which furnish the facts with something extra that we can all relate to. “It’s always been what’s interested me and it’s what interests the people who visit us at Hampton Court and Kensington Palace,” she explains. “They’re interested in kings and queens and great events, but they also want to know what they ate, what the servants were like, how

60 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_060 (LUCY WORSLEY)ljckg.indd 60

they went to the toilet… Seeing them as real human beings, just like us if we’d lived hundreds of years ago.” This month Worsley is in Cambridge to discuss her favourite monarch, Queen Caroline. Wife of George II, Caroline's life of drama, glamour and tragedy has been largely overlooked by history. “She was the cleverest, funniest and fattest Queen,” says Worsley. “She was born in Germany and ended up living in London and just made a really lovely job of being our Queen.” The talk ties in with Worsley’s series, The First Georgians, and exposes the secrets of the Georgian court. “There are family quarrels, kidnappings and another queen getting locked up in a castle, so there’s some high drama going on.” Like many clever women on TV, Worsley has her critics. In 2009, David Starkey accused his female peers of presenting a ‘feminised’ history, pointing out that female presenters were ‘usually quite pretty’, too. Worsley hit back, adding that Starkey himself resembles a ‘cross owl’. The pair have since buried the hatchet and presented A Night at Hampton Court together over Christmas. “We had a great time,” confirms Worsley, who now calls Starkey ‘a giant brain on legs’. Happily, she has no plans to cease her playful approach to history or shy away from so-called ‘girly’ subjects.

“As curator of a collection of historic fashion, I think clothes express a lot of information, particularly women’s clothing. Take a Tudor woman: she’s wearing a farthingale, she’s tightly laced into stays, the clothes are cumbersome and designed to look magnificent… but she can’t really do anything. Contrast that with the flappers of the 20s: these are women who’ve got the vote and the clothes have become light and loose.” Never one to miss a dressing-up opportunity, Worsley donned her flapper garb for Dancing Cheek to Cheek: An Intimate History of Dancing with Strictly’s Len Goodman. “Len is a delightful gentleman,” she grins. “It was brilliant. I thought I’d be good at the Charleston because I have the hair for it. But it was harder than I thought – all the dances were.” Next up, viewers can expect to see Worsley riding a horse for a new programme on King Charles. “Better than that, I’m going to learn about horse dancing, which the Cavaliers in 17th century England did. I’m told that what really matters is that the horse knows what it’s doing…” An Audience with Lucy Worsley, Cambridge Arts Theatre, 15 March 7.45pm. Tickets from £12.50. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

19/02/2015 12:08

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 61

20/02/2015 14:56

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 62

20/02/2015 14:57

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 63

20/02/2015 14:57

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 64

20/02/2015 14:58

WEDDINGS

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

Brides to be, let Edition’s Jenny Shelton guide you through some of the main big-day decisions, from hairstyles to the best local caterers TEN THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT

tells Edition ten surprising facts about wedding dresses…

1. THINKING AHEAD

Most brides buy their wedding dress about 11 months prior to the wedding. This allows time for alterations and to find the right shoes and accessories.

59% of brides use Pinterest to find inspiration for their wedding dress.

3. INDEPENDENT THINKERS

57% of brides purchase their wedding dress from an independent bridal salon, whereas 32% of brides purchase at a national bridal chain.

4. MEDIAN GIRLS

6. LOVE TRAIN

The world’s longest wedding gown train stretched for 1.85 miles. We feel sorry for the bridesmaids!

7. WHY WHITE?

14% of brides would wear a coloured wedding dress. You rebels, you.

21% of brides plan to wear a second dress in the evening.

9. BIRDS OF A FEATHER

66% of brides want their bridesmaids to wear matching dresses.

The average price of a wedding dress today is £865.53.

10.

46% of brides preserve their wedding dress for their children or grandchildren.

The average cost of headpiece or veil? £127.11.

CE03_065-071 (WEDDINGS) ljc.indd 65

Peter’s Bridal Warehouse is a wedding dress outlet located in Soham. Their dresses are purchased direct from the manufacturer and priced between £299 and £899, in sizes 8-36. bridaloutletweddingshop.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 65

19/02/2015 14:09

WEDDINGS

FIND YOUR STYLE The first thing your stylist will ask is what kind of wedding dress you have. Neat, tidy updos will look dazzling with a more sculpted style of gown, while tumbling curls will complement a dress with a more romantic feel. Keep your venue in mind: is it stately and sophisticated or something more informal or alternative? “Not everyone knows what they want to do with their hair on the day, that’s why a trial is important,” says Becky. “We can have a chat and look through some pictures on the iPad then try out some different styles.”

1 We trial four bridal styles with Elajé Hair & Beauty

1. THE WATERFALL PLAIT Braids are huge this season, but for something more unique try the waterfall plait to create tumbling tresses – perfect for an outdoor wedding. Intertwine flowers for complete boho bride brilliance. 2. HALF UP, HALF DOWN Have the best of both worlds with a half up, half down do: very Kate Middleton. This style also suits a veil and keeps hair firmly in place while still allowing for some movement at the back. 3. THE LOOSE BUN For effortless elegance, pile hair high in a bun, allowing a couple of curls to escape. Lifting hair from the shoulders is great if you have a lovely necklace to show off. 4. THE CHIGNON For instant sophistication, pin hair into a low bun at the nape of the neck. This 1940s-inspired look would complement a tea length dress or a retro theme perfectly.

SECRET WEAPON Don’t by shy with hairgrips! These will be the secret to successfully keeping your look in place all day, says Becky. Spray each one with hairspray before applying, for extra sticking power. PREP “I advise brides not to wash their hair on the day but the night before,” says Becky. “Newly washed, it can be too slippery and styles may fall out. Wash with something light and don’t put too much product in it. And there’s no need to straighten your hair before coming to the salon.”

Prices for bridal styling at Elajé Hair & Beauty on Hills Road are from £160 including a trial/consultation, plus hair styling on the big day. www.elaje.co.uk

of Finn Jordan on incorporating hair accessories Veil: The veil can be placed just above or below the hairstyle, allowing the style to be on full view and really stand out. Low veils look stunning paired with buns and chignon. High veils look fabulous with hair worn down, particularly with loosely curled hair. Tiara: Don’t be afraid to let your hairdresser experiment with backcombing during your trial. Height in a hair-up style adds glamour and ensures the detail in the tiara really stands out. Headpiece: There are so many options here, from an art deco slide paired with a finger wave (Gatsby style) to a flower crown for a relaxed, boho look. My best advice is to be bold and try something special. When you look back at your pictures in years to come and see your beautiful hair you will be glad you did! www.finnjordan.co.uk

66 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_065-071 (WEDDINGS) ljc.indd 66

Becky Lemmon, a stylist at Elajé for four years, specialises in updos and bridal hair. “Usually brides come to us on the morning of the wedding with their bridesmaids and sometimes their mum. It’s nice to see how everyone has different ideas and it’s great being part of their day.”

19/02/2015 14:09

WEDDINGS

After months of preparation and organisation, when it comes to the morning of the wedding a bride wants as little worry as possible. Cambridge make-up artist Dani Rose has worked with scores of local brides and knows exactly how to get a girl looking her best on her big day. “People think, oh it’s just make-up, I can do it myself. But you’ve got to think of the longevity of it, if it’ll look good in daylight and in the evening and whether it’ll photograph well: you don’t want anything with a high SPF in as you can get flash back. Because there’s so much to think about, it’s just one more thing taken care of. And if you’re ever going to treat yourself and have your make-up done professionally, it’s your wedding day!” Since training at the Davinia Fermi Make-up Academy, Dani has worked with make-up artists Lisa Eldridge and Charlotte Tilbury, and on London Fashion Week. “I’ve always loved doing make-up and it’s such a good feeling when someone looks in the mirror and loves what you’ve done,” says Dani. “As well as being good

at applying make-up – learning what suits different people etc – I think it’s really important that a make-up artist is friendly and personable so brides feel relaxed and enjoy themselves.” I’m here for a bridal trial, and after asking how much make-up I normally wear (just lip gloss and mascara really), we have a rummage through Dani’s vast make-up collection with a natural, glowy bridal look in mind. Dani starts with moisturiser (“as good as a primer”) then applies Nars Sheer Glow Foundation in Ceylan. “It photographs well, it’s not too heavy but it still gives good coverage.” After a dusting of blusher, Dani applies Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream to moisturise my lips before using a peachy-pink Mac lipstick. What does she love most about her work? “Everything! I’m a people person so I love meeting new people, seeing different faces, going to new places and venues… Every day is different. It’s such a nice thing to be there on the morning of someone’s wedding because everyone’s so excited. Then it feels weird when you have to say

CE03_065-071 (WEDDINGS) ljc.indd 67

We meet Cambridge make-up artist Dani Rose to find out the secrets to natural bridal beauty. Interview by Jenny Shelton

goodbye – I almost feel like they want to ask me to come too! You get to know the brides as you meet them at the trial and it’s quite an intimate thing, applying someone’s makeup.” Next Dani uses a Suqqu liquid brow pen to give my eyebrows natural definition then applies Charlotte Tilbury eyeliner (with a dark brown shadow on the lower lids) and mascara – waterproof of course. A light pat of powder on the T-zone later and I’m good to go. “You want something classic that’s not going to date,” Dani advises. “If I see someone reaching for the blue eyeshadow or any weird pastels, I tell them no! But normally brides want something very natural.” Dani also holds make-up tutorials, ideal for hen parties, and can do your bridesmaids’ and mum’s make-up on the day too. “I allow 45 minutes for bridesmaids and an hour and a half for the bride and always do her last,” she explains. “Then they’ve got time to get in the dress and take some pictures and chill out a bit before everyone arrives.” Wedding day make-up with Dani costs £100 for brides and £50 for bridesmaids (plus £50 bridal trial and £25 bridesmaids trial). www.danirosemakeup.com

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 67

19/02/2015 14:10

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 68

20/02/2015 14:58

WEDDINGS

Sit-down meal, afternoon tea or indoor BBQ? Whatever your preference, these top Cambridge caterers will see to all your dining needs

BOWL FOOD

This trendy concept, somewhere between canapés and a sit-down meal, is becoming increasingly popular for couples wanting something informal but tasty, and a great way to keep your guests mingling. Puddini at the Deli, based in Willingham (www. puddiniatthedeli.co.uk), offer dishes of chilli, risotto, beer-battered fish, gnocchi bake or spicy lamb kofka, all served in small, sugar-sized bowls which can be eaten standing up (from £13.95pp). The Cambridge Dining Company (www. cambridgedining.co.uk) offer sweet and savoury bowls including beef stew, vegetable and bean curry and crayfish ravioli.

FORMAL DINING

Spoil your family and friends with a traditional sit-down meal from one of Cambridge’s many quality caterers. Flair Catering (www.flaircatering. co.uk) in Oakington offer a tailored three-course menu, priced from £33pp. Starters include fillet of monkfish in Parma ham and fig, and caramelised onion and blue cheese tart, while mains include duck breast in soy, pea risotto and trio of venison with swede and potato. The desserts look delicious too.

CE03_065-071 (WEDDINGS) ljc.indd 69

AFTERNOON TEA

Nothing says English sophistication more than the afternoon tea, and The Teatime Treatery (www.teatimetreatery. com) offer lovely Afternoon Tea wedding packages from £11.25pp (for 65+ guests). Nibble a dainty sandwich then indulge in homemade scones and sponge cakes – all washed down with speciality loose-leaf tea. Delightful!

BRILLIANT BUFFETS

Save on serving staff and consider a buffet for your wedding breakfast. These can be hot and/or cold, and your choices are unlimited. Crown Catering, linked with The Crown and Punchbowl, Horningsea, (www. crowncateringcambridge.com) offer hot and cold options like glazed ham, salmon and crispy duck with noodles, plus a salad bar and a delicious dessert table. St Ives-based Sandra Starling Catering (www. sandrastarlingcatering.co.uk) offers cold fork buffets from £13.50pp and hot buffets along the lines of Lancashire hot pot, fish pie and chicken gumbo for £14.50pp.

TABLE PICNIC

Banish any weather worries and bring the fun of an outdoor picnic inside for an informal dining solution. We love this sociable idea: rather than wait for each course to emerge, guests can get stuck in to a selection of tasties served all at once. Pass the scotch eggs! White Pheasant Catering (www. whitepheasant.com), based at the 2 AA Rosette award-winning White Pheasant in Fordham, offer a Table Picnic option (mini goat’s cheese tarts, pork and apricot sausage rolls, vegetable crisp…) all for £26 per head.

BBQ & HOG ROAST

Make the most of a summery, outdoor setting with a professional barbecue for your guests. Puddini offer a choice of Suffolk sausages, homemade burgers, BBQ glazed chicken, sticky ribs and griddled halloumi, with sides, for £12.95pp. Or go to Tom’s Kitchen (www.toms-kitchen.com), which offers BBQ and spit roasts plus a delicious selection of puds (from £8pp). If you’re in the market for a hog roast, we’ve heard good things about This Little Piggy, run by Cambridge caterer and farmer’s daughter Charlie (www. thislittlepiggyhogroast.co.uk). She knows how to get the pork succulent and the crackling nice and crisp, and offers pork alternatives and veggie options too.

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 69

19/02/2015 14:09

WEDDINGS

Deciding on the setting for your big day is one of the most important elements of planning a wedding. It should reflect your personalities and set the tone for the day. Here are some of our favourites from around Cambridge

BURWASH MANOR’S SECRET GARDEN

THE OLD HALL

With sweeping views of Ely Cathedral, The Old Hall, Ely, is the perfect setting for a country house wedding. It’s privately owned (the Morbey family have been here since the 1600s) so you can be sure of being well looked after and getting that all-important personal touch to ensure your day goes exactly to plan. By holding your wedding here you’ll be granted exclusive use of the house and grounds, which includes a beautiful garden pavilion – ideal for outdoor ceremonies. There are also two heated marquees, a large dance floor and a smaller, elegantly furnished room in the main house for more intimate ceremonies. You’ll also have use of the gorgeous Honeymoon Suite, and much more. See online for details and get their open day in your diary: 31 August. theoldhallhotelely.co.uk

If you’re a country guy or girl at heart, it’s highly likely that you’ll fall head over heels for the Secret Garden wedding marquee at Burwash Manor, Barton. It’s set within a pretty walled garden, which can be styled with lanterns, bunting and any other decorations you wish, and is perfect for fun, less formal ceremonies (though if it’s formal you want, they can sort that out for you too!). Say ‘I do’ in the delightful gazebo then retire to the marquee to dine and dance as you celebrate your idyllic English country garden wedding. Find out more at their open day, Saturday 28 March. www.burwashweddings.com

WESTMINSTER COLLEGE

Decide to hold your wedding at Westminster College and you’ll benefit from a central Cambridge location (nice and easy for people to reach) and surroundings steeped in history and class, from the magnificent gates to the wood-panelled banqueting hall. The college has its own chapel, but you can also hold the ceremony in a marquee on the tennis lawn or in one of the college’s smaller but perfectly formed ceremony rooms. The star of the show is certainly the grand Dining Hall with its domed ceiling and huge fireplace. You’ll feel like lord and lady of the manor instantly. www.westminster.cam.ac.uk

70 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_065-071 (WEDDINGS) ljc.indd 70

19/02/2015 14:10

WEDDINGS

8 March DOUBLETREE BY HILTON, CAMBRIDGE See all that this smart, riverside hotel has to offer at their Wedding Fair. Meet their suppliers and find out more. www.doubletreecambridge.com

ISLAND HALL

A fabulous discovery, Island Hall is a hidden gem of a Georgian property situated on its own private island. Treat your gathering guests to a glass of Prosecco before they make their way over the Chinese bridge to the main house (you and your groom can choose to arrive by boat if you want to make a real entrance!). There are options to hold an intimate wedding breakfast in the graceful, period rooms of the main house (up to 48 guests) or make the most of the beautiful gardens with a marquee on the lawn (up to 180). The bridal suite, with its four-poster bed, is pretty fabulous too. Grand and unique, Island Hall is privately owned and situated in Godmanchester. Viewings and tours are by appointment. www.islandhall.com

21 March THE SHEENE MILL, MELBOURN Meet suppliers, get ideas about hair, stationery, photography, DJs, flowers and more. Get your questions answered and explore this historic venue including their new Wedding Pavilion. The Wedding Fayre runs 11am-3pm. www.thesheenemill.com 23 March MENZIES HOTEL, BAR HILL The four star Menzies Cambridge hotel offers an impressive wedding venue, and this is your chance to see it dressed in all its finery, as well as meeting wedding suppliers for cakes, dresses and more (11am-3pm). www.menzieshotels.co.uk 12 April CHIPPENHAM PARK, ELY This stately home won wedding industry awards last year and now invites you to experience its grounds, bridal suite and sample food from Crown Catering. Goodie bags and prizes on offer too. 11am-4pm. Entry £1.50. www.chippenhamparkevents. co.uk

SHEENE MILL

Keep it simple, stunning and elegant at Sheene Mill, a top quality, character hotel and restaurant set within a beautiful converted mill in Melbourn. This rustic setting, including stunningly picturesque gardens and a lake (complete with swans), offers photo opportunities around every corner. Choose a magical outdoor ceremony at their pavilion (there’s an indoor ceremony room too) then sit down to dine in the conservatory or newlyrefurbished banqueting hall (10-120 guests, with an evening capacity of up to 180). The Sheene Mill offers nine boutique bedrooms for you and your nearest and dearest. We adore the charming, timber-beamed bridal suite, and not just because it was designed by David Emanuel, the designer for Princess Diana’s wedding dress. www.thesheenemill.com

CE03_065-071 (WEDDINGS) ljc.indd 71

6 September THE NEWMARKET WEDDING SHOW Held at the luxurious Millennium Grandstand, it offers ideas on flowers, catering and, of course, The Dress. 11am-4pm. www.thenewmarketwedding show.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 71

19/02/2015 14:10

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 72

20/02/2015 14:59

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

PERSONALISED DESIGN AT

HARRIET KELSALL BESPOKE JEWELLERY nyone looking for bespoke jewellery in Cambridge should look no further than the multi award-winning Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery, based in Green Street. Harriet launched the business 16 years ago, fuelled by a love of jewellery and design, and soon built up a highly respected firm. “We create jewellery based on our customers’ personal stories,” says April, senior designer at Harriet Kelsall, who sits every customer down for an informal, friendly consultation to find out just what they want – even if they don’t yet know it themselves! – and they will also discuss budgets. The Harriet Kelsall team creates mostly engagement, wedding and eternity rings, but also other jewellery and cufflinks too. All options will be discussed during the consultation, which can take place at the Cambridge or Halls Green studio or by phone or Skype, as well as personal details about the ring’s intended: colouring, dress sense, job and interests for example. “We can source just about anything from diamonds and sapphires to rare and unusual gemstones,” says April. Inspiration for the design can come from anywhere – a hobby, an animal, a significant place, the customer’s eyes – and the team will help adapt this into something beautiful that will be treasured forever.

At the on-site workshops at Halls Green, customers can meet the goldsmith, polisher and stone setter. They also appreciate the emotional connection of meeting the designer creating their piece. Harriet Kelsall use traditional craft skills alongside computer-aided design as required. They use, where possible, ethically sourced materials and were one of the first to introduce Fairtrade metals. As such, Harriet was nominated by the Institute of Directors (IoD) as one of eight Women Changing the Business World. The IoD said: “Through her emphasis on bespoke design, ethically sourced gems and Fairtrade gold, Harriet has helped revitalise the jewellery industry.”

Harriet Kelsall, 6-7 Green Street, CB2 3JU, North Barn, Fairclough Hall Farm, Weston, SG4 7DP 01223 461333 www.hkjewellery.co.uk

Dave and Katy chose to design their engagement ring with Jenna in the Harriet Kelsall design studio. It was important to them that Katy’s ring was as special as it could be, so they chose to go ‘bespoke’. Between them, they designed a unique piece of jewellery which used Katy’s astrological birthstone. With a November birthday, the Scorpio’s birthstone is aquamarine, so they chose the most vibrant stone placed into an understated band that would enhance the brilliance of the gem. The result? A stunning ring that Katy couldn’t wait to show off, safe in the knowledge that she’ll never see another one exactly the same!

CE03_073 (H KELSALL ADV)ljc.indd 73

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 73

20/02/2015 12:49

CRAFT WORDS & IMAGES JENNY SHELTON

’ve discovered a new passion: furniture painting. For a while I’ve been aware of this growing craze and suspected I might enjoy being let loose on an old chair with a tin of chalk paint. Now was the perfect time. Buying my first house in December and being without a stick to sit on meant my parents finally had cause to empty their garage of all their old stuff, including a LOT of their and my grandparents’ furniture. As such, I’m now the owner of some dubious 70s effects, which could certainly do with some tasteful upcycling. Babs Baxter runs regular chalk paint classes from her fantastic shop, Little Vintage Studio, in St Neots. It’s her second premises – she also owns shabby-chic emporium Beautiful Swagger down the road, selling homeware, gifts and a selection of furniture. As it proved so popular but didn’t provide the necessary workshop space, she had to expand, getting the keys to her new place on Christmas Eve. “I worked in marketing before that but the hours were long and there was a lot of travelling involved – it was exhausting,” she admits. “I got another job to pay the bills and started selling furniture from my house. Soon I was making more money doing that so I made it my full-time job. Now I do something I really love.” Armed with my first cup of tea of the day, I take my seat with five other amateur decorators as Babs fills us in on the wonders of chalk paint. There’s minimal sanding and priming required (hurrah!) and it works on pretty much any surface,

74 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_074-075 (CRAFT)ljckg.indd 74

19/02/2015 12:10

CRAFT

from all kinds of wood to plastic, glass and leather. Even mahogany (gasp) is fair game, she says, if it means you’ll get more use out of it. “It gives pieces a new lease of life. This table,” she says, indicating a lovely cream painted bedside unit with elegantly distressed edges, “was destined for the dump. With a fresh coat of paint and a new drawer knob you can really bring something back to life.” The paint we’re using today is Grand Illusions Vintage Paint. It comes in a variety of French and Nordic-inspired colours, mainly dusty pastels. I select the grey-blue Fjord for my practice piece, a plain board of plywood which we prime with shellac (optional, but good for shiny surfaces), paint then seal with wax. “What’s nice about the colour range is that they all go really well together,” says Babs. Next, we paint a lighter colour on top then grab the sandpaper and scrub away to expose the colour underneath, creating a perfect, rustic French provincial effect. After that Babs gives us a wooden tray to customise and take home. I go a bit overboard on the wax, and some of the first layer of paint rubs away altogether – luckily it’s the distressed look we’re going for. Indeed, because you don’t need to be perfect and precise, and thanks to the quickdrying nature of the paint, chalk furniture painting is one craft that gets you effective results, fast. I can’t wait to get home and attack all my 70s furniture with it. www.beautifulswagger.com

Babs’s next vintage chalk paint workshop is on 7 March, priced at £49.50 including materials. She’s also running beginners' crochet classes throughout the month, plus Upholstery for Beginners on 18 and 25 March.

The usually tranquil town of Saffron Walden has become a hub of controversy following an incident involving a woolly hat. Last month, a local resident was verbally abused in the supermarket for wearing a ‘boobie hat’ – a beanie hat designed to look like a breast. The community rallied in support of the woman, who had suffered from breast cancer and was wearing the hat to raise awarenesss, by picking up their needles and knitting their own hats – which they wore to a march in town on Valentine’s Day. Emily Frost, who works at Craft Days on the High Street, says wool sales rocketed due to people wanting to get behind the cause. “Since the incident people have wanted to

CE03_074-075 (CRAFT)ljckg.indd 75

make their own hat so they’ve come to us for patterns and wool. We’ve also been making and selling little badges which people can wear.” Are they difficult to make? “If you can crochet, then the badges are really easy to make. The hats take longer as they’re knitted in the round. But what it has done is galvanised people into wanting to learn how to make things. And raising awareness like this is a really positive thing.” Other shops and businesses have joined what’s being termed the ‘boobiebellion’, including The Sheep Shop in Cambridge, which ran a workshop on knitting and crocheting boobie hats in February. www.breakthrough.org.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 75

19/02/2015 12:10

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 76

20/02/2015 14:59

INDIE OF THE MONTH

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

INDEPENDENT OF THE MONTH

Cambridge

Science Centre

With events based on chocolate, slime and giant games of Mousetrap, this centre makes science fun for both kids and parents, with not a dry textbook in sight ashionable fungi, solar cars, the science of chocolate and life drawing classes with a difference have all featured in Cambridge Science Centre’s consistently packed programme. The centre, based in Jesus Lane, opened two years ago with the aim of making science fun and relevant for everyone. And the evidence (collected after three controlled tests) is clear: it works. “Since we opened in February 2013 we’ve had more than 50,000 visitors which, considering the small space we have, is fantastic,” says marketing manager Gaetan Lee. “We’ve had some amazing feedback. Our current exhibition is on Extreme Engineering, and there’s another coming up in the summer which I can’t reveal too much about, but if people pop along to the centre at the moment they might get a few ideas about what that’s going to be.” A registered charity, with HRH The Duke of York as its patron, the centre is run by approachable, enthusiastic staff who aim to instil a passion for science and learning into the scientists and engineers of tomorrow. “We’re really proud of our staff who love engaging with people and helping visitors understand science not in a dry, textbook way but by making it real and hands on,” Lee continues. “Any workshop we do that involves slime or burning stuff always goes down a storm. The other thing we do to spice up our programme is run interesting and engaging events in which we invite local scientists and presenters to tell us some cool things about science. “And it’s not just for kids. One of the key criteria for us is to make the centre

accessible to the whole family. One event I’d love to try and do again was a life drawing class where we projected MRI scans onto the models’ bodies and asked people to draw the person and the underlying anatomy at the same time. That was really powerful.” Coming up, just in time for Easter, is Choc Full of Science – a show about chocolate. Explains Lee: “We’ll be looking at the science of chocolate, so what happens to the brain when you eat chocolate and the physical properties of chocolate. We’ll be doing lots of fun, silly experiments – all with important science behind them.” One of the main events in the Centre’s calendar is Chain Reaction: a huge group activity which sees families fill out the Corn Exchange or Guildhall to help build a gigantic game of Mousetrap. “We get families from across the region to help put together this giant Mousetrap board game, and it’s amazing to see the imagination and passion that goes in.” He adds: “Schools are an important part of our programme, and we’re closed Tuesday to Friday mornings so school groups can come in and get the whole place to themselves: that’s one of the benefits of being small.” Still, a larger space is on the agenda for future plans. “We’d love to have a bigger centre and we’re trying to identify a space in town,” he concludes. “But we also want to have a stronger presence in the wider region.” Choc Full of Science, 28 March, 12 noon. www.cambridgesciencecentre.org

CE03_077 2(INDY) kg ljc.indd 77

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 77

19/02/2015 14:50

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 78

20/02/2015 14:59

NEWS

Communit y NEWS CHURCH SETS UP IN CAMBRIDGE NIGHTCLUB Local nightspot Ballare – known fondly to many as Cindies – has become an unlikely but popular venue for a Sunday church service. Long after the Saturday night revellers have staggered home, the KingsGate Community Church moves in to hold a lively service of prayer and music at 6.30pm, with food and soft drinks served and the option to stay and socialise until 8pm. Steve Squirrell, a student worker with KingsGate, said: “It is just a fantastic venue right in the centre of town, with great facilities and known by every student in Cambridge. We outgrew our previous meeting place and Ballare gives

us a bigger capacity and room to grow in the future. “We have been made very welcome. It is an unusual place to hold church services but the services are aimed mainly at students and young people and it is ideal for our needs.” KingsGate Church holds its regular Sunday morning services at West Road Concert Hall. The evening services at Ballare started in October 2014, aimed at fitting in better with the lifestyle of the undergraduates who attend. Ballare’s general manager Andrew Barney said: “This club is very much part of Cambridge’s vibrant community. We are happy to extend the use of our premises to the Kingsgate Community Church and are delighted that it is working well for its congregation.”

CHARIOTS OF FIRE REACHES £1 MILLION MILESTONE One of the biggest charitable events in Cambridgeshire has hit a milestone target, raising over £1 million since it began in 1992. Inspired by the movie of the same name, Chariots of Fire is a 1.7-mile Cambridge relay race taking place every September. Since its launch, around 6,245 teams and 37,470 individual runners have taken part, running the scenic route through Clare, Kings and Trinity Colleges. Each year the event supports a different local charity: £70,000 was raised last year for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity. Charles Hewitson, senior partner at Hewitsons law firm and the race director, said: “When the race started over 20 years ago, I would never have imagined that we would surpass the £1 million fundraising total. Each year it’s a pleasure to witness the benefits provided by Chariots of Fire to the selected charity, and the continued level of support extended by the Cambridge community. Our goal is to attract more runners and continue to facilitate genuine lasting legacies for each official recipient charity.” Lord Puttnam, creator of the film Chariots of Fire Fire, started the race in 2003 and said: “I am very proud of the fact that Chariots of Fire has inspired, and continues to inspire such a worthwhile initiative, which raises money for charities year after year. It must have struck a chord, for I know of no other film that manages to evoke the same reaction.” The 2015 race will take place on Sunday 20 September and team registrations open in May. Further details are available online. www.chariots-of-fire.co.uk

BRAINS OF CAMBRIDGE A grand ball – with a Wizard Of Oz theme – is being held to celebrate 10 years of the Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust charity (ACT). The ‘Brains of Cambridge’ evening will include a meet and greet, a three-course meal, entertainment and an auction. Up to 160 high-profile guests from the Cambridge area will be in attendance at the event, which takes place on 7 March at the City Hotel, Cambridge, 6.30pm-midnight. Tickets are priced at £65 each or £575 for a table of ten, and local companies are invited to sponsor the event or contribute auction prizes or funding in return for company branding on promotional literature. The ball will raise funds for the Addenbrooke's Hospital neurosurgery appeal to buy a new fluorescent microscope for use in brain surgery. The microscope reduces some surgery from 20 hours to just six, improving theatre availability and patient recovery time. ACT is dedicated to supporting innovation and patient care in Cambridge through raising funds for cutting-edge technology, specialist staff and more. www.act4addenbrookes.org.uk

CE03_081 (COMMUNITY)dpkg.indd 79

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 79

19/02/2015 16:18

NEWS

CAMBRIDGE BID MONTHLY UPDATE

Welcome March is a busy month for the city, with the fantastic University Science Festival and the glamorous Cambridge Style Week both offering up a host of exciting events to get stuck into. This month we’re also shining our spotlight on Sussex Street, and we've got some great ideas for treating your mum to something special this Mother’s Day.

What is the

Cambridge BID? Launched in April 2013, Cambridge Business Improvement District (BID) is funded by businesses and organisations in the city to deliver a range of projects and events that enhance and promote Cambridge and encourage people to visit and enjoy our fabulous city. Find out more at www.cambridgebid.co.uk Follow us on Twitter at @cambridgebid

Cambridge Style Week Cambridge Style Week, which kicked off on 21 February, continues this month with a host of great events for fashion fans running until 14 March. As well as catwalk shows at the Quy Mill Hotel, there will be in-store events with special offers at LK Bennett, John Lewis, Hobbs and the White Company at the Grand Arcade on 4 March. The Cambridge Style Week Icon Ball, also at the Quy Mill, promises an evening of glamour on 7 March, featuring a fabulous three-course meal, charity auction and dancing. Visit the Cambridge Style Week website for the full programme. www.cambridgestyleweek.com

80 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_080-082 (CAMBRIDGE BID)ljcdp.indd 80

19/02/2015 12:14

NEWS

Spotlight on…

Sussex Street Tucked away just off Sidney Street, slightly apart from the hubbub of the city centre, you’ll find Sussex Street in all its neo-Georgian grandeur. As well as being architecturally impressive, this area provides some of the city’s best shopping, with a small but perfectly formed array of fantastic independent retailers. Soak up some Scandinavian style at homeware and clothing shop Nord, which offers a range of chic furniture and cookware, as well as boasting a café that serves up great coffees, cakes and gourmet ice creams made by local favourite Jack’s Gelato. One of Cambridge’s best-loved independent businesses, Miller’s Music is also located on Sussex Street, stocking pianos, guitars and folk instruments, plus a huge range of orchestral and sheet music. Millers is in fact one of the oldest music shops in the country, having been established in 1856 when hard times forced the Miller family to sell their grand piano to save their bonnet shop from bankruptcy – it was so lucrative that they purchased a couple more pianos, then a couple more, and the rest is history! If you’re looking for a bit of pampering, Sussex Street is also home to Finn Jordan, a little oasis of calm in the heart of the city, which serves up a range of hair and beauty treatments including pamper parties for groups and bridal make-up services. Speaking of brides, the Tailor’s Cat is a specialist wedding dress boutique that houses more than 150 gowns, varying in style from vintage to contemporary. Another great reason to visit this picturesque shopping street, especially if you’ve got little ones in tow, is The Cambridge Toy Shop, a treasure trove of games and toys for all ages. Whether you’re after traditional handmade teddy bears, classic board games or scooters and outdoor toys, there’s plenty to discover, with prices to suit all budgets. If you're seeking elegant frames for your favourite pictures or eye-catching artworks, the Cambridge Framing Centre is a must-visit, and if you need a refuel after all that shopping, stop by at Tatties and sample one of their jacket potatoes. When the weather’s up to it, the outside seating offers a lovely spot to watch the world go by in this historic corner of the city.

CE03_080-082 (CAMBRIDGE BID)ljcdp.indd 81

Cambridge Edition | March 2015| 81

19/02/2015 12:14

NEWS

Mother’s Day

Cambridge Science Festival One of the city’s most popular events, the Cambridge Science Festival is back this March, and the schedule looks as fascinating as ever. Taking place at venues across Cambridge from Monday 9 to Sunday 22 March, this year’s festival will see worldrenowned scientists grace the stage alongside the scientific stars of the future, offering up a packed programme of talks, debates and discussions. There’s plenty of activities geared towards families too; pop along to the Corn Exchange on 14 March for Science on Saturday and prepare to be dazzled by the smorgasbord of hands-on fun on offer. There’s also stand-up comedy, film screenings and plays to enjoy – check out the website for more details. www.sciencefestival.cam.ac.uk

The city centre is bursting with options for picking up something special to treat your mum this Mother’s Day. For quirky homewares and gifts, Ark, which has recently relocated to Peas Hill, is always a favourite, while Podarok and Cambridge Contemporary Crafts both offer a fantastic range of jewellery, handmade goodies and eye-catching pieces for the home. Perhaps you want to show your appreciation for your mum by taking her out for an indulgent meal? Browns on Trumpington Street are offering a special Mother’s Day menu, priced at £19.95 for two courses (£23.95 for three), which features a roast dinner with all the trimmings and delicious desserts including salted caramel profiteroles. Also on Trumpington Street, Hotel du Vin are offering four courses for £34.95, which includes a glass of fizz and a gift for mum. D'Arry's, meanwhile, is offering a menu that features delicious-sounding dishes like potato and gruyere cheese terrine with sauteed wild mushrooms, crispy hen's egg and truffle mayonnaise. Harriets Tea Room on Green Street is a great spot for a traditional afternoon tea, whilst Zizzi's and Loch Fyne will also be offering special menus in honour of the big day.

15 March

82 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_080-082 (CAMBRIDGE BID)ljcdp.indd 82

19/02/2015 12:15

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 83

20/02/2015 15:00

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 84

20/02/2015 15:00

FASHION NEWS

FASHION News A double whammy for fashion fans this month, as both Cambridge Style Week and the Affordable Vintage Fair hit the city

GET SET FOR

Style Week!

Running until 14 March, Cambridge Style Week has returned to celebrate all that’s stylish about our city with a host of special events including fashion shows, a gala ball and a wedding fair. The event, now in its third year, aims to inspire stylish living whilst supporting local businesses and students, as well as offering a mentoring programme for young designers and hopeful innovators. Style Week also works in partnership with charity Born to be Beautiful, which works to provide beauty therapy training and skills to victims of abject poverty and modern day slavery, with a goal of restoring dignity and hope to lives devastated by exploitation. Start the week off with a visit to Etsy Cambridge’s pop-up shop at the Round Church on 28 February and pick up a handmade treat from one of the 18 makers. Then on 3 March, head down to the Arts Picturehouse for a red carpet experience and special screening of Advanced Style; a fascinating portrait of the sartorial exploits of seven New Yorkers aged 69-95 who are challenging conventional ideas of style, beauty and aging. The next night, there’s a catwalk show at the Quy Mill Hotel featuring Ottoman inspired designers and exciting new British label, I-Unique, as well as in-store fashion events at LK Bennett, John Lewis and Hobbs. The CSW Innovate Conference on the 6th provides an opportunity for business owners and those looking to progress their career to hear inspirational speakers, network and pick up business skills, along with another catwalk show at the Quy Mill Hotel. Heading into the weekend, on Saturday 7th, Revolution on Downing Street will host the #CambsMeetup Blogger Event. In the evening, don your ritziest gown and make a beeline for the glamorous Icon Ball at the Quy Mill Hotel, and if you’re tying the knot, get inspired on Sunday 8th at the CSW Wedding Fair. Rounding off the event in style will be a thank you party at nightspot Kuda on Sidney Street. www.cambridgestyleweek.com

CAMBRIDGE AFFORDABLE VINTAGE FAIR Retro fans listen up! The Cambridge Affordable Vintage Fair returns this month for the first time since its huge January sale, promising a treasure trove of pre-loved and handmade goodies for savvy shoppers. Taking place on 8 March at the Guildhall, the event gathers together more than 45 traders and designer-makers, who’ll be tempting you with fashion, accessories and jewellery from the 1920s onwards. There’ll also be collectables and ephemera on offer, as well as a few homewares to help complete your dream vintage look, plus a fabulous tea party with board games, magazines and cupcakes galore. Best of all, this event prides itself on its affordability, and it’s just £2 on the door (under 12’s go free). Open 10.30am-4.30pm. Search Cambridge Affordable Vintage Fair on Facebook for more info.

CE03_085 (FASHION NEWS) ljc.indd 85

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 85

19/02/2015 14:49

FASHION WORDS NICOLA FOLEY

DOTTED TULLE SKIRT £39 LA REDOUTE

COOL FOR SCHOOL Take our word for it, tulle is big news right now. At Burberry it was all about ballerina-style floaty skirts teamed with cropped denim jackets, while Christopher Kane models wore show-stopping evening gowns with tulle accents. A perfect spring look, we reckon this one’s going to be a huge high street hit: get a head start with ASOS’s cute pink number, teamed with a simple tee. Instant girly glam.

SS15 BURBERRY

EASILY Tapping into fashion’s current love of all things 1970s, suede is the fabric of the hour, popping up in the shows of designers including Jason Wu, Ralph Lauren and Derek Lam. To bring it bang up to date, opt for pastel hues and simple cuts in a lightweight fabric. Check out Mint Velvet’s biker jacket, or for a nod to the trend, pick up Accessorize’s fringed suede tote.

RIGHT: FASHION UNION TULLE MINI PROM SKIRT £20 ASOS NEEDLE & THREAD TULLE MIDI SKIRT £55 ASOS

TALL PREMIUM SUEDE BIKER JACKET AND SKIRT £280 TOPSHOP, GRAFTON CENTRE AND GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

LEATHER FRINGED TOTE £55 ACCESSORIZE, PETTY CURY, CAMBRIDGE

SUEDE FRONT SHIFT DRESS £60 TOPSHOP, GRAFTON CENTRE AND GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE PLAYSUIT £75 SHIRT £35 MISS SELFRIDGE, PETTY CURY, CAMBRIDGE

86 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_090-091 2(FASHION)dp.indd 86

SUEDE SKIRT £65 MISS SELFRIDGE, PETTY CURY, CAMBRIDGE

CLEAN SUEDE BIKER £259 MINT VELVET, ROSE CRESCENT, CAMBRIDGE

19/02/2015 12:21

FASHION

STATEMENT JACKET £65 WHITE STUFF, TRINITY STREET, CAMBRIDGE

PRINTED FLOWY CREPE KAFTAN £39.99 ZARA, ST ANDREW’S STREET, CAMBRIDGE

Japanese influences popped up on various ss15 catwalks, with the kimono – a trend which has been simmering along nicely for a while – proving it’s sticking around for at least another season. The key to working the look is to keep the rest of your outfit pared down and opt for all-out opulence with your kimono: we love Zara’s intricate floral number.

GANNI GARDENIA KIMONO IN FLORAL SEQUINS £225 ASOS

LIA KIMONO £69 PHASE EIGHT, GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

CE03_090-091 2(FASHION)dp.indd 87

LONG EMBROIDERED KIMONO £59.99 ZARA, ST ANDREW’S STREET, CAMBRIDGE

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 87

19/02/2015 12:21

FASHION

PLIMSOLLS £7.99 NEW LOOK, LION YARD, CAMBRIDGE

CHISWICK JUMPER, £95 REISS, TRINITY STREET, CAMBRIDGE

TEXTURED CREW KNIT, £12 PRIMARK, BURLEIGH STREET, CAMBRIDGE

SPLINTER SHOE £20 RIVER ISLAND, GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

OFF-WHITE LEATHER SLASH DETAIL TUX TRAINERS £65 TOPMAN, GRAFTON CENTRE AND GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

COTTON CREW NECK SWEATER £75 JAEGER, TRINITY STREET, CAMBRIDGE

STRUCTURED TOP £19.99 ZARA, ST ANDREW’S STREET, CAMBRIDGE FINE STRIPED SWEATER £25.99 ZARA, ST ANDREW’S STREET, CAMBRIDGE

TED BAKER COPPUL CABLE KNIT JUMPER £89 GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

88 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_092 (MEN FASHION) kgdp.indd 88

19/02/2015 14:11

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 89

20/02/2015 15:01

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 90

20/02/2015 15:01

WELLNESS

CONCEPT PHYSICAL TRAINING A new personal training suite has opened in Cambridge, offering expert direction for those wanting to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Concept Physical Training Solutions is based at Clifton Road Industrial Estate, in a spacious studio run by Ben Simons and Barry Windeatt. Says Ben: “Change begins with one small step. And then another, and another, and another. Having a guide to point you in the right direction and keep you on track makes all the difference. If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you! “Our goal is to create a focused, integrated fitness system that will bridge the gap between the work of doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists and nutritionists with the skills and knowledge of qualified exercise specialists. Our coaches, trainers and advisors offer an unprecedented level of service and professionalism, consistency and distinction, to give you the best in fitness we can offer.” www.concept-pts.com

WELLNESS LOCAL SPA EARNS ACCOLADE The Spa at Bedford Lodge has been recognised as one of the top spas in the UK at a national awards ceremony. The smart beauty and wellness retreat in Newmarket was shortlisted for Residential Spa of the Year at the Professional Beauty Awards 2015 for the ‘10 rooms or fewer’ category. Professional Beauty is the professional authority for the beauty industry and the residential spa category rewards spas that are true industry leaders through the implementation of their innovative ideas. Knowledgeable and motivated staff and the quality of customer experience are also considered by the judges. Leanna Kew, manager at The Spa said: “It’s a great honour to be recognised by such a prestigious and respected publication. We strive to educate and inspire our staff to ensure our clients receive the best care. We also stay on top of industry trends, so it’s lovely to be a finalist for an award that recognises all of those efforts.” www.bedfordlodgehotelspa.co.uk

GET SWIMMING! There’s nothing like a swim to leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated. And for kids, it’s exercise that doesn’t seem like exercise at all! Parkside Pool has several activities planned this month, including a Swim Lesson Crash Course in the school holidays for swimmers at stages 1-3. One-to-one lessons will also be available. Then, on 17, 18 and 19 April, it’s the charity Swimathon, raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Finally, let the kids jump all over some inflatables at the Super Sunday Family Sessions, last Sunday of every month. The giant floats and inflatables create a colourful, aquatic adventure playground. www.better.org.uk

CE03_091 (WELLNESS) ljcdp.indd 91

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 91

19/02/2015 15:20

BEAUTY WORDS DAISY DICKINSON & CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

nottheninetofive.com

Whether you're throwing a chic cocktail celebration for 20 on the Varsity roof terrace, hosting a hoedown for 100 at South Farm or tentatively tiptoeing down the aisle of one of the college chapels as you marry a minor royal (we can dream), we've got a selection of beauty looks that'll get you to the church on time, and looking fabulous. Just pick the one that's most like your dream wedding and start writing your shopping list...

A MODERN TAKE ON VINTAGE COUNTRY This look's been around for at least five years and isn't going anywhere fast: with flowers in your hair, an ivory lace tea-length dress and a gentle smile on your lips, chances are you're dreaming of a perfectly rural wedding, possibly with a hipster twist.

• GET THE GLOW Drink gallons of water before the big day, then keep your skin light and dewy, without too much foundation or powder. A tinted moisturiser or light foundation-type liquid such as Revlon's Photoready Skin Lights (£11.99, Boots) will give you coverage without weighing you down, and Bare Minerals' new bareSkin Perfecting Veil (£22, bareminerals.co.uk) will set your makeup and keep your skin well moisturised.

92 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_096-098 (BEAUTY)dpkg.indd 92

19/02/2015 12:25

BEAUTY

• ENGLISH ROSE Not too pink and not too red: Korres Lip Butter in Quince (£6.40, asos.com) will keep your lips kissable and the perfect shade of bitten rose pink. Keep it with your bridesmaid for immediate freshening up. Use Bobbi Brown's shimmer powder blush in Pink Sugar (£19, John Lewis) for a gentle, flushed glow – dust a tiny amount onto the apples of your cheeks as a finishing touch.

• NATURAL NAILS Start taking a dedicated supplement about six weeks beforehand to boost your nails' strength and length – then keep them fortified with a cuticle oil such as Bio Sculpture Cuticle Oil (£5.40, biogel.co.uk) formulated with almond oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil and Vitamin E to rehydrate the cuticle and the nail plate.

COOL URBAN SOPHISTICATION If Holly Golightly was to throw a wedding, yours would be her bash of choice: an evening soiree, a beaded, floor-length gown and free-flowing martinis all round.

• SOFT SMOKY EYES No need for a full-on gothic approach, especially if you're opting for strong lips as well – a soft, smoky eyeshadow will add definition and depth. Dark plums and greys worn on the eyes create a look that's perfect when you're the centre of attention. What's more, it'll look fabulous in photographs. Try the new Double Exposure palette from Smashbox: 14 shadows that give extra pigment when used with a damp brush (£37, Boots).

• BURGUNDY LIPS The only drama you need at your wedding, a dark lip is the definition of glamour without overstating it. Choose a shade of lipstick a few tones darker than your usual selection for true urban style (be sure to try this out well in advance of the big day). We love Smashbox Be Legendary Long-wear Lip Lacquer in Dark Plum for brave brides (£19, Boots).

• POWDER-PERFECT SKIN This is the first and only time we'd tell you to dodge a foundation with an SPF, because not only are you holding your event at night but the reflective properties of some brands can also make you look pale under camera flashes, which your guests are almost guaranteed to be using to capture your event. Find your new favourite foundation early. You can't go wrong with Mac Studio Fix (£21.50, Mac).

CE03_096-098 (BEAUTY)dpkg.indd 93

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 93

19/02/2015 12:26

BEAUTY

DOWNTON, DARLING It's not just the Americans who are going nuts for this series: Downton's been a big hit for 2015 brides as well. Your guests can delight in a post-Edwardian English tea party fit for Princess Kate (and Wills), with faux-fur wraps, rounds of bridge and hopefully minimal scandal…

• MATT MAGIC The great thing about using this as a theme is that women in this era didn't wear much makeup, so you're hunting out a polished natural look. Primers with mattifying properties will give you a classy glow fit for a duchess without flattening your face. Try Sleek Control Shine & Prime (£7.99, Superdrug).

• THE EYES HAVE IT Try soft pinks and taupes on your eyes – we love this nude set from NYX, which offers 20 neutral eye shadows and ten lip colours in a portable palette for touch-ups on the go (£25, nyxcosmetics.co.uk).

• (MRS) BROWN A softer mascara in brown is perfect for brides seeking an effortless look, and Yves Saint Laurent's Luxurious Mascara for a False Lash Effect in No.2 Rich Brown regularly tops the charts for a reason (£25, feelunique.com). Don't forget those brows: we love Rimmel's Brow This Way styling gel, which is an absolute steal at just £2.99 (Boots).

• NICELY NUDE For that barely there, but totally reliable stay-put pout, we have to give a nod to the Kendall Jenner nude lip. Our favourite way to recreate this subtle pop of colour is with the Smashbox Always Sharp Lip Liner (£19), which comes in a variety of nudes. Pick one close to your own lip colour, then use Be Legendary Lipstick in Latte Matte or Honey (£16, Boots).

94 | Cambridge Edition | March 2015

CE03_096-098 (BEAUTY)dpkg.indd 94

19/02/2015 12:25

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 95

20/02/2015 15:02

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 96

20/02/2015 15:02

EDUCATION

WORDS SIMON ARMITAGE

Simon Armitage, senior teacher at the Stephen Perse Foundation, looks at how innovation can bring learning to life here is always debate in education and, as everyone went to school, everyone has a view. We have recently seen a substantial overhaul of the examination systems – which have been accused of being too lenient and not traditionally demanding enough – but at the same time there is a great opening of possibilities for teaching and learning with the use of innovative resources. These two aspects of education seem to be set against each other, but there is a way through – partly because there simply has to be, and partly because there is great talent in the teaching profession, as well as great enthusiasm in young people to learn. At least, there is when information is presented in an interesting, relevant and inspiring way. Combining the traditional with the innovative is a challenge for all teachers, but the possibilities have never been so plentiful. For example, classes at the Stephen Perse Foundation have recently received a gift from one of their Biology teachers which does just that, in the form of 12 iBooks Textbooks for their IGCSE Biology syllabus, written from the school's Biology department with their own classes in mind. Writer Alex van Dijk, one of the school’s Biology teachers, now doubles as an international iBooks Textbooks author, and has already seen over 10,000 downloads of his IGCSE course in the first month. All the Textbooks are fully multimedia and multitouch, meaning that students can interact with the pages, triggering animations and video and discovering more depth and detail. What is perhaps most surprising is that all these resources are free and available across the globe, because we want to be part of a world that shares teaching resources and improves education.

This is just one example of the marriage of traditional subject content and rigorous examination preparation with an innovative resource, which can be used by every one of the school’s students. There are plenty of other examples at the Foundation which show how innovations can bring learning to life. Recently, the school’s Director of Sixth Form was asked if he would like to coordinate a link-up between some of his students and children who have been made refugees from the Syrian conflict. Online links have now made this a reality, with students Skyping directly. A world of issues that might seem distant and academic has become real and engaging with a little help from technology. Who knows what is round the corner in terms of possibilities? Even as I write this, my own Year 9 Geography class has been looking at a map of Facebook connectivity as it was in 2010 and comparing it with a similar map from 2014, made near to the ten-year anniversary of the founding of

CE03_103 (EDUCATION 2)dpkg.indd 97

this social media giant. Such change in such a short period, but Stephen Perse Foundation students are receiving a strong grounding in how to manage this new world, and that is important in an approach that promotes flexibility and life-long learning. When people see children learning in different ways, they may sometimes be sceptical as to whether high-quality results can still be produced in traditional examinations. We're not finding that this is an issue. Students appreciate the support that the digital resources can give to their learning when it comes to revision, and are remembering their lessons more clearly because the activities are more engaging. In the end, we should never underestimate the capabilities of children and their willingness to adapt and learn. Children pick up iPads and pens with equal enthusiasm. It's all about choosing the right tools for the job, and if those tools are a piece of paper, a pencil and some glue, then so be it!

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 97

19/02/2015 16:20

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 98

20/02/2015 15:02

EDUCATION

WORDS DR HEATHER MARTIN

Dr Heather Martin, Head of Languages and Enrichment at St Faith's School, looks at how Twitter can offer a cultural treat for language learners… witter is the linguistic equivalent of pass-the-parcel or a lucky dip: the surprise package, the unexpected gift, the teaching-and-learning equivalent of manna from heaven. So long as you are judicious in your choice of account to follow, you can select a tweet to study almost at random. And even while learning language, you are learning about the world, in a way that is fragmentary, episodic and frequently biased, but nevertheless offers a tantalising taste of what is out there. I introduced my pupils to the timeline of the Spanish daily Marca, founded during the Spanish Civil War (adding a dash of social history to the mix) and with a readership of over three million. In the print edition, 90% of its pages are devoted to football. Then we realised that the premier league clubs all have Spanishlanguage accounts – not surprisingly, given the growth of Spanish as a global language and Spain's dominance in the world of football. Suddenly we had Juan Mata and David de Gea on our side. Imagine the delight when Manchester United came to town for the ‘cuarta ronda’, the fourth round of the FA Cup – ¡Qué romántico! In the excitement of anticipation, we discovered the future tense: #mufc will play (“jugará”) tomorrow, Falcao will be (“será”) part of the starting 11, will he score (“logrará anotar”)? And fast-forward for

a quick recap: the replay will be played (“se jugará”) at Old Trafford. During the match, it's the full-on drama of the present tense. Fellaini and Di María are coming out (“están saliendo”) to warm up; Van Persie comes on (“ingresa”) and Fellaini goes off (“sale”). Punctuated by the disappointment and finality of the simple past, the grammatical equivalent of the collective groan or sharp intake of breath: Januzaj had (“tuvo”) a strike, Van Persie had a first chance at goal, but Dunn saved (“detuvo”), the hero of the hour. And while commentators berate individual players for rash tackles and foolish fouls, we are intent on the serious business of grammatical agreement, oblivious to the pandemonium on the pitch and studiously matching the adjectives ‘red’ and ‘yellow’ to the feminine noun ‘card’: tarjeta roja, tarjeta amarilla. Twitter is also populated by eco warriors, poised to prick the conscience of the casual playground litterbug, stir youngsters into action in defence of forests or remind them of the importance of conserving water (“el valor de cada gota” – the value of each drop; “una sola colilla puede contaminar ocho litros de agua” – a single cigarette butt can contaminate eight litres of water). These threads score over football in terms of visuals, with inspirational photos and infographics to reinforce the message. “En tus manos está la solución, sólo debes tomar una decisión,” says @fundaciónazul: “The solution is in

Twitter makes the perfect starter to the lesson, like an amuse-bouche before the more substantial main course SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

CE03_105 (EDUCATION)dpkg.indd 99

your hands, all you have to do is make a decision.” This sounds better in Spanish, because it half-rhymes, but more importantly it demonstrates the use of ‘estar’ (‘to be’) for location in a real context. It also includes words ending in the suffix ‘ción'/'sión’. Not only can you announce with absolute conviction that all such words will be feminine nouns, you can deliver a ready-made, prêt-à-manger vocabulary of similar cognates, all served up on a plate. Meanwhile, the incidental hashtag ‘#QuierounmundosinBASURA’ ("I want a world without RUBBISH") lends itself to endless adaptation. I want a pizza without mushrooms or a sandwich without lettuce; I want a school without homework and a world without war. What do you want? There are even moments of beauty. “Doesn't ‘estrella’ mean ‘star’?” asks one girl, tentatively, as we follow the plot of El Clásico, the iconic match-up between Real Madrid and Barça. We agree it does, but note that in this case it is used as a reflexive verb (“se estrella”). That strike by Benzema exploded off the side netting like a starburst in the sky. The poetry of Twitter metaphorically revealed in a blaze of footballing glory: no threat to Lorca or Neruda, but still a moment of epiphany to inspire a future generation of linguists. Twitter makes the perfect starter to the lesson, like an amuse-bouche before the more substantial main course. Or, if you want to make a meal of it, think of a tempting array of tapas, bite-sized morsels of information and instruction. Either way, you and your children are in for a cultural treat.

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 99

19/02/2015 16:21

CE ADS_MARCH.indd 100

20/02/2015 15:03

BUSINESS

COLLABORATIVE CAMBRIDGE MEETUP Each month, Cambridge Business Lounge hosts a breakfast meetup focused on collaborative problem solving. This month’s event is on 20 March, 8am-9.30am, and as usual guests are encouraged to bring their challenges and ideas to the hub to be worked through as a group. These group sessions enable people from different industries and with different experiences to work together to overcome problems and brainstorm solutions, and then there’s the opportunity to co-work for the rest of the day with discounted desk space, high speed Wi-Fi and coffee (breakfast £10). www.cambridgebusinesslounge.com

BUSINESS NEWS

ENTERPRISEWISE CAMBRIDGE LAUNCH YOUR SOCIAL VENTURE BOOTCAMP Want to launch a social venture but don’t know where to start? Pop along to Future Business Centre on 31 March and get the practical advice and inspiration you need to make your idea a reality. The Social Venture Bootcamp is geared towards those looking to set up an organisation with the purpose of making a positive social impact, be it a charity, social enterprise, limited company or community or voluntary organisation. The day will cover everything from securing funding, creating a test product and understanding your niche, right the way through to launching your venture. It will also offer a valuable opportunity to network with others trying to do social good, plus delegates will have the option to join a 60-day support programme, which includes a weekly drop-in, co-working group. Places are free but must be booked in advance. launch-your-social-venture.eventbrite.co.uk

CE03_101 (BUSINESS NEWS) ljc.indd 101

This month, the Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning at the Judge Business School will once again host its EnterpriseWISE event, an opportunity for women looking to unlock their entrepreneurial potential and boost their business skills. Aimed at females in the science, engineering and technology sectors, this inspiring two-day course is designed and delivered entirely by women. The programme allows attendees to learn from entrepreneurial role models, understand business strategies and planning, learn about finance and pitching for investment and understand how to work effectively with a variety of external organisations, amongst many other essential skills relating to business venture creation, research projects and the commercialisation of innovations. EnterpriseWISE takes place on 14-15 March, and the next date for your diary is 2-3 May. www.cfel.jbs.cam.ac.uk

Cambridge Edition | March 2015 | 101

19/02/2015 14:43