T’S ON GUIDE. SOUTH WALES WHA SEPT 2015
IRIS 2015 IRIS PRIZE FILM FESTIVAL
TEN YEARS OF
THE WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
GERAINT THOMAS:
“THERE’S ALWAYS CRASHES AND A LOT OF BROKEN BONES” PLUS BAFTA CYMRU AWARDS | FOOD FESTIVALS | ELVIS | WNO | ELIS JAMES
DANCE CONSORTIUM YN CYFLWYNO \ PRESENTS
HUD, CERDDORIAETH, MASGARA - MAE’R TROCKS YN ÔL! THE MAGIC, THE MUSIC, THE MASCARA! THE TROCKS ARE BACK!
HHHHH
‘ONE OF THE FUNNIEST EVENINGS YOU’LL EVER SPEND IN THE THEATRE’ TIME OUT
Hyd 16 & 17 Oct
YN SERENNU / STARRING
JOHN
OW E N -J O N E S
KERRY
ELLIS
RHYDIAN
RO B E R T S
Yn bosibl diolch i / Made possible by
BTTB_BuzzAd_20_08_15_v03.indd 1
20/08/2015 16:39:36
sept2015
buzz... publisher EMMA CLARK editor HEATHER ARNOLD listings/music editor NOEL GARDNER advertising EMMA CLARK film technician (buzz tv) JAYDON MARTIN administration TERESA CLARK designer POLAR 10 contributors KEIRON SELF (FILMS), LOIS ACARDI, LLOYD BEST, ELLEN DAVIES, SAM EASTERBROOK, BEN GALLIVAN, JAMIE GILLINGHAM, ROB HARRIES, RYAN HEEGER, RHIANON HOLLEY, ALYS HURN, JASMINE ISAKSSON, ADAM JONES, MAB JONES, CONOR KNIGHT, GARETH MOULE, LYNDA NASH, CHRIS PEACH, CHARLIE PIERCEY, RHONDA LEE REALI, ANDREW PAUL REGAN, TANGWEN ROBERTS, HUGH RUSSELL, OWEN SCOURFIELD, CHRIS SEAL, WILL STEEN, THOMAS STEWART, JEN THORNTON, MAIR UNWIN phone number 029 2022 6767 general enquiries info@buzzmag.co.uk editorial editorial@buzzmag.co.uk listings listings@buzzmag.co.uk advertising marketing@buzzmag.co.uk accounts accounts@buzzmag.co.uk BUZZ MAGAZINE 220C Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1GY published EAC PUBLISHING contents ARCTIC SWELL by CHRIS BURKARD (INTERNATIONAL OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL) cover BOXEADORA (IRIS)
06roundup
“Are you a film lover who isn't afraid to get your feet wet?”
10upfront
Yes, it's a case of not so much gay and lesbian as hooray and thespian in Buzz this month, and inclusivity fans can be assured that if I could think of a rhyme for 'transgender' than that would be in there too. Annual LGBT film fest, the Iris Prize, is subject to a double page spread and a handy don'tpullout timetable. Plus words on/with BAFTA Cymru, Elis James, the Wales Millennium Centre, the Diffusion Festival and more
32film
Someone purporting to be a regular reader, even a fan, of this magazine wrote me an email last month which included an observation about Keiron Self''s film reviews. To him, and him alone, I say: fair comment, but this section remains a warm comfort in an unpredictable world, and death to he who would take away those puntastic closing sentences and frequent use of the term 'chewing the scenery'
34food&drink
You've heard of drinks that put hairs on your chest, well I can't speak for the barmaid pictured in the Cardiff Gin Festival photo – but it's possible that the popular botanical spirit we know and love has set her fringe at an angle similar to a launch ramp and turned her eyebrows as black as an IRA balaclava
38previews
Writing on the Art page about a exhibition based around a borked hard drive, and our relationship with data in the digital age, Tangwen Roberts bodies all challengers this month in the competition to use the highest average number of letters per word. Next to her, all other Buzz writers are hooting apes failing to invent fire
46reviews
It's possible that this actually says more about my own overactive imagination than anyone else's, but the fictional scenario cooked up in our review of the Drinks album kinda maybe sorta infers that Cate Le Bon and the other guy in the band recorded it during a night of passion. Let me just state for the record that this is not the official view of Buzz magazine
51lifestyle
Late summer, early autumn or whatever part of the year the gods decide this actually is brings with it a glut of food festivals. I will be attending all the ones listed on p.52-53, and while I won't be eating or drinking anything I will be grabbing as many free toothpicks as I can carry
59listings
I can't quite figure out if my 'recognise the state of Israel' joke on p.67 totally works, but I think it could have potential in a more specific situation
78competitions
Q: Which leading lads' mag left the shelves in 2014? A: All of them, when I bought them, whenever they came out. I love lads' mags and hope they last forever
www.buzzmag.co.uk • www.twitter.com/buzz_magazine • www.facebook.com/buzzsouthwales
Friday 4 September 2015
Saturday 5 September 2015
Sunday 13 September 2015
Y PLAS, CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
Friday 18 September 2015
Tuesday 22 September 2015
Tuesday 22 September 2015
MARK LANEGAN BAND PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
DAN OWEN PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
SWEET BILLY PILGRIM PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
JESSE MALIN PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
GIRL FRIEND PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
CROSBY, STILLS & NASH
THE MOON CLUB, CARDIFF
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
MOTORPOINT ARENA CARDIFF
Thursday 24 September 2015
Saturday 3 October 2015
Sunday 4 October 2015
EVILE PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
PEACE PLUS SPLASHH / YAK
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
JACK SAVORETTI
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
THE GREAT HALL, CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
SIN CITY, SWANSEA
Sunday 4 October 2015
Saturday 10 October 2015
PAUL POTTS TOUR 2015 PLUS SOPHIE EVANS
30TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT - PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
10 Oct ABERDARE COLISEUM 11 Oct PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE
THE SHIRES PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
THE GLEE CLUB, CARDIFF BAY
BUZZ 4
MIKE PETERS & THE ALARM WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
PORT TALBOT
Friday 23 October 2015
Monday 26 October 2015
Thursday 29 October 2015
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
THE TRAMSHED, CARDIFF
Tuesday 3 November 2015
Tuesday 3 November 2015
Wednesday 4 November 2015
CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF
Y PLAS, CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
BRANGWYN HALL, SWANSEA
DAN OWEN + JACK WATTS
Friday 13 November 2015
Sunday 29 November 2015
STONE FOUNDATION PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
SUNDARA KARMA
EAVES PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
THE STAVES PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
STEVE HARLEY & COCKNEY REBEL
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
HAPPY MONDAYS PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
FUEL ROCK CLUB, CARDIFF
THE GREAT HALL, CARDIFF UNI
RICHARD AND ADAM
Saturday 12 December 2015
Monday 14 December 2015
21 Nov PARK AND DARE, TREORCHY 27 Nov THEATRE HAFREN, NEWTOWN
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
ST DAVIDS HALL, CARDIFF
Y PLAS, CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
5 Nov NOAH’S YARD, SWANSEA 6 Nov REDHOUSE, MERTHYR TYDFIL 7 Nov LE PUB, NEWPORT
THE PICTUREBOOKS
HOTHOUSE FLOWERS PLUS RAINY BOY SLEEP
ONLY MEN ALOUD
ASH
All tickets available from
ORCHARDENTERTAINMENT.CO.UK | 02920 230 130 BUZZ 5
roundup
WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
BRIEFLY
pic: ARTIC SWELL by CHRIS BURKARD
EVENT
ATTENTION ALL WHOVIANS! I hope you’re all excited because after a long wait, Doctor Who is finally returning to TV. Tune in to BBC One for the premiere of season nine on Sat 19 Sept. Peter Capaldi reprises his role as the 12th incarnation of the Doctor and Jenna Coleman continues as the everwonderful companion Clara Oswald. Info: www.bbc.co.uk
INTERNATIONAL OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL Are you a film lover who isn’t afraid to get your feet wet? Or perhaps an ocean enthusiast, curious about what it’s like to catch the next thrilling wave? If that’s the case, we might have the perfect event for you. The Australian-founded International Ocean Film Festival (IOFF), a travelling film festival that aims to enhance our understanding and awareness of the ocean, celebrates the powerful force of the sea. After a successful first year in 2014, the festival is now returning to the UK and Porthcawl in particular. The festival will be showing a selection of short films, each of them themed around the big blue wet thing and those people who choose to live their lives by and for the waves. From the depths of the Indian Ocean to the cold Arctic landscape, the films will show you something different and enthralling. If you’re ready to jump in, the IOFF will take you on an awe inspiring journey. Just don’t forget your goggles. International Ocean Film Festival, Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl, Sat 19 Sept. Tickets £12 / £10.50 conc / £10.80 groups of six or more. Info: 01656 815995 / www. grandpavilion.co.uk
• BOOKLOVERS! Cardiff and Newport SANDS are happy to announce an evening with author of thirteen national best-selling novels (including Husbands and Young Wives’ Tales) Adele Sands. This fundraising event will be held on Saturday 11 Sept at the Park Inn by Radisson in Cardiff. Tickets will cost £15 (all going to the charity) and also includes a talk by Adele. Info: www.cardiff-sands.co.uk
•
PEDAL POWERED OUTDOOR FILM FESTIVAL
EVENT
It’s not often that you get Disney classics, inspirations sports movies and 80s Czech comedy in the same film festival. It’s even rarer to have all these films brought to you by the power of the pedal, but the cycle-minded people behind Pedal Powered Pictures are doing just that. Community organisation Green City events have teamed up with bike-themed generator builders The Pedal Emporium, government scheme Cynefin and the local people of Plasnewydd to host the festival. Volunteers will be taking to the bikes to screen Czech comedy Slunce, Seno A Pár Facek on Fri 4 Sept, followed by family favourite The Lion King and ultimate underdog movie Cool Runnings on Sat 5 Sept. As Cool Runnings tells the tale of Jamaica’s first bobsleigh team, Jamaican takeaway Jerk It will also be on hand to plate up some Caribbean-themed street food. On top of the green-friendliness of pedal power, the tickets are a measly £1 per screening and all the money will go towards local initiatives. So you can feel good about helping the local community simply by sitting back and grabbing some popcorn. Pedal Powered Outdoor Film Festival, Plasnewydd Community Garden & Centre, Fri 4 + Sat 5 Sept. Tickets: £1. Info: www.pedalpoweredpictures.co.uk BUZZ 6
NEW POSSIBILITIES ARE being made for artists thanks Pontardawe Arts Centre and the Arts Council Of Wales. The Chrysalis Programme is a brand new programme specifically aimed to support the creative development of two individual artists. With awards winning writer and director Louise Osborn behind the wheel (as Creative Co-Ordinator) the chosen artist/companies will given creative mentorship and a bursary up to £4,000. If you’re interested the deadline for submission is Mon 5 Oct. Info: www.nptartsandents.com
HINTERLAND/Y GWYLL RETURNS FILM
DCI Tom Mathias returns to our screens this month for the second series of the gorgeously grizzly Hinterland/Y Gwyll. You might have seen the noir crime drama on the BBC or Netflix, but Welsh language broadcaster S4C was the first to broadcast it, and will be again. The new series will premiere at 9pm on Sun 13 Sept, and continue at the same time each week. Now that the first season has set the scene, the second one promises to unravel the layers of mystery surrounding flawed but brilliant detective Mathias (played by Richard Harrington) and his colleagues as they face four more cases over eight episodes. There will also be insights into the impulsive DS Siân Owens (Hannah Daniel) and Chief Superintendent Brian Prosser (Aneirin Hughes), who has risked old friendships to introduce ex-London Met officer, Mathias, into his rural community. Filmed on location in the wild Welsh landscapes of Ceredigion, the nail-biting new episodes will premiere on S4C with English subtitles, followed by English language broadcasts on BBC Cymru Wales and BBC Four at later dates. Hinterland/ Y Gwyll, S4C, Sun 13 Sept, 9pm. Info: www.s4c.cymru/ygwyll
PADDLEFEST Are you looking for a water-themed thrill, without facing the cold temperatures of the actual sea? Well Cardiff International White Water’s Paddlefest does what it says on the tin and allows you to try out their broad range of watersports. There will be tasters taking place throughout the day, so you can check out your canoeing skills, get keen on kayaking or perfect the art of paddleboarding. If putting on a wetsuit feels like too much effort you can always sit back and just enjoy the mores festivalesque features of the event. BBQ? Check. Bar? Check. Entertainment in the form of live music and the finale of the Euro Flowrider competition? Check and check.
EVENT
Cardiff International White Water, Cardiff, Sat 5 Sept. Admission: free (tasters incur a charge). Info: 029 2082 9970 / www.ciww.com
EVENT
NEW UNDER THE SUN FESTIVAL Books! Books! Books! What more could an avid reader want than spend two whole days surrounded by authors, best-selling indie titles and likeminded literary enthusiasts? Well then, you’ll be delighted to know that the Welsh indie publisher Parthian Books is proudly hosting its second literary pop-up festival in Cardiff. The festival will include literature-themed talks (including a ‘brunch-time conversation’, how quaint), discussion and – of course – a book fair. Authors involved include Wales Book Of The Year Award 2009 winner Wiliam Owen Roberts, Rebecca F. John (who was shortlisted for both the PEN International/New Voices Award 2015 and for the Sunday Times EFG Short Story Award) and Mark Blayney, who won the Somerset Maugham Prize for his first short story collection Two Kinds Of Silence. New Under The Sun Festival, Canton Library, Cardiff, Sat 25 Sept; Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Sun 26 Sept. Tickets: £6 per event / £12 day ticket / some events free. Info: www.nutscardiff.wordpress.com
BUZZ 7
roundup
WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
STAGE
NOT SAFE FOR WORK We’re sure it doesn’t need explanation, but just in case: NSFW (or Not Safe For Work) refers to all that naughty material online that’s best viewed at home, rather than with your boss or colleagues. Taking inspiration from contemporary debates and showcasing Welsh talent, theatre company Waking Exploits are back with Lucy Kirkwood’s latest razor-sharp comedy about lads' mag culture, NSFW. Following the demise of Nuts magazine, and the uncertain future of its rival soft porn publication Zoo, NSFW taps into current debates on privacy, lad culture and power games characterising modern British life. Directed by Anna Poole, the show follows the fortunes of ailing lads' mag Dog House. Characters including Aidan, Carrie, Charlotte and Sam attempt to keep the organ alive in varying ways, via their financial acumen, journalistic abilities or willingness to be photographed topless. NSFW, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Tue 15-Sat 26 Sept. Tickets: £14/£12 conc. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org
CANALATHON EVENT
Ever wondered what it’s like to endeavour a 33-mile adventure in a gorgeous rural setting? You can find out by getting a team together and rolling up for the Canalathon 2015 team endurance challenge. After its successful first run last year, this second event is meant to celebrate 200 years of Britain’s most beautiful canal route, as well as offering a challenge which will truly get your adrenaline pumping. There are three exciting parts to the Canalathon challenge: first off, a five-mile canoe stage from Pontymoile Basin to Goytre Wharf. The second stage is a 17-mile bike challenge starting at Goytre to Llangynider. The third stage of the challenge is an 11-mile run, walk or hike which will finish in the gorgeous Brecon. Canalathon, Melin Homes, Pontypool (starting point), Sun 6 Sept. Admissions: £180 team of four / free to spectators. Info: www.mbact.org.uk
pic: JON PHILLIPS (MUEN PHOTOGRAPHY)
BONEYARD LAUNCH
EVENT
Co-working spaces are popping up everywhere, and Cardiff is no exception. If you are a freelancer or self-employed and looking for a space to base your small business, other than the kitchen table, look no further. Bone Yard, a new co-working space, will be opening their doors with a launch party on Fri 4 Sept at their re-purposed scaffolders yard in Canton. Offering music, craft beer and a BBQ, Bone Yard will be showcasing their reconditioned shipping containers, available for hire as office, studio and workshop spaces, furnished and fully kitted out with wifi and power points. The Bone Yard is currently home to businesses from cake-making and alternative therapies to graffiti artists and illustrators, and with five of the 10 containers already occupied you best get down there to secure yours. The Bone Yard Launch, Llandaff Road Industrial Estate, Canton, Fri 4 Sept, 4pm-11pm. Admission: free. Info: www. theboneyardcardiff.com
BUZZ 8
Jim Davidson
The Robert Cray Band
Richard Thompson
Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra
Dresden Philharmonic
Welcome to Night Vale
Steve Hackett
Calan & The Gentle Good
The Ultimate Eagles
Monday 12 October Dydd Llun 12 Hydref
Friday 16 October Dydd Gwener 16 Hydref
Saturday 10 October Dydd Sadwrn 10 Hydref
Tuesday 6 October Dydd Mawrth 6 Hydref
Wednesday 7 October Dydd Mercher 7 Hydref
Tuesday 22 September Dydd Mawrth 22 Medi
Tuesday 15 September Dydd Mawrth 15 Medi
Friday 25 September Dydd Gwener 25 Medi
Thursday 8 October Dydd Iau 8 Hydref
BUZZ 9
roundup
WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
LLEUCU SIENCYN
SPORT
With Roald Dahl Day taking place this month, and his centenary round the corner, we talk to the Chief Executive of Literature Wales Lleucu Siencyn about what they have planned.
What do you do day to day?
What we do on a daily basis is help, support, and fund writers of all abilities but also people who want to get involved with literature through organising events and activities in their own community.
How important do you think that is for Wales?
I think it’s vital that the work we do, as Literature Wales, is all about partnership and also encouraging activity. The most important people for us are the writers themselves and the organisers, the people who put on events. Our role is to encourage, engage and fund these people as much as possible.
Can you tell us a little bit about the Roald Dahl celebrations?
The Roald Dahl day this month will kick off Roald Dahl’s centenary in 2016. Literature Wales will put up guidelines for funding, which will again help and enable organisers throughout Wales to put on thier own a Roald Dahl event The scheme is called Invent Your Event and we are challenging the people of Wales to be inventive with how they put on a literature event, which is appropriate for Roald Dahl himself because invention was one of the key themes of all his books. You could be an organiser of an agricultural show, you could run a helicopter show, we’d like to hear from you and we’d like to support your literature event next year. As well, work is already in place for a huge coproduction of two of our biggest national companies: Wales Millennium Centre and the National Theatre Wales. They will be unveiling the city of their expected in September 2016 and we’re very much looking forward to seeing that. It’ll be city-wide, mass participation theatre taking over Cardiff and will really bring Roald Dahl back home.
Any other events you’ve got coming up between there and now?
As part of our Invent Your Event funding scheme – which we were given very generously by the Welsh Government’s Major Events Unit – we’ll be hoping to support festivals of all kinds in Wales and we imagine and hope a big literature festival like the Hay Festival and also smaller ones will take part. We’ve seen in the last few years a real rise in literature festival in Wales and it’s fantastic. I think literature is really having its moment in the festival circuit right now.
Info: www.literaturewales.org BUZZ 10
RUGBY WORLD CUP Though the weather may not have been great lately, the streets of Cardiff are alive and absolutely buzzing with life. Enthusiastic fans from all over the country are getting wound up and ready for the start of the Rugby World Cup. Some it will be taking place on Wales’ doorstep as well, with five upcoming matches at the Millennium Stadium. The first match, Ireland vs. Canada, kicks off on Saturday 19 Sept and will be followed by Wales v Uruguay on Sun 20 Sept, Australia v Fiji on Wed 23 Sept, Wales v Fiji on Thurs 1 Oct, New Zealand v Georgia on Fri 2 Oct and France v Ireland on Sun 11 Oct. The winners and runner-ups from both Pool C (New Zealand, Argentina, Tonga, Georgia and Namibia) and Pool D (France, Ireland, Italy, Canada and Romania) will then be battling it out in the quarter-finals on Sat 17 and Sun 18 Oct. Rugby World Cup, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Sat 19 Sept-Sun 18 Oct. Tickets from: £35. Info: www.millenniumstadium. com
BUZZ 11
roundup
WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
BOOK NOW ANDY PARSONS Pontardawe Arts Centre Wed 14 Oct Tickets: £15 Info: 01792 863722 www.pontardaweartscentre.com
ALAN CARR St. David’s Hall, Cardiff Thurs 15 Oct-Sun 18 Oct Tickets: £30 Info: 029 2087 8444 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
?
SOUTH WALES SECRET #58 Ffarmers Blacksmiths
After years of fans asking when to expect her new album, Shân Cothi sets out on tour to promote Paradwys – her first album in 10 years. The renowned Welsh singer tells Heather Arnold about the tour and shares her South Wales Secret. If you think that Shân Cothi has done nothing but contemplate her next album since 2005’s wellreviewed Passione, then you would be dead wrong. In the decade she has played the lead role in a drama, hosted her own radio show and broken the record for longest-distance duet ever. So, with so much going on, what was it that stole her attention back to the recording studio? “It was the fact that people were asking me so much, really,” Shân laughs. She wasn’t walking into that studio alone, however, as a myriad of Welsh talent have been involved in the creation of Paradwys. Harpist Catrin Finch (who also owns the Acapela Studio in Pentyrch, where the album was recorded) performs on the album, as does the Nidum Ensemble. “We’ve got a great line up of artists,” Shân states; “we’ve got Rebecca Evans, who is a Grammywinning international soprano, and Wynne Evans is on there. “When we’re out on the tour we’ve got Rebecca performing at seven out of the nine concerts. Wynne will be singing at the show in Aberaeron, I’ve BUZZ 12
also got the amazing tenor Aled Hall, and the Royal Harpist Hannah Stone playing as well. We’ve got a really lovely team of artists. “It’s a nine-date tour across Wales in churches and one chapel. It’s lovely that we can take the album and a great line up of artists to areas that don’t get big concerts anymore which is really exciting. That’s where I grew up really, in rural Wales, and where I got the opportunities to stand on stage as a young child and nurture my craft.” Despite Shân’s tour setting up shop in a number of picturesque churches across Wales, her South Wales Secret isn’t a venue. “It’s the blacksmiths at home in Ffarmers. It’s where I used to run to after school, just to hear dad on the anvil. I’d stay there until the end and asked if I could have a ride on the horses. It’s a very old smithy and my brother still works there.” Shân Cothi, St Peter’s Church, Llandovery, Sun 27 Sept + various venues across Wales in Nov and Dec. Tickets: £10-£20. Info: www. acapelaconcerts.com
LUCY ROSE Tramshed, Cardiff Wed 21 Oct Tickets: £15 Info: www.tramshedcardiff.com
SETH LAKEMAN Pontardawe Arts Centre Thurs 22 Oct Tickets: £18 Info: 01792 863722 www.pontardaweartscentre.com
ROB BECKETT Thurs 22 Oct, Glee Club, Cardiff Bay; Sat 14 Nov, Pontardawe Arts Centre Tickets: £12-£17.50 Info: www.robbeckettcomedy.com
CARDIFF FILM AND COMIC CON 2015 Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff Sat 24 + Sun 25 Oct Tickets: £8-£172 Info: www.filmandcomicconcardiff. com
DARA Ó BRIAIN St. David’s Hall, Cardiff Sat 24 + Sun 25 Oct Tickets: £23 Info: 029 2087 8444 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
BOB DYLAN Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff Thurs 29 Oct Tickets: £50-£60 Info: 029 2022 4488 www.livenation.co.uk
“keep the village alive tour” DECEMBER 2015 Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 December
Cardiff Motorpoint Arena MYTICKET.CO.UK stereophonics.com NEW ALBUM ‘KEEP THE VILLAGE ALIVE’ OUT SEPTEMBER 11TH
SEETICKETS.COM
f/stereophonics
T/stereophonics
TICKETS ON SALE 9AM THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST A Kilimanjaro presentation by arrangement with X-ray
Events
IRIS Short Films
Irish Focus Films
Feature Films
Best of Brish Short Films
Mercher Wednesday 7th Oct
Dydd Iau Thursday 8th Oct
Dydd Gwener Friday 9th Oct
CINEWORLD
CINEWORLD
CINEWORLD + PARK INN
Iris Shorts Programme 1
10:30
Producers’ Forum 9.00am – 4pm
11:30
Education Day
Park Inn Gathering of industry professionals to share advice and discuss film
9am – 4pm 12:00
12.15 – 13.30
Chapter A series of workshops and discussions for 14-18 year olds to learn about the film industry
14:00
The Love That Dare Not Speak its Name (IRELAND)
How to Win at Checkers (Every Time)
Shorts from Ireland Programme 1 + panel discussion
Naz and Maalik
Iris Shorts Programme 2
16:30
18:00
Naz and Maalik
British Shorts Programme 1
Floating
Iris Shorts Programme 3
19:30
19:45
Shorts from Ireland Programme 2
The Smell of Us
Iris Shorts Programme 4
Fourth Man Out
SCRUM + Followers Portrait of a Serial Monogamist
20:45
22:00
LATE
BUZZ 14
Opening Night PARTY
Breakfast On Pluto (IRELAND)
The Summer of Sangaile
Jess and James
Box Office: www.irisprize.org Dydd Sadwrn Saturday 10th Oct
Dydd Sadwrn Saturday 11th Oct
CHAPTER
CINEWORLD
Dydd Sul Sunday 12th Oct CINEWORLD + PARK INN
IRIS PRGRAMME 1 CHARLIE by Shawn Ryan TITS ON A BULL by Tim Worrall BUNKER by Vibeke Heide BOXEDORA by Meg Smaker
IRIS PRGRAMME 2
Iris Shorts Programme 5
The Summer of Sangaile (1.00 pm)
NO STRINGS by Eoin Maher DANIEL by Dean Loxton D.ASUAN by Sarah Smith FALLING ANGELS by Maria Winther Olsen
Pride Cymru 1st Annual Youth Conference
10.00 am 6.30pm
How to Win at Checkers (Every Time) (12.15)
Park Inn Hotel/ CINEWORLD
IRIS PRGRAMME 3 IRIS AWARDS 12.00 – 16.30 Cineworld & Park Inn
FIRST CLUE by Susan Sullivan A STRAIGHT JOURNEY by Masamojo THIRST by Guy Sahaf HORA by Yoav Brill INTRINSIC MORAL EVIL by Harm Weistra
IRIS PRGRAMME 4 Iris Shorts Programme 6
Love in the Time of Civil War (3.00 pm)
Iris Shorts Programme 7
SCRUM
Youth Shorts
Floating
Fourth Man Out
Summer
HOLE by Martin Edralin VESSELS by Arkasha Stevenson BOA NOITE CINDERELA (GOODNIGHT CINDERELLA) by Carlos Conceigao HOLE by Tony Radevski
IRIS PRGRAMME 5 British Shorts Programme 2
Best Shorts 2015
Those People
DarkerThan Midnight 20.30
All About E
Best Feature 2015
TOMGIRL by Jeremy Asher BOY by Lucas Helth Postma EN EFTERMIDDAG (AN AFTERNOON) by Soren Green SHOWBOY by Samuel Leighton-Dore ELGIN PARK by Danny Yourd GLORIA by Luis Hernandez de la pena
IRIS PRGRAMME 6 SUNDAR by Rohan Kanawade IN THE HOLLOW by Austin Bunn SOBRE PAPEIS (PAPER AND JEANS) by Pedro Paulo De Andrade THE LITTLE DEPUTY by Trevor Anderson
IRIS PRGRAMME 7 SAN CRISTOBAL by Omar Zuniga Hidalgo PEACOCK by Ondrej Hudecek WAY TO HELL – FAHRT ZUR HOLLE by Henning Beckoff
BUZZ BUZZ15 15
upfront
IRIS INFATUATION Jen Thornton finds out that this year’s LGBT short film festival has everything from bros and rugby, to drug addiction and hand-holding.
T
he Iris Prize is one of Wales’ great success stories. Every year it has grown, developed and built a profile both in Wales and around the world. The LGBT short film prize and festival is the only short film prize in the world which allows the winner to make a new film by providing funding, support and guidance to winners. Over 50 films will be shown at this year’s festival, which includes a programme of feature films from renowned and emerging directors, alongside screenings of all 30 international short films competing for the Iris Prize. This year’s Iris Prize contending filmmakers represent nearly 20 different countries from China to Chile. Screenings of the 10 films competing for the Best of British Short will also showcase a range of LGBT short films by British filmmakers. This year’s festival opens with feature film Scrum, directed by Poppy Stockwell – who we've interviewed below. Other feature highlights include feel good delight Fourth Man Out, Tinder and forgiveness making up the key ingredients of 24-year-old Adam’s coming-out story. Jay Dockendorf’s film Naz And Maalik, tackling issues of sexuality and faith after 9/11, also promises to be an interesting watch. Both its young lead actors have already been recognised with Best Actor awards at OUTFEST 2015. Love In The Time Of Civil War, directed by Rodrigue Jean, tells the story of a young addict, Alex, who has to sell his body in Montreal. Exploring the spiral of compulsion affecting his community of friends, lovers and clients. In the shorts programme, competitors for the Iris
Prize include Way To Hell, directed by Henning Beckoff, in which Catholicism is challenged by the temptations of the outside world. Ondrej Hudecek’s Peacock tells the true story of a twisted queer romance from 19th century Bohemia, while In The Hollow documents a more recent true tale of girlfriends Claudio and Rebecca who are attached while hiking the Appalachian Trail. There are also a number of films dealing with transgender issues, including Tomgirl, which looks at what happens when childhood gender stereotypes are called into question. Also look out for Hora, by Israeli director Yoav Brill, which uses the intimate yet public gesture of two men walking down the street holding hands to explore what public admission of your sexuality means in different cultures. The Best of British Shorts programme also includes a wide range of perspectives from directors based in the UK. Nataly Lebouleux’s film Paper Thin is a subversive take on horror, psychiatry and religious fundamentalism. Want It, by Lee Haven Jones explores passion, longing and desire through the perspective of an intruder who breaks into a home and finds himself suddenly powerless. In celebration of its recent Marriage Equality Referendum, Iris’ country focus for this year will be
POPPY STOCKELL In a big show of the middle finger to the stereotype of what a gay man is, the opening film at Iris this year will be Scrum – a gorgeous documentary about the rugby players competing to be selected for the A team of the Sydney Convicts, a gay men’s rugby team in Australia. Director Poppy Stockell talks to Heather Arnold about the film. BUZZ 16
Ireland. The Irish-themed programme of screenings includes The Love That Dare Not Speak Its Name (a documentary that explores the history of LGBT rights and culture in Ireland, from Oscar Wilde’s trial to decriminalisation in 1993), Breakfast On Pluto (a comedy-drama that follows a young trans woman who leaves her Irish town and heads to London in search of her mother) and Cowboys And Angels (which tells the story of a straight civil servant who ends up with a gay flatmate). This year Iris have also announced a new Welshlanguage LGBT short film scheme supported by S4C and Ffilm Cymru Wales. The aim of the scheme – called Straeon Iris (Iris Stories) – is to encourage more LGBT stories for the screen from Wales, about Wales, and in Welsh. The scheme is open to writers and writer-director teams, and will focus on developing up to six short film scripts before selecting one to go into
When did you first hear about the Sydney Convicts and what they do? I worked on a film about the Sydney Convicts back in 2006 and I filmed their first campaign for the Bingham Cup in New York. They won the Bingham cup last year, which wasn’t a surprise to me, and I decided to make another film about them because I knew a lot of the players and the captain from the team in 2006 had now become the coach, so it was like seeing all these brothers again.
What was it that you wanted to capture this time? I wanted it to be really immersive and, I guess, to really put the audience in the scrum and be really a part of the team. I wanted it to be a personal and close so they could feel the sweat and almost smell them in their huddle.
Top Five For The Prize With so many shorts competing for the prize it can be difficult deciding what to see. Thankfully pre-selection jury member Philip Wyn-Jones has seen them all and can give us his top five films. DANIEL Dean Loxton, UK Dean Loxton trained as an actor but this is his fourth film as director. He favours an element of improvisation in his films and you can decide to what extent he does that here. Handsome, affable Daniel is a student who finances his studies by operating as a gay escort. His best friend invites him round for lunch with her Hungarian family. She’s eager for him to meet her new boyfriend. Oh dear! Was this a good idea?
ELGIN PARK Danny Yourd, USA Danny Yourd is an award-winning producer – at Sundance. This documentary is his first film as director and what a lovely debut it is. It’s a moving portrait of Michael Paul Smith and his creation, Elgin Park, a miniaturised recreation of his hometown over a period of 40 years. You may feel pangs of nostalgia while you watch this beautifully made film but Michael’s recollections are not happy ones.
GLORIA Luis Hernandez de la Rena, Mexico After winning a screenwriting competition, this director (whose backgroud is in commercials) made this film with the partial backing of a government grant. He researched the day jobs of drag artists and chose Jose Maria as his subject. He’s simply a man with two jobs. By day he’s a popular bus driver. At night he impersonates Mexican diva, Gloria Trevi. It’s the naturalness of this true story that makes it so appealing.
HORA
production. The final film will be shown as part of the Iris Prize Festival 2016 – its 10th anniversary year – and at festivals around the world. Alongside the film programme as always, the festival includes pre-showing Q&A sessions with some of the feature film directors, talks, education workshops and the Producers’ Forum. There’s a lot to look forward to from this festival which really takes Wales to the world.
Yoav Brill, Israel Yoav trained in Jerusalem and Prague and initially designed the sound for animated shorts. He was at Iris four years ago with his heartfelt animated short, Ishihara which depicted the loneliness of people who are somehow different to the ‘norm’. In the more light-hearted Hora, also an animated film, we have the dilemma of people who are together! Where is it acceptable for gay couples to hold hands in public?
Iris Prize Festival, Cineworld + Chapter Arts Centre + Park Inn Hotel, Cardiff, Wed 8 Oct- Sun 12 Oct. Tickets: £6-£7 feature films / £6-£6.50 shorts / VIP and festival tickets available. Info: 029 2023 2744 / www.irisprize.org
Trevor Anderson, Canada Here’s another familiar name. We’ve previously enjoyed three of Trevor Anderson’s films at Iris: Rock Pockets, Dinx and The Island. In his latest, he takes us back to the 1980s when Trevor tried to get his picture taken with his father. The 1980s become the 1880s and we’re in the Wild West. This is an imaginative short in which Trevor’s entertainingly laconic commentary adds to the fun.
Did you already know which people you would focus on? They were all mostly new players so instantly I found Aki, who’s the Japanese player, quite interesting. He was very quiet, a huge part of the team but with not much of a voice. I’ve always loved, not the underdog, but the less represented. And when I found out his story that just blew me away. He had googled the convicts, saved for two years and then turned up on a Wednesday, started training on the Thursday and played on the Saturday. Then there’s Pearce, the Irish guy who had such a transformation during the filming. He lost 20kg or 30kg, and with each kilo of weight loss he gained so much confidence. He was mercilessly bullied in Ireland and he just really found his voice, and for the first time found he was part of a team, and he was a really integral part of the team too. And he’s so funny. We
THE LITTLE DEPUTY
need a bit of comic relief! The coach obviously just holds the whole thing together and Brennan, well Brennan’s really good looking. Easy on the eyes is always good, right?
Do you feel that films like Scrum, which focuses on sport, are good for engaging people with LGBT stories? I think it’s really good. It’s fantastic, really! Not everyone likes rugby but I think everyone likes competition. It’s human nature to get in as part of a team, and feeling included. Scrum is really about human vulnerability, and everyone can connect with someone who’s left on the bench because they’re outcompeted by someone else. It doesn’t matter if you're gay, straight; everyone understands what it feels like to be left out. I didn’t go out there to make a film just to bash people over the head with gay rights. I wanted to
make a film that really swept you along and made you feel for these people and feel their passion, and then at the end realise ‘I’ve just watched a group of gay men’. Scrum, Cineworld, Cardiff, Wed 8 Oct, 7.45pm. Tickets: £6-£7 feature films. Info: 029 2023 2744 / www.irisprize.org BUZZ BUZZ17 17
upfront BAFTA CYMRU FACT FILE In the run up to the awards Tangwen Roberts finds out some facts you might not know about BAFTA Cymru. • BA FTA Cymru was set up as a branch of the British Academy Awards in 1991.
BAFTA CYMRU AWARDS Wales has produced some pretty good viewing this year and, with the BAFTA Cymru Awards taking place this month, Heather Arnold says it’s time to celebrate that fact. What do Sherlock, a call centre and Griff Rhys Jones all have in common? They all brought home an award at last year’s BAFTA Cymru Awards. There’s no doubt that, as a nation, Wales has been good to TV and film over the last few years. Filmed in the streets, museums and wilderness of Wales, Sherlock and Doctor Who are two of the UK's biggest dramas, Y Gwyll/ Hinterland has been broadcast on channels across the globe and we even turned a call centre in Swansea into a captivating reality TV show inventively called The Call Centre. The awards can give hard-working creatives the recognition they deserve, can shine a spotlight on new and emerging talent and say to the world ‘Hey, y’know Wales? We’ve got some good goddamn telly-making skills and you should watch!’ The BAFTAs – which stands for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, if you’ve ever wondered – hold a fair amount of influence and can draw attention to the stories people have told on film. Their stamp of approval is one that viewers respect but, when you think about it, have you ever understood how the process works? “Broadcasters, production companies and individuals can enter,” explains BAFTA Cymru’s BUZZ BUZZ18 18
Awards Manager, Rebecca Hardy. “They complete the online entry form and upload their programmes. All eligible programmes are put forward for the membership vote/juries. The members vote is really exciting as it’s a chance for industry members to vote on current welsh programming. After that, the shortlisted entries go to juries. Each jury considers the entries very carefully and select the nominees and winners. “BAFTA Cymru have no involvement in judging the entries – this is all done by either the members vote and/or the jury who look for ‘excellence’. All juries are made up of industry experts who have a wealth of knowledge in their field.” The industry members and juries have had a few months to mull over their decisions but, with so much top quality viewing to choose from, at the time of publication the nominee list is still yet to be announced but if you put your bets in the bookies now, your potential winnings will be worth more. I’m sticking my money on Doctor Who winning its 28th award. BAFTA Cymru Awards, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Sun 27 Sept. Tickets: tbc. Info: www.bafta.org/wales
• Since 2005, Doctor W ho has won 25 BA FTA Cymru Awards and has been nominated again this year. • BA FTA Cymru isn’t all about celebrating award-w inners. They also work w ith w inners to give something back to those starting out in the industr y, through a series of masterclasses hosted at Universities and FE colleges around Wales and access to some of Wales’ finest programme and filmmakers. • You can nominate yourself for a BA FTA Cymru Award in craft and performance categories, and the breakthrough Award. • BA FTA Cymru is the only BA FTA branch w ith a specific membership for industr y newbies in the first three years of their career. • This year a new categor y has been introduced: Titles A nd Graphic Identity • Chapter A rts Centre, Cardiff is the BA FTA Cymru HQ... • ...but they host events across Wales and around the World. This year BA FTA Cymru w ill be co-hosting events w ith BA FTA branches in New York and L A to shine a light on Welsh talent overseas. Closer to home, they have held screenings and masterclasses from Llanelli to Harlech and Prestatyn to Monmouth. • Last year, both Y Gwyll/Hinterland and Sherlock (finally) beat Dr. W ho to w in three awards each. • The Awards don’t just cover film and television; since 2013 BA FTA has been hosting a special Games and Interactive Awards ceremony at the annual Wales Games Development Show.
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13 Medi September
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upfront
THE TEN THEATRICAL YEARS OF THE WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE It’s been a decade since Cardiff’s Bay’s giant dome of culture opened its doors, and to celebrate the Wales Millennium Centre has lots of birthday celebrations on the calendar. Owen Scourfield takes a look what the Centre has achieved in the last 10 years and what it’s got planned next.
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ardiff has gained and cemented a reputation as a worldwide capital of culture, and the regeneration of the Bay area and construction of the iconic Wales Millennium Centre has played a huge part in putting Wales well and truly on the map. A whole decade has passed since the Queen attended the grand opening of Wales’ national centre for the performing arts in late November 2004, and this year’s 10th anniversary celebrations (which started back in Nov and are now coming to a conclusion) are the icing on the cake for what has been a monumental journey for one of Wales’ most recognisable buildings. The Centre’s opening ceremony involved the unlocking of a large padlock on the main doors with a key that had made a journey around the world. The key arrived in Cardiff Bay by boat, before being passed up to Janet Thickpenny, who had won a competition to officially open the doors for the first time. “I remember watching the Centre being built on visits to Cardiff Bay, and the mounting anticipation in Cardiff as the building took shape in the skyline,” says Janet. “I was very excited when it was announced that the Centre would open on 26th November – my 40th birthday – and that there would be a competition for a member of the public to open it. “I will never forget being first through the doors at that historic moment! Attending the evening gala concert with my mum – her delight at walking up the red carpet, the noise, the excitement and the photographers made us feel like royalty for the night.” Now a Visitor Services Assistant at Wales Millennium Centre, Janet is on the front line of the Centre’s operations. “I never dreamed I would have the opportunity
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to work at the Centre and was delighted when the opportunity presented itself. Although I had visited the Centre and attended shows through the years, I hadn't appreciated the diversity of the space and activities as I do now. I look forward with anticipation and excitement to the challenges of the next 10 years,” Janet added. World renowned concerts, operas and comedians have graced the prized stages of the Centre, and the overall 10-year cast list of performers would read as a who’s who of international superstars. The pulling power to secure the biggest and most loved West End and Broadway shows has proved a massive hit with theatre goers young and old. Showstoppers such as Cats, Les Miserables, Phantom Of The Opera (to name a few) have all filled the Donald Gordon Theatre on a number of occasions. Last Christmas, The Lion King took up residency, followed by Dirty Dancing, The Bodyguard and the classic Oklahoma. Over the 2015 festive period, Shrek sets up his swamp for a month-long run. The Centre has also been home to a number of Wales’ major arts organisations over the last decade; the highly regarded Welsh National Opera and BBC National Orchestra Of Wales both have a base on site. September is the beginning of the end of the year-long celebration performances, and there is no slowing down as a jam-packed programme is still to run. Ar Waith Ar Daith is a free event on the evening of Sat 12 Sept and is billed as a climax of the 10th anniversary programme. Come rain or shine, this outdoor performance will feature a breath-taking display of dance, procession, projection and pyrotechnics. Summoned by mythical enchantress Ceridwen, hundreds of participants from all over Wales will arrive in colourful procession, bearing gifts representing Wales' rich cultural heritage
and history. What follows is a magical evening weaving together tradition and contemporary culture through live music, dance, aerial performance, and storytelling. Visions and words are seared onto the side of the iconic building before it catches alight in fiery display and Cardiff Bay explodes with colour and light. The autumn is also full of musical classics. Broadway to the Bay, sees an all-star lineup including Kerry Ellis (Wicked), Ruthie Henshall (Chicago) and John Owen- Jones (Les Misérables and Phantom Of The Opera) to name just three, perform a number of West End and Broadway favourites, from popular classics like Miss Saigon, Les Mis, Phantom and West Side Story. A nationwide search, which took in the length and breadth of Wales, will result in over 120 of the country’s most talented 13-19-year-olds performiing one of the world's most famous musicals, Les Misérables, in Welsh. With the blessing and support of original producer Cameron Mackintosh, this unique performance is also one to look out for. In November, the Centre’s ambassador, Bryn Terfel returns to perform Puccini’s impassioned opera, Tosca. Celebrating his 50th birthday on the night, the bass baritone will be on stage with some of the world’s leading singers and the Welsh National Opera. These celebrations will be very sound foundations for the next 10 years and beyond for the Wales Millennium Centre.
According to the Centre’s Artistic Director, Graeme Farrow, “Over the next five years we’re aiming to create more, dream bigger and continue to excel in all that we do. And so next year we’ll be producing not one, but two ambitious events: the city-wide Dahl Centenary celebrations – further details of which will be released later this year – and a unique, biennial, multi-genre music festival celebrating the very best voices from across the globe.” There’s no argument that the Centre has achieved their ambition “to bring the best of the world to Wales, and bring the best of Wales to the world”. Ar Waith Ar Daith, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Sat 12 Sept. Admission: free. Info: www.wmc10.org
pic:s: ARIEL HOOP: CIRQUE ELOIZE, ANDREA LOPEZ (PRODUCTION ELOIZE)
“Visions and words are seared onto the side of our iconic building”
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upfront
ELIS JAMES
pic: idil sukan (draw HQ) As the comedic Carmarthen boy Elis James gets ready to tour his first Welsh language show, Rob Harries talks to him about whether or not he’s funnier in the mother tongue.
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I must admit that doing stand-up in Welsh is very daunting.” Elis James has been a full-time comedian since 2010 and, after a succession of successful Edinburgh shows and appearances on Russell Howard’s Good News and Sweat The Small Stuff, the London-based comic has set himself a new challenge. “I got asked to write and perform some Welsh stand-up material completely out of the blue,” says James. “The producer must have heard me on the radio and realised I could speak Welsh and before I knew it I was writing an hour-long show which is going to be filmed and shown on S4C. “It’s certainly a big challenge, but it’s one I’m enjoying because writing a new show in English for Edinburgh every year can be a bit of a grind. This is something different which I feel passionately about.” This passion for the Welsh language is something that James has always possessed (he has a Master’s degree in Welsh History) and feels there is an untapped market when it comes to stand-up comedy in his native tongue. “The great thing about it is that there’s only four or five acts so it feels more groundbreaking. If you’re watching stand-up in English you’ve obviously seen loads of different acts because the industry is quite saturated. But in Welsh I think it comes across as fresher for the punters because they simply haven’t heard it before. There’s a rich seam of material that only Welshspeaking audiences can appreciate.”
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So, does James think he’s funnier in Welsh or in English? “It’s difficult to say, but one thing I have found interesting is that when performing in Welsh I can skip a lot of the setting up that I would need to do in an English gig because the background already resonates with the crowd.” The show itself is due to be filmed this month and will be shown on S4C at a later date, and with a host of warm-up shows to hone the act, not to mention the arrival last year of his first child, James understandably gave the Edinburgh festival a miss this year. One thing comedians always talk about is the amount of money that can be lost each year just by attending the festival. Is this exaggerated, and if not why do so many acts put themselves through it? “I’ve lost money every year I’ve performed at Edinburgh,” says James. “You get a lot of acts now doing shows at the Free Fringe where the audience doesn’t have to pay to get in; you just pass a bucket around at the end and hope for the best. Of course this means that even some of the bigger acts are losing out because there is so much free comedy to be seen. But when you have a good Edinburgh it feels amazing.” With the upheaval of starting a family and perfecting stage shows in two different languages, one could be forgiven for thinking that James would want to keep his workload to a minimum, but after BBC Three sitcom Crims, where James played an unlikely young offender, he has since been cast in brand new comedy Josh,
alongside Josh Widdicombe and Jack Dee. “Josh and I have been best mates since we both got into comedy around the same time, so when he was asked to come up with a new sitcom I was delighted to be involved. And to work alongside Jack Dee, who was one of my comedy heroes growing up, was fantastic. “I’m really excited about it and I think it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.” With two sitcoms already on his CV, fans of James’s stand-up might be concerned that he plans to turn his back on the live circuit, but he’s keen to stress that this isn’t the case. “I want to continue doing live comedy but I’ve always loved sitcoms so it’s a thrill to be involved in comic acting,” explains James. “Although acting can be intense because it’s long hours over a short period, it’s a nice change from spending most of my time in the car driving all over the place. With a baby to think of now it’s definitely something I can see myself doing more of.” Elis James: Gwaith Mewn Llaw, The Welfare, Ystradgynlais, Thurs 10 Sept; Acapela, Pentyrch, Sat 12 Sept; Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Tue 15 Sept; Royal Welsh College Of Music And Drama, Thurs 17 Sept. Tickets: £4-£10. Info: www. thewelfare.co.uk / www.acapela.co.uk / www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk / www. rwcmd.ac.uk pic: IDIL SUKAN (DRAW HQ)
A co-production between Welsh National Opera, Wales Millennium Centre and West Yorkshire Playhouse in association with Royal Exchange Theatre Cyd-gynhyrchiad rhwng Opera Cenedlaethol Cymru, Canolfan Mileniwm Cymru a West Yorkshire Playhouse mewn cyd-weithrediad â Royal Exchange Theatre
8 & 9 Oct | Hyd 24 – 29 Nov | Tach 2015 wmc.org.uk 029 2063 6464
SWEENEY TODD Performed by Welsh National Opera Perfformwyd gan Opera Cenedlaethol Cymru Music and lyrics by|Cerddoriaeth a geiriau gan Book by|Llyfr gan
Hugh Wheeler
Stephen Sondheim
From an adaptation by|O addasiad gan Christopher Bond Originally directed by|Cyfarwyddwyd yn wreiddiol gan
Harold Prince
Original orchestrations by|Offeryniaeth wreiddiol gan Jonathan Tunick
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SUNDAY EXPRESS
THE TIMES
WNO Registered Charity No | Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig 221538
Ymunwch â ni ar Fedi 27 i ddarganfod pwy sydd wedi ennill Gwobr Academi Brydeinig Cymru am eu cyflawniadau ffilm a theledu.
Join us on 27 September to discover who has won a British Academy Cymru Award for their film and television achievements.
Neuadd Dewi Sant, Dydd Sul 27 Medi Drysau ar agor am docynnau cyhoeddus: 18.00
St David’s Hall, Sunday 27 September Doors open for public tickets: 18.00
Cyhoeddir Enwebeion ar Awst 26
Nominees announced on 26 August
Tocynnau VIP: £85/£55 i gynnwys derbynfa Champagne Taittinger, seremoni a pharti dathlu
VIP tickets: £85/£55 to include Champagne Taittinger reception, ceremony and after party
Tocynnau cyhoeddus: £20 i gynnwys Seremoni, Llyfryn Gwobrau a chynigion diodydd mewn bariau a bwytai lleol
Public tickets: £20 to include ceremony, limited edition Awards brochure and drinks offers at local bars and restaurants
Tocynnau o Neuadd Dewi Sant ar 02920 878500 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
Tickets from St David’s Hall on 02920 878500 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
www.bafta.org/wales
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upfront NEW WORK, NEW WORK! It’s a wonderful thing! All eyes searching for new theatre and writing might have been on Edinburgh recently, but Heather Arnold takes a look at some of the new drama coming out of Wales. BLUD
THE DROWNED GIRL
The Other Room, Porters, Cardiff Tues 1-Fri 18 Sept Hooligans: all football-obsessed skinheads who talk like Vinnie Jones? Well no, that’s not the case. Not according to new theatre company otherMother, anyway. In Blud, sisters Rita and Lou are warriors in the war between two local football clubs and have decided to take things into their own hands by kidnapping a Premier League player. However Rita’s world is flipped when Marcus, her old friend and the captain of her much-loved teams, moves to a rival club. Wales Drama Award winner Kelly Jones wrote the script and is working with her other otherMother founders Olivia Harris and Anna Poole.
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff Wed 30 Sept-Sat 3 Oct Football and violence aren’t the only topics that Kelly Jones is writing about at the moment. She’s also, as The Drowned Girl proves, writing about mermaids. This isn’t a show about mermaid princesses and their singing lobster friends, however: it’s a onewoman show about a girl called Kelly. Kelly is drowning at her dead-end retail job and her only escape is her day dreams. She dreams of the tales her late Nan used to tell her; tales of adventure, fish tails and water.
Tickets: £5-£12 / pay-what-you-can previews (Tue 1 + Wed 2 Sept only). Info: 029 2128 0189 / www.otherroomtheatre. com
TI.ME Sherman Cymru, Cardiff Wed 9-Fri 11 Sept Late last year, it was announced that bilingual theatre company Cwmni Pluen would be the Sherman’s first ever Company In Residence. Ti.Me will be the first offering since the begging of their partnership with a story that explores love – how it feels to be in it and what happens when it starts to fall apart. Do you stay, fight for and with one another, or do you go and deal with the unbearable heartbreak? With a strong combination theatre SUKAN (DRAW HQ) pic: IDIL of and live music, Ti.Me is set to be a touching choice of debut. Tickets: £5-£10. Info: 029 2064 6900 / www.shermancymru.co.uk
Tickets: £12/£10 conc. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org
RACHAEL BOULTON Theatre company Motherlode’s debut The Good Earth opens this month. We talk to founder, National Theatre Wales director Rachael Boulton. Can you tell me a little about the show? The Good Earth is inspired by events in the village of Troedrhiwgwair, Blaenau Gwent, between 1973 and 1988. Villagers fought their council for 15 years for the right to stay in their homes after being wrongly told that their natural mountain was unsafe. Did you have to do much research for the production? We certainly did carry out research into the village, as well as other post-industrial areas of Wales. We’ve also had a great time spending six weeks over the past two years in residency at the Park & Dare Theatre, Treorchy, who are co-producing the show. Our shops and schools closing down across the valleys is something that resonated with me and the ensemble. How much of the play is inspired by real people and real events? The village and the characters within the play are completely fictional. The real life story was a spring board to discovering what it was we cared about and wanted to communicate. Despite the questions in the play being serious ones, it’s a fun show with song, physical theatre and a lot of laughs. The cast have me in stitches every day – they’re a really good group of people. Why is it important to tell stories from under-represented areas of Wales? There are two things I feel passionately about. Research shows that only 10% of people working in the arts in the UK come from less privileged backgrounds. With this in mind, I think it’s important to tell stories from under-represented areas if we have the opportunity to. Often these stories, while being intrinsically Welsh, are quite universal. My family are from the Valleys – it’s the world I know and care about.
pic: THE GOOD EARTH BY MOTHERLODE
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The Good Earth, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Wed 9-Sat 12 Sept. Tickets: £12/£10 conc. Info: www. motherlodetheatre.com
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upfront
DIFFUSION PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL
pic: TODD HIDO
Like over 70 years ago, Yanks will be landing, but this time it‘ll be images on paper – not forces. Diffusion, Cardiff’s international festival of photography, is back and in focus again. Diffusion had its inaugural show back in 2013 and this celebration, which previously attracted 56,500 visitors, will be hosting events, exhibitions, performances and screenings across Cardiff in October. There’ll also be artist talks, workshops and school programmes. The biennial festival is initiated and delivered by Ffotogallery; 2015's theme is Looking For America. “The American Dream still holds an important place in the public imagination,” explains Diffusion's David Drake, “and Diffusion will explore different aspects of contemporary American experience and influence, from both sides of the Atlantic.” US photographers Jeff Brouws, Todd Hido, and Will Steacy all feature in And Now It‘s Dark – an exhibition centred on images taken at night (Brouws’ photo of a coffee shop is reminiscent of Edward Hopper’s iconic painting Nighthawks) while Kentucky’s Stacy Kranitz compares mining communities in Appalachia and Wales. Clémentine Schneidermann, in I Called Her Lisa Marie, turned her camera on folks in the orbit of The King, touching down in Memphis and Porthcawl. Having photographed fans on both sides of the Atlantic, Schneidermann observed how the America is seen in Wales. “People in Wales might have more of an American fascination,” she says. “In the states it’s their country so they don’t have the same curiosity, but I think both have the same fascination for Elvis and they all share the love for the music wherever they’re from.” There will be a touring presentation on wheels as the The Caravan Gallery will be pulling up with its extraordinary display of over 100 photos of Britain shot in the last 15 years. Cardiff Pride Of Place, the project behind the caravan, will also be asking for contributions to the collection. So grab your snaps and do some TCB – Taking Care of Business – by shooting down to Diffusion. RHONDA LEE REALI Diffusion: Cardiff International Festival Of Photography, various venues, Cardiff, throughout October. Admission: free. Info: www. diffusionfestival.org
Elvis is alive and well and living in Tweed, Ontario according to the Elvis Sighting Society – but we know that’s not true because he was spotted in Tesco last week. The King of rock’n’roll ‘left the building’ on Tue 16 Aug 1977 and yet he’s seen all round the world on a regular basis. Conspiracy theorists insist the singer faked his own death and is hiding among us. Whether you believe this or not, one place The King could hide in plain sight this month is Porthcawl, when the seaside town puts on its blue suede shoes and gets ready for some good rockin’. The annual Elvis festival – now in its 11th year – is the largest in the world and attracts more than 30,000 visitors. “Porthcawl has become an Elvis Mecca. It’s truly the Elvis capital of Europe,” organiser Peter Phillips says. Peter came up with the plan when the town’s Grand Pavilion was threatened with closure: “I’d already had the idea for an Elvis awards show for tribute acts, so thought, why don’t we do it there?” Elvis enthusiasts from across the globe now make the pilgrimage to the event – many dressed up as their idol. This year’s entertainment programme features more than 100 performances, with the Grand Pavilion being transformed into the flamboyant ‘Elvis In Vegas’ experience. There may be a party atmosphere but the music is taken seriously and this year the traditional shows are mixed with the more contemporary; there’s a brand new blockbuster finale and fans are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. Admission to shows can be purchased individually and many are free. A VIP ticket will set you back £125 and guarantees you won’t miss out on such events as the Official Festival Launch (a champagne reception at The Heartbreak Hotel where you can meet the artists and celebrities) the Best Festival Elvis Competition, and The Elvies (the most prestigious award show for Elvis tribute artists). So pack your peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwiches, head down to Porthcawl and get all shook up, aha-ha. LYNDA NASH Porthcawl Elvis Festival, Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl, Fri 25-Sun 27 Sept. Tickets: £6-£32.50/£125 VIP. Info: www.elvies.co.uk BUZZ 26
pic: CLEMENTINE SCHUDDERMAN (I WILL CALL HER LISA-MARIE)
PORTHCAWL ELVIS FESTIVAL
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upfront
FROM PROMS TO PATAGONIA This summer, the BBC National Orchestra Of Wales (NOW) have been delighting audiences at the BBC Proms and after rounding off the season at Swansea’s Singleton Park, they’re off to South America – including a residency in Patagonia. So far the season has gone brilliantly, with concerts led by conductor Thomas Søndergård receiving rapturous applause. At the Albert Hall, on Thurs 3 Sept, BBC NOW will be able to show off what they’ve been working on this year as Søndergård and the orchestra perform the world premiere of Pan: a new piece created by the company’s Composer-In-Association, B Tommy Andersson. As BBC NOW Director Michael Garvey says, with the Proms offering such an opportunity for so many world-class performances, “This festival is a wonderful endorsement of BBC National Orchestra of Wales’ quality and ability to perform such a wide variety of music.” And, despite performing at such a globally renowned event, there’s no question of nerves. “Having a live audience of 6000, critics from national and international newspapers, radio microphones and TV cameras all trained on your every note might seem daunting, but our musicians rise to the challenge for each and every performance.” And they’re sure to close on an equally high note, as the orchestra are joined on stage by the first-ever winner of the BBC Young Jazz Musician Award, Alexander Bone at the Proms in the Park in Swansea. It’s not just the audience who are looking forward it. “To have everyone join in and sing along with the BBC National Chorus Of Wales at the end of the night is such fun,” Garvey says. BBC NOW will tour South America in October, where they will be in residency in Patagonia between Thurs 22 and Fri 30. The residency will include community performances and workshops, and will conclude with two gala performances on 30 October in Trelew. TANGWEN ROBERTS Proms in The Park, Singleton Park, Swansea, Sat 12 Sept. Admission: up to £15. Info: www.bbc.co.uk/events
WELSH NATIONAL OPERA GOES MAD Welsh National Opera’s autumn season will focus on the theme of madness and include three new productions. Operas by Bellini and Handel are complemented by a new production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical Sweeney Todd. The season opens with a new production of Bellini’s I Puritani, the composer’s final opera. Widely regarded as a masterpiece, the work follows the season’s theme, with the heroine Elvira’s descent into madness providing the framework for an exquisite musical portrait of insanity. The production will be conducted by Carlo Rizzi, with a cast including celebrated tenor Barry Banks. Handel’s Orlando receives an update in this production, originally created by Scottish Opera and set in 1940s London during World War II. International countertenor Lawrence Zazzo takes the lead role, in a work which uses musical complexity to balance the inner turmoil and fevered anguish of madness to great effect. Zazzo is joined in the cast by Welsh soprano Rebecca Evans and countertenor Robin Blaze. The final piece of the season is a new production of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd. This musical has been staged all over the world, and made into a film starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. The operatic verse is certain to heighten the drama, which is already pretty high considering the show tells the story of a serial killer barber. In keeping with the season’s theme, Sweeney Todd explores not just the madness of the main characters but of society as a whole. This new production is set in the late 1970s/ early 1980s and gives a new take on the story with echoes of Thatcher’s Britain. It’s a bold move to change the setting of such a well-known work but WNO have a strong reputation for inventive and unusual productions, and this should be no exception. The cast will feature both opera and musical theatre singers with German baritone David Arnsperger taking the lead as Sweeney Todd. Theming seasons of work isn’t for everyone but WNO have shown that not only is it possible, it’s a great way to perform some less well known operas and make them fresh and relevant. JEN THORTON I Puritani, Orlando + Sweeney Todd, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Fri 11 Sept-Sun 29 Nov. Tickets: £6.50-£55. Info: 029 2063 5000 / www.wno.org.uk BUZZ 28
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profile
S E K A O N
o nt t to a ot we on n did s gon and e to t s ju ha evay opl s e ak er, henia L ng pe o e N teach nto e you i l l at Oa PE ess. A mor h t in t of usin spire a t oun emenbing b to in m g s a ourag clim opin a l w enc own e’s h o o ch o the p his ow h s , ger nks t set u out h h. In the long-term Ollie hopes to continue working with a n e t tha and find hig adults and children in the community, encouraging e t a Bu est rts aim new climbers and nurturing young talent. “I’d like to s A b. ver e nd think that we can create a centre that is bigger than b clim kle E n Ro ing a just me and hopefully the team and the community will almost take ownership and take the facility to the tac ngwe climb next level.” And then, of course, he’ll have plenty of Whilst he enjoyed his time in the industry, the long a p T eu time for new expeditions to great ranges. hours and constantly changing teams didn’t create tak the sense of community Ollie was looking for. It
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ost of us would be lying if we said that our teenage years were the best of our lives and Ollie Noakes is no exception. Now co-owner of Boulders Climbing Centre, Ollie was 16 and struggling at school when a teacher in charge of all the sport facilities took him under his wing and introduced him to climbing. It proved to be the making of him and, he says, allowed him to channel his energy in a positive direction: “It introduced me to all my friends and it’s given me a channel and it’s the reason why I’m here now doing what I’m doing.” Ollie’s time in school informs a lot of his plans for Boulders. He sees a lot of himself in the less academic children who get involved in the after-school and weekend activities at the climbing centre, and thinks there are a lot of opportunities for Boulders to offer them a similar outlet and a sense of community. As Ollie explains: “Just because they’re not academically inclined doesn’t mean they haven’t got something to add, we’ve just got to find the right needs for them. I really hope we can support them in their next step and take their climbing to the next level.” Having found his calling, Ollie developed a career based on climbing when he finished school, working with the Army Mountaineering Association and as an industrial climber in the offshore oil industry. The army also opened up new climbing opportunities around the world for Ollie, including four seasons in the Alps and time spent in the Arctic Circle in Greenland, but it was an expedition to the Himalayas and Everest in 2006 which, he says, was “where my passion for the sport was kicked into a different level.”
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was then that he started setting the ball rolling for Boulders. “An indoor climbing centre gave me the oppertunity to bring together a positive community around me, as well as give back to an industry that has given me so much.” That was seven years ago, so what next for Ollie and Boulders? As well as investing heavily in the facility and local community they’ve set their sights high, working on their coaching to reach national standards and take gifted young climbers to compete on the UK stage. So far, things are going well. “Our climbing academy, which is for gifted kids who are competing nationally, came second in the UK against all the teams. We were beaten by London which is a fantastic result.” And it’s not just children who Ollie and the team are keen to get involved, as he explains. “The events that we’re doing are a part of how we’re re-investing into our adult climbers, breaking down the intimidating nature of the sport to make it welcoming. Hopefully we can create a vibrant social hub for young professionals after work, through a sport that is truly accessible to all.”
Info: www.bouldersuk.com
Roots Unearthed Great Acts, Global Sounds & Relaxing Atmosphere MARTIN CARTHY & DAVE SWARBRICK Tuesday 1 September, 8pm Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick each played an important part in the tremendous shake up given to British folk music in the middle to late 60s.
BBC National Orchestra of Wales Cerddorfa Genedlaethol Gymreig y BBC
¡FIESTA SINFÓNICA! FRIDAY | GWENER 18/09/15 | 2pm EDWIN OUTWATER Conductor • Arweinydd JAMES CRABB Bandoneon LUCAS SOMOZA OSTERC Baritone FRIDAY | GWENER 09/10/15 | 2pm ROBERTO MINCZUK Conductor • Arweinydd JEAN LOUIS STEUERMAN Piano FRIDAY | GWENER 27/11/15 | 2pm ALONDRA DE LA PARRA Conductor • Arweinydd MATTHEW FEATHERSTONE Flute • Ffliwt
BBC Hoddinott Hall, Cardiff Neuadd Hoddinott y BBC, Caerdydd
0800 052 1812 bbc.co.uk/now @bbcnow
CALAN & THE GENTLE GOOD Tuesday 22 September, 8pm Calan and The Gentle Good are artists at the forefront of the resurgent Welsh folk scene.
MARTIN SIMPSON & DON FLEMONS Tuesday 13 October, 8pm Simpson and Flemons explore how folk songs travelled from England to North America and back.
CYLCHCANU2 SONGCHAIN2 Wednesday 14 October, 7.30pm A chain of interlinking solos, duets, trios and quartets with the participating musicians combining in different collaborations to celebrate Welsh music.
FAUSTUS Tuesday 27 October, 8pm Faustus are three of the leading lights of their generation performing in a virtuosic display of musicianship.
wmc.org.uk COMING SOON: JAMIE SMITH’S MABON, OYSTERS 3, RICHARD THOMPSON, SWEET LIBERTINES
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film
by Keiron Self
EVEREST ****
LEGEND ***
Dir: Baltasar Kormakur (12A, 121 mins) Based on real events chronicled in the excellent book Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer, Everest is epic film-making, primal man-against-nature stuff, a disaster movie up a mountain with a small cast battling the elements. Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Kelly, John Hawkes and Sam Worthington are amongst the team of two expeditions trying to conquer the Nepalese peak when a massive snow storm descends on the mountain. Not everyone makes it off the mountain alive. Keira Knightley, Robin Wright and Emily Watson are the women hoping their brave/foolhardy climbers will come home. Directed by Kormakur, who gave us the solid if unspectacular Mark Wahlberg thrillers 2 Guns and Contraband, Everest is award-baiting spectacle. Avalanches and treacherous chasms navigated by ladders in vertigo-inducing sequences are where the strengths of the film lie. The heavyweight, beardy cast look suitably exhausted as they reach dizzying heights; a few characters get lost amidst the derring-do but crucially the film pays homage to the men who did risk life and limb because Everest ‘was there’. Gripping, chilling and raw, Everest deserves an IMAX screen. Opens Sept 18
Dir: Brian Helgeland (15, 120 mins) It’s double the Tom Hardy as the current actor de jour gets to show off twice, playing both of the Kray twins in this London gangland biopic. Back in 1990 Spandau Ballet brothers Martin and Gary Kemp embodied the notorious gangland pair; now the mumbling Hardy gets a pop. Reggie and Ronnie Kray were the charismatic kings of the underworld in swinging 60s London. Helgeland’s film follows them through the gangster glamour and Reggie’s ill-omened marriage to Frances Shea (played by Emily Browning), who married Reggie briefly in 1965. Hardy captures both brothers, the suave Reggie and the more psychotic Ronnie; the fraternal bond of blood outweighing other familial ties, until the death of Jack 'The Hat' Mcvitie. The brothers are charismatic, ruthless and pathetic, Helgeland gives the film a glitzy sheen and Hardy chomps the scenery as Ronnie. There’s strong support too: Christopher Eccleston is the copper after them, David Thewlis is Lesley Payne who ends up knowing too much, Chazz Palminteri is the American crime boss who wants them to join him. There are moments where when the film plays fast and loose with the facts and slapstick sits alongside sinister but this is a crafted exercise in glamorous menace. Opens Sept 11
A WALK IN THE WOODS ***
LIFE ****
MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS ***
Dir: Ken Kwapis (12A, 98 mins) Based on the Bill Bryson novel and with a fantastic central pairing of Robert Redford and Nick Nolte as old friends who decide to walk the Appalachian Trail, this could have been a startling meditation on the perils of getting old. Instead it’s crafted like an obvious sitcom, not even a Wild for those of a pensionable age, just a sluggish me-ander into the forest. Redford plays a version of Bill Bryson forced to take an es-tranged old friend, the slovenly, gruff Katz (Nick Nolte), on the walking trip by his concerned wife, Emma Thompson. Their friendship has spark and sweary banter, but there’s little in the way of event. They meet Kristen Schaal’s talkative hiker; Nolte, always horny, upsets a trucker by hitting on his wife; there are worries over a bear attack. It’s all very pleasant but instantly forgettable; a lighthearted but empty look at old age. Opens Sept 18
Dir: Anton Corbijn (15, 111 mins) A haunting and brilliantly shot snapshot of the iconic James Dean and his relationship with Life photographer, Dennis Stock, the man responsible for making Dean the poster boy for generations of tortured souls. Dane DeHaan shines as Dean, despite not looking a lot like his subject. DeHaan embodies his enigma, his brooding sensuality and his reluctance to be shaped into something that he was not. The rebel. Robert Pattinson is also engaging as Stock, attracted to Dean and whose photo essay on the star around New York becomes the spine of the film. It’s an intriguing take on celebrity and photography, the power of the image and its reality, with fine central performances and support from the likes of Ben Kingsley (as studio head Jack Warner) who is shaping his short-lived star. Would Dean have been so much of a star without these images? If he had not died young? These are questions raised by Corbijn’s soulful, engaging and moving film. Opens Sept 25
Dir: Wes Ball (12A, 85 mins) More youth dystopia from the boy’s version of The Hunger Games. After escaping the Maze of the first film, the Gladers – for so they are called – realise there is a much bigger and nastier picture out in the real world. The Maze Runner successfully adapted James Dashner’s novel, directed sprightly by Wes Ball, who returns for the sequel. There’s an evil corporation WCKD at the heart of matters that has nothing to do with an alcopop drink. Aidan Gillen swarms as the baddie, whilst Dylan O’Brien, Kaya Scodelario and Thomas Brodie Sangster reprise their roles from the original. They join the resistance to the WCKD and end up in a post-apocalyptic wasteland full of nasty zombie-esque creatures. Well executed and darker than expected, Maze Runner fans will lap it up, but dystopian youth has reached saturation point, what with another Divergent, Hunger Games and Maze Runner coming our way. A jolly teen romance would be welcome relief from the bleakness. Opens Sept 11
ALSO RELEASED: DOPE (15) Comedy drama as some kids in a rough neighbourhood get the chance to go to the sunnier climes of LA, sprightly and fun, with a great flat top. MISS JULIE (12A) Colin Farrell and Jessica Chastain star in this solid if a little dull retelling of August Strindberg’s claustrophobic play about class. THE TRANSPORTER REFUELLED (12A) Did anyone want/need the Transporter franchise to be rebooted, this time with charisma free Ed Skrein? Apparently they did. Car stunts, fist fights and misogyny 12A style. IRRATIONAL MAN (15) More Woody Allen angst with Joaquin Phoenix, his conduit, as a philosophy professor discovers life again thanks to Emma Stone. Better than some of his more recent, fluffier films. MISERY LOVES COMEDY (15) Documentary about
ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL ****
RICKI AND THE FLASH ***
Dir: Alfonso Gomez-Rejon (12A, 105 mins) A winning, unsentimental but still moving and very funny study of teen life and terminal illness, this is a notch above the recent The Fault In Our Stars. Thomas Mann stars as layabout Greg Gaines, who wiles away his time making pastiches of arthouse films with best friend Earl played by Ronald Cyler II. Epics include A Sockwork Orange and Senior Citizen Kane. His mother cajoles him into visiting his terminally ill classmate Rachel, played by an excellent Olivia Cooke, who is suffering from leukaemia. Despite them not really knowing each other before, they become fast friends. The story is given a winning voice over from Mann that undercuts any mawkishness and is full of teen self-awareness. Molly Shannon shines as Rachel’s alcoholic mother, Nick Offerman is also good as Mann’s Dad, whose globetrotting encourages his son’s eclectic taste in film. Well-acted and debut directed by Gomez-Rejon, who had previously directed episodes of American Horror Story and Glee, the film charms without being heavy handed from a strong script by source novelist Jesse Andrews. A film geek-friendly tearjerker that doesn’t cheat on weighty sentiment, this is wonderful stuff. Opens Sept 4
Dir: Jonathan Demme (12A, 120 mins) Meryl Streep sings again! This time she dons the persona of a rock'n'roller who walked out on her family to pursue fame and now, in later life, wants to make things right with comedy/drama results. Written by Juno scribe Diablo Cody and directed by Demme, director of Silence Of The Lambs, Something Wild and Philadelphia amongst others, this fluffy escapade has some heavyweight potential. Streep plays Ricki Rendazzo out to make amends to her estranged daughter Julie (played by Mamie Gummer, who is Streep’s real-life daughter), ex-husband Kevin Kline and his new wife Audra MacDonald. The daughter has recently been jilted by her long term beau and her son Josh, played by Sebastian Stan, does not want his wayward mother at his upcoming nuptials. All of the predictable elements are propelled by Streep with aplomb. Musician Rick Springfield plays Streep’s musician boyfriend and there’s plenty of soft rock jamming. Streep’s daughter Gummer, as well as looking like her mother, acquits herself with aplomb and many home truths about relationships are aired with writer Cody’s trademark wit. It's crowdpleasing stuff, designed to uplift; formulaic, yes, but it will leave you with a smile on your face. Opens Sept 18
NO ESCAPE ***
THE D TRAIN ***
THE VISIT ****
Dir: John Erick Dowdle (15, 103 mins) A better than average thriller helped by Owen Wilson on action movie duties, this proves more diverting than expected. Wilson and Lake Bell play a couple relocating to Thailand with their two daughters, after Wilson gets a job at a water infrastructure company. Things are not what they seem, however: political unrest is apparent on the streets and what starts out quite pleasantly soon becomes shockingly unpleasant, as a bloody revolution breaks out. Uncomfortably ripped from the headlines perhaps, this caper grips as Wilson and Bell try to keep their children safe whilst marauding insurgents mercilessly kill all foreigners. Pierce Brosnan crops up on grizzled veteran duty, aiding the family in their attempts to avoid execution. Its adrenaline fuelled stuff, well handled by writer/director Dowdle with some morally compromising moments of depth as the family do whatever it takes to survive. Quite gripping with a lot of old school slo-mo. Opens Sept 4
Dir: Jarrad Paul/Andrew Mogel (15, 101 mins) Jack Black returns to edgier territory in this dark comedy about an apparently loveable schlub organising a high school reunion. Married with a son and a steady job, Black’s character Dan Landesman is fuelled by an inferiority complex that dates back to high school, when he was a pariah and desperately uncool. The high school reunion board still think him a loser until he chances on a TV ad that stars his former high schooler Oliver, played by a game James Marsden. If he can deliver a celebrity to the reunion Black surmises he will finally be ‘cool’. He sets about ensnaring Marsden, via a fake business trip with boss Jeffrey Tambor, and he and his former school mate end up going for a night on the town in LA with very unexpected results. The farce escalates darkly and tips over the edge of believability but this is still a diverting, if a little grubby, comedy with plenty to say about schooldays tainting your life. Nice to see Jack Black being odd again too. Opens Sept 18
Dir: M. Night Shyamalan (12A, 99 mins) After the kicking Shyamalan has had as a writer/director since The Village back in 2004, it’s a relief to report that this one-time wunderkind has recovered some of his mojo after the execrable run of Lady In The Water, The Happening, The Last Airbender and After Earth. This is a comedy horror with a found-footage feel. Single mother Kathryn Hahn takes her two children, played by Ed Oxenbould and Olivia De Jonge, to stay with their doting grandparents (Peter McRobbie and Deanna Dunagan). They seem overjoyed to look after them while Hahn goes away, but soon creepy things begin to happen. Bedtime is 9.30 and the children are told not to leave their rooms after that; they do, of course, and see escalating weirdness. Granny naked, scratching at doors, Grandad putting a gun in his mouth and general oddness and possible murderousness. Darkly comic and genuinely scary, this is a solid concept brought to life by Shyamalan. Grandparents have never been so creepy. Opens Sept 11
comedy and comedians and if all laughter comes from pain, and why are many comedians depressive too? Not as insightful as it could have been, particularly in the wake of Robin Williams' death, but still an intriguing take on the laughter makers. CAPTIVE (12A) Fact-based thriller with Invisible Girl Kate Mara playing a single Mum taken hostage in her own house by an escaped murderer. Functionally claustrophobic. MISS YOU ALREADY (12A) Friends Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette battle through life lessons, families and finally cancer in this formulaic but worthy film about battling that terrible illness. Written by Morwenna Banks WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS (15) Zac Efron wants to be an electro DJ. Yes he does. Axel F by Harold Faltermeyer may or may not be on the soundtrack.
food/drink
pic: DANNY PAYNEPHOTOGRAPNY
FORAGING BY THE SEA
THE GINSPIRATION OF CARDIFF To celebrate Cardiff’s gin festival, Alys Hurn grabs her ginoculars gets into the spirit of things. There is a common belief amongst non-gin lovers that those who enjoy drinking gin carry with them a certain snobbery about the type of gin that they like to drink. I personally, love a Hendricks (although my bank balance would disagree), especially with a dash of elderflower cordial and a good helping of soda. But that isn’t snobbery it’s just an appreciation for a spirit that carries such a diverse range of flavours, much the same as wine or beer. This appreciation for drinking gin led husband and wife team, Jym and Marie, to start their very own festival dedicated to the much loved spirit and now they are finally bringing the delights it has to offer to Wales. Each with its own individual balance of subtle flavours, this festival celebrates the diverse range of gins now available on the market and with gin industry experts on hand to offer their advice and recommendations, you’ll soon be picking out your favourite from the flavourful bunch. Maybe you’ll fall in love with the exquisite London dry gin Geranium, led by its juniper roots with an added complexity of tea-like floral notes and citrus, garnished with pink grapefruit. Or perhaps a more savoury Pan Mediterranean gin like Gin Mare, which is distilled in Spain and is full of botanical BUZZ 34
delights such as rosemary, olives, thyme and basil. On arrival you will receive a gin festival glass and a brochure full of information on the gins you can try, a little about each company attending the event and the recommended garnish that goes with each gin (arguably the most important addition to any gin-based drink). Throughout the event you can enjoy great food and live entertainment and talks from gin industry experts. It’s important to note you will need drinks tokens to buy the gin which will be available at the front desk; these cost £5 per drink and includes tonic and a fresh garnish. Most people tend to buy a card of four for £20 and go from there, but you can buy less (or more!) if you like. Showcasing over 100 different gins, the festival will be the biggest gin festival Cardiff has ever seen and offers up a chance to sample and learn about a spirit steeped in social history and botanical mastery.
Cardiff Gin Festival, Portland House, Cardiff, Thurs 1-Sun 4 Oct. Tickets: £7. Info: www.ginfestival.co.uk
Are you an adventurous soul and excited to try something that will truly get your tastebuds tingling? Lead by Sasha Ufnowska, Food Adventure arranged a sea-side themed foraging day where you will be taught to identify different kinds of foods you can find along the Welsh coast. You’ll soon know a thing or two about serving up shrimp, seaweed and limpets for supper. The day is set to start in the 250-year-old pub The Pelican In Her Piety, before heading off to a foraging location at Ogmore-by-Sea. Coastal Foraging Adventure, Ogmore, Vale Of Glamorgan, Sat 12 Sept. Tickets: £50. Info: www.foodadventure.co.uk
GRAVITY STATION GOES TO SWANSEA If you’re a lover of fine ale you might already be familiar with the Gravity Station in Cardiff, a bar/ bottle shop that specialises in craft ale and local brews. After a successful first year, having launched in 2014, Gravity Station is now opening a second venue in Swansea. Situated on the Strand, Gravity Station will be Swansea’s first craft ale venue and hopes to kick off the craft industry in Swansea. Info: www.facebook.com/ gravitystationswansea
LOCKE AND REMEDY Just in time for the Rugby World Cup, the Revere Pub Company are opening a new pub in the old Cardiff Library. The pub will be serving specially made wood-fired pizzas as well as ‘adventurous burgers’ for those that may be interested in finding out exactly what that means. The menu also features a varied list of beers, wines and cocktails along with a breakfast/brunch menu. Info: www.reverepubcompany.com
OF THE BEST... Argentina dishes
This year marks the 150th anniversary of Welsh settlement in Patagonia and every arts organisation and their mother has done something to celebrate. Jasmine Isaksson makes her own contribution by suggesting some dishes to try for a taste of Argentina. CHIMICHURRI SAUCE If you’re all about the saucy goodness of life, you might enjoy this traditional Argentinean chimichurri sauce. Simple to make as well as gluten free, chimichurri goes perfectly with meat and poultry dishes. All you need is a mix of herbs and spices (parsley, oregano, garlic, onion, red pepper) and dash of oil and vinegar to mix it in with.
CHOCOTORTA Literally translated into chocolate cake, this traditional dessert was invented around 30 years ago by Marité Mabragaña whilst working at an advertising agency. Deliciously made with Argentinean caramel and Kahlua, this dessert is perfect if you want a different spin on a classic favourite.
EMPANADAS Empanadas are originally a remnant from the colonial era and nowadays often made as street food. Whilst it varies between the provinces, savoury empanadas are typically filled with beef, goat meat or vegetables. Dessert empanadas are commonly filled with quince jam, sweet raisins or dulce de leche.
CARBONADA Not to be confused with the Italian pasta dish, Carbonada is a traditional stew with meat, potatoes, pumpkins and corn. What makes this dish slightly different, however, is the fact that the Carbonada is often oven baked inside a pumpkin. Trust me, it looks very impressive at a dinner party!
ALFAJORES Filled with dulce de leche and similar to shortbread, these traditional cookies are an all time Argentinean favourite and often served with coffee or tea. There are different ways to make Alfajores but commonly the dough is made with cornstarch and, though not too sweet, these cookies are meant to melt in your mouth.
words RUTH JOSEPH www.ruthjoseph.co.uk www.veggischmooze.blogspot.com I was loath to make a banana loaf, which sounded so wintry, when we are blessed with summer sunshine. So I invented this muffin with its hint of summer but still uses two over-ripe bananas and it worked a dream. The processor makes a creamier mixture which mixes in really well. This is the perfect in-between snack for children who are on the go and constantly need feeding and satisfies their sweet urge with some homemade goodness. pic: SARAH NATHAN
pic: DOMINIC LOCKYER
5
BANANA, BLUEBERRY AND LEMON CURD MUFFINS
MAKES 12 moist, lemony muffins INGREDIENTS: 250g plain flour / ½ tsp baking powder / ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda / ½ tsp salt / 2 medium bananas / 150g punnet of ripe blueberries / zest of 1 organic lemon and ½ the juice / 140g fair-trade light muscovado sugar / 10g vanilla sugar / 70g melted butter or margarine / 1 medium free-range organic egg / 12 tsps or 85g lemon curd PREPARATION: • Set the oven on 180C/gas mark 4 and line 12 muffin tins (or fairy cake tins like me) with paper cases. • Into a large bowl, sieve the flour with the salt, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda. • If you have a processor process the bananas with the egg, lemon zest, the two sugars and the melted butter or margarine. • When this mixture is smooth add the blueberries and fold into the flour mixture, quickly adding the lemon juice at the very end as this will increase the chemical reaction and start the cakes bubbling in the cases. • Quickly drop tsps of lemon curd onto the top of the muffins and place them in the centre of the pre-warmed oven. • Bake for 30 mins and enjoy hot or cold with a hot cuppa and plenty of good chat hopefully in the garden.
BUZZ 35
food/drink
ETHICAL EDIBLES
GREEN MAN DRINKS UP IN LONDON Having prided themselves on their ability to supply top Welsh beers to their own festival, the people behind Green Man have decided to share these drinks with London. Tangwen Roberts has a look at what they’ve got planned. Missed out on the monster of the festival calendar that is Green Man? Fear not, because fresh from the Brecon Beacons, one of the festival’s most popular beasts is heading to London! That’s right: The good folk at Green Man have (rightly) decided that the magic produced at the festival’s craft beer and cider area is just too good to keep ourselves here in Wales. So, they’re uprooting the hugely popular Courtyard and dropping it slap bang in the middle of the metropolis this month. The Courtyard Beer And Cider Festival will be bottling a piece of the Green Man spirit and setting it free in the streets of Kings Cross, with over 100 of the best beers and ciders from independent Welsh breweries – names such as Apple County, Celt Experience and Williams Brothers. We know it’s slightly beyond our remit, but with the festival offering a taste of rural Welsh liquid gold to those over-worked souls in London, we
BUZZ 36
Cauliflower: the underestimated superfood words RUTH JOSEPH www.ruthjoseph.co.uk www.veggischmooze.blogspot.com
think it’s worth celebrating! In true Green Man fashion you can expect an exciting feast of musical friends performing each day, including house band The Wave Pictures, DJ Huw Stephens and Seamus Fogarty. On Sunday, small but mighty Londonbased Moshi Moshi Records (who have worked with Bloc Party, Florence and The Machine and Hot Chip) will close the festival with a Moshicurated stage. Those fun-loving fluffy beasts native to Green Man will also be making an appearance, directing you to craft brewing workshops, walkabout theatre events and other interactive workshops to keep the whole herd entertained. Whilst you’re quaffing the finest grog Wales has to offer, don’t forget to fuel up with the scrumptious array of Welsh street food served by independent vendors. So if you’re in the big city save yourself the faff of expensive cocktails and hit the good stuff. There’s no need to worry about London prices because entry is free – although you can get some great drinks deals (including a souvenir goblet!) if you book online, guaranteeing entry to the first craft beer festival of its kind in the capital. You’re welcome, London. Courtyard Beer And Cider Festival, Lewis Cubitt Square, King’s Cross, London, Thurs 10-Sun 13 Sept. Admission: free. Info: courtyard. greenman.net
Although some consider cauliflower rather bland, when it’s cooked perfectly it can be one of the most delicious vegetables in the cook’s repertoire. Mark Twain described it as a “cabbage with a college education”. It originated in Asia and its health-giving qualities make it a superfood as it may be helpful in fighting both breast and prostate cancers. Fascinating studies at the University of Urbino have discovered that eating cauliflower daily, in conjunction with a healthy diet, “could provide the body with powerful tools to help fight breast cancer” (medicineworld.org). And the June issue of the Journal Of Nutrition reported that “Cell growth inhibition was accompanied by significant cell death at the higher juice concentrations.” After investigation the scientists discovered that cauliflower compounds contain elements which increase the liver’s ability to neutralise potentially toxic substances. And surely eating cauliflower is a delightful way of taking your medicine. Traditionally cauliflower is melded with a rich cheese sauce to make a cauliflower cheese, but how about blitzing low-fat cottage cheese with fromage frais? Or simmer gently with a can of tomato sauce, fill the can again with veggie stock, 1 finely chopped onion, and a teaspoon of garam masala, ½ teaspoon of tumeric, three crushed cardamom pods and a pinch of chilli powder to make a healthy vegetable curry that can star in a main meal especially accompanied by brown rice or quinoa. Or for a change try my Healthy Easy Cauliflower Salad. Perfect for summer eating, as it can be prepared the day before and chilled INGREDIENTS: 1 large cauliflower cut into bits / veggie stock / 180gm jar mushrooms in olive oil and sunflower oil / 150gm tin sweet-corn or mediterranean salad / 2 tbsp olives in brine roughly chopped / 2 t tbsp capers in vinegar or brine / finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to serve PREPARATION Cook the cauliflower in the stock until just tender. Drain the mushrooms, saving the oil for using another time. Blot with kitchen roll if concerned about calories. Mix mushrooms, sweet corn or Mediterranean salad, olives and capers with hot cauliflower and leave to chill. Serve with a topping of fresh herbs and enjoy.
food/drink
THE STAR INN
THE RADYR COURT
Rachel Close, Danescourt, Cardiff 029 2056 7961 / www.facebook.com/theradyrcourt Food **** Atmosphere **** This 14th century building, rumoured to be haunted, is now a bar and grill: it’s been taken over and currently undergoing extensive refurbishment. The first area to receive some TLC is the downstairs bar and dining area. Design and the various pieces of objet d’art comes courtesy of Tim Rice, of Soda, Mocka, The North Star and The Glendale Hotel fame – a wave of his magic wand and poof! – open brick walls, chandeliers, huge mirrors and a smattering of artificial grass have appeared, combining a very traditional look with a contemporary upgrade. It works, as does the very carefully thought-out menu. A limited menu, in that you are not overwhelmed by a huge selection: instead of struggling to find something you fancy, you will be spoilt as everything is desirable. From the starters and sharers, however, we tried a delightful selection of honey-drizzled lemon chicken skewers, panko-crumbed Thai king prawn balls, pan-fried chorizo, fine beans, cherry tomatoes and ciabatta croutons, and crispy calamari with Halen Môn sea salt and chilli flakes. All locally sourced, or from Wales at least, and picked in season, exceptionally well-cooked and very fresh. Mains are equally as impressive, from the choice of gourmet burgers to great British classics: steak and ale pie, beer-battered cod and chips and juicy pork and leek sausages. We had a chicken, smoked bacon and mozzarella burger with a sweet chipotle sauce and, from the stone baked pizza selection, a smoked meat feast – oak-smoked chicken, smoked pork and pepperoni topped with crispy smoked bacon. Definitely one of the best pizzas around without a doubt. We shared a sticky toffee pudding, and a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, which were also faultless. The main selling point of Radyr Court is it has genuinely great food, an unpretentious feel and reasonable for the pocket. A great setting, there are lots of exciting events and gigs coming up throughout the year – look out for the Halloween meal and sleepover special. ANTONIA LEVAY
Treoes, nr Bridgend 01656 658458 / www.starinntreoes.co.uk Food *** Atmosphere **** This award-winning little pub is located in the tiny village of Treoes, on the way to Bridgend and just past Cowbridge. Unless you know about it, you are unlikely to find it, which – if you are trying to keep it as your own little secret – helps no end. On most occasions when trying to think of somewhere to go for Sunday lunch where you won’t be disappointed, ripped off or sat in a hovel, a few places immediately spring to mind as being ideal. The Star Inn is one of those places: always reliable, guaranteed friendly service and great food. It must have been redecorated since the last time I visited, as it seemed a lot brighter and cosier; true, from the outside it does look a little dour but once inside it’s warm and inviting. On this particular Sunday, we chose smooth duck pate with green leaves, orange marmalade and toasted bread; chorizo with spicy meatballs; and a traditional Beef Sunday roast with proper homemade gravy... and an extra jug of it on the table. The lunch arrived as a feast, it was beautifully cooked and delicious; for £11 per person it was just about perfect. We couldn’t manage a pudding on the day, but if past experience is anything to go by, a selection of puds and pub classics will satisfy even the most sweet-toothed of diners. That said, I’m guessing a new owner has taken on The Star as overall, it seems to have upped its game since my last visit. I will be back. ASHLEY STONE
BIERKELLER
Stadium Plaza, Wood Street, Cardiff. 0845 5333000 / www.thebierkeller.com Food: *** Atmosphere: *** Bierkeller isn’t just one bar, it’s actually three. There is a German bierkeller with beer steins and long wooden tables, serving up bratwurst and pretzels, the American shooters bar decked out big sports screens and a menu of burgers and pizzas, and the Around The World In 80 Beers bar with pretty much everything else. They all share one kitchen but have three different menus, so have a think about what you’d prefer to eat before you choose where to sit down. We sat in the Around The World bar but managed to try something from the other bars as well. With a stone oven prominently displayed in the corner, we went for the meat feast pizza which was ideally crispy but, otherwise, a bit bland. The Bravarian currywurst, on the other hand, was delicious as the sausage was lightly covered in curry sauce, rather than drowning in it. We also had a go at the range of gourmet burgers with the succulent wild boar and apple burger, which was topped with a surprisingly sweet apply relish and came with some top-notch fries as well. By far the best thing we tried was the chicken wings, which comes served with several sauces including Bierkeller’s own delicious special sauce and the fiery psycho sauce – which is much more about the challenge than the actual flavour. Overall I was pretty impressed with Bierkeller. With such a big bar right next to the stadium they could do the bare minimum when it comes to the food and still make plenty of money. However, they’ve wisely handed over the kitchen to an extremely enthusiastic chef/kitchen manager and it’s resulted in some pretty good food. HEATHER ARNOLD BUZZ 37
Mission Gallery, Swansea Sat 12 Sept-Sun 8 Nov In a world where Google is the fount of all knowledge and social networks compile digital scrap books documenting our lives, it’s almost impossible to be forgotten. With records of our existence either floating online or within hard drives, our digital presence refuses to die. Such is the premise of Ryan L Moule’s latest exhibition, Divisible Remainder at Swansea’s Mission Gallery. Following the events surrounding the Edward Snowden-related destruction of hard drives at the Guardian offices, Divisible Remainder invites viewers to consider the immortality of digital information and the ambiguous traces that remain when tangible storage systems are destroyed. Through photographs, Moule illustrates how, when digital information is 'deleted', it leaves behind traces of retrievable data – which, when restored, create incomplete and incongruous narratives. Inspired by the (restored) deleted fragments from an external hard drive, Divisible Remainder explores those complexities of meaning created by the spectres lurking in our digital devices. The resulting images explore the haunting space between boundaries: prescence/absence, life/death, original/copy. The series of juxtaposed re-enacted photographic segments and situations elude a progressive sense of narrative, and instead create uncertainty. By disrupting any impression of a logical narrative and conclusion, the exhibition encourages viewers to seek and explore the creation of their own meanings and metanarratives in the absence of the original. Divisible Remainder confronts viewers with the realisation that whatever physical traces we may erase, the veiled spectres of our virtual activity remain – and will continue to, long after we are gone. Admission: free. Info: 01792 652016 / www.missiongallery.co.uk TANGWEN ROBERTS
pic: YOUNG-I KIM
pic: JODIE EVERETT
art
DIVISIBLE REMAINDER
GRADUATE 2015
Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Fri 11 Sept-Thurs 15 Nov With the Young British Artists (YBAs) now well into middle-age, make way for the young Welsh artists set to make waves on the art scene. The Wales Millennium Centre has teamed up with artist and photographer Richard Billingham (best known for his successful autobiographical photo book Ray’s A Laugh) to showcase some of the finest work created by Walesbased art grads. Now it its fourth year, Graduate is not only a platform for home grown artistic talent, trained in Welsh art schools and universities, but also give the artists to displays their work in the light of the curator’s personal insight, opinion and interpretation. Featuring graduates with a range of artistic backgrounds – including Fine Art, Art Design, Documentary Photography, fashions, advertising, ceramics and jewellery – there’s something to tickle everyone’s creative fancy. Via screen prints, oils, audio and video installations and even manipulated cutlery, the pieces explore several contemporary sociopolitical issues and debates through themes of technology, networks, gender politics and the human impact on the natural world. The pieces offer the unique perspective of the individual artists paired with Billingham’s own observations. And if anything you see does take your fancy, many of the exhibits are for sale so why not help some fresh graduates on the way to success, fame and (maybe) fortune. Admission: free. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk (TR) BUZZ 38
GWYN WILLIAMS: CHIPWOOD AND CHOPPERS
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff Fri 18 Sept-Sun 1 Nov Gingham shirts and cowboy hats, romantic scenes of couples cavorting against the vast backdrop of untouched space, and the promise. All that promise. With things not looking quite so rosy in present day America, it’s tempting to escape into a bleary-eyed nostalgia about the good old days, and stare down the lens of history into the Great American Dream – especially for a man who spent his childhood in North Wales fantasising about the bright lights and city life on the other side of The Atlantic. Gwyn Williams’ new Chipwood And Choppers series, showing in Chapter’s Art At The Bar, recalls the old America against the artists’ childhood memories of growing up in rural Wales. Having trawled internet auction sites and archives for photographs of the archetypal Americana, the Caernarfon-based artist presents these unadulterated images, of exciting landscapes and intriguing strangers, against the chipwood wallpaper of his old home. Juxtaposed against the mundane domestic background these authentic shots of Ye Olde America, reminiscent of old family holiday snaps, offer a window into the history of America from within the walls of a rural Welsh home. The result is an intriguing insight into the relationship between childhood fantasy, the reality of the American Dream, and growing up on the Welsh side of the pond. Admission: free. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org (TR)
HEAT EXCHANGE 2
Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay Sat 12 Sept-Sun 8 Nov The second round of the hot exhibition, Heat Exchange, kicks off its globetrotting exhibition in Cardiff before heading out across the world. This second exhibition, simply titled Heat Exchange 2, will follow the burning success of Beate Gegenwart and Elizabeth Turrell's first exhibition. The exhibition looks to replicate this trade-off that occurs in the exchange of heart but, instead of moving particles, it uses the work of a number of artists’ the energy. Curated by Gegenwart and Turrell, the exhibition boasts a team of 20 artists fomr across the world, including Australia, Denmark, Germany, North America, Spain and the United Kingdom. The collaborative nature of the exhibition sees the artists exchange notes and ideas through a multi-author blog, accessible not only for correspondence but as a form of inspiration to the rest of the internet. Artists involved in the project include Melissa Cameron with her intricate metal designs, Kaori Juzu with her beautifully bizarre broaches and Tamar de Vries Winter and her sleek-looking steel ornaments. With a fraternity of artistic flair brewing over two years, the outcome of this creative concoction looks to be an inspiring spectacle, showcasing artistic collaboration alongside individual talent. Admission: free. Info 029 2048 4611 / www.makersguildinwales.org.uk (CK)
PASCAL-MICHEL DUBOIS: GARÇONNIÈRE
Elysium Gallery, Swansea Fri 11 Sept-Sat 3 Oct An enigma to some, a habitat to others, the idea of the bachelor pad is definitely intriguing. Commonly regarded as the gateway to the mind of the male, its contents – or lack of – can speak volumes to the observer. Artist Pascal-Michel Dubois (winner of the Welsh Artist Of The Year Printmaking Prize and Artist In Residence at the Wales Pavilion) envisions this curiosity in his fittingly-named exhibition Garçonnière (bachelor pad). Drawing on personal experiences, Dubois explores not just the notion of the autonomous young bachelor, but also the creative potential of the bachelor pad itself. From video and photography to poetry and drawings, Dubois intertwines an array of mediums as he portrays the fusion of creativity and everyday life in Elysium’s latest art installation. Hoping that people will be intrigued but also find something familiar in the work, the examination of the youthful bachelor is seen through rediscovered black and white photos and a screening of a pasta dish being prepared (a nod to classic 1960s film The Apartment). Featuring A Short History Of Decay by Romanian poet Emil Michel Cioran, the installation is both pensive and foreboding in its nostalgic exploration of young, unattached life. Admission: free. Info: www. elysiumgallery.com (CK)
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BUZZ 39
stage
ILIAD Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli Mon 21 Sept-Sat 3 Oct The Iliad is one of Homer’s epic poems, and possibly the most well-known depiction of the Trojan War. Let’s face it, if anyone knows how to do epic, it’s certainly the Greeks. The poem in its entirety comprises of 24 books and is littered with action, heroes and a bunch of Greek gods that put even the most powerful man to shame. It was so brilliant, in fact, that it even got a sequel which is still a big deal thousands of years later. So what could be more epic than the poem alone? Well, the poem performed by National Theatre Wales, obviously. Mike Pearson and Mike Brookes, celebrated for their large-scale interpretations of Aeschylus and Shakespeare, have taken on the mammoth task of directing this epic. Bringing you a multimedia staging of Christopher Logue’s filmic poem War Music, derived from Homer’s Iliad, the performance will feature a cast of fantastic Welsh actors in a highly ambitious production to match the scale of Homer. The story follows the final weeks of the Trojan War, with a combination of live performance and narration to put you in the heart of the action. Greeks fight Trojans and tempers get frayed as the story shows the conclusion to a war which lasted 10 years. But as if that wasn’t enough, they also have to put up with the influence of meddling gods who each take sides. Audiences should prepare to be thrust into an ancient world with a modern twist in the shape of a troupe of local teenagers playing the gods. The play has been split into four parts: Kings, The Husbands, Red/Cold and War Music. Each part can be viewed separately or if you’re feeling particularly bold there will be two marathon performances, one during the day and one overnight, so you can watch all four parts back to back and get the full experience of Homer’s account of the Trojan War. So embrace your inner god and get immersed in ancient Greece, as epic story telling meets box set theatre with cinematic landscapes that’ll leave you in awe. Admission: £10-£70. Info: www.nationaltheatrewales.org MU
39 STEPS
Various venues across Wales, Tue 6 Oct- Thurs 10 Nov, see website below for details. What are the 39 steps? No, it isn’t a pub. It’s a comedy-thriller. Yes, Black Rat Productions are back with their latest stage show. Last year they gave us the hilarious Bedroom Farce but now for something completely different – The 39 Steps. A brave bunch those Rats are to tackle the John Buchan novel that became an Alfred Hitchcock classic – no doubt in their own inimitable style. Subterfuge and intrigue go hand in hand with humour and fast-paced fun. Four actors – Gareth John Bale, Joanna Simpkins, Sam Davies and Robert Hopkins – play 139 roles in 100 minutes. The audience will follow hero Richard Hannay from London’s West End to the Forth Bridge and over the Scottish moors as he attempts to solve a murder, clear his name and save the country from secret agents, encountering bewitching women along the way. The book was adapted for stage by Patrick Barlow in 2006 and has won a host of awards – including Whatsonstage Theatregoer’s Choice Award for Best New Comedy – and was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Play. If past performances by Black Rat Productions are anything to go on, The 39 Steps should be a blast. Out for adventure, eh? Yes that’s right, you’ll find it in Wales this autumn. Tickets: £5-£15. Info: www. blackratproductions.co.uk (LN) BUZZ 40
BRIEF ENCOUNTERS
Various venues across Wales, Thurs 10-Sun 27 Sept; see listings for details. The Lighthouse Theatre invites you to indulge yourself in an evening of theatre splendour with Brief Encounters. Following the imminent success of their interpretation of Charles Dickens’ The Chimes, the Lighthouse Theatre are returning with a double bill of plays written by the remarkable Sir Noel Coward. Both plays are taken from two stages of Sir Noel Coward’s career and showcase his talent for tackling a varied range of genres. The first play, Mild Oats, is a bittersweet comedy that takes place in a small London flat where a young couple are about to experience something very peculiar. The second play, Still Life, is a one-act tale that follows the dramatic love affair between Alec and Laura, a couple whom meet by pure chance at a suburban train station. Still Life explores the many difficulties and trials of a forbidden affair and is set entirely within the boundaries of the station tearooms. Perhaps the most famous out of the two plays, Still Life was written in the 1930s and then later turned into the classic 1945 film Brief Encounters. Brief Encounters the play, meanwhile, is a 100-minute show with a 15-minute break, set to tour both more rural areas and theatres across Wales and even doing shows in Chile and Uruguay. Tickets: £5-£10. Info: www.lighthousetheatre.co.uk (RH)
DRYCH
Sherman Cymru, Cardiff, Fri 25 + Sat 26 Sept; Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Mon 28 Sept; Y Llwyfan, Carmarthen, Tues 29 Sept; Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Wed 30 Sept; Gartholwg Centre, Pontypridd, 8 Oct; Pontardawe Arts Centre, 9 Oct It’s not often that audiences get to enjoy a Welsh language production, but that is all about to change this autumn as the new season will mark the debut of Drych. Translated into English, ‘drych’ means mirror, but in this case it’s not the mirror maze or looking glass but rather an unspoken version of events that forms the unique basis of this play. The plot is based around the two featured characters who find themselves on a barren landscape, discussing the meaning of their existence. Between crying and laughter the characters, played by Bryn Fon and Gwenno Hodgkins, discuss their complexities and how they reflect one another. Presented by Cwmni’r Frân Wen and directed by Ffion Haf, the new play is from fresh new voice Llyr Titus, who also holds the prestigious title of being an Eisteddfod Drama medal winning author. Debut plays are often an insightful and fascinating experience so if you’re looking for a Welsh language theatre fix, the production will be touring various venues throughout Wales during the autumn. Tickets: £5-£15. Info: www.franwen. com (RH)
HOMO IRRATIONALIS
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Fri 11 + Sat 12 Sept; Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Wed 4 Nov; The Riverfront, Newport, Wed 11 Nov Have you ever wondered what will be the next stage in human evolution, the fate of us Homo Sapiens? What will society and people look like a million years from now? Homo Irrationalis sets out to answer this very question with a brilliant fusion of dancing and comedy. The setting of the play is a lecture held by three spectacularly 70s-looking scientists, who have discovered a brand new line of human beings called Homo Irrationalis. Homo Irrationalis, the scientists postulate, will take the evolution of our species a step away from ration thinking. They will exhibit more erratic, unexplainable behaviours and will simply have lost the ability to be wise. The show is choreographed by Karol Cysewski whose show Wonders Of The Universe (yes, it was a dance-take on the big budget Brian Cox documentary series) met rave reviews at Edinburgh last year. Now Karol’s vision is to explore whether or not Homo Irrationalis may actually be a feature in our own society, today. During the lecture, the three scientists will take you on a voyage starting at the very beginning of human evolution to our possible future. Tickets: £12.50/£10.50. Info: www. karolcysewski.tumblr.com (JI)
Canolfan Mileniwm Cymru / Wales Millennium Centre, Theatre503 & Tara Finney Productions yn cyflwyno / present
Gan / By Chris Urch Cyfarwyddwyd gan / Directed by Paul Robinson
“UNDENIABLY POWERFUL” The Guardian
“Oh my, this show is fun! Superb!”
Songs include
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ALL SHOOK UP HOUND DOG THE DEVIL IN DISGUISE BLUE SUEDE SHOES
“Great Fun” Daily Telegraph
and many more!
wmc.org.uk 029 2063 6464
Hyd 20 – 28 Oct ’15
MONDAY 14 - SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER BOX OFFICE
029 2087 8889
BOOK ONLINE
www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk Bookings subject to a Ticketing Service Charge
Theatrau RCT/ RCT Theatres Medi 12 September 7.30pm Theatr Y Colisëwm Aberdâr The Coliseum Theatre Aberdare
Hydref 20 October 7.30pm Theatr Y Colisëwm Aberdâr The Coliseum Theatre Aberdare
THE 39 STEPS
Black RAT Productions £12.00/ £7.00
London Classic Theatre £12.00/ £10.00
Hydref 5 & 6 October 7.30pm. Hydref 7 October 1.00pm Theatr Y Colisëwm Aberdâr The Coliseum Theatre Aberdare
Hydref 8 & 9 October 7.30pm. Hydref 10 October 2.00pm Theatr Y Parc a’r Dâr Treorci The Park & Dare Treorchy
3 OF THE BEST
Gyda Starring Frank Vickery
Tachwedd 27 November 7.30pm Theatr Y Parc a’r Dâr Treorci The Park & Dare Treorchy
SATURDAY NIGHT FOREVER Aberystwyth Arts Centre & Joio £12.00/ £7.00
£12.00 / £10.00 ARCHEBU AR-LEIN BOOK ONLINE AT
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clubs
ALEXIS TAYLOR
Buffalo, Cardiff Sat 3 Oct For better or worse, Alexis Taylor's day job band Hot Chip have become part of the furniture of British alternative music over the last decade. Big and recognisable enough to serve as one of three headliners of last month's Green Man Festival, their signature sound – electro meets synthpop and house, with yearning, indieish vocals – is subject to moderate tweaks from album to album, but rarely any radical departures. Taylor and bandmate Joe Goddard can however scratch that itch via their extracurricular projects: Goddard has feelgood house duo The 2 Bears and his Greco-Roman label, while Taylor has the elegantly experimental About Group and his solo material. He also gets a fair amount of bookings as a DJ, and will be tipping up in Cardiff in October to play a set. All available evidence points to Taylor having a well-tuned ear for danceability, and enough surefootedness to walk a tightrope between accessible clubbiness and cratedigging deep cuts. His taste, at least the part of it that might end up in a DJ set, takes in the mucky funk of Prince and related activities, machine-driven synthpop, latterday upfront French house, DFA Records indie crossover fodder, Detroit techno and modern British bass music. It might be interesting to see if the fact he'll probably be playing to a crowd mostly consisting of students influences his selections any. Hopefully not. Tickets: £tbc. Info: 029 2031 0312 (NG) BUZZ 42
LEFTFIELD
Great Hall, Cardiff University Students Union Thurs 1 Oct It’s been 16 years since Leftfield’s last album, Rhythm And Stealth, and two decades since their Mercury Prize-nominated album, Leftism – which remains one of the big statements of 90s dance music. And now, finally, Leftfield are back, with new LP Alternative Light Source: an album which manages to recall the project's intelligent, anthemic big room techno hybrids of old, but also suggest an affinity with recent electronic music developments. Leftfield came together in 1989, as a duo of Neil Barnes and Paul Daley. They emerged publicly in 1991 with debut single Not Forgotten and immediately established a template for a new branch of British house music, pushing away from the American stylistic template and the dominant themes that came with it. They built on this initial success through timeless 1993 single Open Up, featuring John Lydon's unmistakable wailing vocal; 1995's Leftism, one of the first techno albums to cross over to a rock and indie audience; and Rhythm..., which bolstered its bass-heavy thump with an array of guest vocalists. While all this was achieved as a duo, Leftfield is now solely led by Neil Barnes, who remained in the music industry, even when there were large gaps between his albums. Reviving the name by himself in 2010, he returned for a series of festival headline performances that year. Alternative Light Source has demonstrated that he still has a way with a contacts book, as well as a thundering electronic loop or 10. The album features collaborations with Channy Leaneagh (Poliça), Tunde Adebimpe (TV On The Radio) and Sleaford Mods (see p.44) – who, as luck would have it, are playing Cardiff University's second room on the same night. Might Sleaford Mods' Jason Williamson be able to pop downstairs for a quick guest vocal on Head & Shoulders? It can't be out of the question. The punishingly, famously loud experience that is a Leftfield live set will radiate under the doors of the Great Hall and vibrate around Cardiff's streets; it's something not to be missed. Go and see Barnes (plus collaborators) render these tracks in multiple dimensions, indulge, experience: it may be 10 more years until you have the chance again. Tickets: £29. Info: 029 2078 1458 THOMAS STEWART
PETE DORLING
Converge @ Pool World, Neath Sat 3 Oct There is a real and respectable groundswell of ravers in south Wales' smaller towns who love a bit of house and techno, but don't necessarily relish having to travel to whichever relative metropolis to bug out to it. Converge, for example, are a small collective hailing from Neath way, and in true grassroots party spirit have set up a regular night in the basement of a pool hall in the town. It began on Boxing Day last year, quickly found an audience, and will usher in October with its biggest headliner to date: Pete Dorling, an Essex boy who crafts springy, not-quite-mersh house grooves that have been picked up by some current big cheeses of the scene. Despite having DJed house since he was a teenager, it's only in the last year or so that Pete has started to properly turn heads. Two labels had much to do with that: NoFitState, run by London househead Geddes and which offered an outlet for Pete's 2014 EP Hussy. Shortly after, the irrepressible Hot Creations imprint bunged his track Palonga on a compilation, Hot Summer Jams, alongside the likes of Jamie Jones and Patrick Topping. This summer, meanwhile, it's been a nonstop whirl of club dates, notably a repeated slot in Ibiza at Steve Lawler's Viva Warriors night. As for this intimate Welsh visit, he'll be sharing the bill with no less than eight other DJs, mostly local lads. Tickets: £10. Info: convergeneath@ hotmail.com (NG)
PRINS THOMAS
Teak @ Jacob's Market, Cardiff Fri 25 Sept Right then. The ticket allocation for this one was released to a baying public in two chunks, and both sold out rapidly, but Teak's first autumn event is still getting a preview for the following reasons. Firstly, if you really want a ticket you can probably get one by keeping a gimlet eye on social media (facebook.com/teakcardiff, specifically), as there are always people selling some nearer the time. Secondly, the club scene here is frankly dire right now in terms of interesting out-of-town DJs, although fingers crossed it's just a latesummer lull. Finally, this is the Welsh debut of Norway's Prins Thomas, whose way with spacious house and cosmic disco grooves are virtually unsurpassed. When Prins emerged about a decade ago, he was often as not alongside Lindstrom – also Norwegian, also committed to reshaping lost or misunderstood sounds into whipped peaks of club joy. Of their respective solo careers, Prins has perhaps been less surprising, but more consistent. Disco, broad church that it is, remains the foundation of his production and DJing ethos, but he's got a rangy taste, and has been on more of a techno tip in recent years – his last mix album, 2014's Rainbow Disco Club, hulked out via the likes of Surgeon and Silent Servant. Ticket-holders can expect to be whisked on a journey by Prins, with no haste to reach the destination. Tickets: £15. Info: teakcardiff@gmail. com (NG)
SCOT PROJECT
Journey @ Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Fri 2 Oct You'll normally find Cardiff's leading trance loyalists Journey delivering the pumpin' vibes in Karma Club on St Mary Street, but for what might be their biggest headline booking yet – German hard trance pioneer Scot Project – they've made the switch to Clwb Ifor Bach, a few hundred yards away. "Just thinking about the tunes he could be playing right now is giving me the shivers, and on the best sound system in Cardiff as well!" beam Journey in their promotional blather. Hopefully Karma won't take that personally, but indeed, if you're a trance head the whomp emanating from Clwb Ifor's rig should ramp up the level of euphoria. Frank Zenker rose through the ranks in the Frankfurt scene of the early 90s, racking up residencies before trance had become a codified style. He quickly made his name as DJ Scot Project, though, with a few releases which gave trance a harder shell but continued to emphasise its eyes-tothe-rafters emotional appeal. When the genre annexed the pop charts in the early 00s, Zenker was in position, with single Overdrive a Europe-wide hit. His appeal has stayed pretty consistent ever since, among trance-lovers of a more melodic stripe and those given to hard trance and hardstyle stomping. For his Cardiff set, he'll be playing two hours of classics, and you can expect plenty of his own productions therein. Tickets: £15. Info: 029 2023 2199 (NG)
live
BENJI KIRKPATRICK
Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Wed 16 Sept; Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells, Thurs 17 Sept Founding member of the folk band Bellowhead, Benji Kirkpatrick, is about to head off on a UK tour alongside the release of his new solo album Hendrix Songs. The tour will feature a set of songs which are Kirkpatrick’s own interpretations of classic Jimi Hendrix tracks. Those familiar with Kirkpatrick’s career both as a solo artist and as part of Bellowhead will know that Hendrix has remained a lifetime inspiration for Kirkpatrick. The purpose of the tour is to truly re-engage Kirkpatrick as a solo artist after the breakup of Bellowhead which was sadly announced earlier this year. However, what makes this tour different is the fact that Kirkpatrick has chosen to accompany himself on the banjo, bouzouki and mandolin rather than on the guitar. Whilst Jimi Hendrix was famous for his gift with the guitar, Kirkpatrick’s interpretation gives the album a pleasantly fresh and unique acoustic sound and Kirkpatrick’s admiration for Hendrix clearly shines through in the songs. Appropriately entitled Bendrix, the tour will also feature a selection of Kirkpatrick’s own songs from his previously well received solo albums and to make it even more memorable, artist Esther Thorpe has designed a visual backdrop for the tour. Admission: £13/£11. Info: 01239 621200 (Cardigan) / 01982 551555 (Builth Wells) (JI) BUZZ 44
SLEAFORD MODS
Y Plas, Cardiff University Students’ Union Thu 1 Oct The rise of Sleaford Mods: marvel at its stately progress. At the beginning of 2014, despite being on the verge of releasing their seventh (and ultimately breakthrough) album Divide And Exit, the vehement diatribes of Jason Williamson, coupled with the minimalist backing tracks provided by Andrew Fearn had gone unnoticed by most. Where did it all change? “I don’t know,” says Williamson. “It's hard to navigate the popularity in the sense of where it began. I suppose people are just fed up with polished pop and revisited genres like shoegaze or laddism”. The popularity has done them no harm. Just prior to Divide... being released, the duo – both of whom now well into their 40s – were still playing spit-and-sawdust venues, where punters would most likely get change from a fiver to see them perform. Fast forward 18 months, and they’re about to take on their first ‘posh’ tour, in support of their latest album, Key Markets. The prospect of playing venues this large, despite the stage setup consisting of a mic stand and a table for the most part, doesn’t faze them. Says Williamson, “Once you have cased the area and got your head around using the space before you, I don't worry about anything else... obviously remembering the words is a concern.” The date at Y Plas is their third Cardiff show in a little over a year. Their debut in the Welsh capital (at The Moon Club) was an intimate affair compared to today’s standards. A little over 150 lucky souls witnessed a band riding on a wave of positivity, united by their irritation of the pre-election behaviour of politicians and the press. Such a rise in popularity inevitably brings a backlash. Williamson admits that he has seen “bits… but generally it stems from opinions that don’t exist. We ain’t fucking sell outs.” With Key Markets making a dent in the grown-up charts, Sleaford Mods – the sound of a country “looking for armbands” – will take to the stage at Y Plas knowing full well that anyone who walks in curious will walk out devoted. Tickets: £15. Info: 029 2078 1458 BEN GALLIVAN
CROSBY, STILLS & NASH
Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff Tue 22 Sept Hippies never die, they just form supergroups. Crosby, Stills & Nash are the only ones standing out of originals Cream, Blind Faith and Humble Pie. It‘s a mother of a miracle they’ve endured. Vocalists, guitarists and songwriters Americans David Crosby and Stephen Stills – from The Byrds and Buffalo Springfield respectively – and Brit Graham Nash of The Hollies were hanging out at Joni Mitchell’s house in California in 1968, blending their glorious voices in song, and the legend began. They put out a self-titled debut album, added Stills’ old bandmate Neil Young as an occasional member and toured. Their second live show was a certain intimate gathering in Woodstock, NY. Putting out the most mellifluous potpourri of country, folk, pop and rock didn’t make them immune to battling egos, musical and money disagreements and drink/drug problems, and they split several times. Despite Crosby spending a stint in jail and having a liver transplant, CSN survived 40 years together. No other group can lay claim to being the first to have all of its members inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame twice, being some of the most fervent activists around and putting out classics like Suite: Judy Blue Eyes, Teach Your Children, Our House and Ohio. Go on, board the Marrakesh Express, you know you’ve always wanted to. Tickets: £66/£56.. Info: 029 2022 4488 (RLR)
RICHARD THOMPSON
St David’s Hall, Cardiff Tue 15 Sept Known widely as one of folk-rock’s finest triple threats, songwriter, guitarist and singer Richard Thompson has saved a date in the capital on his feverishly busy 2015 tour schedule. Across more than 40 recordings, Thompson has made a profound contribution to music throughout his long career. From youthful beginnings aged 18, and a short but significant tenure in Fairport Convention, he has made a unique stamp on the global folk milieu. His input on Fairport’s 1969 seminal album Liege And Lief, as well as the fruitful musical union with ex-wife Linda Thompson, have earned him considerable praise over the years and he sustains this legacy through extensive solo offerings in addition to collaborations with numerous artists across multiple genres. He is also noted as one of the most original guitarists in his field, often incorporating unusual melodies and flourishes in his playing style. This approach, coupled with the vivid character-driven narratives in his songwriting, ensure the continual reinvention of his sound whilst remaining grounded in its formative roots. His latest solo work Still, released in June, is a fine example of this and it has been well received by critics. Presenting his electric trio, Thompson will explore this new work as well as his illustrious past to undoubtedly stunning effect. Tickets: £28.50/£25. Info: 029 2087 8444 (CPI)
WE SHALL OVERCOME WEEKENDER
Le Pub, Newport Thurs 1-Sun 4 Oct Unless you’re a Tory swan-eater, you'll know someone affected by the current government’s policy of crapping on the poor, or ‘austerity’. This long weekend has been organised to highlight hardship and provide for the victims, and demonstrates the compassion of local communities as much as hatred of the Westminster machine. As part of a UK-wide We Shall Overcome weekend, Le Pub’s events will raise money and support for homelessness charity Llamau and foodbanks in Newport (you can donate over the weekend). The list of artists contributing their services is big and impressive too: Thursday night opens with stand-up comedy, plus music from red-trousered whimsy merchants Quiet Marauder. The following night sees a lineup featuring post-punk scamps Science Bastard, Luvv and a last-ever Welsh gig from testosterockers Exit_International. Saturday winds readings and poetry (from Niall Griffiths, Rachel Trezise and more) around music, with a rare Newport appearance by Euros Childs. Some more big guns feature on Sun 4, with Peel faves Darling Buds and Helen Love [pictured] topping a whole day of acoustic and electric music. There is more TBA, all well worthy of your quids in a bucket, so dig deep. Tickets: £5 Fri 2 + Sun 4 / £10 Sat 3. Info: 01633 221477 / www. weshallovercomeweekend.com (WS)
HHHH “A singer/songwriter whose talent knows no boundaries” Mojo
Melody Gardot
The Currency of Man Tour Tachwedd 18 November ’15
Thursday 01 October CARDIFF GREAT HALL wmc.org.uk 029 2063 6464
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reviews albums ACID ****
Acid / Maniac / Engine Beast (Cherry Red/ HNE) As the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal exploded in the early 80s, women's representation therein was unedifying: Girlschool and some lesser lights trussed up in pseudo-S&M garb, basically. One of the crowning legacies of Acid – a band from Bruges, Belgium who formed in 1980 – is Kate De Lombaert's status as merely a woman fronting a metal band, without this being portrayed as remarkable. Their three studio LPs, reissued here after ages out of print, also happen to be great. Acid, from early '83, is a roughly enacted but wildly fun debut which features a re-recorded version of killer debut 7” Hooked On Metal. Followup album Maniac, which arrived late that year, sees a tempo boost into borderline speed metal territory (Black Car, Lucifera) as well as greatly improved production and musicianship. Engine Beast ('85) tiptoes into blustery, commercial waters – with less success, although Kate's vocals are better than ever. At the very least, snag Maniac and discover some great, largely unsung champs of 80s metal. NG
BATTLES **** La Di Da Di (Warp) The trio approach this with similar manic vigour that typified the electronic infused math rock of Gloss Drop. Substituting guest vocalists for a strictly instrumental focus, the outfit remain faithful to the dynamic sound honed on previous efforts. The hypnotic synth pulse of tracks such as Tricentennial and FF Bada suggest an almost cryptic new found musical language. If high octane live performances appeal, catch the band at Bristol’s Simple Things festival in late October. CP
BEACH HOUSE **** Depression Cherry (Bella Union) On their fifth LP, Beach House’s sound, bulked out with big drums and 80s 4AD guitars for Bloom, strips back the varnish to the simplicity of Devotion revealing the majesty of Legrand's haikus, the meandering cyclical guitars and the end-of-the-pier organ, though they still look to the horizon rather
than the rockpools at their feet. Sparks is the stand out, grizzly guitar and looped vocals harking back to His Name Is Alive, while LeGrand's voice is more richly honeyed than ever on Levitation and {PPP}. CS
BLACKLISTERS ***** Adult (Smalltown America) There's no point beating round the bush: Adult, Blacklisters’ second full-length, is BRILLIANT. An amalgam of the Melvins’ groove, Helmet’s staccato riffs, the grim humour of Drowningman and a David Yow-via-Leeds drawl, these lads do noiserock better than anyone else in the UK. Amidst a succession of highlights, almost all of which reach or exceed the high watermark of 2012 LP BLKLISTRS, the menacing Weasel Bastard stands out, stalking softly along before blasting you in the ear with the force of a firehose. HR
BLANK REALM ***** Illegals In Heaven (Fire) Like a new friendship you immediately know will last till death, the third BR album comes from nowhere, and lands directly in your heart. ‘Nowhere’ in this case means a grubby Australian recording studio, and Illegals In Heaven is nine songs of utter gold, balmy and romantic and unfashionable, soaked in Velvets guitar chug and junkshop keyboards. Hazy slowness (Gold, Cold Night) finds spaced out ramalama (No Views), via two of the most luminous pop songs of 2015. Love this mess. WS
GET THE BLESSING **** Astronautilus (Naim Jazz) The fifth musical outpour for the Bristolian quartet is a welcome addendum of mystique, intrique and flat out bravado to the contemporary jazz vernacular. Laden with hefty rock beats, undulating textural electronics and angsty angular horn melodies it’s a spectacular if not bewildering listening experience. Darker more sensitive moments such as Carapace and Conch are a welcome presence when juxtaposed with the more unhinged Phaenomena or Cornish Native. The big picture here reveals a sophisticated recording definitely worth your time. CPI
GHAZALAW ****
entering. RH
NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS *** Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats (Stax) A new artist recreating classic style soul is nothing new. There are currently lots of talentless people stinking up the charts with turgid interpretations of the sound. The fact that Stax Records have released this album proves that Nathaniel Rateliff is cut from a different cloth. His voice has genuine soul, and he sings convincingly about classic themes of booze, women and love. The production is low-key, warm and classic sounding. It’s a refreshing change to hear soul music with such real soul. GM
NICOLAS GODIN *** Contrepoint (Because)
Ghazalaw is a pan-continental collaboration between acclaimed Indian ghazal singer-musician Tauseef Akhtar and Gwyneth Glyn, a Welsh singer/ guitarist in possession of a molasses-sweet vocal tone. The traditions of each truly complement one another combining the melodic romanticism of Mumbai with the innate longing for home prevalent in pastoral Welsh music. I understand 50% of the lyrical content contained on this album but you needn’t be a master of languages to appreciate melodies this light, wistful and memorable. AJ
Nicolas Godin is one half of French chillout masters Air but anyone coming to Contrepoint expecting a Moon Safari will be quickly shaken up by a blast of distorted harpsichord 90 seconds in. As Godin's first solo project is based on the melodies of Johann Sebastian Bach it soon calms down but it doesn't get any less odd, as it explores a sonic landscape that is lush, whimsical and a touch unfashionable – not that it cares. A curio rather than a classic. SE
DARWIN DEEZ ****
GRUBS ****
RICHARD HAWLEY *****
Double Down (Lucky Number)
It Must Be Grubs (Reeks Of Effort)
Hollow Meadows (Parlophone)
The curly-haired indie star’s second album continues to mix the mundane with touching emotions, and slather it all in fun, chunky beats of course. Though there are certainly some exciting songs on the album – opener Last Cigarette and the rhythmic Time Machine – most of them don’t really offer anything new. This isn’t a bad thing if you’re a Deez fan but if you’re going to name your album Double Down it should feel like more of a gamble. HA
Nothing fills this reviewer’s heart with glee more than noticing that Grubs’ debut boasts 11 tracks and clocks in just shy of 20 minutes. Boasting a couple of Joanna Gruesomes, their sound isn’t a million miles away from the Welsh Music Prize winners but tends to stick with messily catchy riffs and lo-fi production to get its point across. The set happily includes previously released Dec 15th and Gym Shame, along with standout opener What Cost. Heartwarming and playful stuff. BG
After the sublime Truelove’s Gutter and angry guitar sound of Standing At The Sky’s Edge, where next for Richard Hawley? It would have been easy to repeat the sound that took Standing At The Sky’s Edge to the top of the charts, but after listening to Hollow Meadows, it is evident that Hawley has chosen a different option. This new album could be described as a rich and emotional sounding distant relative of Lowedges, and damn fine it is too. DN
DRINKS ** Hermits On Holiday (Heavenly) It's almost noon: Cate Le Bon is bleary-eyed, barely awake. Welded to her face is a hipster beard, made of spaghetti. White Fence Tim stirs in his fairy dress,
GAMES REVIEWS FALLOUT SHELTER **** Bethesda In an attempt to keep fans of the Fallout series from crying in impatience until the launch of Fallout 4, Bethesda have created a fun phone game. You play the Overseer of a vault in the post-apocalyptic wasteland, allocating workers, upgrading rooms and encouraging ‘repopulation’ is a good challenge – especially as a Mole Rat attack or raider invasion can decimate your population in an instant. The art, humour and challenge make for a fun and addictive play. HA
FARMS & CASTLES *** Square Enix Ltd You’re a knight who has been bestowed some land for your bravery, and now you must spend your time placing rocks, plants and buildings on your patch of land. You are randomly allocated resources and you must strategically place them on the board with the aim of making three-ofthe-same combinations to create more useful buildings. If it sounds like the kind of game you would enjoy I would recommend trying out Triple Town, in it has cute bears. HA
BUZZ 46
Cate giggles. Their eyes lock in flashback – his dress, her beard, drunk on tequila, in the studio. The music starts OK: spindly guitars, tunes, singing. The tick-tock of Hermits On Holiday is the end of coherence. Their memories whiplash to the gibberish Tim, Do I Like That Dog; a perverse pride overwhelms them. CS
Ghazalaw (Marvels Of The Universe)
MICACHU AND THE SHAPES *** Good Sad Happy Bad (Rough Trade) Mica Levi, aka Micachu, made her name with ramshackle lo-fi pop music before joining Matthew Herbert’s 2.0 version of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, and writing the soundtrack for Jonathan Glazer’s Under The Skin. Now she’s back to basics. Most tracks start with a rough and ready drum loop, add a few enjoyably unidentifiable bits of instrumentation, her distinctive unpretty vocals and then... don’t go anywhere. GSHB has plenty of inventiveness, but it doesn’t quite pack the pop hooks of her first two LPs. APR
MY DYING BRIDE *** Feel The Misery (Peaceville) This is the 12th outing for the Yorkshire purveyors of doom, which sees them returning to their earlier recording haunt of Academy Studios. The revisit has done them some good, although still on point are their usual 10-12-minute epics of solemnity. Opener And My Father Left Forever is crushing in both subject and sonic delivery, and sets the tone for the following seven tracks well. Leave all hope and positivity at the door before
THE SCHOOL **** Wasting Away And Wondering (Elefant) More of the same from Cardiff’s The School, but that’s no bad thing given their flawlessly twee track record thus far. This album – their third – takes its inspiration from sunshine and 60s pop and was set to tape by Rob Jones, erstwhile recordist of Sweet Baboo (who makes a brief, saxual appearance here). The School are a dead cert draw for any festival that includes the words ‘pop’ or ‘indie’, because that’s what they are so very, very good at. BG
SHANNON AND THE CLAMS **** Gone By The Dawn (Hardly Art) Calling SATC ‘retro’ is a bit like calling the internet ‘large’. The Oakland, CA trio have the clothes, instrumentation and racial attitudes (only joking) of some permanently dreamy 50s teen dance, songs of boy trouble too warped and enjoyable to be mere kitsch. Initially a little too removed from the band's previous volatile hollering, Gone...’s pristine sheen hides songs that lodge inside you, nervy tales of heartbreak that mangle doowop, blues and R&B with subtly creepy sci-fi sounds, like a very agreeable episode of The Twilight Zone. WS
STEREOPHONICS ****
RABIT / STRICT FACE ****
Keep The Village Alive (Stylus)
Tearz / Into Stone (Different Circles)
Lighters at the ready – you’re going to be swaying to these on the next tour. The Cwmaman boys are back with a pretty stripped back release. High tempo’d new single C’est La Vie has an old school ‘Phonics feel, but thereafter it slows right down. Song For The Summer and My Hero are lovely little numbers, both giving the gritty vocals of Kelly Jones room to soar. The haunting intro to Sunny stands out and leads into a stunner. OS
Instrumental sorta-grime 12” from Houston and Adelaide respectively, this being a sub-genre where geography is increasingly irrelevant. Rabit, a Texan who I'm definitely not just reviewing because someone said I looked like him, comes on like Terror Danjah meets Vangelis, which is commendable. Into Stone finds Strict Face dropping tempos and layering keyboards with a neat seasick creak. NG
SWIM DEEP **** Mothers (Chess Club / RCA) Second album from indie Brummie five-piece. Still not sure what frontman Austin Williams is singing about but love that dreamy falsetto. It’s all harmony, melody and rhythm, like you’re in an inflatable moon bounce thing or a pod orbiting in space, all with this Brit-synth-psych-pop being pumped in. Everything from Happy Mondays to Sparks to Depeche Mode is detectable in the swirly echoes and funky reverb. Heavenly Moment is orchestral, Namaste is punchy soul, Grand Affection goes upbeat and To My Brother is a romantic techno diversion. (RLR)
TESSERACT **** Polaris (Kscope) Delicate in texture, impeccably produced and finely balanced, Polaris is a metal album in name only, as TesseracT push the genre’s boundaries to breaking point. Rarely do the Milton Keynes band bare teeth these days and, even when the riffs do hammer home, they’re blanketed in thick melodic swaddling. Still, it would be churlish to knock Polaris for lacking in bite; it’s what this band do and, while it might elicit diminishing returns in moshpits, converts will be elated by this album. HR
singles BENJAMIN MASON *** Skies Are Falling EP (self-released) A talented man is Benjamin Mason. After last years’ Dogs N Yaaa album comes this four-song EP which is a more polished, folky affair and a joyful listen for anyone who remembers Matthew Jay with fondness. Bleak Like The Winter, an update of a track from the album, is the highlight. BG
DEAD FADER ***** Sun Copter (Robot Elephant) At turns caustic, droning, danceable and ominous, Dead Fader cannot be easily pigeonholed. This is electronic music, but I wouldn’t go as far to call it dance. There are layered loops, slabs of bass and other strange sounds without known sources. It’s melodic, experimental, and above all extremely listenable. GM
EVERYTHING EVERYTHING ** Spring/Sun/Winter/Dread (RCA) I can’t help but feel that if someone else had sang this song, I would have really enjoyed it. Hailed as one of Britain's best indie-pop bands, Everything Everything’s latest single Spring/Sun/Winter/ Dread cheapens that title. The erratic and jarring vocals ruin what otherwise would have been a delicious anthem. LB
ROMARE **** Rainbow (Ninja Tune) A cheeky 12” from Romare, with hefty nods to the New York 70s disco scene. The title track comes in two formats: Rainbow (Club) and Rainbow (Bedroom), with the former being all synths and layered drums, while the latter is slower and selfexplanatory. Meanwhile Love Song is also disco perfection. RH
SUNDARA KARMA **** Flame (RCA) An instantly gripping guitar melody will hook you into this new release from Reading-based newcomers Sundara Karma. Instrumentally reminiscent of the early Ting Tings, with a massively catchy chorus and a smooth yet confident vocal line, Flame is the perfect singalong indie-pop anthem that we've been missing all summer. LB
demos THE DHARMA VIOLETS
www.facebook.com/dharmaviolets "Open up the doors of perception," one Dharma Violets lyric implores, and 'perception' is the operative word when mulling this Cardiff quintet's debut release, a 12-song CD titled Random Transmissions. They talk a good psychedelic game, and occasionally hint at taking their sound somewhere legitimately cosmic, but – twinkly keyboards notwithstanding – generally come off like psych filtered through a 90s Britpop prism: The Verve, The Charlatans and Oasis, in that order of resemblance. More of a beery mates-together vibe than an opportunity for inward-looking solitude, but plenty of folks like that. NG
PROJECT www.facebook.com/projectmusicofficial With Rectify, a four-track EP, Cardiff rapper Project – real name Jake Brimble – adds himself to the city's hip-hop history, which has frequently been frivolous and punchline-happy. Such is not the case here: Brimble is unremittingly serious and emotionally fraught, whether rhyming over portentous piano/strings combos or nu-metal guitar. Atmosphere (a stated influence) is a decent comparison in terms of, well, atmosphere, although Project is a less inventive wordsmith; there's shades of latter-day Plan B, too, in the mix of social comment and personal closet-cleaning. NG
FEBRIA www.facebook.com/febriatheband The four men of Febria have forged strength from longevity, or something like that: they formed in Usk around 2007, disbanded due to members moving elsewhere, and have now reassembled for these four new songs. They tickle the bellies of indie, psychedelia and folk without committing to any of those modes: The Sea Around Us, which boasts vocal harmonies and low-key fingerpicked guitar, is the keenest demonstration of their abilities. A nine-minute closer unwinds pleasantly without truly warranting its length. NG
THIS MONTH’S
DVD PICK
LISTEN UP PHILIP 15 (Eureka Entertainment) Jason Schwartzman (Rushmore, The Darjeeling Limited) excels as a largely detestable and hostile novelist in this black comedy-drama from writer-director Alex Ross Perry. The adulation received after his first novel merely serves to increase Philip’s bitterness with the world, leading to an inevitable break-up with his long suffering girlfriend. Despite terrific support from Jonathan Pryce, this film starts and ends well but drags almost to the point of tedium in the middle. ***RHA
WHILE WE’RE YOUNG 15 (Icon Film Distribution) Whilst interesting and thought-provoking at times, there isn’t a single laugh of note and the message being portrayed lacks subtlety to the point where an unbelievable division is created between two generations. Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts are the middle-aged couple clinging on to their youth in this indie romantic comedy, directed by Noah Baumbach. An entertaining watch but mind the clichés. ***RHA
ROBOT OVERLORDS 12A (Signature Entertainment) Ben Kingsley and Gillian Anderson for some reason decided to appear in this disaster movie about the struggle to survive after robots have conquered the earth. A group of youngsters lead the fightback against the enemy in what becomes an unoriginal and laboured 90 minutes, which tries to be 28 Days Later (without the originality and quality) meets The World’s End (without the humour). Unless you really love robots, steer clear. *RHA
AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment (12) The superhero team are back again for the second instalment of the Avengers films. After getting their hands on some evil kit from baddy organisation Hydra, silly old Iron Man and Dr Hulk decide to play god with technology and, surprise surprise, it doesn’t go well. They end up creating a sentient being: the deliciously wicked Ultron. There are some bad choices with some of the characters (particularly Black Widow) but it’s a fun, witty sequel with a thoroughly enjoyable villain. ****HA
THE DECLINE OF WESTERN CIVILISATION: COMPLETE BOX SET TBC (Second Sight) Before Wayne's World, Penelope Spheeris made her directorial reputation with the first two Decline Of Western Civilisation films. Documenting two LA rock scenes – the early-80s hardcore community and the hair metal explosion later that decade – the footage she captured was lurid and merciless, but never needlessly mocking, and always engaged with its subjects. Decline... III, about young, destitute punks in late 90s LA, has never been properly released until now, and lacks the icon factor of its predecessors, but is highly watchable and sometimes painfully sad. ****NG
SHE’S FUNNY THAT WAY 12 (Lions Gate Home Entertainment) This showed promise as a screwball throwback comedy when the intertwined lives of a cast of a Broadway production get entangled. Unfortunately, despite the stellar cast – Rhys Ifans, Owen Wilson, Imogen Poots and Jennifer Aniston – it fails to raise much more than a titter. Woody Allen it ain’t. **EC
CLOUDS OF SILS MARIA 15 (Artificial Eye) Juliette Binoche, Kristen Stewart and Chloe Grace Moretz star in this beautifully quiet film about a seasoned actress revisiting a play from her youth. Binoche plays Maria Enders who was given her big break in acting when she was 18 by a writer who became a lifelong friend. When this friend dies, 20 years later, she is asked to perform in a new rendition of the play but, rather than playing the young temptress Sigrid, she is asked to play vulnerable Helena – a role which drove the previous woman who player her to suicide. The film is far from overly dramatic but still captivating with outstanding performances from its strong female cast. ****HA
BUZZ 47
MUSIC NEWS EXTRA
With her Y Dydd Olaf album recently reissued by Heavenly Records, and picking up cooing praise from music media outlets who've magically decided something is worthy of coverage when it's on a label they've heard of, Gwenno has gone on to add an extra Welsh feather to her cap. August's Eisteddfod, the annual celebration of Welsh culture and history, crowned the polemical, off-centre synthpop LP 'album of the year' at their award ceremony. "It doesn't really matter who the winner is because no one piece of music is better than the other," said Gwenno, in response – adding "cheers to the Eisteddfod for acknowledging contemporary music," which some might interpret as being mildly sarcastic. She's on tour with Heavenly labelmate H Hawkline this month Also getting themselves some sweet debut album action this autumn, after some years honing their proverbial craft and issuing singles with scant fanfare, are Chain Of Flowers. A five-piece featuring ex-members of a bundle of south Wales hardcore and punk bands, their output to date – totalling about 15 minutes – and earbleeding live sets have combined raw HC fury with the submerged melody and
swirling dreaminess of their 80s indie, postpunk and shoegaze influences. Chain Of Flowers is out on Oct 16, will include eight songs and will be released by Alter Records – a London label founded by Luke Younger, of multiple noisy projects including Helm and The Lowest Form Enduring Newport hybrid rockers Skindred [pictured] are no-one's debutantes: Volume, released on Oct 30 via Napalm Records, is their sixth album since 2002. It follows a busy 2015 which has included a tour with depressing comedy metallers Steel Panther; they'll embark on 10 UK dates in early November, following a Halloween gig at Cardiff's Tramshed. (Anyone wishing to see Skindred's Benji Webbe up close can do so on Sat 4 Sept in Blackwood, in his occasional guise as frontman of Dub War.) Fans who preorder Volume's deluxe version via Pledgemusic will also receive a documentary about Skindred – Rude Boys For Life, culled from over 1,000 hours of footage dating back to 1998 Prior to the Swn Festival returning to Cardiff in November (see last month's column), there's been a minor nominative
shakeup regarding their gig-booking arm, Swn Presents. Seeking to make the festival more distinct from the one-off gigs, Swn Presents is now called Sound Nation, and is a collaborative effort with other Cardiffbased promoters. (In the interests of further alleviating confusion, Sound Nation is nothing to do with the erstwhile Welsh music industry magazine Sound Nation.) They're promising to book around 150 gigs in Cardiff in the next 12 months, with early hits including The Lemonheads (The Gate, Fri 2 Oct) and Midasuno plus Jarcrew (The Globe, Sun 18 Oct) Peasant's King, a Pontypridd ensemble whose upbeat pop-rock has found an unlikely but welcoming home on the Visible Noise label, are eyeing a busy November. As well as playing the aforementioned Swn Festival, shortly after they'll be flying to India to play NH7 – a multi-city festival organised along similar lines to, say, Lollapalooza. Peasant's King will perform in three cities (Delhi, Pune and Bengaluru) and have snagged some Wales Arts Council and PRS money to pay their way. August saw the quintet release a new single, Give A Little Love – an early taste of debut Peasant's King album David, due out in late 2015
ONE TO WATCH... VENOM PRISON
The pace with which south Wales death metal-meets-hardcore quintet Venom Prison have got things going, bearing in mind they only introduced themselves to the world at the start of this year, seems mighty impressive. Its members, though, have put in enough pre-VP groundwork to partly explain why they've been booked for continental weekenders like Belgium's Ieperfest, and Bristolian metal extravaganza Temples (which they played this year and have already been invited back to for 2016). Founded by the pleasingly-named Ash Gray, formerly of Brutality Will Prevail, the Venom Prison family tree stretches out from the valleys to England, then to Germany. The current lineup, which was rejigged slightly between the five-song demo tape released in January and brand new 7" EP The Primal Chaos, also features members of Bristol's True Valiance, Cardiff doom outfit Haast's Eagled and Teutonic HC crew Wolf Down. Larissa Stupar, their former vocalist, has moved from Germany to Wales for the sake of this band, so it's as well that The Primal Chaos rages hard. Larissa's presence on the mic is a big factor, too: throat-rippingly demonic, and guaranteed to cause a few double takes when kids clock that it's not a dude singing. The four songs are judiciously produced but agreeably raw – no drum-trigger trickery or nitwit deathcore here. Venom Prison most often recall the strain of late-90s European metallic hardcore released on labels like Good Life and Genet, with splashes of Floridian death metal (the EP artwork is pure Morbid Angel, in the best way) and maybe some Cleveland brutality a la Ringworm. If this is your wheelhouse, you'll be hearing more about Venom Prison. www.facebook.com/venomprison BUZZ 48
one louder REMARKABLY, it appears that there isn't a big contingent of snuffle-nosed eager beavers out there, perpetually combing the finance and budget scrutiny reports on Swansea Council's website. The basis for this assumption is a letter sent from one councillor to another on 22 May, and uploaded in accordance with civic policy – only picked up on in mid-August, however, by the South Wales Evening Post. In it, Clive Lloyd – the councillor who wrote the letter – mulls the performance of Swansea's Grand Theatre, which is owned by the council, and this part was picked up on by the Post. In short, the venue had about 20,000 less people through the doors than they were hoping for over 12 months; the target was 278,000, so not a catastrophe on the face of it, but enough to warrant consideration of what might be improved. More interesting, arguably, is Clive's blithe summation of the Grand Theatre's booking policy as it stands: "low-risk programming to minimise the risk of financial loss on expensive productions or tours that sought a guarantee from the theatre". Redolent of Marge Simpson's "I'm not wild about these high-risk ventures. They sound a little risky," it's a gloomy precis however you slice it. In between suggesting that the downturn is partly because people can watch live streams of theatre, ballet etc now (actual analysis of this development suggests it isn't detrimental, any more than Boiler Room sets stop people going to clubs), Clive more or less gets down to brass tacks. One tactic for an upturn in fortunes, he writes, will be to "diversify programming, with less repetitive tribute performances". Yeowch! That hurts. Or it might, if I was a keen attendee of shows by the likes of ELO Again, Beatles For Sale, The Counterfeit Stones, One Night Of Queen, Nudist Priest and so forth. Efforts to get with the times, or otherwise hip your demeanour up a little, can sometimes cause ructions in the factions: one minute your financial input is helpful and welcomed, the next they're decrying your fusty old ways as they chase the younger dollar. Think of the loyal pubgoer, happy with his nightly pint of ale and bag of Big D peanuts until his chosen establishment gets turned into a Scream pub or craft beer emporium, and his face doesn't fit. It must be even more galling if a guy from the council is implying you're square, rather than some arrogant beardwaxwearing millennial. All the same, though: after reading this story, I took the trouble to look at the Grand Theatre's September listings. I mean actually look at them in totality, rather than just dutifully typing them in like I've done for the past 87 years. It felt like sinking into a walk-in bath anointed with Radox, having previously added a side of valium to my boiled beef and carrots. So unchallenging, it felt almost Zen. Here's the rub, though, one which can be extended to the vast majority of regional theatres, music venues, clubs et al: what if Clive's proposal is wrong, and this easily-chewable, path-of-least-resistance fare is actually the best way of keeping afloat? What happens if (when) efforts to diversify, attract a cooler crowd and maybe do something slightly provocative are met with naught but a slump in ticket sales? Do you blame the public for their poor taste and apathy towards new experiences? You know it's not a good look when people in 'the arts' do that out loud, right? So are you just going to put a brave face on it and pray, in the face of logical impossibility, for an economic upturn that'll somehow drag us all out of this mire? ALVVAYS (The Globe, Cardiff, Tue 1 Sept), LAURA CANNELL, BRAGOD and TOBY HAY (Gwdihw, Wed 9), GWENNO (The Parrot, Carmarthen, Thurs 10), THE DELINES (Le Pub, Newport, Thurs 10), DESECRATION (Le Pub, Newport, Fri 11), JOANNA GRUESOME, KING OF CATS, THE JELAS, TOWEL and TWISTED (Clwb Ifor Bach, Sat 26), NO JOY (Clwb Ifor, Thurs 29) and NOVELLER (Clwb Ifor, Fri 30) won’t pay tribute to anyone but their damn selves. NOEL GARDNER
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books
BOOK OF THE MONTH
MORLAIS Alun Lewis (Seren)
Written by Alun Lewis, one of WWII’s most iconic voices, Morlais is published for the first time in this, Lewis’ centenary year. Set in the industrial South Wales valleys, the novel explores class, social conflict and economic deprivation. Morlais is a sensitive, intelligent boy from a working-class family. The son of a miner, his prospects are limited, until a tragic accident changes the course of his life. Having befriended David, the mine manager's son, Morlais visits his house the night before he is due to sit his scholarship exam for entry into the County School. An accident at the mine results in David’s death and begins Morlais’ journey of class ascension. Adopted by the Reameses as a surrogate for David, Morlais is on course for a college place that will remove him from the industrial landscape and economic depression of Glannant. Despite his improved social standing, Morlais’ class identity remains strong; throughout the novel, he wages an internal war between his desire for education and his unwillingness to abandon his heritage. Lewis’ descriptions of the industrial landscape – terraced houses, pit wheels and slag tips – are evocative and vividly call to mind a lost era dominated by coal; influenced, presumably, by living in the mining village of Cwmaman when writing the novel. Morlais, although a novel that engages with the hardship of industrial life, is, in its essence, a Bildungsroman that tracks the choices a sensitive boy makes on his journey from boy to man. ELLEN DAVIES Price: £12.99. Info: www.serenbooks.com
BLACK APPLES OF GOWER
WE DON’T KNOW WHAT WE’RE DOING
Iain Sinclair (Little Toller Books)
Thomas Morris (Faber & Faber)
Black Apples bills Gower as its sparkling leading role. Sadly, Gower battles for space with its supporting diva, writer Sinclair's cleverness. Depending on your viewpoint, the prose ebbs and flows between lovingly descriptive and overindulgent. This tendency to rather gluttonously describe leaves the reader with an odd apathy. There's one brilliant example of of awkward over-description in the depiction of a female swimmer as 'cousin to the purpioises'. For some, a majestic compliment. Others would place a bag of chips around the author's vicinity and wait for him to get seagulled. The connection between coast and man could be inspiring – but everything is too seriously focusing on the Sinclair's obvious intelligence rather than trying to illicit an audience reaction. Gower, being as it is, can never be a dull beast - but it feels more alive under your feet and in the wind than in an intelligent, but plodding novella, that's more about indulging the writer than shedding any coherent light onto a reader. LA Price: £15. Info: www.littletoller.co.uk
CRIME CORNER Small town USA. Good neighbours in pretty houses behind white picket fences with delicious food on the hob. Promise Falls, New York State is one such town, but Promise Falls is in trouble. Bad things are happening behind closed doors. Attempted rape, murder, blackmail, kidnapping. And David Harwood has come home expecting to find the friendly town he left behind, but it's a broken promise. That's the story behind the new Linwood Barclay novel Broken Promise (Orion, H/B £18.99) and it's not pretty, but is pretty compulsive. Twenty years ago, Claire Scott's eldest sister went missing without a trace. Twenty years later another girl disappears, and her disappearance seems too similar to be a coincidence. So Claire and her surviving sister set out to solve the puzzle. So begins Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter (Century, H/B £20) which ends in murder and fire. Tough stuff, but when our two heroines go on a road trip, they do so in an electric car. Hardly Thelma and Louise in a big V8, but otherwise a real thriller. MARK TIMLIN BUZZ 50
The most apparent thread that runs through the stories of Thomas Morris’ debut collection, We Don’t Know What We’re Doing, is Caerphilly, the South Wales town where it is set. But there are others, too. Each story, for instance, feels the same, which is to say that each story has a similar sensibility. Any character could be taken from one, placed in another and exist there quite realistically – a difficult thing to achieve when the plot of each story is entirely different from the one before; though Morris has done it. A pair of siblings and a Japanese tourist wind up at the bottom of coal mine, a group of friends inadvertently get arrested, and a pensioner gives flirting another go: Thomas Morris’ Caerphilly is a town of first loves, last loves and all degrees of mistakes. Each resident is trying to figure it all out and, in some way, they seem to be doing that together. JG Price: £12.99 / £9.99 ebook. Info: www. faberandfaber.com
STREET OF THIEVES Mathias Enard (Fitzcarraldo Editions) Young Lakhdar wants to love and be loved, but his family don’t view his ‘affair’ with his female cousin in the same light. As political and religious tempers flare, Lakhdar wishes for a new life away from Tangier. He doesn’t agree with fighting but unwittingly finds himself involved in the brutality, and he is scared. Street Of Thieves, the latest novel by Mathias Enard, is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Arab Spring. Mathias’s prose is vital. He doesn’t waste a word or skirt around contentious issues and the reader is quickly swept up in the protagonist’s culture, dreams and heartbreak. Zone won Mathias a host of prizes and it is likely that this will do the same. LN Price: 12.99. Info: www.fitzcarraldoeditions.com
@mabjones A lovely late summer/early autumn literature festival takes place this month. PENfro Book Festival (info: www.rhosygilwen.co.uk) takes place over Fri 11-Sun 13 Sept in Neuadd y Dderwen (The Oak Hall), and tickets are a snip at just £35 for the whole weekend. The UK Canal Poet Laureate, Jo Bell, will be holding a literary lunch there, and Debbie Moggach (the author of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel) will also be present. There’ll be talks, events, and workshops for writers, including one by the wonderful Jo Mazelis. Again in the westerly parts of Wales, we have the Poems And Pints night (info: www.browns-hotel. co.uk) at the famous Brown’s Hotel in Laugharne on Thurs 3 Sept. This month, it features up and coming poetry superstar Lee Prosser, who pens delicate haiku and tanka, plus poems based in rough and ready kebab shops. An ex-navy veteran, he is one to watch out for. While you’re in the village, you might also want to go to the Boathouse, where a poetwho-shall-not-be-named (hello!) will be offering a range of interactive literary activities, as the writer in residence there. On the Fri 11 Sept, too, award-winning performance poet Vanessa Kissule will be at Venue 1 in Tredegar (info: 07970 072736 / 07956 856776), along with a whole host of spoken word. Its a rare trip to Wales by Kissule, who should not be missed. I’ll leave you with a poem by Lee Prosser, however. Catch him on Twitter by seeking out @ black_cabin. TO SOME IT IS A BEACON by Lee Prosser The neon signs buzz, idly declaring wares Underneath, the plastic formed furniture is securely bolted. The strip lights softly hum and glare harshly upon the hard tiled floor. This is the place you head to in the night when you need to feed on skin. Sink your teeth in deep, pull flesh from the bone. A place where a misplaced eye, loose lip or wayward tongue signals close combat. Hunks of meat glistening in this sultry swelter, desirous food for hungry eyes. Licked lips, greedy fingers, the heat stretches, long into the night. Info: www. twitter.com/black_cabin
lifestyle GET STUFFED The fact that autumn has now begun may not feel like something to celebrate but, with the plethora of food festivals taking place in the season, it should be. Buzz round-ups the best delicious events that South Wales’ foodie scene has to offer in our Food Festival Guide. Continued on page 52…
46 sport
GERAINT THOMAS
58 food
57 stuff
FOOD FESTIVALS
KITCHEN GOODIES
WWW. BUZZ MAG. CO.UK BUZZ 51
FEAST UPON FOOD FESTIVALS The festival season might be tailing off but, with so much Welsh produce coming info season, the food festivals are just getting started. Heather Arnold feasts her eyes on what’s to come.
Abergavenny Food Festival
ST FAGANS FOOD FESTIVAL St Fagans National History Museum, Cardiff Sat 5+Sun 6 Sept The only thing better than fresh local produce is when it’s served with a side order of history! OK, so maybe that’s only the case for some very specific people, but good food is universal so at least everyone can enjoy that. Admission: free. Info: 029 2057 3500 / www.museumwales.ac.uk
PENARTH PICNIC Station Approach Industrial Estate, Penarth Sat 5 + Sun 6 Sept The street food revolution is hitting Penarth as the town gears up for its first food festival dedicated to mobile munchables. The picnic won’t be all gingham and fairy cakes, however, as it will start on Saturday evening with drinks, dancing and food – all available after the sun goes down. There will be more to enjoy on Sunday with coffee live music and a good ol’ Sunday lunch.
St Fagans Food Festival
Admission: free. Info: 029 2071 3844 / www.facebook.com/penarthtc
THE BIG CWTCH Crugybar, Carmarthenshire Sat 12 Sept Music, food and cosiness are all on the menu for The Big Cwtch. The one-day festival will have music from the likes of Kizzy Crawford, Houdini Dax and Mixalydia. There will be as much for the mouth as the ears, however, with a pop-up lakeside restaurant, street food, Welsh produce and (most importantly) pubs. Tickets: £30 / £20 conc / £15 teen BUZZ 52
tickets / £10 child ticket / under-5s free / evening and family tickets available. Info: www.thebigcwtch.com
ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL Various venues, Abergavenny 18-20 Sept The Glastonbury of Wales’ food festival season, the Abergavenny Food Festival, is always able to serve up some big hitters. This year they’ve got Michelin-starred restaurant owner Raymond Blanc (who also trained Heston Blumenthal and Marco Pierre White, didn’t ya know), Saturday Kitchen’s Tom Kerridge, Ukrainian chef and food writer Olia Hercules, healthy eating duo Hemsely and Hemsely. And these are just the headliners. There will also be a craft brewery festival, a meat market, a party at the castle (which includes music and fireworks) and an artisan kitchen school where you can make a fancy food product of your own. Tickets: £9-£12 day tickets / £14-£18 weekend tickets / under-16s go free with paying adult. Info: 01873 850805 / www. abergavennyfoodfestival.com
NARBERTH FOOD FESTIVAL Hillside, Coxhill Sat 26+Sun 27 Sept Narberth boast an impressive line-up of local foodie talent as Angela Gray (owner of well renowned Angela Gray cookery school), Anand George (award winning chef of the Purple Poppadum) and Ludovic Dieumegard (a former Masterchef semi-finalist) will all be serving up a number of dishes from around the world. Tickets: £3-£4 day ticket / £5 weekend ticket / under-18s free. Info: www. narberthfoodfestival.com
pic: TIM WOODIER
Big Apple Weekend
Abergavenny Food Festival
Picnic Penarth
The Admiral Newport Food Festival
pic: TIM WOODIER
Narberth Food Festival
Brecon Food Festival
FOOD AND COUNTRYSIDE DAY
THE ADMIRAL NEWPORT FOOD FESTIVAL
Chepstow Racecourse Sun 27 Sept A new one this year as Chepstow Racecourse brings food together with its source: the countryside. Amongst the food stalls and demonstrations (from the likes of celebrity chef James Tanner, chef Rayeesa from Rayeesa’s Indian Kitchen and Tudor Farm House’s Pastry Chef Brook Graham) there will be falconry, pig racing and a ‘parade of hounds’.
Newport city centre Sat 3 Oct In a world of budget cuts, Newport Food Festival has been lucky enough to find a corporate sponsor and, if any event should have a bit of a mouthful of a name, it should be a food festival. The Admiral Newport Food Festival will have over 70 different stalls offering up their delicious deals as wells as live music and street theatre.
Tickets: £12 / £10 adv / £18 family tickets / children go free. Info: 01291 622260 / www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk
Admission: free. Info: www. newportfoodfestival.co.uk
BRECON BEACONS FOOD FESTIVAL
MONMOUTHSHIRE FOOD FESTIVAL
Brecon Market Hall Sat 3 Oct Returning to the Brecon Market Hall, which only went and won UK Cinema Of The Year in 2014 and regularly host’s Brecon’s’ farmer’s market (so it knows what it’s doing), the word-of-the-day for this festival is local. Expect local ingredients, local food and local booze.
Caldicot Castle, Monmouthshire Sat 10 + Sun 11 Oct The Monmouthshire Food Festival is so popular that once a year just isn’t enough for them. After a successful event back in May the festival returens to its castle home with food demos )not just from Michelin starred chefs but also the Royal Navy), a producers market and lots of tasty talks.
Admission: free. Info: www. breconbeacons.org
Admission: £5 / free under 12s. Info: www. monmouthshirefoodfestival.co.uk
NEATH FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL Neath Indoor Market Fri 2-Sun 4 Oct Due to popular demand Neath Food And Drink Festival, the town’s annual celebration of local produce, has been changed from a two day event to a three day one. That makes it a whole weekend-long celebration of culinary delights. Situated inside and around Neath’s celebrated Indoor Victorian Market, the festival looks as good as it tastes. Admission: free. Info: 01639 686868 / www.neathfoodfestival.co.uk
BIG APPLE WEEKEND Gower Heritage Centre Sat 10 + Sun 11 Oct If an apple a day keeps the doctor away, would an apple festival do a world of good for the NHS? Just to be safe, it might be good to go along to the Gower Heritage Centre’s annual apple festival. It might not help you stave off a cold but you can enjoy some live music, try some food and watch cider being made on a 150-year-old traditional cider press. Admissions (normal entrance fees): £6.75 / £5.75 conc / under-2s free / family and season tickets available. Info: 01792 371206 / www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk BUZZ BUZZ53 53
GERAINT THOMAS
sport
BUZZ 54
Fresh off the Tour De France track, Welsh cyclist Geraint Thomas talks to Heather Arnold about crashes, keeping focused and his face.
C
yclist Geraint Thomas is nothing if not busy. When I manage to speak to him it has only been a week since the British Team Sky won the top spot at the Tour De France. It was also a few days before his stag do and just a few weeks before he gets his feet on the pedals again for the Vuelta a Espana. “I’m back home in Monaco chilling out, riding my bike,” says Geraint. “I’ve got a three-week race around Spain coming up so I’m trying to recover now.” Recovering from the Tour De France, known as one of the most gruelling sporting events in the world, is an important step for any professional cyclist – but especially for Thomas who had a narrow escape on the 16th day of the tour when he was thrown off course and rode straight into a lamppost. Thomas veered off the road during the descent of the Col de Manse when Warren Barguil, of Team Giant-Alpecin, accidently slammed into his side. Geraint then went through a small crowd of people before hitting a lamppost and falling into a ditch. What was going through the Welsh cyclist's head when all of this was happening? “I just thought ‘Oh crap, I’m going to hit a lamppost,’ and trying to figure out where on my body am I going to hit it,” Geraint states. “You try and scramble back up on to the road and get your bike going again. You don’t really think about it too much until afterwards when you realise – whoa, that was really quite close.” Thankfully no-one was hurt and Thomas was able to get back on his bike and finish the stage. He came out of the crash unhurt but, having suffered from internal bleeding and needing surgery after a crash in Australia in 2005, Thomas is no stranger to the potential consequences of such crashes. “This was spectacular but I came off quite luckily. Cyclists have a lot of stories about big crashes but it’s not really a competition you want to be the best in. It’s part of me already though because there’s always crashes and a lot of broken bones throughout the year.” Even when crashes and injuries are taken out of the formula, the Tour De France is an event with such status that a bit of drama is inevitable. This year the dramatics were centred around Team Sky and its leader Chris Froome (who went on to win the race) when people began to cry foul play at their strong performance. Not only were there accusations of doping but there were also attacks from spectators (including incidents where people spat at Froome and threw urine at him) and suspicions that someone had hacked into the cyclist’s performance data. Geraint and his team try hard to keep out of all the drama and focus on the race, though. “I like to stay in my little world with the team. Obviously there’s stuff going on that you hear about, and it’s easy to get wrapped in it, but you’ve just got to focus on the race because that’s what you’re there to do in the end.” Geraint also notes that the strong team bond helps to keep their feet on the pedals. “We’re all genuinely good mates and a lot of us have grown up together and we get on really well. I think that definitely helps and there’s a good environment within the team. We can all take the mick out of each other and talk about normal stuff like stag dos and weddings and holidays. The talk is not all about the cycling. You get to switch off and relax.” Somehow – in between racing, party planning and media requests – Geraint has also found the time to write his own book: The World Of Cycling According To G. “It’s not a straightforward autobiography, its different subject on loads of different things,” Geraint explains. “There’s some technical stuff, such as a bit where I talk about riding the wind, but there’s stuff about riding in the rain which anyone can relate to. “You don’t have to know me to be able to relate to it. You don’t have to be a keen cyclist to read it. If you’ve ridden a bike or if you like sports I hope you’ll find it interesting. “It took a lot of work and I spent a lot of time making sure it’s what I wanted. I’m looking forward to when it comes out and it’ll be weird walking into Waterstones or Tesco’s and seeing my face on a book.”
“I just thought ‘Oh crap, I’m going to hit a lamppost”
The World Of Cycling According To G by Geraint Thomas, available from Thurs 29 Oct. Price: £20 hardback. Info: www.quercusbooks.co.uk
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KITCHEN CWTCH If you can’t manage to pull yourself out of the kitchen long enough to try out some of South Wales’ food festivals, you can at least add a little razzmatazz to your own foodie home. Here’s some fashionable looking kitchen gadgetry to make your house look more ‘chefs haven’ than hell’s kitchen.
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1.QUICK WHIP CREAM WHIPPER, Clas Ohlson, St David’s Centre, £12.99 / 2.ALESSI JUICY SALIF CITRUS SQUEEZER, Philippe Starck, www.redcandy.co.uk, £49 / 3. JOSEPH JOSEPH NEST MEASURING CUPS (SET OF 8), John Lewis, St David’s Centre, £9.99 / 4. MAGIMIX 2-SLICE VISION TOASTER (BRUSHED STEEL), John Lewis, St David’s Centre, £165 / 5.SPIRALIZER, ProCook, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, Bridgend, £27 (RRP £39) / 6.DRINKING JAR, ProCook, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, Bridgend, £2.49 (RRP £5) / 7. SWAN 'COME DINE WITH ME' PARTY WOK AND PANCAKE MAKER, John Lewis, St David’s Centre, £59.95 / 8. ARTHUR EGG CUP AND SPOON, www.redcandy.co.uk, £7.95 / 9.WINE COOLER SLEEVE, Le Creuset, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, Bridgend, £36 for three (RRP £54)
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Fares are one way including taxes and charges, only available on Flybe.com, subject to availability. Advance purchase may be required. Headline fare does not apply to all routes. Selected fl ights operational from 01.06.15. See website for full schedule details. Available for travel until 24.03.16. Not all flights operate for the entire travel period. Route information correct at time of going to print. No debit card fees apply. Bookings made by credit card or PayPal will incur a fee of 3% of the total transaction value, with a minimum charge of £5.00 per booking.
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T&Cs apply. We reserve the right to withdraw this offer without notice. Offer only applies to Give it a Go climbing sessions taking place Monday-Friday. Valid until 31st August 2015. Subject to availability.
BUZZ 57
student guide 2015 The buzz student guide is an indispensible A5 guide to South Wales’ best: Art Centres & Galleries / Bars / Clubs / Days Out Food / Gigs / Money Matters / Museums / Music Restaurants/ Shopping/ Sport/ Takeaways / Theatre Essential Listings & more... South Wales’ very own academic bible returns this Spetember, with a guide that will direct a tidal wave of students right to your door. Making it the only place to advertise your business, venue, event or service this year!
The guide will act as a reference point for their time in South Wales and tell them what to do and where to do it.
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BUZZ 58
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After the huge success of last year’s guide, Buzz’s compendium of everything student related will be bigger, better and more student friendly than ever.
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THE GOOD LIFE EXPERIENCE Hawarden Estate, Flintshire, Fri 18-Sun 20 Sept. Tickets: £45 / under-16s £22.50 / under-8s free / £100 family ticket. Info: 01244 784122 / www. thegoodlifeexperience.co.uk A bit further north than Buzz is used to covering but this is a festival created by Cerys Matthews and name after a 70s sitcom, so how could we not cover it? Wanting to take a step away from sitting inside, staring at a tablet whilst watching the telly? The Good Life Experience provides the opportunity to get out in the countryside and enjoy the good things in life like music, food and stories. Mab Jones spoke to Cerys about the festival, and asked why she decided to make it. “I felt like a lot of festivals are getting really huge, and very corporate. So, to have a festival where you can share all your enthusiasm with other people felt like the natural step to do, because I am coming across some really exciting writers and some really exciting musicians, and it just thought it’d be a lovely platform to celebrate this kind of thing.” Whilst most festivals will be burning a £100+ hole in your pocket, ticket prices at The Good Life Experience are very reasonable – with an adult ticket setting you back less than a decent tent. “I’m well aware of how expensive festivals are, so we’ve tried to keep it really super value for money,” says Cerys, “and once you’re in, everything’s for free – endless fair rides, endless abseiling, endless archery. Endless everything! It’s not just music, literature and food, but has added activities, and bushcraft. The idea is to leave having learned a new skill or had a new experience.”
Read our full interview with Cerys Matthews online at www.buzzmag.co.uk
CONTENTS pg 60 pg 62 pg 64 pg 71 pg 75
art clubs events live stage BUZZ 59
art
art Aberystwyth Arts Centre University Of Wales, Aberystwyth. Free. Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. 01970 621903 / www.aber.ac.uk/artscentre First Contact Work from members of the Black & White Photography courses and Open Access sessions. (Until Thurs 10 Sept) Amanda Jackson ‘To Build A Home’ photographs show the diversity of community life at Lammas Tir Y Gafel Eco Village in Pembrokeshire, where minimal ecological impact is a priority. (Until Sat 19 Sept) We Are All Born Free A collection of pictures, intended to be easy to understand for anyone aged six or older, that illustrate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and featuring contributions from artists from all over the world. (Until Sat 3 Oct) *Robert Mapplethorpe The first collaborative exhibition between this gallery and Artist Rooms features a selection of photography from one of the key artists of the latter part of the 20th century. See Art. (Until Sat 7 Nov) Abertoir 10th Anniversary Exhibition Two-part exhibition tied in with this annual horror fest: an exhibition of original posters and lobby
cards from the films Vincent Price made in Britain, and a selection of the finest art from Arrow DVD/video releases. (From Sat 26 Sept until Sat 21 Nov) Albany Gallery 74b Albany Road, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Free. 029 2048 7158 / www.albanygallery. com Summer Exhibition A changing exhibition of work by more than 50 artists. Also features ceramics by South Wales Potters. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Andrew Buchan Bar 29 Albany Road, Cardiff. Daily 11am-11pm. Free. 029 2021 2509. Dave Grooveslave + Retro Dan Selected work from a couple of local creative types who have close ties to this bar. (Throughout September) Andrew Lamont Gallery (Theatr Brycheiniog) Canal Wharf, Brecon. Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free. 01874 611622 / enquiries@ brycheiniog.co.uk / www. brycheiniog.co.uk Gustavius Payne Large scale oil paintings exploring the power and control dynamic of contemporary society. (Until Sat 10 Oct) Arcadecardiff Queens Arcade, off Queen Street, Cardiff. Usually open
Wed-Sat 12.30-5.30pm. www. arcadecardiff.co.uk Elys John A recreation streets in the Cardiff district of, featuring tiny 3D printed houses each made up of recycled rubbish from those particular houses. (Until Sat 12 Sept) Art Central Barry Town Hall, King Square, Barry. Tue-Sat 11am-4pm. Free. 01446 709805. Barry Camera Club Display of photographs taken by group members over the last year; individually created images covering a wide range of subject matters. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Dilys Jackson ‘7 2 77’ Jackson’s physical and psychological reactions to the world about her produce works that, for her, are a metaphor for human existence. Her works echo the forms of plants, valleys, streams and the life that springs from them, just as they echo the masses, divisions, conflicts and life giving processes of humanity. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sat 31 Oct) Attic Gallery 37 Pocketts Wharf, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Fri 10am-5.30pm, Sat 10am4.30pm. Free. 01792 653387 / www.atticgallery.co.uk Summer Group Show This gallery’s opportunity (and indeed most others during the
summer) to showcase new work from the artists that they represent. Features over 50 artists working across a variety of mediums: paintings, sculpture, glasswork, pottery and prints. (Until Sat 12 Sept) Barnabas Artshouse New Ruperra Street, Newport. Open Mon-Sat. Free. 01633 673739 / www. barnabasartshouse.co.uk Alex Arnell ‘Caged’ Londonbased artist, resident here as part of the venue’s August Fringe Festival, with work on a theme of – says Alex – “the various ‘cages’ prevalent in the world today, encompassing animal and human life whilst acknowledging the existence of metaphorical imprisonment.” (Until Sat 26 Sept) Barker Gallery / Torfaen Gallery Pontypool Museum, Park Buildings, Pontypool. MonSat 11am-5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free Wed/Sun 2-5pm. 01495 752036. Figure Four Long-term show of works by four local artists: Mary James, Louella Gwillim, Kay Lawrence and Tony Tribe. Works on show include life studies, landscapes, sketches and sketchbooks, water colours, interior views and portraits. (Until Mon 26 Oct) Boundary Art 3 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. 029 2048 9869 / www.boundaryart.com Flow Summer exhibition of art using ‘the sea’ as the main theme. (Throughout September) Butetown History & Arts Centre 4/5 Dock Chambers, Bute St, Cardiff Bay. Tue-Fri 10am5pm, Sat & Sun 11am4.30pm. Free. 029 2025 6757 / www.bhac.org Sue Hunt & Paul Crompton ‘Health Messages’ Exhibition showing the replies given to the question, “if you had to have one health message to give to your village, your patients, your government, your children – what would it be?” by residents of the town of Chongwe and the village of Shiyala in Zambia. Presented in conjunction with the Mothers Of Africa and Go Zambia project. (From Sun 6 until Sun 27 Sept)
A FINE BEGINNING Cardiff M.A.D.E, Wed 9-Sat 19 Sept Admission: free. Info: 029 2047 3373 /www.afinebeginning.com Ahead of major bi-annual photography festival, Diffusion, Cardiff M.A.D.E will be hosting an independently curated show by highly regarded Welsh photography collective, A Fine Beginning. Kicking off a three-stop gallery tour (later appearing in Colwyn Bay and London) the exhibition will showcase the work of A Fine Beginning’s four members (Abbie TraylerSmith, Gawain Barnard, Jack Latham and James O Jenkins), as well as 27 other photographers whose work in and about Wales is also featured on the collective’s blog. From the urbanised rural Welsh landscapes reproduced by Gawain Barnard and Jooney Woodward, to Clémentine Schneidermann, Francesca Jones and Mike Harvey’s intimate portraits documenting the everyday lives of Welsh men and women, Made In Wales captures a snapshot of contemporary Wales.
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Cardiff School Of Art & Design Cardiff Metropolitan University, Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff. Free. 029 2041 6070 / www.cardiff-school-of-artand-design.org Masters Degree Show 2015 Featuring a selection of work from students studying the following courses: MA Art & Design, Master Of Design, Master Of Fine Art, MA Ceramics and MSc Advanced Product Design. (From Fri 4 until Fri 11) Chapter Gallery Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff. Tue, Wed, Sat + Sun 12-6pm; Thurs + Fri 12-8pm. Free. 029 2030 4400 / www. chapter.org
Thirteen Blackbirds Look At A Man The artists in this exhibition – Fiona MacDonald, Cathie Pilkington, Annie Whiles and Sean Ashton – seek out resonance and allegiance through myth. Sources of inspiration include real life, Bible stories, Greek myths and German fairy tales. (Until Sun 6 Sept) Fiona MacDonald ‘Wild Word’ Part of the above exhibition but shown in the bar area, it features depictions of letters of the alphabet created from various found objects. (Until Sun 6 Sept) Gwyn Williams ‘Chipwood And Choppers’ Caernarfonbased artist Williams searches internet auction sites for photographs and archive images that depict archetypal scenes of Americana. He then juxtaposes these strangely nostalgic images with sections of chipwood wallpaper, evoking memories of his north Walian childhood. (From Fri 18 Sept until Sun 1 Nov) Craft In The Bay The Flourish, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff. Mon-Sun 10.30am-5.30pm. Free. 029 2048 4611. Summer Show: Focus On Glass Summer showcase exploring the striking creations from over 20 artists around the UK. (Until Sun 6 Sept) Heat Exchange 2 See art for more on this showcase of new artists, curated by Beate Gegenwart and Elizabeth Turrell. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sun 8 Nov) Dylan Thomas Centre Somerset Place, Swansea. Daily 10am-4pm. Free. 01792 463980 / dylanthomas.lit@swansea.gov. uk / www. dylanthomas.com Love The Words Ongoing, permanent exhibition dedicated to Dylan Thomas, with lots of interactive features and voiceovers from people including Prince Charles and Richard Burton. Elysium Gallery 16 College Street, Swansea. Wed-Sat 12-5pm. Free. www. elysiumgallery.com Pascal-Michel Dubois ‘Garçonnière’ See Art for more on this show, which incorporates video, poetry, photography, drawing and arrangements of found objects – relating to Dubois’ experience of living alone in a small room as a young man. This sounds cool but maybe a little upbeat for my liking, in that it implies he achieved something with his life at a later age. (From Fri 11 Sept until Sat 3 Oct) Fountain Fine Art 6-8 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff. Tue-Sat 10.30am-5pm. Free. www.fountainfineart.com Duncan Johnson Duncan mixes the subtlety of watercolour with rich ink to create a vibrant and sumptuously engaging interpretation to the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire landscapes he favours. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sat 3 Oct) Fountain Fine Art Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm. Free. www.
fountainfineart.com Martin Llewellyn Off the back of a sell-out show in north Wales, Martin exhibits a little closer to home again with a solo exhibition of Welsh landscape in his dramatic palette-knifed style. (From Sat 5 until Sat 26 Sept) Futures Gallery Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay. Daily 10.30am-4pm. Free. 0845 010 5500 / www. pierhead.org Cardiff Camera Club Annual Exhibition A wide range of prints taken locally, nationally and internationally, many of which have been successful in competitions, salons and exhibitions. (Until Sat 26 Sept) G39 Oxford Street, Roath, Cardiff. Saturdays 11am5.30pm. Free. 029 2047 3633 / post@g39.org Island Adaptations I & II An evolving programme of exhibitions, commissions, film, food, performance, music and community led events in three parts, the first two running simultaneously. Adaptations I & II explore the disparate notions of isolation and community. (Until Sat 12 Sept) Y Galeri, Caerffili Lower Ground Floor, The Visit Caerphilly Centre, The Twyn, Caerphilly. Tue-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2086 1433 / www.ygaleri.co.uk Louise Collis ‘365 Project’ This artist created a landscape painting outdoors every day for a year. You won’t believe the results! Actually, hopefully you will, as they’re all displayed here chronologically. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Changing Exhibition Featuring wall hung and freestanding work from established and emerging Welsh artists.Includes a profile from the winner of this years Open Art Competition. (From Tue 8 Sept until Sat 17 Oct) Galerie Simpson 222 High Street, Swansea. Tue-Say 11.30am-5pm. Free. 07714 327523 / www. galeriesimpson.com Molly Parkin ‘In Landscape’ Born in Pontycymmer in 1932, this is the most comprehensive homeland exhibition yet of painter, novelist and journalist Parkin’s abstract expressionist landscapes. (From Thurs 10 Sept until Sat 14 Nov) Gallery/Ten 23 Windsor Place, Cardiff. Free. www.gallery-ten.co.uk Carwyn Evans ‘Gwlith / Dew’ New installation work from Welsh artists. “Swathed colours of yellow hue will occupy the exhibition space through the use of filter gels, transforming the ambience of the gallery from its white cube aesthetic,” says Gallery/ Ten. (From Fri 4 Sept until Sat 3 Oct) Gas Gallery Park Avenue, Aberystwyth. Mon-Sat 11am-5pm. Free. 01974 261279. Open Photography Exhibition 2015 Local photographers show work based on the subject of ‘people’. Selected by Christopher Webster from the Aberystwyth
art School Of Art. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Chain Reaction Patti Keane, Suzanne Lanchbury and Beate Shallcross invite you to follow the themes and links between their 52 vibrant paintings and sculptures. (Until Sat 5 Sept) The Gate Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 10am-9pm. Free. 029 2048 3344 / info@ thegate.org.uk Brian Gardiner & Philip Jennings Drawings and prints. Gardiner studied painting at Newport and London Royal College Of Art in the late 1950s; Jennings, a student at the Royal College Of Art, worked as an illustrator before moving to Cardiff. (From Wed 2until Fri 25 Sept) Grand Pavilion The Esplanade, Porthcawl. Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01656 815995 / www. grandpavilion.co.uk Porthcawl Arts Society: Porthcawl Town Council Photography Competition Check www.promotingporthcawl.com for further details. (Until Sun 27 Sept) Lynn Ricketts, Geoff Stone & Len Calvert ‘Tis Art’ Work by three local artists. (From Tue 29 Sept until Sun 8 Nov) King Street Gallery 33 King Street, Carmarthen. Free. 01267 220121 / gallery@kingstreetgallery. co.uk Celtic Coastline Competition Open art competition celebrating Wales’ heritage and natural beauty, and judged by Lynne Crompton of Narberth’s Oriel Q. The winner is awarded £100. (From Fri 4 until Thurs 17 Sept) Celtic Coastline Related exhibition, featuring work along the same theme by this gallery’s artists. (From Fri 4 Sept until Fri 30 Oct) Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre St. David’s Rd, Cwmbran, Torfaen. Mon-Sat 10am5pm. Free. 01633 483321 / www.lgac.org.uk Portal 2015 Featuring the work of this year’s top UK graduates in the applied arts; those deemed by this gallery to be pushing the boundaries of applied art whilst maintaining and developing the traditions of their craft. (Until Sat 17 Oct) Kirsty Elson Craft showcase from an artist who collects driftwood and other found objects and turns them into coastal-themed sculptures. (Until Sat 17 Oct) Donna Barry Jewellery showcase from Welsh-born designer and maker who creates silver textured sheets inspired by repetition in nature and architectural shapes and patterns. (Until Sat 17 Oct) M.A.D.E. Gallery 41 Lochaber St, Cardiff. Free. 029 2047 3373. A Fine Beginning Welsh photography collective holds the first of three exhibitions showcasing new work from its four members (Abbie TraylerSmith, Gawain Barnard, Jack Latham and James O Jenkins) and 27 photographers whose
work has featured on their blog. It’ll be in London and Colwyn Bay after this. (From Wed 9 until Sat 19 Sept) Martin Tinney Gallery 18 St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2064 1411 / mtg@artwales. com Kevin Sinnott & Eurfryn Lewis Work by two acclaimed contemporary Welsh artists: paintings from Sinnott and rugby-themed etchings from Lewis. (From Wed 16 Sept until Sat 10 Oct) Mission Gallery Gloucester Place, Swansea. Tue-Sun 11am-5pm. Free. 01792 652016 / www. missiongallery.co.uk Graduate Showcase 2015 Following the success of last year’s Graduate Showcase, Mission Gallery has now developed this opportunity to include art, craft, design, still and moving image, encompassing both Maker in Focus and the [...] space. Work will be selected from various degree shows around the UK and New Designers. (Until Sun 6 Sept) Ryan L Moule ‘Divisible Remainder’ Taking the (restored) deleted fragments of an anonymous external hard drive as its starting point and questioning the fractured contexts produced by intangible systems of information storage. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sun 8 Nov) Sally Waterman ‘Translucence’ Work in the [...] space, a video which reflects upon mortality, bereavement and remembrance. (From Tue 8 Sept until Sun 11 Oct) Judith Rees Makers In Focus show of minimalist sculpture – a new body of work, created for Mission Gallery, which extends the artist’s ‘post-pop’ project in a sombre new direction.. (From Tue 8 Sept until Sun 11 Oct) National Botanic Garden Of Wales Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. Daily 10am-6pm. £8.50/£7 OAP/£4.50 kids/free under5s. 01558 668768. Barcode Sculpture Located outdoors here, new work from nine artists from Sculpture Cymru. Each has made a response to the DNA barcode research by the Garden’s Head of Science & Research Dr. Natasha De Vere. (Until September TBC) National Museum & Gallery Cathays Park, Cardiff. TueSun 10am-5pm. Free except where noted. 029 2057 3500 / www.museumwales.ac.uk/ cardiff Chalkie Davies: The NME Years Welshman who came to prominence in the 70s as one of the UK’s top rock photographers, as the artform was developing. (Until Sun 6 Sept) Wales’ Newest Dinosaur The very same one which was recently unveiled having been found in the Vale Of Glamorgan a while back. I don’t normally bother listing exhibitions which are, like, science displays, but I shall make an exception for this one. (Until Sun 6 Sept)
Fragile? Exploring the artistic and expressive possibilities of ceramic as a material, including the contradiction between two of its inherent qualities – durability and fragility. Includes various keys works from this museum, plus installations commissioned from Phoebe Cummings, Clare Twomey and Keith Harrison. (Until Sun 4 Oct) Kick-offs And Keepsakes Multimedia exhibition looking at the story of rugby through Welsh eyes. (From Tue 8 Sept until Sun 15 Nov) National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Daily 10am-5pm. Free. 01792 638950. From Pithead To Sick Bed And Beyond Exhibition exploring how disabled people were treated and viewed in the mining industry and the south Wales communities that relied on it. (Until Sun 4 Oct) World Of Work: Rugby Meeting and interviewing players, coaches, ground staff and fans, the pupils of Ysgol Pen y Bryn have curated this display in time for the Rugby World Cup. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sun 1 Nov) Newport Museum & Art Gallery John Frost Square, Newport. Tue-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm, Sat 9.30am-4pm. Free. 01633 656656 / museum@newport.gov.uk Newport And The First World War An exhibition commemorating the hard work, commitment and sacrifice made by the people of Newport during WWI, both at home and fighting abroad. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Norwegian Church Arts Centre Harbour Drive, Cardiff Bay. Daily 11am-4pm. Free. 029 2087 7959 / www. norwegianchurchcardiff.com F22 Photography work from a collaborative duo, Mike and Dave, based in this region. Not sure if this is new work or a reprise of their exhibition which has shown here a few times before. (Until Sun 13 Sept) Rhiannon Roberts ‘Magical Cardiff Bay’ Original watercolour paintings and acrylic canvases showing Cardiff’s character. (From Mon 14 until Sun 20 Sept) Rhiannon Roberts ‘Magical Cardiff Bay’ Original watercolour paintings and acrylic canvases showing Cardiff’s character. (From Mon 14 until Sun 20 Sept) Art in deMEntia Art and craftwork by carers and people diagnosed with dementia. (From Mon 21 until Sat 26 Sept) Elin Høyland’s ‘The Brothers’ A photographic portrayal of the relationship between Harald and Mathias Ramen, two brothers who lived together on a small farm in rural Norway. Part of the Diffusion Festival, which runs throughout October and as such will be listed in full next month. (From Tue 29 Sept until Sun 25 Oct) Off The Wall The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Road, Llandaff, Cardiff. Tue-Fri 9.30am-
5.30pm, Sat 10am-4pm. Free. 029 2055 4469 / art@ galleryoffthewall.com Summer Shimmer Summer show of new work from Corrie Chiswell, Millie Gleeson, Bert Evans, Gary Crowder, James Starr, Dhyana Fritshce, Jacqueline Alkema and many more. (Throughout September) Oriel Canfas Glamorgan Street, Canton, Cardiff. Tue-Fri 1-4.30pm, Sat 10.30am-4.30pm. 029 2066 6455 / www. orielcanfas.co.uk George Chambers Recent paintings. (Until Sun 6 Sept) Roger Cecil ‘The Gifts’ Cecil, who died earlier this year aged 72, was an acclaimed painter who explored the themes of the human condition in his work. This is an exhibition paying tribute not only to his artistic talent, but also his personal warmth and generosity. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sat 3 Oct) Oriel Davies The Park, Newtown, Powys. Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm. Free. 01686 625041 / enquiries@ orieldavies.org Flora This exhibition is debuting here and will visit various other Welsh galleries over the next 12 months. Emma Bennett, Michael Boffey, Anya Gallaccio, Ori Gersht, Owen Griffiths, AnneMie Melis, Jacques Nimki, Yoshihiro Suda and Clare Twomey explore the significance of flowers in contemporary art. (Until Wed 9 Sept) Gwyn Williams ‘The Scent of Dic Aberdaron’ “A copy of a missing bust, presumed lost but very possibly held somewhere in secret,” of a 18th/19th century Welshman who is apparently the most sculpted Welsh figure apart from Lloyd George. (Until Wed 9 Sept) Oriel Joanna Field Torch Theatre, St. Peter’s Road, Milford Haven. Free. 01646 695267 / www. torchtheatre.co.uk Milford Haven In 100 Years Perhaps a little disappointingly, not an imagining of what this town might look like in 2115, but a pictorial exploration of the town by local young people. Faces of members of the community aged 0-100 are used to create mosiacs. (Until Sat 26 Sept) Oriel Mwldan Bath House Rd, Cardigan. Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. Free. 01239 621200 / siobhan@ mwldan.co.uk Josephine Sowden ‘A Change Of Worlds’ Awarded the Gold Medal at the 2013 National Eisteddfod for her video The Lilies Of The Field, Sowden has continued to make work which investigates the inherent underlying madness of modern humanity. (Until Sat 10 Oct) Oriel Myrddin Church Lane, Carmarthen. 01267 222775 / www. orielmyrddingallery.co.uk Richard Slee ‘Work And Play’ Attempts to challenge every conventional notion in ceramic art and transcend the utilitarian roots of the form, by
this internationally renowned artist. (Until Sat 12 Sept) Oriel Q The Queens Hall, High Street, Narberth. Wed-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01834 869454 / www.orielqueenshallgallery.org.uk Ceramics Show Curated by Ingrid Murphy. Oriel Fach and Stairs: details to come for both; 3D Gallery: assorted ceramics and jewellery by students and well-known artists. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Geoff Yeomans Retrospective exhbition for this painter’s 80th
Newport. Wed-Fri 10am2am, Sat 10am-4pm. Free. 01633 656638 / www. theprojectspacenewport. wordpress.com Our Cultural Lives People with a learning disability have selected and designed a multicultural heritage trail across Newport and Cardiff. They have researched facts, shared their stories and visited cultural places and communities on their way. (From Wed 2 until Fri 11 Sept) Redhouse Old Town Hall, High Street,
Oriel Canfas, which I can very nearly see right now by looking out of the Buzz office window, has a retrospective/ tribute exhibition for Roger Cecil – a Welsh painter who died earlier this year – running from Sat 12 Sept until Sat 3 Oct.
birthday. (From Sat 12 Sept until Sat 24 Oct) Oriel Y Bont University Of South Wales, Pontypridd. Mon-Thurs 8.30am-5.30pm, Fri 8.30am5pm. Free. 01443 480480 / www.gallery.southwales. ac.uk Engaging With The Past An exhibition, drawn primarily from the University Of South Wales Art Collection Museum, of modern and contemporary artworks by five male and five female south Wales-based artists who engage with various pasts and including literary responses by Philip Gross, Jeni Williams and others. (Until Mon 23 Nov) Ronald Lawrence & Anthony Stokes ‘From Coast To Valleys’ Contemporary photographs depicting Rest Bay, Porthcawl, and various locations in the Valleys. Stokes’ images feature in his book The Valleys (Seren, 2007). (Until Mon 23 Nov) Penarth Pier Pavilion The Esplanade, Penarth. Tues-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2071 2100 / info@ penarthpavilion.co.uk Mel Burgum ‘Ziegfeld & The It Girls’ Large-scale solo exhibition of paintings depicting the Ziegfeld Follies, a group of women who were big on Broadway in the 1920s/30s. (Until Sun 20 Sept) Shelter Cymru Auction View some of the works that have been donated to Shelter Cymru in aid of their auction, which is on Fri 25. (From Wed 23 until Fri 25 Sept) Aneurin & Meirion Jones New work from two painters who primarily depict Welsh rural and coastal life, respectively. (From Wed 30 Sept until Thurs 19 Nov) Project Space 147 Commercial Street,
Merthyr Tydfil. Free. 01685 384111 / info@ redhousecymru.com Andrew McNeill ‘Under The Bridge’ Images relating to a new book – Andrew’s second – documenting the plight of Cardiff’s homeless community. Previously shown in Cardiff Bay, and featured in last month’s issue of Buzz. (Until Fri 2 Oct) The Riverfront Bristol Packet Wharf, Newport. Mon-Sat 10am8pm, Sun 10am-6pm. Free. 01633 656757. Art School Autumn Exhibition Artwork from classes taught by Shirley Griffiths, featuring work produced in a variety of media. A follow-up to the Love Newport exhibition of 2014. (From Wed 2 until Sat 12 Sept) Western Valley Photographic Exhibition Photographs by members of the Western Valley Camera Club, showing a wide variety of landscapes, portraiture, still life and creative images. (From Thurs 3 until Sat 26 Sept) Zdenek Piner A series of works created both in Piner’s home country of the Czech Republic and his time spent in Newport. (From Wed 16 until Tue 29 Sept) St Donats Arts Centre St Donats Castle, Vale Of Glamorgan. Free. 01446 779100 / www.stdonats.com Stepwells: Subterranean Architecture In India Documenting an unusual aspect of Indian traditional architecture, stepwells are mostly found in North Western India. This exhibition has toured in India, the UK and America since 2008. (Throughout September) Swansea Grand Theatre Singleton St, Swansea. MonSat 10am-5pm. Free. 01792 BUZZ 61
clubs 475715 / www. swanseagrand.co.uk Kathleen Anderson Oil paintings which, the artist says, “convey the unique qualities that exist in the different species of wildlife, equines and domestic animals”. (Until Fri 4 Sept) Llwchwr Art Group Mixed exhibition showing the results of this group’s weekly meetings at Gorseinon Institute. (Until Sat 5 Sept) The Wakelin Award 2015 Given annually to a Welsh artist whose work is purchased for the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery’s permanent collection. (Until Fri 2 Oct) Mid Wales Arts An exhibition by painters, sculptors, illustrators, fibre artists, ceramicists and mixed media artists, all living and working in Wales. (From Tue 15 Sept until Fri 2 Oct) Swansea University Research Forum – Research As Art Exhibition celebrating the diversity and beauty of research at Swansea University. (From Tue 15 Sept until Fri 2 Oct) Swansea Museum Victoria Road, The Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Free. 01792 653763 / www. swanseamuseum.co.uk Great War Posters A display of World War One propaganda posters, in partnership with SWM (South West Wales Museums). (Until Sun 27 Sept) Swansea Print Workshop 19a Clarence Street, Swansea. Fri-Sun 11.30am4pm. Free. 01792 464418 / www. swanseaprintworkshop. co.uk Carol Lawrence & Bridget Stevens ‘The Eye Wild’ Lawrence and Stevens explore the inner landscape and respond to poetry and myth through printmaking in this pop-up exhibition. Part of a year-long programme of events and workshops this year celebrating 15 years of printmaking at the Workshop. (From Fri 25 until Sun 27 Sept) Taliesin Arts Centre Singleton Park, Swansea. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 12pm-6pm and performance evenings 6pm-8.15pm. Free. 01792 295526 / www. taliesinartscentre.co.uk People And Place The 15 Hundred Lives Contemporary Art Collective – collagist Sylvie Evans, printmaker Rose Davies and painter Graham Parker – present new bodies of work themed on people’s sense of being in the landscapes they experience, inhabit and shape. (Until Sat 26 Sept) Tenby Museum & Art Gallery Castle Hill, Tenby. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, £4/£3/£2 kids. 01834 842809 / www. tenbymuseum.org.uk Andrea Kelland Retrospective exhibition, also featuring some new paintings. (Until Sun 4 Oct) Theatr Hafren Llanidloes Road, Newtown, Powys. Mon-Sat 10am5.30pm. Free. 01686 625007 / boxoffice@theatrhafren. co.uk BUZZ 62
Brian Jones Scenery capturing the exquisite colouring and moods of the Mid Wales Countryside. There will also be a collection of hand embellished prints to compliment the original paintings. (From Fri 4 Sept until Mon 30 Nov) Tower Gallery 49 High Street, Crickhowell. Free. 01873 812495 / www. towergallery.co.uk Lesley Lillywhite Showcase of printmaking using mixed methods. (Until Sat 12 Sept) Philippine Sowerby A sculptor in wood since 2002, Sowerby shows work in galleries around the UK, and is a member of the Makers Guild In Wales and the Welsh Group. (From Wed 16 Sept until Sat 31 Oct) Tower Gallery Oriel Y Parc Landscape Gallery & Visitor Centre, The Grove, St Davids, Pembrokeshire. Free. 01437 720392 / info@orielyparc. co.uk Michael Jackson Visual artist living in Wales who works with photography, rocks and unusual darkroom techniques. (Throughout September) Velindre Hospital Whitchurch, Cardiff. Open 24/7. Free. 029 2075 2251. South Wales Art Society – Permanent Rolling Exhibition Members’ works are available to view in the corridors and restaurant of the hospital at any given time. 20% of all sales go to the hospital. Victoria Fearn Gallery 6B Heol y Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 9.30am5.30pm, Sun 10am-3pm. Free. 029 2052 0884. Summer Exhibition A mixed exhibition of paintings, ceramics, glass, sculpture, jewellery and textiles. (Until Sat 5 Sept) Wales Millennium Centre Bute Place, Cardiff Bay. Free. 029 2063 6464 / www. wmc.org.uk Graduate 2015 Curated by artist Richard Billingham, this exhibition showcases some of the best artwork, across a range of mediums, created by Wales-based arts graduates. (From Fri 11 Sept until Sun 15 Nov) The Winding House Cross Street, New Tredegar, Caerphilly. Tue-Sun 10am5pm. Free. 01443 822666 / windinghouse@caerphilly. gov.uk Our Duty To Bear: The First World War And Caerphilly County Borough Exhibition exploring how WWI affected men, women and children in this area. It will explore the impact of the war on the local area through objects, images, film and sound. (Throughout September) Workers Gallery 99 Ynyshir Road, Ynyshir, Rhondda Cynon Taff. FriSun 10am-5pm. Free. 01443 682024 / wood4tt@gmail. com Gayle Rogers 'Celebrating The Welsh Landscape' Solo exhibition by this gallery's resident artist, featuring valleys landscapes and Welsh castles. (Until Sat 19 Sept) Gallery
Take Over Exhibition of four local artists – Dawn Hoban, Jan Jenkins, Julie Taylor and Liz Syme – which includes print, textiles, ceramics and paintings. (From Thurs 24 Sept until Sat 31 Oct) Wyndcliffe Court Sculpture Gardens Off Penterry Lane, St. Arvans, Chepstow. Wed, Sat + Sun 11am-6pm. Free (charity donations welcomed). 01291 621242 / www.wyndcliffecourt.co.uk Spring Sculpture Show Talented local sculptors including Philippa MacArthur, Miranda Michels and Martin Duffy; new artists’ work including Joe Szabo, Andrew
clubs 10 Feet Tall 11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / thisis10feettall@yahoo.co.uk Fridays Soulection 9pm3am, £3 after 10. Soul, boogie and the like from Blue Honey DJs. New night. Saturdays Under A Groove 9pm-3am, £3 after 10. Funk, neo-soul and Motown with music from James Morgan-Rees & Alex Moxham. New night. Sundays 10 Feet Tall Industry Night 5pm-3am, free. 50% off all drinks for Industry staff with this venue’s Industry card, alongside late-night Blue Honey DJs. Buffalo 11 Windsor Place, Cardiff. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-3am, Fri + Sat 11am-4am, Sun until 4am. 029 2031 0312 / www.buffalocardiff.com Mondays Bump & Grind 10pm-3am, £4/£3 before 11.30. 90s r’n’b/hip-hop night, which recently relocated to here from Undertone. Saturdays Shake Shake 9pm-4am, £4/free before 12. “Cocktail makin’ bassline quakin’ booty shakin’ best credible Saturday night party!” Their words. Sat 3 Oct Alexis Taylor See Clubs for more on this DJ set from one of the Hot Chip guys, not that I actually know much about it yet. The Canadian 143 Pearl Street, Splott, Cardiff. 029 2045 3141. Fridays DJ 45 Free. Rock, blues, metal, Americana and alt-rock spanning the decades, all played from the original vinyl. Cardiff County Council Staff Club Atlantic Wharf, Cardiff. www.southwalessoul.com Sat 19 Taste The Groove 7pm-1am, £4. Over-25s night of funk, soul, disco, boogie with Jazz Funk Soul Radio DJs Davy Tee and DJ Len. Cardiff University Students Union Park Place, Cardiff. All listings apply to term time only. 029 2078 1458 / studentsunion@cardiff. ac.uk Wednesdays YOLO 9pm2am, £4/£3 adv/free before 11. New midweek club night promising both your favourite tunes and great offers. Good
name, really on trend. Fri 2 Oct Skepta 9pm-4am. There will be a full bill of acts, presumably mostly grime but who knows. The promoters are some people called Lunacy. Saturdays Flux 9pm-2am, £5/£4 NUS. Chart, dance and pop. Club Oxygen 1 Northampton Lane, Swansea. 0844 8849171 / www.globaloxygen.co.uk Fridays Dance Anthems 11pm-6am, from £5. House and commercial music all night from Big Al, Nicky G, 3 Bird, Jordan Steins, LJ Isaac and Tom Chizzy. Saturdays 10pm-6am. Room 1: ED, progressive, big room, electro, deep and house. Room 2: r’n’b, bassline, garage and hip-hop. Plus big name guests TBC. Clwb Ifor Bach Womanby St, Cardiff. 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net Fridays (bottom) Xerox 10.30pm-3am, £4/£3 NUS. A “party jukebox” night. With DJs, though, not an actual jukebox. Fri 11 Bullion 9pm4am, £14.50 adv. Drum’n’bass geezers with a largely mysterious night, at least as I type these listings. Think it’ll likely be a residents special. Fri 25 Brooklyn Zoo 10.30pm-4am, £3-£5. Current and classic hiphop alike, selected by Patrick Nazemi. Fri 2 Oct Journey 10pm-4am, £15. See Clubs for more on tonight’s headliner (and only confirmed DJ so far), playing a two-hour set. Big shout out to myself for not being snarky about trance at any point. Saturdays 10pm4am, £5/£4 NUS. Three floors of fun: The Vinyl Vendettas’ top floor resident indie shindig; Dirty Pop and Mr Potter's proper disco. Courtyard 48 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161. Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Upfront dance anthems and “Urban Vibes”. Fridays The Kickstart / Terrace Session Classic anthems, downstairs, Mr Ifsta plus allstar residents up on the roof terrace. Saturdays Mischief Beat-driven anthems is the ambiguous description for tonight’s music policy. Sundays Shisha Sundays DJs til late, Shisha served on the roof terrace and the weekend’s sports highlights. Dempseys Castle Street, Cardiff. 029 2023 9253. Thursdays (downstairs) Twisted By Design 9.30pm2am, free. Weekly night along the lines of the Saturday lineups. Fridays (downstairs) Blah Blah Blah 10pm-3am, free. Gary Twisted offers up Motown, indie, rock’n’roll, reggae and “no cheesy pop”. Saturdays 9pm-3am, free. Rock’n’roll, funk, soul, party tunes yadda yadda, selected by Chris PJ Martin. Sat 12 Twisted By Design 9pm2am, £3.50/£3 NUS. Monthly event with Gary playing the best in indie choons – Belle & Sebastian, Bowie, Cure, Dead Kennedys, summat like that. Sat 19 Fabulous 9pm-2am, £4. Mod, ska, reggae, indie, R&B, funk, boogaloo and northern soul, running here for
the mods since the 90s. Fuel 5 Womanby Street, Cardiff. 0845 6430032 / www. givemefuel.co.uk Thursdays FUBAR 10pm2am. Rock, metal and alternative clubnight. Fridays + Saturdays Rock and metal anthems each weekend, plus special guests when such types are in town. The Full Moon / The Moon Club Womanby Street, Cardiff. 029 2037 3022 / info@ thefullmooncardiff.com Thursdays Hullabalooza 10pm-4am, free. Alternative party tunes. Saturdays Five Dollar Shake Free. DJ Puddlefunk with bebop, funk, soul, Motown, hip-hop, reggae, ska and everything in between. Fri 11 Killing Moon 10pm, £4. Alternative 80s music. Fri 25 Ultimate Power 10.30pm, £5. Power-ballads-based club night. Sat 5 Heroes 2 10pm, £7/£6 adv. Second edition of a night which looks back nostalgically (er, and also plays) the early-90s alt/indie songs heard in Cardiff venue The Square Club. This is also a benefit for Velindre Cancer Care. Sat 26 Sub:culture 10.30pm. Techno, with a lineup TBC. Glam Greyfriars Road, Cardiff. 029 2022 9311 / info@ glamnightclub.co.uk Mondays The Fest 10pm3am, £3.50. Two floors of charts, dance and student anthems (room one) and r’n’b, hip-hop, urban and funky (room two). Mon 21 is a Welcome Party for the freshers who will provide this vampiric entity with the virginal blood it needs to stay alive. Mon 28 has a guest DJ set from Joel Corry. I don’t know who that is so I’m going to guess that he’s famous for pushing an entire guinea pig up his arse, live on Channel 5. Wednesdays HUMP 10pm-3am, £3.50. This is billed as the most outrageous night ever to come to Cardiff, which they will achieve via drinking games and celeb DJ sets. Thursdays Trend 9pm-3am, £4/£3.50. DJs Giggsy, Jordan Valleys, Sole and Willow play chart, indie and student anthems; r’n’b, house and old skool. Fridays Antisocial 9pm-3am. Level 1: r’n’b, hip-hop and mashups from DJ Sole and DJ Pro. Level 2: house, electro, dubstep and drum’n’bass from Ian Davies and DJ Rewire. Saturdays Vanity 9pm-3am, £5-£10. Two rooms of quality music, everyone catered for it
is claimed. Sat 26 Mayfair Sessions 10pm-3am, £5-£10. It’s a ‘Marbella/Ibiza Reunion’ with Colin Francis, Sammy Porter and Jordan Valleys. Sun 13 Capture 4-10.30pm + 10.30pm-3am, £8-£12. Third and final party on the roof terrace... for now. Purple Disco Machine, a housey fella signed to Defected, headlines, with Haematoma, Sinky & Scott Keir and Drew Watkins in support. After 10.30, and indoors, there’s sets from Lucas Alexander, Nick Saunders and Adam Carey. Sun 20 the Official Glam Moving In Party 10pm-3am, £3-£8. Hosted by the cast of Ex On The Beach and The Valleys. Confirmed to appear are Rogan, Amy, Jordan, Ali, Luke, Aileen Wournos, Natalee and The Twins. Gwdihw 6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff. 029 2039 7933 / www.gwdihw.co.uk Tue 22 The Funk Bureau Funk, neo-soul and boogie for the new university term. Fri 4 Sure Shot 9pm-2.30am, £4. Featuring some boogie, disco and house platters spun by people from The Boogie Cafe, in Bristol. Fri 11 Superchango Takeover 9pm-2.30am, £3. A special set of funk instrumentals. Fri 25 Pleasuredome 9pm-2.30am, £5/£3 before 11. Conroy, Deemo and Teoman play the electronic music of the 80s. Sat 5 Blue Honey 9pm, £4. With a guest set from local DJ of note, and nice gentleman, Owain K. Sat 12 Fat City: Bring Your Own House Party 9pm, £3. Bring down tunes (roughtly in Fat City’s funk/soul/dance sphere) you would like to hear, and hopefully they will be played. Sat 19 Péchés Mignons 9pm-2.30am. Funk, reggae, afrofunk, house, hip-hop etc. Sat 26 Hully Gully 9pm. With DJs TBC. Jacob’s Market West Canal Wharf, Cardiff. 029 2039 0939. *Sat 25 Teak 10pm. Autumnal return for hosts of high grade house nights. Norway’s deep disco don Prins Thomas makes his Cardiff debut, with Seka also behind the decks. Tickets are sold for this but see Clubs for advice on how to (attempt to) get one. Or just use your loaf. Karma 75 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Fri + Sat 8pm-6am. karmaclubcardiff@gmail. com Fri 4 Circle 8 & Cardiff
The Park Conservative Club on City Road, Cardiff is an unlikely entry into these listings, but on Fri 2 Oct it's the location for Soul In The City, a night of northern soul and Stax bangers, plus a live set from Soul Lotta Funk. You don't have to vote Conservative to come in.
clubs £5/£3 before 12 or with a Kon Tiki stamp. Hip-hop, grime, house and drum’n’bass. Saturdays Get Busy £3 with a Kon Tiki stamp. Funk, soul, hip-hop, Motown, boogie and party. Park Conservative Club 217 City Road, Cardiff. 029 2047 1369. Fri 2 Oct Soul In The City #2 7.30pm, £6/£5 adv. Motown, Stax, northern soul and a live set from Soul Lotta Funk. Pontardawe Arts Centre Herbert Street, Pontardawe. 01792 863722 / www. pontardaweartscentre.com Sat 12 Swansea Scooter Society 8pm-12am, £7.50/£5 adv. A night of Northern soul with guest DJ Hitsville Chalky.
JUNE MILLER Temple @ Undertone, Cardiff, Fri 25 Sept Tickets: £7.50/£5 early bird. Info: 029 2022 8883 / www.undertonecardiff.com Right now, the fellas behind Temple are basically the only Cardif promoters in (a) the field of drum'n'bass and (b) Undertone who are actually bringing notable guests down on a monthly basis. This month, they're giving a Welsh debut to June Miller, an Anglo-Dutch duo of Mark McCann and Bart van Dijk. Their name is taken from a song by the millennial emo band van Dijk was playing in when he met McCann – a musical background acknowledged via their practice of naming tracks after various metal and hardcore groups. Their music itself, currently released by Andy C's RAM label, is techy and intricate, but rarely set to anything less than tearout mode. A June Miller DJ set will likely be relentless, but with stylistic curveballs. Spartanz 9pm-6am, £5 adv. Ruff drum’n’bass dudes celebrate one year of promotion under this name, with sets from Slipz, Looney b2b Bason (whose birthday it also is), Snide b2b Feline Reflex, Tension b2b Ddrive b2b Raj, Frenzee, Bomber, Pabz b2b B Lion, Sheppad b2b Coop and Tbone b2b Apollo. MCs: Spartanz, Comma Dee, Texas, Shunobie, Joe Blow, Illa MC, Endo , Slim Teng, Vizable, Jaydee, 4dee, Cesto, Soba and Tye. Kuku Club Park Plaza Hotel, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff. Members’ club. 029 2011 1177 / www. kukuclub.co.uk Fridays Kuku is available for private hire on Friday evenings. Get in touch with them via the website if you want to take advantage of this. Saturdays 10pm-4am, £5/ free members (10pm-1am); £10/£5 members (after 1am). With DJs TBC. Ladybird 41 St Mary St, Cardiff. 029 2066 5500 / info@ ladybirdcardiff.com / www. ladybirdcardiff.com Saturdays Solution 10pm4am. A night whose flyer has a big photo of a model in her bra and pants. Sundays Sunday Project 7pm-3am, free with guestlist. Free industry night offers floor fillers and house classics.
Lava Lounge The Old Brewery Quarter, Caroline Street, Cardiff. 029 2038 2313 / www. lavaloungecardiff.co.uk Fridays Circus Circus 9pm3am. “The best music from the best DJs in town” and, perhaps more importantly, cheap drinks. Saturdays 9pm-3am. Commercial chart music and the best of the 80s and 90s is promised, as are various two for £6/three for £5 drinks offers. Sundays Industry Sundays 9pm-4am. Folks in the bar, club and hotel industry can come here after work and party to the selections of DJs Rhys Lewis and DJ George.
Fridays & Saturdays 8pm1am. Dancing and cabaret with regular drag acts including Tina Sparkle, Miss Babs and Jolene Dover. Missoula 84-86 St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2037 1315 / www.missoulabars.co.uk/ missoulacardiff/ Fridays Unfunkinbelievable Half price drinks from 5-10pm. What I find ‘unfunkinbelievable’ is that there’s a club night called ‘Unfunkinbelievable’ in the year 2015. Saturdays ‘Miss’ Behaviour Music, cocktails, party. All these things are found here.
Metros Baker’s Row, Cardiff. 029 2039 9942 / www. metroscardiff.com Wednesdays Cheapskates 9pm-4am, £5. Hywel plays ‘alternative mayhem’ and old skool cheese. Fridays Subversion 9.30pm-3.30am, £3 with flyer before 10.30pm. Drinks promos, no dress code. Rock, punk, metal and alternative beats. Saturdays Slacker 9.30pm-3.30am. Wherein Hywel plays alternative and new music.
Mocka Lounge Mill Lane, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 11am-late. 029 2022 1295 / www.mockalounge.com Thursdays The Social Affair 9pm-3am. Over-25s night with chart hits through the ages. Fridays Timeless DJ Dan Nicholas plays r’n’b, funk, disco and old skool. Just old skool. Saturdays Decorum Soulful and upfront house, plus funk, disco etc, from Sinky and Styles. Sundays VIP Chris Evans (My Playhouse) plays club classics, funky house and r’n’b.
Minskys Show Bar Cathedral Walk, St David’s Centre, Cardiff. 029 2023 3128 / www.minskysshowbar.com
Monkey Bar 13 Castle Street, Swansea. 01792 480822 / www. monkeycafe.co.uk Fridays Dime 10pm-6am,
Pool World 16a New Street, Neath. convergeneath@hotmail. com Sat 3 Oct Converge 8pm3am, £10 adv. Taking place in the basement of this pool hall, a night of chunky house and techno headlined by Pete Dorling, who’s associated with Hot Creations and Viva Music. Also on the bill: Simon (Criminal Hype), Sean Morris, Jason Wilkinson, John E, Sam Balla, Callum Gillings, Dean Morgan and Dale Williams. See Clubs. Popworld Wind Street, Swansea. MonFri + Sun 8pm-3am; Sat 3pm-3am. 01792 470676. Tuesdays Popstar Karaoke 9pm-3am. Karaoke night with a £50 prize. Wednesdays W.H.I.P. 9pm, free before 11. That’s short for What Happens In Popworld. Thursdays T.N.T. 9pm-3am. That’s short for Thirsty Night Thursday. All drinks are £1.50 before 12am, apart from wines, cocktails, champagnes and – oh, Swansea – Rekorderlig. Fridays + Saturdays Ain’t No Party Like A Popworld Party 8pm-3am, £2-£4 (Fri)/£3-£5 (Sat). Pryzm (formerly Oceana) Greyfriars Road, Cardiff. 029 2023 3854 / www. pryzm.co.uk/cardiff Fridays + Saturdays 10pm-3am. Three music arenas, VIP booths, other stuff. Saturday is in conjunction with Jongleurs comedy club, which also takes place here. Pulse 3 Churchill Way, Cardiff. 029 2064 1010 / www. pulsecardiff.com. Gay venue. Wednesdays Warped 10pm4am. Join DJ Craig W on a journey through time with the best hits from the last two decades. Fridays Pulsetastic 10pm-5am, £4/£3. With live PAs once a month. Saturdays Pop Til You Drop 10pm-5am, £5/£4 b4 11. The very best chart remixes and classic hits all night long. Sat 26 Oxjam Takeover Foam Party Does what it says on the tin, or so I would imagine. Revolution Castle Street, Cardiff. Open from 11am. 029 2023 6689 / www.revolution-bars.co.uk Tuesdays Sync 9pm-3am. Student night featuring hazers, lasers and drink deals.
Wednesdays Shotgun Rules 9pm-3am. Exclusive midweek student party. You don’t need NUS to get in though. Fridays + Saturdays 9pm-3am. DJs, drinks offers, free area hire. Room 112 3-6 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Open Thurs 9pm-3am, Fri + Sat 10pm-4am. 029 2066 7996 / www.room112.net Fridays Bedrock 9pm4am, £10/£5 before 12. R’n’b, hip-hop and dancehall. Saturdays Pillow Talk 9pm-4am, £10. Old skool r’n’b, hip-hop, house and decadent partying is this night’s deal. The Scene Plymouth Street, Swansea. 07730 432166 / www. thesceneclub.co.uk Fri 4 + Fri 2 Oct Night Train 10pm-3am, £3. Swansea Scooter Society DJs play R&B, mod, soul, jazz etc on the first Friday of every month. Sat 5 + Sat 3 Oct Dead Of Night 10pm-3am, £3. Goth/alternative club night, on the first Saturday of every month. Sin City Dilwyn Street, Swansea. 01792 468892 / bookings@ alternativeswansea.com Thursdays Sin Savers 10pm-3am, £3. Student night, back for the new term. Fridays Monsters Of Rock 10pm-3.30am, £4/£2 before 12.30. Indie in room 1, metal in room 2. Saturdays Sink 10pm-3am. Hip-hop, drum’n’bass, dubstep etc, with special guests plus resident DJs Dubman, Swiss Elf and South. Soda Lounge St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2037 3363 / www.sodalounge.co.uk Tuesdays Cartel £4/£3.50. UK-wide student night. Mr. Mozafari will be playing vocal house and electro upstairs; DJ Wallace will supply r’n’b and chart in the Soda Lounge. Thursdays Clique 10pm, £4. New night promising the hottest r’n’b and dancefloor fillers. Saturdays Soiree 9pm4am. Three rooms including the Attic which is “the social playground for the high flyers and social elite, really the only place to be seen.” Imagine catching your reflection in the mirror just after writing that. Sun 20 Soda Sunday Moving In Party 10pm-4am, £5/£4 VIP. Another club vies for the pennies of the new breed of first year students. “Remember to keep a look out, you never know who may be stood next to you at the bar,” suggests Soda’s listing for this, which is very socially responsible of them. Tiger Tiger Friary House, Greyfriars Rd, Cardiff. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-2am, Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-12.30am. 029 2039 1944 / www.tigertigercardiff.co.uk Every Day Lucky Voice Karaoke From £2.50 per session. The UK's leading private karaoke experience each day of the week. Fridays Koosday 10pm-3am, £7/£5. Something that has lots of decor, smoke machines etc and describes itself as an “Arrogantly Premium Clubbing Experience”. How depress-
ing. Saturdays Kanaloa Polynesian style area with cocktails, VIP booths, dancers etc. Undertone (basement of 10 Feet Tall) 11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / www.undertonecardiff.com Tue 22 Indie Pop 10pm, £3. Every fourth Monday of the month, a DJ night that plays both indie and pop, and indeed music at the intersection of them. Tue 29 The Mixtape 10pm. Featuring resident DJs and a special guest on a house, groove, disco, electro tip. Apparently. Wed 30 Dropped 10pm, £2. New midweek student dance night offering “blip/deep/acid house/techno and trance,” plus a name that tempts fate a little. Fri 4 Castles Nights – Techno Culture 10pm-4am, £7 adv/£5 early bird. Featuring sets from DJ MéndezisMz, Paul Blandford and Blap. Fri 11 Yagga 10pm-4am. Jungle with a bit of dub from Ben Britton, Ul Tra, Cod & Zippy, Jimanoli, Lubi J and Effigy b2b Blokeye. Fri 18 Simple 11pm-4am, £3. Featuring DJs from the City Bass, Memorex and Perc stables. Fri 25 Temple 10pm-6am, £7.50 adv/£5 early bird. Dutch drum’n’bass duo June Miller, signed to RAM Records, headline tonight. Sat 5 Bump And Grind 10pm. Nineties hip-hop and classic r’n’b night returns to Undertone, as is its regular wont. Sat 12 City Bass 10pm-4am. Chesus, aka Earl Jeffers, aka local house DJ champ, is tonight’s headliner. Sat 19 Cardiff’s Finest 10pm-4am. House, techno and tech-house. It doesn’t say who the DJs are but whoever is, in your view, Cardiff’s finest, then presumably it will be them. Sat 26 No Dange 10pm-4am. Grime, dubstep and heavy bass-driven sounds, an offshoot of City Bass’ promotional activities. They don’t know who’s playing this at the time of writing though. Warehouse 54 Cambrian Rd, Newport. 01633 259144 / www.wh54. com Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Matt Kirke mixes up club-influenced beats from reggae to rock, d’n’b to dancefloor-led house. Friday Warehouse54 Live! A free festival-inspired mix of bass and live bands every week. Saturdays VHS Vandals An audiovisual mix of indie anthems, old school hip-hop, mashups and funkinfused beats. Saturdays (on the roof terrace) Koncept & Friends House, techno and bass music from these DJs: Florian (Radio Cardiff) (Sat 12); The Onehouse DJs (Sat 19). Wow Bar 4 Churchill Way, Cardiff. Gay venue. Free all day SunThurs; before 11pm Fri + Sat. 029 2066 6247 / www. wowbarcardiff.com Wednesdays Wish You Were Here Free. Student night with “inflight entertainment” from Lambrini Rampage and Mary Golds, plus music from DJ Krys. Thursdays The Night With No Name Free. DJ Craig and Mary Golds offer “mad games and crazy BUZZ 63
events Those of you that have been paying attention will know that I’m constantly banging on about how good it is to see the resurgence of the Welsh folk and roots scene. So you won’t be surprised to learn that this month, I’m going to do it again, because there’s a mouthwatering double header coming up at Cardiff’s St. David’s Hall that features two of the acts spearheading that resurgence. Before we get into that, though, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to The Halfpenny Folk Club, which has been running in Llanrhidian on The Gower Peninsular for the past 30 years. Their final gig, featuring Swansea shantymen Baggyrinkle and singer-songwriter Bill Caddick, will be at The Greyhound Inn on Sun 27 Sept and promises to be a superb and emotional send off. A few days prior to that, on Tue 22, the aforementioned gig at St. David’s Hall takes place and features The Gentle Good and Calan, two acts that go some way to demonstrating the diversity in today’s Welsh scene. The Gentle Good is the stage name of Welsh songwriter Gareth Bonello. A skilled guitarist whose intricate playing has led to comparisons with some of the British greats, Gareth takes inspiration from the language, poetry and melodies of Wales to create beautiful, bilingual modern folk music. In 2009 he was chosen alongside some of Wales’ best traditional musicians to perform at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington DC and has also performed in venues as diverse as a car park in Austin, Texas and the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Beijing. With several well received and critically acclaimed albums under his belt, Gareth is a beguiling live performer. Having recently released Dinas, their third studio album, five-piece folk band Calan continue to build on their reputation as one of the most exciting acts on the current Welsh scene, injecting the music with a vibrancy that breathes new life into the tradition through their irresistible combination of sparkling melodies, foot tapping tunes and spirited and energetic performances of Welsh step dancing. With their unique instrumental blend of accordion, fiddle, guitar, pipes, harp and Welsh clogs, Calan mix blistering instrumentals with haunting songs, displaying the musicianship that’s won them acclaim from audiences and critics far beyond their homeland. Buzz also recommends Vin Garbutt. Thought-provoking songs from the veteran performer. Cuffern Manor, Roche, Haverfordwest. (Thurs 10) Richard Thompson. Songwriter, guitarist and national treasure. St David’s Hall, Cardiff. (Tue 15) Hungrytown. Respected American duo. Valley Folk Club, Ivy Bush Hotel, Pontardawe. (Fri 18) Please send your folk and roots listings to listings@buzzmag.co.uk or phone them in to 029 2022 6767
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entertainment.” Fridays The Greatest Show In The City Free b4 11. With WOW Showgirls Miss Kitty and Marcia, plus special guests every week. Saturdays The VKend Free b4 11. With DJs Craig and Krys. You can get cheap deals in VK. £6.50 for a fishbowl. £6 for a jug of WKD. Settle down now, kids. Sundays The Cuckoo Club Free. DJ Krys plays the tunes until late.
events EVERY MONDAY Ballet The Gate, Cardiff. 6-9.30pm, £6.50/£5.50/£3 taster. Info 029 2048 3344. Beginners 6-7pm; intermediate 7-8; advanced 8-9.30. Term starts on Mon 7. Bharata Natyam Dance Classes For Adult Beginners Bayview House, Cardiff Bay. 8.15-9.15pm. Info 029 2075 1158. Bingo Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Hosted by Jack Cooper. Cardiff Inter Varsity Club Meeting The Plum Tree, Canton, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £5 (three-month trial membership). Info 07526 141392. A friendly social group offering the chance to “liven up your social life and meet new friends” through a varied events programme including theatre, live music, walks, badminton, table tennis and pub nights. More info at www. cardiffivc.org.uk. Ceroc The Gate, Cardiff. 7.45-10.45pm, £7/£5 NUS. Info 029 2048 3344. Sessions for a dance style billed as a combo of salsa, ballroom, hip-hop, tango and jive. Children’s Ballroom Dancing Classes Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7-9pm. Info 01495 243252. Community Choir Sessions Cornwall Street Church Hall, Cardiff. 7.30-9.30pm, free. Info 07952 752823. Led by Pauline Down and taking place most Mondays (starting up again on Mon 14 Sept); ring ahead to check. Freestyle Fitness Yoga Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.308.30pm, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / sarasclasses4@ gmail.com. Every Monday and Friday. India Dance Wales Classes Highmead House, Lisvane, Cardiff. Info 029 2075 1158. For Grade 2 to vocational level. These classes are by special application only at various points in the month – not on specific days, hence listing them here. To apply write to admin@indiadancewales.com with previous dance experience and reason for wanting to join India Dance Wales. Making Music The Gate, Cardiff. 6-10pm, £7.50-£9.50 per session/£4 taster. Info 029 2048 3344. Learn to play improvised rock and pop and basic chord sequences. Beginners 6-8pm; intermediate 8-10. Term starts on Mon 7. Musical Theatre The Riverfront, Newport. 6.158.30pm, £6/£5. Info 01633 656757. 7-11 years old: 6.15-7.15pm; 12 and up: 7.158.30pm.
Newport Badminton Club Pill Millennium Centre, Newport. 7.30-9.30pm. Info 07789 965285. One of the largest badminton clubs in South East Wales. Monday club nights have coaching with Carissa Turner, the current Ladies Welsh number one, for juniors and then senior club members. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today features Youth Circus Ewoks (4-5 + 5.15-6.15pm, £6 per session); Youth Circus Wookies (4.306pm, £7 per session); Flying Trapeze (6-8pm, £12/£10 per session); Aerial Yoga (6.30-7.30pm, £11/£9) and Flexibility (7.45-9.15pm, £9/£7 per session). Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Tours of the centre running daily for one hour. Advance booking recommended. Pilates The Gate, Cardiff. 11.30am-1.30pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Beginners for the first hour, intermediate for the second. Term starts on Mon 7. Quizzical The North Star, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2062 4050. RAD Children’s Ballet The Gate, Cardiff. 4-7.45pm, £6.50/£5.50/£3 taster. Info 029 2048 3344. 4-6-year-olds: 4-4.45pm; 6-8 4.45-5.45pm; Ballet Grade 1 6-8 yrs 5.456.45pm; Ballet Grade 2 6-8 yrs 6.45-7.45pm. Term starts on Mon 7. Salsa Classes Mischiefs, Cardiff Bay. 7.30-9.30pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651. Beginners for the first hour, then improvers/intermediate. SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Golden Gower National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Day tours from Cardiff, every Monday, Thursday and Sunday. This one visits the Gower, Swansea Bay, Parc-Le-Breos, the Dylan Thomas Centre and more. St Donats Atlantic Chorale St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 7.30pm. Info 01446 799100. Choir rehearsals. Tai Chi: Health Qigong Glyndwr Community Hall, Penarth. 10.30-11.30am. Info 029 2020 6042. Tango Dancing Argentine Barocco, Cardiff. 8-10.45pm, £3/£1. Info 029 2023 7332. Tang Soo Do Chapter Arts Centre, Canton, Cardiff. 7-9pm. Info 07734 557767. Learn traditional Korean karate; beginners welcome. Yoga Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 12.301.15pm. Info 029 2087 7959. On tomorrow also. Yoga With Valerie Price St Mary’s Church Hall, Canton, Cardiff. 6.30-9.30pm. Info admin@yoga-works.co.uk. 6.30-8pm: intermediate; 8.109.30pm: beginners. Zumba Dance Classes Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5.306.30pm, £5/£4. Info 029 2087 7959.
EVERY TUESDAY A Ballroom Dance Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7-11pm. Info 01495 243252. Aikido Village Hall, Heol Syr Lewis, Morganstown. 8-10pm. Info 07790 167560. Every Tuesday and Friday. American Line Dancing The Gate, Cardiff. 2.454.45pm, £3. Info 029 2048 3344. Term starts on Tue 8. Belly Dance Classes Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 6.307.45pm, £6/£25 for five sessions. Info 07872 306745. Mixed ability class with Steph. Beth’s Buns Pilates Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7.15-8.15pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4880. New class here every Tuesday. Bring It Pong 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. New weekly session of table tennis, with two tables in the main bar (little known fact: table tennis is one of the best games to play while drinking). Circus Skills The Riverfront, Newport. 7-8.30pm, £3.50 per session. Info 01633 656757. For ages 14 and up. Col’s Crochet Class Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 6-80pm, £10. Info 01685 384111. Every tuesday from Sept 8. All experience levels welcome; please bring your own yarn and crochet hook. Contemporary Dance The Gate, Cardiff. 6-8.30pm, £4.50£6.50/£2.50 taster. Info 029 2048 3344. Beginners 6-7pm; intermediate 7-8.30. Term starts on Tue 8. Extend The Gate, Cardiff. 11am, £2.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Exercise to music, aimed at over-60s and people with a disability. Term starts on Tue 8. Frances Aitken Pilates The Abacus, Cardiff. 6.30-7.30pm, £5. Info 07934 011061. Dropin session hosted by Aitken, who’s been teaching pilates for eight years and comes from a professional circus and dance background. Funkypump Fitness Universal Gym, Cardiff. 6pm. Info www.funkypumpfitness. co.uk. Boxing-based highintensity workout with a house soundtrack. First session free. In this gym every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Gitananda Yoga St David's Uniting Church, Pontypridd. 7-8.30pm, free. Info 01443 408065. Give It A Go Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Tuesday to Thursday. Glam Dram St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 7pm. Info 01446 799100. Amateur theatre company for adults. India Dance Wales – Bharatanatyam Classes Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5-6pm. Info 07410 977427. Beginners’ class. India Dance Wales Classes Rubicon Dance, Adamsdown, Cardiff. 6.30pm. Info 029 2075 1158. From beginners to next level and for all ages and abilities. Jamaican Bum Flex Channel View Leisure Centre, Cardiff. 6-7pm, £5. Info 07950 256969. Dancehall/reggae style dance moves, “turned into a tough bum workout for the
ladies” by Latone Holder. Also on Wednesday and Thursday. Jazz Workshops For Beginners Atradius Offices (4th floor), Cardiff Bay. 6.208pm, £10. Info 07806 625717. All instruments and ages welcome. Kizomba Tango Classes 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. Learn African samba here. Laughter Yoga Llandaff North Community Centre, Cardiff. 7-8pm, £5 (suggested donation). Info www.sparklylaughter.co.uk. “No experience required, no stretching and no mats needed,” promise the organisers. Life Drawing Sketching Session 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6-7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. Hosted by Cardiff Life Model. Lindy Hop Dance Classes & Social Swing Dancing The Garage, Swansea. 6-10pm. Info 01792 475147. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (ground based skills, 4-6pm, £7 per session); Youth Circus Padawans (4.306pm, £7 per session); Hula Hoop (6-7pm, £7); Circus Mish Mash (6-8pm, £5) and Beginners Aerial (8-10pm, £11/£9). Off Centre Silver Dragon, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Adult drama group meeting weekly to develop performance skills. Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Open Mic Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Pilates And Stretch Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 8-9pm, £6/£25 for five sessions. Info 07872 306745. With Steph; bring your own mat please. Pilates: Beginners The Gate, Cardiff. 6.30-7.30pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Term starts on Tue 8. Pregnancy Yoga Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 6-7.15pm, £35/£30 (five-week blocks). Info kalavathi@ omstudio.co.uk. Salsa Classes Bar 44, Cowbridge. 7.30-9.30pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651. Salsa Classes La Tasca, Cardiff. 7-10.30pm, £5/£4.50 NUS. Info 07949 270618. Every Tuesday. Beginners 7.158pm; Improvers 8.30-9.30pm; Intermediate 9.45-10.30pm. SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Mines & Mountains National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales. com. Every Tuesday and Friday. This one visits Big Pit Mining Museum of Wales and Brecon Beacons National Park (including BBNP visitors centre). Tai Chi / Qigong Shibashi Continuation St Mary’s Church Hall, Canton, Cardiff. 6.30-7.30pm. Info 029 2020 6042. Vassia’s Pilates M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 4-5.30pm, £5/£6.50 taster session. Info 029 2047 3373. Yoga Norwegian Church Arts
events
ABACUS FRINGE FESTIVAL The Abacus, Cardiff, Sat 26 Sept. Admission: £5 all-day pass (under-12s free), Info: theabacusrooms@gmail.com Forget Edinburgh: Abacus will be hosting a gaggle of very talented, very funny and very creative people for your entertainment from noon ‘til night, for one day only. From a circus walkabout with Sparkle’s Hoop Troop to live art, bands and burlesque from Belle Eve, Abacus Fringe Festival promises glitter galore. And with activities for the little ones, there’ll be fun for all the family. Other confirmed acts include a comedy stage curated by Jordan Brooks, drumming workshops, badge making, craft workshops and a fortune teller, all washed down with a pint of real ale, refreshing cocktails, delicious street food. All proceeds will be used to keep Abacus’ doors open for more live events and entertainment. Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5.30-6.30 + 6.45-8pm. Info 029 2087 7959. Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 7.309pm, £9. Info 07727 139379 / www.omstudio.co.uk. With Kalavathi Devi. Yoga Share M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 5-7pm, £4 (suggested donation). Info 029 2047 3373. Led by Ashtanga practitioner Sarah Cleary. Yoga With Tori Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 6-7pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Tuesday and Wednesday. Yoga With Valerie Price Llandough Institute, Penarth. 8.30-9.30pm. Info admin@ yoga-works.co.uk . Mixed level class. Zumba: Dance Exercise Classes Fairwater Social & Athletic Club, Cardiff. 6-7pm. Info 07891 712344. Led by Irene Davies, as is... Zumba: Dance Exercise Classes St Faith Church Hall, Llanishen, Cardiff. 8-9pm. Info 07891 712344. EVERY WEDNESDAY A Tea Dance Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 2-4pm. Info 01495 243252. Cabaret And Showgirl Dancing For All Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 6.15-9pm. Info 07872 306745. With Steph. Beginners 6.15-7.45pm; advanced 7.459pm. More info at www. cardiffcabaretclub.com Ceramics For Adults The
Riverfront, Newport. 6-8pm, £30 (five weeks). Info 01633 656757. Ceroc Dance Class Dockers Club, Swansea. 7.45pm-12am, £6/£8 freestyles. Info cerocsouthwales@gmail.com. Freestyle Fitness Yoga Wake Up Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.15-8am, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / serenhealth@hotmail.co.uk. Give It A Go Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Jamaican Bum Flex Canton Community Centre, Cardiff. 8-9pm, £5. Info 07950 256969. Life Drawing Sketching Session The Project Space, Commercial Street, Newport. 6.30-8.30pm, £5. Info 07830 381930. Hosted by Cardiff Life Model. Newport Youth Dance The Riverfront, Newport. 4.15-6pm, £2.75 per session. Info 01633 656757. 7-10 years old: 4.155pm; 14-18: 5-6pm. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (acrobatics, 4.156pm, £7); Acrobatics (6-8pm, £9/£7) and Handstands (8-9.30pm, £10/£8). Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Pilates The Gate, Cardiff.
6-8pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Concentrating on General Fitness. Beginners for the first hour; advanced for the second. Term starts on Wed 9. Pub Quiz The Pilot, Penarth. 8pm. Info 029 2071 0615. With Hayley. Salsa Classes Rhiwbina Recreational Club, Whitchurch, Cardiff. 8-10pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651. SeeWales Sightseeing Tour: Romans And Ruins National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Day tours from Cardiff, every Wednesday and Saturday. This one visits Caerleon, Caerwent, Tintern Abbey, the Wye Valley, Abbey Mill Craft Centre and Raglan Castle. Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 9.3011am, 1-2.15pm + 7-9pm, £9/£8. Info 07727 139379 / www.omstudio.co.uk.. Yoga Trwy Gyfrwng Y Gymraeg Insole Court, Llandaff, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm. Info admin@yoga-works.co.uk. Yoga With Tori Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 6-7pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4880. Yu-Gi-Oh Tournaments The Freaks Geeks and Autographs Store, Swansea. 5.30pm, £3.50. Info 07914 683534. Zumba Classes La Tasca, Cardiff. 6pm, £4. Info 07949 270618.
EVERY THURSDAY Actors Experience Japan Room, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 6-9pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. A series of diverse workshops for professional and experienced actors. Ballet Academy Wales Classes – Children 6-11 Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 4-5pm, £4.95. Info 07837 937351. Bingo Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863. Biodanza Bishop of Llandaff High School, Cardiff. 7-9pm, £6/£5. Info antoinette@ biodanza4all.com. “A fusion of music, movement and feeling” taught here by Antoinette Lorraine. Breakdance The Riverfront, Newport. 6.15-7pm, £3.50 per session. Info 01633 656757. Learn break dancing styles, uprock, freezes and power moves. For ages 8-18. Ceroc Dance Class Lysaght Institute, Newport. 7.3010.45pm, £8/£6 NUS. Info cerocsouthwales@gmail.com. Children’s Latin/Ballroom Classes Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 4.30-8pm. Info 01495 243252. Circuits Class Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 6.45-7.45pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4880. Funkypump Fitness Universal Gym, Cardiff. 6pm. Info www.funkypumpfitness. co.uk. Give It A Go Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Hand Drumming Group Canton Uniting Church, Cardiff. 6-6.50pm, £15 (five weeks). Info 01446 401209. Hosted by Laura Bradshaw. Hard Côr Japan Room, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Join the Centre’s urban choir who blend choral singing with hip hop. Contact takepart@wmc.org.uk for further details. Jamaican Bum Flex Trinity Church Centre, Newport Road, Cardiff. 6.30-7.30pm, £5. Info 07950 256969. Newport Badminton Club Newport Active Living Centre. 7.30-9.30pm. Info 07789 965285. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate.org. Today: Handstands (6-7.30pm, £10/£8) and Performance (7.30-9.30pm, £10/£8). Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Pilates Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 6.157.15pm, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / serenhealth@ hotmail.co.uk. Every Thursday. Salsa Buena Class Eclipse, Penarth. 7.30-9.30pm, free. Info 07800 565651. Also features a Latin disco after the class. Salsa Classes La Tasca, Cardiff. 7-11pm, £5/£4.50 NUS. Info 07949 270618. Beginners 7.15-8pm; improvers 8.309.30pm; Rueda 9.45-10.30pm; dancing until 11pm. Salsa Dancing Classes Revolucion De Cuba, Cardiff. 8-10pm, £6/£5 NUS. Info 029
2023 6689. Salsa, bachata, zouk and kizomba. SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Golden Gower National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Tai Chi / Qigong Shibashi Albert Road Church & Community Centre, Penarth. 6.30-9.15pm. Info 029 2020 6042. 6.30-7.30: Tai Chi/ Qigong; 7.45-9.15: Tai Chi Short Form. Tai Chi / Qigong St Albans Church Hall, Splott, Cardiff. 10.30-11.30am. Info 029 2020 6042. Yoga Classes Cardiff Steiner School, Llandaff North, Cardiff. 6-7.15 + 7.30-8.45pm, £8/£6.50. Info info@yogaskies. co.uk. Hosted by Mike Young. Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 7-8am + 1-2.30, 6-7.15 + 7.308.45pm, £9/£8. Info 07727 139379 / www.omstudio.co.uk. 11am: Mums & Baby yoga; 7.30pm: Pregnancy yoga. EVERY FRIDAY Aikido Village Hall, Heol Syr Lewis, Morganstown. 8-10pm. Info 07790 167560. Boys’ Dance The Riverfront, Newport. 4.45-5.30pm, £2.75 per session. Info 01633 656757. Taught by Rubicon, for ages 6-12. Cardiff Aikikai The Dojo, Roath, Cardiff. 6.30-10pm. Info mcaluan@cardiffaikikai.co.uk. Cardiff Table Tennis Community Club Upper Hall, Sport Wales, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. 7-9pm. Info 01446 412352. Featuring 16 table tennis tables; players of all ages and abilities are welcome. Children’s Tap/Ballet Classes Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 10.30-11.30am. Info 01495 243252. Community Choir Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9.4511.45am, £72/£48 (12 weeks). Info 01446 401209. Freestyle Fitness Yoga Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.308.30pm, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / sarasclasses4@ gmail.com. Little’ns Dance The Riverfront, Newport. 9.4510.25am + 10.30-11.15am, £3 per session. Info 01633 656757. Newport Photographic Club Skip Jennings Hall, Maindee, Newport. 7.30pm. Info 01633 400685. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (aerial, 4.156pm, £7); Aerial Conditioning (6-7.30pm, £10/£8); Flying Trapeze Taster class (fortnightly, 6-8pm, £15). Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Older Adult Dance/ Exercise The Riverfront, Newport. 11.15am-12.15pm, £2.80. Info 01633 656757. Low impact dance and exercise class aimed at the over 50s. Rhiwbina Farmers Market The Butchers Arms, Rhiwbina. 10am-1pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982. SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Mines & Mountains National Museum & Gallery,
Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Streetwise Street Dance Class Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 4.30-8.30pm, £3.50 per class. Info 01685 384111. Call for individual class times. Tango Argentine Chapter Arts Centre, Canton, Cardiff. 7.30-8.45pm, £7/£4. Info 029 2023 7332. No experience or partner required. Zumba: Dance Exercise Classes Sbectrwm Community Centre, Fairwater, Cardiff. 1-2pm. Info 07891 712344. With Irene Davies. EVERY SATURDAY Ballroom Dancing Class Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 10am kids / 11am adults, £4 per class. Info 01685 384111. Children’s Climbing Classes Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 10-11.30am, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Saturday and Sunday. Clwb Drama The Riverfront, Newport. 11.30am-12.30, £5. Info 01633 656757. Welsh language drama group for ages 7+. Family ‘Give It A Go’ Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 12, 2 + 4pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Saturday and Sunday. Funkypump Fitness Universal Gym, Cardiff. 9.30am. Info www.funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Hard Côr Sony Room, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Come-one-come-all sessions for the Centre’s urban choir who blend choral singing with hip-hop. Mini Musical Theatre The Riverfront, Newport. 10-11am, £5. Info 01633 656757. Run by Defying Gravity, professional tutors will teach ballet and drama to kids aged 3-6. NoFit State Circus: Youth Circus Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. 10.30am-12pm, £7/£6 per session. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate.org. 10.3011.30am: Ewoks; 11.30am1pm: Padawans; 10-11.30am: Wookies. Roath Real Food Market Mackintosh Sports Club Car Park, Roath, Cardiff. 9.30am1pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982. SeeWales Sightseeing Tour: Romans And Ruins National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. St Mary Street Cardiff Market St Mary Street, Cardiff. 11am-5pm, free. Info 029 2019 0036. Selling artisan foods, vintage clothing, antique furniture and bric-a-brac. Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 8-9.30am, £8. Info 07727 139379 / www.omstudio.co.uk. With Kalavathi Devi. Youth Theatre The Riverfront, Newport. 12.45-3.15pm, £28 (seven weeks)/£25 (six weeks). Info 01633 656757. For ages 8 to 16, across two classes (youngest first). EVERY SUNDAY Ballet Academy Wales Classes – Adults Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 12-1pm, BUZZ 65
events £6.50. Info 07837 937351. Ballet For Beginners Dance Studio, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2-3.30pm, £6/£15 for three classes. Info info@burlesquecardiff. co.uk. Hosted by Stephanie of Burlesque Cardiff. Bridgend Undercover Car Boot Sale Multistorey Car Park, Bridgend Town Centre. 7am-12pm, free (selling cars £6; selling cars with trailers £10). Info 01656 661338. Cabaret And Showgirl Dancing For All Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11am12.30pm. Info 07872 306745. With Steph. Beginners and mixed ability class. More info at www. cardiffcabaretclub.com Children’s Climbing Classes Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 10-11.30am, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Family ‘Give It A Go’ Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 12, 2 + 4pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880.
/ www.nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (mixed circus skills, 12-2pm, £7) and Youth Circus Jedis (performance, 2-4pm, £7). Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. *Riverside Farmers’ Market Fitzhammon Embankment, Cardiff. 10am2pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982. Always worth a trip. SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Golden Gower National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Sunday Board Games Cardiff Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 3pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Weekly session featuring a mixture of competitive and co-operative games. TUESDAY 1 Friends Charity Quiz
born and how they die. (Until Fri 4) Switched On Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Techniquest’s new interactive show explores how visible light, as well as light we cannot see, plays a part in all our lives. (Until Sun 6) Velvet Coalmine Opening Night Blackwood Working Mens’ Club. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01495 227206. Additionally commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike, this is compered by Roy Noble and features guests including Patrick Jones and the Markham And District Brass Band. WEDNESDAY 2 Reminiscence Monthly Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 11am-1pm, free. Info 029 2078 8334. Come to the museum and share your memories of Cardiff, on the first Wednesday of every month. Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25
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Farmers’ Market National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Welsh producers sell their wares every week at this brand new market. Lindy Hop Dance Classes & Social Swing Dancing Pontardawe Arts Centre. 6-10pm. Info 01792 863722. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 BUZZ 66
Henry’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2022 4672. Raising money for the British Heart Foundation. Meet The Curator: Natural Sciences Gallery Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Find out more about some familiar constellations, the Planets, how stars are
under-16s. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event. Also on Sun 6, Wed 9, Sat 12, Wed 16 and Sat 19. Switched On Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 6) Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Fri 4) THURSDAY 3 Behind The Veil: An Evening Of Ghost Stories
With Carl Gough Kemi’s, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14. Info simon@theherbivore.co.uk. A meal and storytelling performance with Swansea storyteller Gough. Cardiff Animation Nights 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. Short films from near and far, one of which has recently been shown at Sundance (I assume this is still regarded as ‘impressive’ but please disregard if not). Found Arts Improv Ensemble Workshop The Abacus, Cardiff. £6 per class. Info www.theabacusroom. wordpress.com. Hosted by Carrie Newman, the total of eight classes on this course will tackle subjects including skills in the group mind; storytelling with spontaneity; theatre sports and performance and... making stuff up on the spot. Also on Thurs 10 this month. Lecture Series: The Bute Vineyards Cardiff Castle. 6pm, £7.50. Info 029 2087 8100. By Matthew Williams. Also on Mon 7. Lyndsey Shankland Psychic Night The North Star, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2062 4050. Ticket price includes a meal. Meet The Gardener National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Every Thursday this month. Poems & Pints Browns, Laugharne. 7.30pm. Info 01994 427688. Monthly event with special guest poet Lee Prosser. Poetry At Preachers Preachers Lounge & Wine Bar, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £5. Info 01495 227206. Velvet Coalmine event. Features Iain Richards in conversation with Brian Roper, discussing the centenary of Alun Lewis, plus readings from Patrick Jones, Clare E Potter and Jonathan Edwards. Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Fri 4) Switched On Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 6) The Full Moon Against Humanity The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, £2. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. A session playing the wilfully offensive card game Cards Against Humanity. Also on Thurs 17. FRIDAY 4 A Pedal Powered Outdoor Film Festival Plasnewydd Community Centre, Cardiff. 7-11pm, £1. Info hello@ greencityevents.co.uk. A screening of Slunce, Seno A Par Facek, which is apparently a Czech comedy classic. The projector is fuelled by energy from people pedalling bikes. If you’re the sort of dullard that says things like “we’ve reached peak Guardian!” then you’ll no doubt have some salty, unfunny quips about this event. Hosted by Green City Events and on tomorrow also. Art Opinions Service National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Bring in a piece of art for opinions/referrals by the Art Department. Cardiff Inter Varsity Club Meeting Park Plaza Hotel,
Cardiff. 8.30pm, £5 (threemonth trial membership). Info 07526 141392 / www. cardiffivc.org.uk. Meeting here on the first Friday of each month. Decorating The Chapel National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Farmers Market High Street, Merthyr Tydfil. Free. Info 01685 725106. Quality produce from no more than 50 miles away, on the first Friday of each month. For The Love Of Beer & Cheese Penylan Pantry, Cardiff. 7-9.30pm, £15 adv. Info 01792 463980. A masterclass in which Crafty Devil beers are paired with some of the large array of British cheeses available in this shop. Little Mice Club: Roald Dahl National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am12pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Enjoy bilingual play, song and crafts and meet Morys the Museum Mouse. Maggie’s Culture Crawl National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 8pm-12am. Info 01792 463980. Featuring performances and a special trail around the galleries. Museum Late Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 6-9pm, free. Info 029 2078 8334. For the first Friday of every month the museum will be opening its doors until late, with dance, culture, art, music and a pop-up bar. Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Finishes today) Switched On Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 6) Talk: Fragile? National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Artist Phoebe Cummings, in conversation with curator Rachel Conroy. Workshop Bike Sale Cardiff Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info www.cycletrainingwales.org. uk. Adult bikes on sale from £60; kids’ bikes from £10. On tomorrow also, and every Friday this month. SATURDAY 5 A Pedal Powered Outdoor Film Festival Plasnewydd Community Centre, Cardiff. 1 + 7pm, £1. Info hello@ greencityevents.co.uk. Screenings of The Lion King (afternoon) and Cool Runnings (evening). Autumn In The Urban Meadow National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Learn how to collect seeds from plants, take part in our seed swap event and learn how to make habitats for wildlife. Beach Treasures Penarth Pier Pavilion. 12-2pm, free. Info 0844 8700887. A free event with geologist Dr Christian Baars, who will look at fossils found on the beach at Penarth. Beer In The Beacons Dark Skies Reserve, Brecon Beacons. £45. Info 01874 749092. A tour of awardwinning Welsh brewery Brecon Brewing, followed by a mini-bus tour of three local real ale pubs. Price doesn’t include drinks you thirsty buggers.
Bore Da Bollywood Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 4pm, £60 for family of four. Info 01970 623232. A day of Indian music, dance and culture includng sari draping, dance and a live show in the evening by Bollywood Echoes & Gunjan. Craft Fair Coffee Cove Cafe Bar, Barry Island. 10am3.30pm, free/£10 to set up a stall. Info 07948 399111. Every first Saturday of the month. Crafty Devil Brewing & Dusty Knuckle Pizza’s Wales v Ireland Rugby World Cup Event The Printhaus, Canton, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 0349. “Beer, pizza, live music, rugby,” boast the Printhaus, coincidentally listing these things in pretty much my own order of preference. Another of these is on Sat 26, for September’s other big Welsh game. Dark Skies Evening With An Astronomer Dark Skies Reserve, Brecon Beacons. £20. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out Event. Also on Fri 11, Sat 19 and Sat 26. Dewch Y Ganu National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am, free. Info 01792 463980. Sessions for Welsh learners. Dylan Thomas Themed Craft Workshop For Adults Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10.30am-1pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Book in advance please. Early Medieval Alliance: Beseiging The Castle Caldicot Castle & Country Park. 11am-5pm, £5/£3 kids. Info 01291 420241. Come and see the Early Medieval Alliance bring history to life with an action-packed siege of the castle. On tomorrow also. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Two Valleys And A Bothy Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 10am-4pm. Info 01597 810880. First of 10 specific walks taking place as part of this festival until Mon 14. This one is eight miles long and is led by local shepherd Tudor Davies. Gymnastics: League Qualifier Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003127. On tomorrow also. Handmade Craft & Gift Market Tabernach Chapel, The Hayes, Cardiff. 10am4pm. Info uniquefairs@gmx. co.uk. Ice Hockey: Challenge Cup – Cardiff Devils v Manchester Storm Ice Arena, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £6-£15. Info 029 2038 2001. Precursor to the league games, which start here on Sat 19. Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Look up into the night sky to explore the many lights that have fascinated humans for centuries, and discover their origins. (At weekends until Sun 27) Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8pm, £10. Info 07538 878609. A walk through woodlands, ruins and graveyards. Every Saturday this month. NGS Gardens Open For Charity Day Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 10.30am4.30pm, £2.50. Info 029 2030
events On Sat 5, the Dark Skies Reserve in the Brecon Beacons will be the starting point for an educational yet booze-based tour named Beer In The Beacons. You'll be shown around the Brecon Brewery and then driven to three real ale pubs in the area, courtesy of organisers Good Day Out. 4400. In which you can look around Chapter’s Community Garden, as part of a UK-wide one-day scheme. Paddle Fest Cardiff International White Water, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2087 2087. Try out a range of water-sports for the very first time, including canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, via taster sessions running throughout the day. Picnic Penarth Gimber Motors, Penarth. 6-11pm. Info 029 2071 3843. Street food specialists from Penarth and elsewhere in south Wales, hosted by Penarth Town Council. Drinks, dancing and dinner in the dark is promised this evening, and it’s on tomorrow daytime also. Rugby Union: Dove Men Tests – Wales v Ireland Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. 2.30pm, £10-£35 adv. Info 0844 8471881. Settle Into The Landscape – An Intimate Tour Of The Beacons Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event. St Fagans Food Festival National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-5pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Two-day festival with lots of local producers. This was good last year, notably some banging farmhouse cider I necked. Switched On Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 6) Theatr Ffynnon Summer Picnic Family Fundraiser Llanllowell House, Llanllowell, Usk. 11am-4pm, £5/£3. Info 07546 390323. Summer picnic to raise funds for Theatr Ffynnon so it can continue to provide access to workshops, theatre productions and projects. Weber Grill Academy Essential Course Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10am-2pm, £100. Info 01443 222716. Presented as part of Angela Gray’s Cookery School, this takes you through grilling, roasting, smoking and baking techniques. Also on Fri 11 and Wed 30. Who Killed The King Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01873 850805. A musical Murder Mystery grand charity fundraising event consisting of popular songs, laughter, intrigue and audience participation. Workshop Bike Sale Cardiff
Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info www.cycletrainingwales. org.uk. SUNDAY 6 5m4shdown The Little Man Coffee Co., Cardiff. 12.30pm, £4 to enter. Info 07933 844234. Super Smash Bros. gaming tournament. It's supposed to say 'Smashdown' but a number 4 in the font we use for event names doesn't look much like a letter A. A World Music Month Of Sundays National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. A parade, performance and workshop by Samba Galez. On tomorrow also. Canalathon Brecon Beacons National Park. £180 per team to enter. Info www.mbact. org.uk/canalathon.php. Incorpoeating three sections undertaken by canoe, bike and foot, in that order. See Roundup. Cardiff 10k Museum Avenue, Cardiff (starting point). 9.15am. Info 029 2034 3940. Now in its 30th year, this race is organised by Kidney Wales and preceded by a 2k fun run (the main race starts at 10am). Cardiff Storytelling Circle Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2030 4400. Cwmbran Craft Fayre Our Lady’s School Hall, Cwmbran. 1-4pm. Info cwmbran_ crafts@hotmail.co.uk. Every first Sunday of the month. Dylan’s Swansea Guided Tour Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea (starting point). 10.30am, £4-£10. Info 01792 463980. Presented by Fluellen and finishing in the No Sign Wine Bar. Early Medieval Alliance: Beseiging The Castle Caldicot Castle & Country Park. 11am-5pm, £5/£3 kids. Info 01291 420241. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Garreg Ddu Roundabout Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 10am-4pm. Info 01597 810880. Nine-mile walk led by Tudor Davies. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Railway Ramble Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 10am-12pm. Info 01597 810880. Three-mile walk. Football: European Championship Qualifier – Wales v Israel Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff. 5pm. Info 0845 3451400. Getting close to actual qualification now folks, and while Wales are
certainly the better of these two teams they’d do well not to get complacent and recognise the state of Israel, so to speak. Group 617 Lecture Series: The Dambusters Penarth Pier Pavilion. 10.30am-12pm, free. Info 0844 8700887. Talk highlighting the connections between the Dambuster Squadron and Penarth and Barry. Gymnastics: League Qualifier Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003127. Home Charcutier: Inspired By Southern Europe Humble By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth. 9.45am, £120. Info 01600 714595. With Graham Waddington. Ice Hockey: Challenge Cup – Cardiff Devils v Sheffield Steelers Ice Arena, Cardiff Bay. 6pm, £6-£15. Info 029 2038 2001. Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Lou Lou’s Cardiff Vintage Fair City Hall, Cardiff. 11am5pm, £2. Info info@ thevintagefair.com. Return of this regular, popular vintage fest, with a hairstyling booth, tea and cakes and other stuff TBC. Picnic Penarth Gimber Motors, Penarth. 11am-4pm. Info 029 2071 3843. Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. St Fagans Food Festival National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-5pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Switched On Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Finishes today) Tuscan Kitchen Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 9.30am-3.30pm, £165. Info 01443 222716. With Angela Gray. UKBFF Paul Grant Welsh Championships St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 11.30am, £20. Info 029 2087 8444. That’s the The United Kingdom Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation to you. Velvet Coalmine Literature Day Preachers Lounge & Wine Bar, Blackwood. 12-6pm. Info 01495 227206. Featuring, in chronological order: Iain Richards in conversation with Gary Raymond; Gee Williams & Rhian Elizabeth in conversation; Cynan Jones and Rachel Trezise in conversation; Francesca Rhydderch and Jo Mazelis in conversation; and live music TBC. MONDAY 7 A World Music Month Of Sundays National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Five Mines Walk Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 9am-5pm. Info 01597 810880. Fourteen-mile walk led by Andrew Leonard. Northern Lingo Bingo Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. This is a night which seems to feature people playing bingo and speaking in Yorkshire dialect. The Terminator Quiz Buffalo, Cardiff. 7-9.30pm, £1 to play. Info 029 2031 0312. Looks like these narrow-
themed quizzes are the way to pack ‘em in circa late 2K15. This one will only feature questions about the first two Terminator movies, FYI. Write On Writers Morganstown Village Hall. 6.30-8.30pm. Info 07512 235758. An open group of writers who encourage others to write and also critique work. Here every first and third Monday of the month.
six sessions. Info 029 2048 4611. With Margo Schmidt, every Wednesday until Oct 14. The UK’s Worst Serial Killers Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01633 868239. What Ya Got? 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. New open mic night incorporating music, poetry, storytelling, comedy, cabaret etc. Also on Wed 23.
TUESDAY 8 Behind The Scenes: Natural Sciences National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Eclectic Crafters Centenary Hall, Maryport Street, Usk. Info eclectic.crafters@gmail. com. Craft fair held on the first Saturday of each month. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Village Tour Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 2-3.30pm. Info 01597 810880. One-mile walk. Hedgehog Helper Morning Venue TBC, nr Builth Wells. £20. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event. Also on Sun 13 and Fri 25. Music Matters Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £1 entry. Info 029 2039 7933. Pop quiz, held every month. Poetry Nights Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £4.50/£3. Info 01792 863722. This month featuring Clare E Potter and Glyn Roberts. The UK’s Worst Serial Killers Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 7.30pm, £10.75. Info 01639 763214. Presented by Trevor Marriott, a man for whom Cannibal Corpse’s 2002 album Gore Obsessed could surely have been written. In Cwmbran tomorrow. West Wales Decorative & Fine Arts Lecture: The Museum Of Modern Art – New York Queens Hall, Narberth. 10.30am, £10. Info 01834 869323. Talk by Theodora Clarke.
THURSDAY 10 Castle Ghost Tour St Fagans Castle. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. An atmospheric 100 minute walk through the Elizabeth mansion and gardens with true tales of its ghosts. Also on Thurs 17, Fri 18, Tnhurs 24 and Sat 26. Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Kent SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 10.30am. Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Sat 12) Elan Valley Walking Festival: Dambusters Walk Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 2-5pm. Info 01597 810880. Four-mile walk with steep climbs. Found Arts Improv Ensemble Workshop The Abacus, Cardiff. £6 per class. Info www.theabacusroom. wordpress.com. Golden Years Tea Dance Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 1.30pm, £4. Info 01792 475715. Lunch Club Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10.30am-2.30pm, £30. Info 01443 222716. With Angela Gray. Meet The Gardener National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Pop The Question! Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Interactive quiz presented by the International Association Of Popular Music Studies. Quiz In My Pants The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, £2. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Pub quiz. SWDFAS Lecture: The England Of Eric Ravilious (1903–1942) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2pm, £6. Info 029 2030 4400. Lecture by David Boyd Haycock. The Full Moon's Unpossible Simpsons Quiz 2 The Moon Club, Cardiff. 8pm, £2. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.
WEDNESDAY 9 Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Kent SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 10.30am. Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Sat 12) Elan Valley Walking Festival: Medieval Monks Trod Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 10am-2.30pm. Info 01597 810880. Six-mile hill walk. Off The Page Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 6.30pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Curated by Samuel Hasler, artists introduce their work using unique and personal methods of presentation. Book in advance please. Open Mic Spoken Word Extravaganza 21 Ye Olde Murenger, Newport. 7.30pm, £5/£3. Info 01633 263977. Featuring Richard Berry, Suze and MC De Lee. Fundraiser by CWTSH to help run the former Stow Hill Library. Scriveners Writers’ Group Royal Exchange, Brynmawr. 8pm. Info 01495 753629. Established group aiming to provide constructive criticism, help, advice and guidance to its members. Also on Wed 23. Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Short Pottery Course Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-12.30pm, £180 for
FRIDAY 11 Art Lunchtime Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. ‘An introduction to Cedric Morris Portraits’, by Nicholas Thornton. Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Kent SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 10.30am. Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Sat 12) Dark Skies Evening With An Astronomer Dark Skies Reserve, Brecon Beacons. £20. Info 01874 749092. Dinky Dragons Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 10am-3pm, free. Info 029 2078 8334. Family fun day for 0-5-year-olds. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Crugyn Ci /Cwm yr Hafod Elan Valley Estate, Powys. 10am-2.30pm. Info 01597 810880. Six-mile walk led by Tudor Davies. Midnight Ghost Tour Cardiff Castle. 10.15pm, £14. Info 07538 878609. Also on
Fri 25 this month. Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Two hours of eerie true tales of the historic buildings of this site. Also on Fri 18, Sat 19, Fri 25 and Sat 26. Penfro Book Festival Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 10am-4pm. Info 01239 841387. Annual literature festival. (Until Sun 13) Poetry & Spoken Word Night Venue 1, Tredegar. 6-11pm. Info 07970 072736. Featuring performance poet Vanessa Kissule as well as Ryan Speaks, Julie Pritchard and Fireside Poets. Sessions The Riverfront, Newport. 7-11pm, free. Info 01633 656757. Monthly event featuring live performances and boutique stalls. Squash: Welsh Junior Open Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 8.40am-10pm. Info 0300 3003121. (Until Sun 13) Tea Dance St Donats Ats Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 2-4pm, £5. Info 01446 779100. With Alan Taylor. Toddler Days Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. £5 (adults). Info 029 2047 5475. Monthly day for toddlers with a special theme each month, September’s being “food, glorious food”. Weber Grill Academy Essential Course Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10am-2pm, £100. Info 01443 222716. Workshop Bike Sale Cardiff Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info www.cycletrainingwales. org.uk. SATURDAY 12 10th Barry Guide Group Craft Fair Highlight Park Community Centre, Stirling Road, Barry. 10am-2pm, free. Info 07578 194913. Includes handmade jewellery, baby bales, bags, books, pictures, gifts and knitted goods. Caerwent Craft Fayre Caerwent Village Hall, Monmouthshire. 2.30-4.30pm. Info cwmbran_crafts@ hotmail.co.uk. Every second Saturday of the month. Chepstow Farmers’ Market Cormeilles Square, Chepstow. 8.30am-1pm, free. Info 01291 626370. Every second and fourth Saturday of the month. Coastal Foraging Adventure The Pelican in Her Piety, Ogmore by Sea (starting point). 11.30am3.30pm, £50. Info 07542 689608. Learn to identify various types of shellfish and seaweed on the Welsh coast, then go back to the pub for a lunch featuring these things. Craft Fair Rhiwderin Village Hall. 12-4pm, free. Info 01633 810214. Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Kent SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 10.30am. Info 029 2040 9380. (Finishes today) Crickhowell Craft Fayre Clarence Hall, Crickhowell. 10am-3.30pm, £10 to book a table. Info 07847 017911. Drop-In Knotwork & Beadwork Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. £5 per session. Info 029 2048 4611. With Suzen Millodot every month. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Cairns & White Pillars Elan Valley Estate, BUZZ 67
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BAFTA CYMRU Welcome to the first regular column from BAFTA Cymru. We’ll be letting you know about the films, television programmes and games we are celebrating each month. With location filming in Wales and large international television series like Da Vinci’s Demons and The Bastard Executioner (both airing on FOX this autumn) adding to the already successful home-grown productions like Doctor Who, Y Gwyll/ Hinterland and Dim Ond Y Gwir – the BAFTA Cymru team has a wealth of choice for our regular events. As a charity, we are focusing on our aim to celebrate productions made in Wales and further afield by Welsh talent, starring Welsh talent or featuring Wales as locations. We do this with at least two preview screenings and Q&A events a month (at Chapter Arts Centre and Cineworld) and, starting in September, we’ll be launching a regular event at Galeri in Caernarfon or the new Pontio centre in Bangor. They offer access to talent and information for those working in the industry, or aspiring to get involved. In September, our events, which are open to BAFTA members and the public through the BAFTA Cymru website, will include previews of the much-anticipated second series of Aberystwyth-based drama Y Gwyll/ Hinterland – a screening of the first two episodes and a Q&A with the series producers Ed Thomas and Ed Talfan, the BAFTA Cymru-nominated actress Mali Harries and S4C’s Drama Commissioner Gwawr Martha Lloyd. We’ll also be co-hosting a premiere of Craig Roberts’ directorial debut Just Jim, made on the Ffilm Cymru Wales Cinematic scheme, and a chance to hear from Roberts (Submarine) about moving from acting to directing before the film is released later in the month. We’ll be screening Yr Ymadawiad, a new feature film produced by Kate Crowther and Ed Talfan, with a Q&A at the Cineworld BAFTA Cymru bar, and will be offering a chance to watch the three shortlisted films in competition for the Feature/Television Feature Award at the 24th British Academy Cymru Awards – to be held at St David’s Hall on Sun 27 Sept. For anyone interested in finding out what is being made in Wales this is a must-attend event – to attend see page 18 for more. www.bafta.org/wales
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Powys. 10am-5pm. Info 01597 810880. Ten-mile walk led by Richard Tyler. Essential Bike Maintenance Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £65. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. Farmers’ Market Twyn Community Centre, Caerphilly. 9.30am, free. Info 01656 658963. Every second Saturday of the month. Football: Sky Bet Championship – Cardiff City v Huddersfield Town Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff. 3pm. Info 0845 3451400. Gymnastics: Event Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. On tomorrow also. Ice Hockey: Challenge Cup – Cardiff Devils v Nottingham Panthers Ice Arena, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £6-£15. Info 029 2038 2001. It’s Electric Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. What is electricity and why is it so useful? Generate it for yourself and see some indoor lightning to find out. (At weekends until Sun 27) Landscape Tour Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 12-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3650. Find out about the landscape surrounding Big Pit, having donned sensible clothing and footwear. On tomorrow also. Lazy Crafternoons: Vintage Plates National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 1.30pm, £5. Info 01792 463980. Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Live Art Evening G39, Cardiff. 6-10pm. Info 029 2047 3633. Closing evening of the Island Adaptation I & II exhibition. Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8pm, £10. Info 07538 878609. Mumbles Produce Market Seafront Car Park, Mumbles. 9am-1pm, free. Info 01792 361012. Every second Saturday of the month. Newport Craft Fayre The Gallery, Newport Indoor Market. 9am-4.30pm, free. Info 01633 656656. Every second Saturday of the month. Nimble Fingers Craft Fair Victoria Hall, Mumbles, Swansea. 10am-4pm, free. Info 07790 298913. On the second Saturday of every month. *Owl Sanctuary Fundraiser Gwdihw, Cardiff. 1pm, free (donations welcomed). Info 029 2039 7933. Raising funds for the sanctuary in Ebbw Vale, kids and adults alike are invited to meet some of the owls. I went to this last year, it was commendable. Penfro Book Festival Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 10am-4pm. Info 01239 841387. (Until Sun 13) Pig Street Craft Fair The Queens Hall, Narberth. 10am4pm, free. Info enquiries@ pigstreetcrafts.co.uk. Selling original arts and crafts. Polaris Pro 2 Professional Jiu Jitsu Invitational St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £30-£45. Info 029 2087 8444. A night of submission grappling. Roald Dahl Day Celebrations Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11.30am-4pm. Info
029 2087 7959. Including storytelling, in conjunction with Waterstones, and arts & crafts workshops with Caroline Deacon. On tomorrow also. Saturday Morning Kitchen Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10.30am12pm, £12. Info 01443 222716. With Angela Gray. Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Spotlight Tour National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am + 1pm + 3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Join a member of staff from St Fagans on a whistle-stop tour as they visit some of their favourite buildings. Squash: Welsh Junior Open Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 8.40am-10pm. Info 0300 3003121. (Until Sun 13) Talk: Owain Glyndwr National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.With craftsman Geraint Thomas. The Big Cwtch Glanrannel Park House, Crugybar, Carmarthenshire. 10.30am, £5-£30. Info www.thebigcwtch. com. “A family-friendly party of music, craft, camping and food,” they call it, adding that ‘big cwtch’ is Welsh for big cuddle. Over 30 musical acts will play, with The Noses and Lost Tuesday Society confirmed so far; various food producers will also feed you, while pop-up bars around the site will get you tipsy. You can also camp overnight. Thrifty Kids: Paint A Plate National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am-12.30pm. Info 01792 463980. Upcycle china plates using glass paint and pens. Seems like it’s more likely to be the parents that are thrifty, rather than the kids. Unusual Plants Fair Old Hall Gardens, Cowbridge. 10am-4pm, free. Info 01446 700111. Usk Show Usk Showground. 8.30am, £12/£10 adv (kids £5/£4 adv). Info 01291 690889. All manner of animalistic and agricultural treats for your eyes. Welsh Cawl Supper With A Male Voice Choir Bakers Table Cafe, Talgarth Mill. 7pm, £30. Info 01874 749092. Raising money for Usk House Hospice and St David’s Healthcare. Wild Food Forge Bute Park, Cardiff. 10am-12.30pm, £20. Info hello@greencityevents. co.uk. Hosted by Michele Fitzsimmons and Green City Events. SUNDAY 13 Chivas Masterclass – The Art Of Blending 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. Do you think blended whiskies are for oiks? Well let Chivas, of Chivas Regal fame, be your ‘teachers’ (little joke for blended whisky fans there) tonight, as they pair foods and teach YOU how to blend. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Two-Day Bothy Walk Elan Valley Estate, Powys. Info 01597 810880. Long walk which will be spread over two days (on tomorrow also) and involve an overnight stay in one of the Elan Estate Bothies. Gymnastics: Event Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.
9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. Hedgehog Helper Morning Venue TBC, nr Builth Wells. £20. Info 01874 749092. Ironman Wales North Beach, Tenby (starting point). Info eu.ironman.com/triathlon/ events/emea/ironman/wales. This includes a 2.4 mile swim in the sea, a 112-mile bike ride and a marathon run. Piece of piss. Registration is all booked up now though. It’s Electric Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Landscape Tour Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 12-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3650. Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Mad Hatters’ Afternoon Tea Party Penylan Pantry, Cardiff. 4-7.30pm, £30 adv. Info 01792 463980. A Lewis Carroll-tastic menu devised by Beca Lyne-Pirkis, who was in the final of GBBO. This is sold out but maybe someone will drop out in mysterious circumstances, who knows. Marina Market Dylan Thomas Square, Swansea. 10am-3pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Meet The Woodcarvers National History Museum, St Fagans. Free. Info 029 2057 3500. Noah’s Ark Charity Walk Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay (starting point). 10am-4pm, £5 to register. Info 029 2087 2087. In aid of the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales. Penfro Book Festival Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 10am-4pm. Info 01239 841387. (Finishes today) Penydarren Steam Loco National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-3.30pm. Info 01792 463980. Roald Dahl Day National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-4pm. Info 01792 463980. Roald Dahl Day Celebrations Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11.30am-4pm. Info 029 2087 7959. Squash: Welsh Junior Open Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 8.40am-6pm. Info 0300 3003121. (Finishes today) Welsh National Wedding Fayre Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 11am-4pm, free. Info 01792 475715. MONDAY 14 Cadw Open Doors: Object In Focus Dylan Thomas Square, Swansea. 10am-3pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Cardiff Rum Club 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2022 8883. A monthly get together of rum enthusiasts, connoisseurs and pirates is promised here. There’ll also be live music. Elan Valley Walking Festival: Two-Day Bothy Walk Elan Valley Estate, Powys. Info 01597 810880. Joy Of Living Mindfulness Group Meeting Gaia Yoga Studio, Roath, Cardiff. 7.309pm, free (donations welcome). Info 07412 346054. On the second and fourth Monday of every month. Velotech Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £45. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk.
(Until Thurs 17) TUESDAY 15 All Things Baked & Beautiful Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 11am-1.30pm, £35. Info 01443 222716. Peter Hughes from Aga gives a demonstration of how to cook with an Aga. Looks like the company branding would have us write it AGA, but I don’t even write Abba in all caps (see these listings for proof) so I’m not changing my obstinate, annoying ways for a big stove. Behind The Scenes: Art National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Football: Sky Bet Championship – Cardiff City v Hull City Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff. 7.45pm. Info 0845 3451400. Both of these teams have chairmen who are insensitive to the traditions and iconography of their club, and, uh, that is probably worthy of some banter and/or 300 painfully eked out words in the Echo’s sports section. Macmillan Coffee Morning Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 10am-1pm. Info 01685 384111. Nataly Churchill Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01685 384111. Spirit medium. On tomorrow also. Velotech Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £45. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. (Until Thurs 17) WEDNESDAY 16 Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Short Pottery Course Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-12.30pm, £180 for six sessions. Info 029 2048 4611. Skill Builder: Perfect Pastry Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 6-9pm, £75. Info 01443 222716. With Angela Gray. The Troll Quiz 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £3. Info 029 2022 8883. Hosted by Jordan Brookes, this is a quiz with no winners or losers. Velotech Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £45. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. (Until Thurs 17) THURSDAY 17 Castle Ghost Tour St Fagans Castle. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Lecture Series: Curator’s Lecture Cardiff Castle. 6pm, £7.50. Info 029 2087 8100. An unusually personal lecture by Matthew Williams, who talks about what’s gone on in this castle since he took over as Curoator in 1990. Windows have become narrower; drawbridge technology has enabled lightning-fast pull-up times; local listings relating to the castle have become more laboriously whimsical. Meet The Gardener National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Skill Builder: Knife Skills (Vegetables) Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 6-9pm, £75. Info 01443 222716. The Full Moon Against Humanity The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, £2. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Vale Courses Art Workshop:
events Painting In Watercolours St Donats Ats Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10am. Info 01446 779100. Velotech Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £45. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. (Until Thurs 17) FRIDAY 18 Abergavenny Food Festival Borough Theatre, Homes Of Elegance, Priory Centre, Masonic Hall, Kings Head Barn, Market Hall, The Castle and outdoor locations, Abergavenny. 11am, various prices. Info 01873 851643. See www.abergavennyfoodfestival. com for the full listings of this annual three-day culinary calypso. Today is a sort of soft launch and features tours of the Chase distillery and Abergavenny Creamery; a cocktail mixology class with Jamsheed Todiwala; a sold-out chat with chef tom Kerridge and a night of swing dancing in the castle under a canopy. (Until Sun 20) Art Lunchtime Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Stephanie Roberts looks at the painting The Blind Welsh Harper by John Orlando Parry Flute Masterclass Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 4pm, free. Info 01446 773824. With Paul Edmund Davies. Cowbridge Music Festival event. Let’s Get Quizzical The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £2 to enter. Info 01497 821762. Pub quiz.
Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. So You Think You’re Smart? Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7pm, free. Info 01495 243252. Quiz night, every third Friday of the month. Spokedelia: Sound + Word The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Poetry with Adrian Jones, DannyBoy and Retro Dan plus guest poets and musicians. Toddler Time Foyer, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am-3pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Workshop Bike Sale Cardiff Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. SATURDAY 19 Abergavenny Food Festival Borough Theatre, Homes Of Elegance, Priory Centre, Masonic Hall, Kings Head Barn, Market Hall, The Castle and outdoor locations, Abergavenny. 9.45am, various prices. Info 01873 851643. Today features hedgerow foraging to start the morning; cooking with wasabi; talks and classes with Raymond Bland, Pete Brown, Penylan Pantry, James Chase, Theo Randall, Yottam Ottolenghi and more; classes with The Food Academy and The Artisan Kitchen School; and a party at the Castle from 7.30-11pm, with live music and plenty of food for yer tea. (Until Sun 20) Alzheimer’s Memory Walk Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay
(starting point). 11am. Info 029 2087 2087. Charity walk around Cardiff Bay. Batik Art Workshops Foyer, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Brecon Craft Fair Market Hall, Brecon. 9am-4.30pm. Info 01495 753782. Every third Saturday of the month. British Waterski Championships Cardiff Bay / Cardiff Bay Barrage. 11am, free. Info 029 2087 2087. On tomorrow also. Dark Skies Evening With An Astronomer Dark Skies Reserve, Brecon Beacons. £20. Info 01874 749092. Discover Indonesia Foyer, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am-6.30pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Featuring Papermoon Puppet Theatre Workshops (11am, at the Silver Dragon), Batik Art Workshops (11am), Palace Dancers performing with the Gamelan (2pm), Klanengan Session (3pm), Bambangan Cakil Dance (4pm), a talk by Southern Aceh singer Rafly (5pm) and Indonesian band Kande (5.30pm). On tomorrow also. Football: Barclays Premier League – Swansea City v Everton Liberty Stadium, Swansea. 3pm. Info 0870 400004. German Film Festival Pontardawe Arts Centre. 2pm, £15/£13. Info 01792 863722. Grow, Show & Share St Augustine’s Church, Penarth. Info 029 2070 7828. A mixture of produce, preserves and craft, all grown or made in or
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around Penarth. Hosted by the Friends Of St Augustine’s. Gymnastics Event Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. On tomorrow also. Ice Hockey: Cardiff Devils v Braehead Clan Ice Arena, Cardiff Bay. 6pm, £6-£15. Info 029 2038 2001. It’s Electric Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Kidsmarkets Family Sale Cowbridge Leisure Centre. 11am-12.30pm, £1/kids free. Info 07760 802088. Featuring 38 stalls of great quality new and pre-loved baby and children’s items. Lecture: John Toland National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am. Info 01792 463980. A presidential lecture by Prof Justin Champion. Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8pm, £10. Info 07538 878609. Made It Market St David’s Church, Neath. 10am-3pm, from £15 to set up a stall. Info 07971242730. Quarterly craft and produce fair. Mad Science Day Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 10am-2pm (workshops) / 2.30pm (show), £6 (workshops) / £4 show. Info 01685 384111. For kids aged 3-12. Make An Apple Gathering Basket Humble By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth. 10am, £95. Info 01600 714595. With Amanda Rayner. More Bike Maintainance Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £65. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. Museum Friends Lecture National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 10.30am, £10. Info 029 2039 7951. A talk about refugee artists in Wales, by Peter Wakelin. Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Nantgarw Craft Fair Nantgarw China Works. 11am3pm, free. Info deb_0001@ hotmail.co.uk. Every third Saturday of the month. Ocean Film Festival Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £12/£10.50. Info 01656 815995. Collection of short films documenting the power of the ocean, presented by the same people who did the Banff Mountain Film Festival a few months back (we wrote something about it, I think). Patagonia Day National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-4am. Info 01792 463980. The 150th anniversary of Welsh people sailing to Patagonia is still ripe for milking as the teats of an Argentinian cow. Today it’ll be toasted via talks, stories and the making of paper origami boats. Roller Derby: Tiger Bay Brawlers vs. Kallio Rolling Rainbow Talybont Sports Village, Cardiff. 6.30-8.30pm. Info tigerbaybrawlers@gmail. com. Rugby Union: World Cup – Ireland v Canada Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. 2.30pm. Info 0844 8471881. First of eight World Cup matches taking place here, three of which are this month.
Can’t find the ticket prices for them (unless you count inflated prices on Viagogo and similar gangster scum websites), sorry. Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. St Fagans Book Club National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Talking about Gold by Dan Rhodes this month. Through The Keyhole National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm + 2-4pm,
9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. It’s Electric Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Karate Competition Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-6pm. Info 0844 2886116. Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Rugby Union: World Cup – Wales v Uruguay Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. 2.30pm. Info 0844 8471881. Through The Keyhole
Sat 12 sees the welcome return of the Owl Sanctuary fundraiser to Gwdihw (Welsh for 'little owl', see) in Cardiff. The sanctuary in question, in Ebbw Vale, will bring some owls down for the day to chill (out back, not in the bar), flap, rotate their heads etc. The equivalent event in 2014 was highly enjoyable, FYI. free. Info 029 2057 3500. Come and see one of our historic buildings brought to life through a living history demonstration. On tomorrow also. Vintage & Antiues Fair Clarence Hall, Crickhowell. Info 07977 846509. Vocal Masterclass Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 11am, free. Info 01446 773824. With Elin Manahan Thomas. Cowbridge Music Festival event. West Wales Koi Keepers Show National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. On tomorrow also. Working With Plant Dyes Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. £110. Info 029 2048 4611. With Claire Cawte. On tomorrow also. SUNDAY 20 Abergavenny Food Festival Borough Theatre, Homes Of Elegance, Priory Centre, Masonic Hall, Kings Head Barn, Market Hall, The Castle and outdoor locations, Abergavenny. 10.30am-5pm, various prices. Info 01873 851643. Today features more classes from the Artisan Kitchen School and Food Academy; tutored Italian wine tasting; talks from Richard Ehrlich, James Sommerin; Romy Gill, Hang Fire Smokehouse and Henry Chevalier Gould with Aspall (talking about cider). (Finishes today) British Waterski Championships Cardiff Bay / Cardiff Bay Barrage. 11am, free. Info 029 2087 2087. Discover Indonesia Foyer, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am-6.30pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Featuring Family Gamelan Workshops (11am), Palace Dancers performing with the Gamelan (2pm) and Kande (2.30pm). Gymnastics Event Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.
National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Traditional Afternoon Tea Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2pm, £12 per person. Info 029 2087 7959. Taking place on various dates all through the year. A minimum of two people need to book. West Wales Koi Keepers Show National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Working With Plant Dyes Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. £110. Info 029 2048 4611. MONDAY 21 Art Talk: Tracey Williams Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7pm, £4. Info 01656 815995. Write On Writers Morganstown Village Hall. 6.30-8.30pm. Info 07512 235758. TUESDAY 22 Behind The Scenes: Archaeology National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Explore Books National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am. Info 01792 463980. This month’s theme is ‘female mystery writers’ and it also takes place on Tue 29 . Tea Dance Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 2-4pm, £4. Info 01656 815995. Also on Tue 18. WEDNESDAY 23 Colin Fry Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 7.30pm, £18.50. Info 01639 763214. (This show is unsuitable for children under 14 years of age) DJ Masterclass Gwdihw, Cardiff. 3pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Freshers event hostd by the folks from Hully Gully. Gangsta’s Parodies Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Hip-hop karaoke BUZZ 69
events night hosted by sometime Buzz contributor Justin Evans. If These Pots Could Talk – Caerleon People And Their Pottery National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon. 7pm, £5. Info 029 2057 3550. A Lecture given by Dr Peter Webster in honour of the birthday of the Second Augustan
THURSDAY 24 After Hours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. 6.30-10pm, £3. Info 029 2047 5475. Evening events for adults only, with this month including a skill and strategy game called The Quest. Break Making Humble By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth.
National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Music Networking Event Dempseys, Cardiff. 7-9pm, free. Info 029 2023 9253. Featuring a talk and Q&A with Shape Records and a short live set from Acouchristo. Book a place in advance if you fancy attending.
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Legion. Pickling & Preserving The Abacus, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm, £35. Info hello@greencityevents. co.uk. Hosted by Green City Events. Rugby Union: World Cup – Australia v Fiji Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. 4.45pm. Info 0844 8471881. Scriveners Writers’ Group Royal Exchange, Brynmawr. 8pm. Info 01495 753629. Short Pottery Course Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-12.30pm, £180 for six sessions. Info 029 2048 4611. Skill Builder: Fish Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 6-9pm, £75. Info 01443 222716. Spice Preview Night Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. Info 07429 598414. A chance for you to go along and see what you might get out of this adventure, activity, sports and social group. What Ya Got? 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883.
6.30pm, £50. Info 01600 714595. With Hobbs House Bakery. Castle Ghost Tour St Fagans Castle. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Colin Fry Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £18. Info 01633 868239. Says on the posters he’s “celebrating his hit TV series 6ixth Sense”. Not sure if this just means he’ll be getting pissed up every night. Design Stuff 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. Monthly talks about design by all types of creatives from the UK. Book tickets in advance please. Luke Jermay Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £16.50/£14.50. Info 01792 475715. Mind-reading act of some kind. In his promo pic he has lots of tattoos and a carefully sculpted beard. Do I relate to him because of this or do I think he’s probably a twat? You tell me, Luke!! Meet The Gardener
Rhyme & Treason The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Poetry with Dave Daggers, Will Ford and special guests TBC. Speed Quiz The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, £2. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Like a normal pub quiz but faster, apparently. Taith Iaith National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Monthly session for Welsh learners. FRIDAY 25 David Starkey Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £16/£15. Info 01874 611622. Dave, British historian and panel show dignityphobe (to paraphrase an old issue of Viz), ventures to Brecon to talk about the Magna Carta. Let’s all goad him into saying something racist for a frightful jape! In Monmouth tomorrow. Four Bars Swing Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2023
9253. Featuring a lindy hop class for beginners, followed by dancing to classic swing tracks. Gala Dinner & Dance The Village Hotel, Coryton, Cardiff. 7.30pm-12.30am, £45. Info info@gthc.org.uk. A George Thomas Hospice Care fundraising event. Gallery Talk: Lucille Junkere Oriel Myrddin, Carmarthen. 6-7pm, free. Info 01267 222775. Talk about the indigo dye produced naturally from plant matter, and the work which artist Junkete has produced with it. Gourmet Vegetarian With Angela Gray Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 9.30am-3.30pm, £165. Info 01443 222716. Hedgehog Helper Morning Venue TBC, nr Builth Wells. £20. Info 01874 749092. Macmillan Coffee Morning Barnabas Arts House, Newport. 10.30am. Info 01633 673739. Bring cake, eat cake, play games, meet new people and support a fantastic charity. Midnight Ghost Tour Cardiff Castle. 10.15pm, £14. Info 07538 878609. Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. New Under The Sun: Launch Canton Library, Cardiff. 7-9pm, free. Info nutscardiff@gmail.com. Parthian Books’ second popup literary festival, which started last year, kicks off this evening with the launch of Norman Schwenk’s new poetry collection, Book Of Songs. On tomorrow also with a full programme Shelter Cymru Auction Penarth Pier Pavilion. 6pm. Info 0844 8700887. Auction the artworks which have been showing here for the last three days (see this venue’s listing in the Art section). The Forest Of Dreams Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £5/£4. Info 029 2030 4400. With storyteller Fiona Collins and guest musicians. The Porthcawl Elvis Festival Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 12.30pm. Info 01656 815995. See Upfront for more. Today features the official launch of the festival followed by Heat One of the Best Festival Elvis Competition 2014 at 2.30pm; in the evening (7.30), it’s Elvis Cymraeg, headlined by last year’s Elvies winner, Darren Graceland Jones. In addition, The Hi Tide venue hosts over 100 shows over the weekend, many with free admission, and over 20 venues in and around the Town form the Fringe Festival. You’ll be wanting to check out www.elvies.co.uk for the lowdown on those. New this year in the Grand Pavilion, also, is the Sun Studio Stage, open downstairs on Fri 25 and Sat 26 – ETAs will perform with a replica of Elvis’ Sun Studio live Band. (Until Sun 27) Workshop Bike Sale Cardiff Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. SATURDAY 26 Boutique Gift Markets Norwegian Church Arts
Centre, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am5.30pm. Info 029 2087 7959. On tomorrow also. Cardiff’s Affordable Vintage Fair Portland House, Cardiff Bay. 11am-4pm, £2/free under-12s. Info emily@ judysvintagefair.co.uk. Featuring 30 stalls with vintage wear from the 1940s onwards. Castle Ghost Tour St Fagans Castle. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Chepstow Farmers’ Market Cormeilles Square, Chepstow. 8.30am-1pm, free. Info 01291 626370. Craft Fair St Mary’s Church, Swansea. 10.30am-4pm, free. Info ariancrafts@hotmail. co.uk. Crafty Devil Brewing & Dusty Knuckle Pizza’s England v Wales Rugby World Cup Event The Printhaus, Canton, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 0349. Dark Sky Discovery Evening Dark Skies Reserve, Brecon Beacons. £45. Info 01874 749092. David Starkey Blake Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £14/£12 adv. Info 01600 719401. Do It Yourself Wedding Flowers: Ideas & Inspiration Humble By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth. 10am, £115. Info 01600 714595. With Monmouthshire florist Catherine Gray Flowers. Football: Sky Bet Championship – Cardiff City v Charlton Athletic Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff. 3pm. Info 0845 3451400. Further Bike Maintainance Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £65. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. Gymnastics: Welsh Disabilty Championships Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. Harvest Festival Amelia Trust Farm, Five Mile Lane, Barry. 11am-5pm, £5 (£15-£65 to set up a stall). Info 01446 782030. Featuring craft and food stalls, bouncy castles, a dog show, family fun events and the infamous much more. Hay2Timbuktu The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 7.30pm, £5/£10 with food. Info 01497 821762. Films, talks, music and African food, celebrating Mali Independence Day. History Day / History Journal Launch Swansea Museum. 10am-4pm. Info www.risw.org.uk. Various talks and lunchtime discussions about the history of Swansea over the centuries. Jointly organised by the Royal Institution Of South Wales and the Swansea Branch of the Historical Association. Introduction To Samba Galez: Dance Willows High School, Splott, Cardiff. 10am11pm, £35/£30 unwaged (eight sessions). Info join_the_ band@sambagalez.info. Every Saturday (excepting Sat 31 Oct) until 21 Nov. Introduction To Samba Galez: Percussion Willows High School, Splott, Cardiff. 11.15am-12.15pm, £25/£20 unwaged (eight sessions). Info join_the_band@sambagalez. info. Every Saturday (except-
ing Sat 31 Oct) until 21 Nov. It’s Electric Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (At weekends until Sun 27) Kidsmarkets Family Sale Ararat Centre For The Community, Whitchurch, Cardiff. 11am-12.30pm, £1/ kids free. Info 07760 802088. Featuring 25 stalls of great quality new and pre-loved baby and children’s items. Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8pm, £10. Info 07538 878609. Llandovery Sheep Festival Castle Fields Showground + football pitch, Llandovery. Info info@llandoverysheepfestival. co.uk. Spinning, knitting, shearing and racing will all return this year, say the folks behind this. It’s the Chinese Year Of The Sheep, you know. Meet The Muzzleloaders National History Museum, St Fagans. Free. Info 029 2057 3500. A demonstration of clay pigeon shooting. On tomorrow also. Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Narberth Food Festival The Town Moor, Narberth. 10am6pm, £4/£5 both days/free under-18s. Info info@ narberthfoodfestival.com. Featuring all manner of stalls, plus live music and cookery competitions. On tomorrow also. New Under The Sun Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11am7pm, £12/£6 per event. Info nutscardiff@gmail.com. Here’s today’s lineup. 11am12pm: Gary Raymond and Cardiff City FC chronicler Nick Fisk in conversation with Lewis Davies (free entry); 12-2pm: Book Fair (free entry); 2-3pm: Wil Roberts and Tony Bianchi discuss new English translations of their Welsh-language novels; 4-5pm: Gee Williams, Alix Nathan and Susmita Bhattacharya discuss their latest novels; 6.15-7pm: new short fiction with Rebecca F. John and Mark Blayney. Open Ground Writing Allty-Bella, Usk, Monmouthshire. 10.30am-5.30pm, £70. Info www.opengroundwriting.co.uk. Second of three creative writing workshops (the final one is on Sat 26 Sept) hosted by author Helena Attlee and poet Emma Beynon. Poetry Workshop Pontardawe Arts Centre. 10am, £15. Info 01792 863722. With Glyn Roberts. Pottery Course: Saturdays Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-12.30pm, £90 (three sessions). Info 029 2048 4611. With Margo Schmidt. Also on Sat 3 and sat 10 Oct. Tassel Making Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am4.30pm, £55. Info 029 2048 4611. With Jane Nicholls. The Abacus Gallery Fringe Festival The Abacus, Cardiff. 12pm-12am, £5. Info theabacusroom.wordpress. com. Live comedy, music, burlesque, magicians, circus performances, a silent art auction, workshops, a bar and food. The Porthcawl Elvis Festival Grand Pavilion,
JUST ANNOUNCED FOR OCTOBER: JULIO BASHMORE (Cardiff University Students Union, Fri 9) PAUL POTTS (Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Fri 9) MICACHU & THE SHAPES (Clwb Ifor Bach, Wed 21) FRANK CARTER & THE RATTLESNAKES (Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Wed 28) JUST ANNOUNCED FOR NOVEMBER: FOALS (Cardiff University, Sun 8) BEARDYMAN (The BUZZ 70
live music Porthcawl. 12pm. Info 01656 815995. Today features The Best Festival Elvis Competition (Heat Two) followed by The Grand Final. In the evening (7.30), the Elvies themselves takes place, with each winner performing their specialist set with The Porthcawl House Band. (Until Sun 27) SUNDAY 27 Boutique Gift Markets Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am5.30pm. Info 029 2087 7959. Cardiff Geek Party Gwdihw, Cardiff. 5pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Monthly gaming night focusing on retro consoles. Children’s Chorus Auditions The Riverfront, Newport. 9am, free. Info 01633 656757. This is for the Riverfront’s 2015/16 panto, which is Jack And The Beanstalk. Fencing: Tournament Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm. Info 07530 226532. Food & Countryside Day Chepstow Racecourse. 9.30am-4pm, £12/£10 adv/ kids free. Info 01291 622260. Featuring demonstrations (as in showing you how to do stuff, not protests, although you never know), a food and drink marquee, kids’ entertainment and music. Food & Craft Market Llanyrafon Manor Cwmbran. 11am-3pm. Info 01633 648562. Ice Hockey: Cardiff Devils v Fife Flyers Ice Arena, Cardiff Bay. 6pm, £6-£15. Info 029 2038 2001. It’s Electric Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Finishes today) Lights In The Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Finishes today) Masterclass In Enamelling Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-4.30pm, £75. Info 029 2048 4611. With Elizabeth Turrell. Meet The Muzzleloaders National History Museum, St Fagans. Free. Info 029 2057 3500. Men’s Health Survival Of The Fittest Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay (starting point). 10am, £60 to enter/free to spectate. Info 029 2087 2087. A 10km course featuring over 50 obstacles, strictly for those of you who are both men and healthy. Narberth Food Festival The Town Moor, Narberth. 10am4pm, £3/£5 both days/free under-18s. Info info@ narberthfoodfestival.com. The Brecon Beacons Run National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Classic MG car rally. The Porthcawl Elvis Festival Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 12.30pm. Info 01656 815995. Today features The Elvis Gospel Show with Dean Mack and special guests (12.30pm); Elvis at the Movies, in which invited Elvises, backed by The Porthcawl House Band, perform songs from the Movie Years (3pm) and a trilogy of shows recreating Sun Studios-era 50s Elvis, the ‘68
comeback and a Vegas style show (7.30pm). Afternoon in the Grand Pavilion also features Legends, a new show where you can see your favourite ETAs as you’ve never seen them before. Hosted by – loving this name – John ‘SuperNova’ Lennon. (Finishes today) MONDAY 28 Atrium Documentary Photography Welcome Party Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Monthly gaming night focusing on retro consoles. Joy Of Living Mindfulness Group Meeting Gaia Yoga Studio, Roath, Cardiff. 7.309pm, free (donations welcome). Info 07412 346054. TUESDAY 29 Behind The Scenes: The Library National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Explore Books National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am. Info 01792 463980. Pick n’ Mix Allsorts Open Mic Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933. WEDNESDAY 30 Elliecoptor Hoops Hula Hoop Class The Abacus, Cardiff. 7.30-8.30 + 8.309.30pm, £5. Info 07934 011061. Last Wednesday of every month. Fragile? Exhibition Conference National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 10am-5pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Natural Sciences Lunchtime Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. ‘Minerals under the microscope’ by Tom Cotterell, Mineralogy Curator. Short Pottery Course Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-12.30pm, £180 for six sessions. Info 029 2048 4611. This Quiz Is Really Moreish – An Interactive Peep Show Quiz 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £2. Info 029 2022 8883. Quiz based on the popular sitcom of that name. You can book a table for any number of people, as long as it’s two, four, five or six. Weber Grill Academy Essential Course Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10am-2pm, £100. Info 01443 222716.
live TUESDAY 1 Acoustic Tuesday South Riverside Community Development Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2030 4400. Regular event led by pioneering local musicians and singers. Alvvays The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. Sound Nation, which is to all intents and purposes a new gig promoting name for Swn, kick off September with a show for this fuzzy indiepop band from Toronto. For reasons that have escaped me they’ve become a
lot more popular than other fuzzy indiepop bands. Capital City Jazz Orchestra Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk. Every Tuesday. Esuna + Aah + Sophie Lynch & The Special Friends Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2039 7933. Martin Carthy & Dave Swarbrick St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £16/£15 adv. Info 029 2087 8444. Two of folk’s biggest cheeses club together for a Roots Unearthed gig. The Dear Hunter + Black Foxxes + The People The Poet Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11/£9 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Presented by GB Live and Sound Nation, or maybe just Sound Nation. They have kind of absorbed other promoters’ gigs into their mass, like a black hole. The See You Next Tuesday Club The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Open mic session hosted every Tuesday by Junior Bill plus The Shop Girls. WEDNESDAY 2 Acoustic Open Mic Night Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, free. Info 01685 384111. Bandaoke Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. “Sing with a fully rehearsed band and become the Popstar you always dreamed of being.” Blackhawk Big Band Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig. Claire Hingott with The Graham Watkins Trio Jazzland, Swansea. 8.3011pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789. First Wednesday The Riverfront, Newport. 1pm, £5.50/£4.50. Info 01633 656757. Lunchtime recital. For The Record 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. A new monthly evening aimed at local musicians who want to have their set professionally recorded. Houndstooth + Tender Prey The Moon Club, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£6 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Huw V Williams / James Clarke Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Open Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Every Wednesday. Expect to hear jazz, blues, rock or ska here. Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. Every Wednesday. Tim Holehouse + Johnny Campbell + Peter Von Toy + Seren The Heron Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933. A Folk In The Owl’s Nest night. Tori Lang, Calum Ross & Conor Gricmanis Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info
01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club showcase night. THURSDAY 3 April Towers + Mellt + Uumar Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933. Bob Geldof Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 8pm, £26.88. Info 01639 763214. Playing all of his famous hits such as I Don’t Like Mondays and the others, which I assume are equally as well known if you are a serious Bob Geldof fan. Carlo Fraccalvieri Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Classic Rhythm Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth. 7.30pm, £5-£12. Info 01834 869323. A Span Arts Classical night. Dave McPherson + When We Were Wolves + Heartwork The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Frontman of the band InMe headlines. Jam Night The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, free. Info 01495 247178. Also on Thurs 10. Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123. Every Thursday. This week’s guest band is Kerosene Lane. *King Crimson St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £39.50£65. Info 029 2087 8444. Wrote about this in Music last month. Honestly think it’s going to be amazing. Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm. Info 01633 858636. Every Thursday except when there’s a guest on. Sheesham & Lotus & Son Burnett’s Hill Chapel, Martletwy, Pembrokeshire. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01646 651725. Old timey music from Canada. FRIDAY 4 Alan Barnes The Open Hearth, Sebastopol, Pontypool. 8.30pm, free. Info 01495 763752. August’s edition of the monthly jazz nights here. Barnes is backed by Paul Sawtell, Ashley John Long and Martin Fisher. Aubrey Parsons Porter’s, Cardiff. 9pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Bal St Fagans Village Hall, Cardiff. 9pm. Info 029 2023 2970. A Pentreffest Noz folk night; preceded by a workshop which starts at 7.30pm. Cellar Festie! Cellar Bar, Cardigan. 6.30pm, £7 adv/£15 two days. Info 07818 056599. Weekend of live bands, today featuring (in order of performing) Les Coveney, Tom Gray, Paul Hayes, Sandwitch and Tough Love. On tomorrow also. Chris Summerill Band Old Cross Inn, Llanrumney, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2065 0021. Danielle Lewis + Nia Ann Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Death By Disco + Nineteen Fifty Eight + In Requiem + Remember The Fallen The Moon Club, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £3. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. EP launch for the headliners. *Dub War + The Voyeurs + Gwenno Blackwood Miners
Institute. 7pm, £12 adv/£40 weekend. Info 01495 227206. First of three nights of music in this venue, part of the Velvet Coalmine festival; we wrote about it in August’s issue. Faux + Cavalry Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477. Poppy punk bands. Fizzy Blood + Tarsiers + Rory Indiana + The Dead End Friends Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 029 2023 9253. Live Acoustic Night The Pilot, Penarth. Free. Info 029 2071 0615. On the first Friday of each month. *Mark Lanegan Band Y Plas, Cardiff University Students Union. 7pm, £17.50 adv. Info 029 2078 1458. We wrote about Mark/this gig in last month’s issue. Nico’zz Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. Open Night The Ivy Bush, Pontardawe. 8pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com. A Valley Folk Club night. Rock Factor The Yard, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. She Says Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. Sinatra Centennial Concert Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm, £18/£16. Info 0845 2263510. In which Frank is paid tribute by David Alacey. Swansea Unsigned 2015 Part 1 The Garage, Swansea. 9pm, £4. Info 01792 475147. Featuring sets from Goldenkills, Andy Morse, Chris Capel, Steve Flynn & Russell Washer and Joe Bayliss. T Clemente Band + Chroma The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 6pm, £2. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. The Carpenters Story Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £19-£23. Info 01600 772467. Featuring Claire Furley as Karen Carpenter. Richard Carpenter, the actual one, is quoted as saying, “I’m flattered!” Which is gracious of him, seeing as the guy doing his parts doesn’t get any billing on the poster. The Manfreds Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20/£18. Info 01792 475715. Wall2wall Festival The Kings Arms, Abergavenny. 7.15pm, £19 (includes food). Info 01873 852829. First event of the Wall2wall Jazz Festival, running until Sun 6. A two course festival supper with a traditional Welsh menu is followed by the best of jazz from Welsh-based artists, fronted by Andrew Fawcett. White Noise Warehouse54, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 259144. SATURDAY 5 An Evening With The Siren Sisters Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £13/£11. Info 01646 695267. Cellar Festie! Cellar Bar, Cardigan. 3.30pm, £10 adv/£15 two days. Info 07818 056599. Today featuring (in order of performing) Claire Axtell, Jo Couzens, Ian Cal Ford, QAZU, Lazarus Carpenter, The Adventures Of Bert & Henry, Cariad and Blacktooth. Children Of The Gravy +
Hierarchy Hobo’s, Bridgend. 8pm, £5. Info www.hobosmusicvenue.com. Black Sabbath tribute band. Florence Black The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, free. Info 01495 247178. Fourthkind Warehouse54, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 259144. Acoustic set on the roof terrace. Guns Or Roses + Flew Fighters Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly. 7.30pm, £10/£8 adv. Info 07512 237983. Tribute bands. Let’s Hang On St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £18.50£22.50. Info 029 2087 8444. A tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, which itself seems to be ‘hanging on’ pretty tenaciously. In the sense that it’s never out of these bastard listings. Lifer + Grifter + Beneath The Divine + Scarsun The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, free. Info 01495 213300. Headliners are launching their second album. Their first one was quite good. Not heard the new one though. Minnie’s Chuff Kiwis, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. Oli Brown Band New Panteg Rugby Club, New Inn, Pontypool. 7.30pm, £12/£10 members. Info 01633 483238. A Borough Blues Club gig. Richard & Adam Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01656 815995. Singing brothers who were on the telly, and are presented here by Porthcawl Choir. Slaves + Glen Matlock + Henry’s Funeral Shoe Blackwood Miners Institute. 7pm, £16.50 adv/£40 weekend. Info 01495 227206. Velvet Coalmine gig, also featuring a DJ set by Don Letts. Spirit Of Boogie + James Kennedy The Yard, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Steve Finn The Royal Exchange, Llandaff, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2056 4068. Superchango Porter’s, Cardiff. 9pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Sweet Billy Pilgrim + Chris TT Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8-10.30pm, £11 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. The headliners have been nominated for the Mercury Prize. I keep being obliged to mention this fact about bands in listings because I don’t know anything else about them. The Broadcasts + Old Samuel Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2023 9253. The Illegal Eagles Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £24.50/£22.50. Info 01792 475715. Tribute act. The Rollin’ Clones The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@ gmail.com. Tribute band. Wall2wall Festival Various venues, Abergavenny. 12.3010pm. Info 01873 852829. Today’s bill is like so. Kings Arms: The Ben Cipolla Band (12pm, £12); Radio Banska (2.15pm, £12); Emily Saunders ESB (4.30pm, £15); Ben Treacher Quartet (6.45pm, £13) and Moscow Drug Club (9pm, £15). Y Cantreff Inn (£6 for the full afternoon): Mansell
Glee Club, Cardiff Bay, Wed 11) SNAKECHARMER (The Globe, Thurs 12) MACEO PARKER (The Glee Club, Sun 15) MELODY GARDOT (Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Wed 18) ALABAMA 3 (Tramshed, Sat 21) PAUL WELLER + YOUNG FATHERS (Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff, Sun 22) SPACE (Sin City, Swansea, Tue 24; The Globe, Wed 25) RAGING SPEEDHORN BUZZ 71
live music Davies (12.30 + 1.45pm); Bluesy Susie (3 + 4.15pm). On tomorrow also. SUNDAY 6 24 Hours From Tulsa: Remembering Gene Pitney Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £18.50-£20.50. Info 01656 815995. Featuring a big band, visuals and Tommy Carey playing the part of Gene. In Cardiff on Wed 16. 5 Stabbed 4 Corpses + Sodomized Cadaver + Clarity As Arson + Ferinus The Dolls House, Abertillery. 3pm. Info 01495 213300. This is called the Yeah Man Fest, is of a metal ilk and will have more than four bands playing. Headliners are described as “German/Russian party samba slam,” which sounds a little frivolous for me. *Meat Puppets + The Noses + Fjords Blackwood Miners Institute. 7pm, £16.50 adv/£40 weekend. Info 01495 227206. Final Velvet Coalmine gig here. Meat Puppets are still a great live band, at least they were two years ago. Moose Blood + Creeper + Seven Stories High The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 07730 432166. Ned Edwards & Hywel Maggs The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. There’s live music here most Sundays, this one included. Palm Reader + Constructor + All To Ruin + Teacher + A Werewolf + Sentiments + Truenorth + Good Morning Vietnam The Lemon Factory, Swansea. 5pm, £5 adv. Info 07969 671379. A half day of hardcore and metal bands. Wall2wall Festival Various venues, Abergavenny. 12.3010pm. Info 01873 852829. Kings Arms: Donnie Joe’s
American Swing (12pm, £12); Remi Harris Trio (2.15pm, £12); Jamie Brownfield Quartet (4.30pm, £14); Sarah Gillespie Trio (6.45pm, £14) and Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion (9pm, £13). Y Cantreff Inn (£6 for the full afternoon): Sicknote Steve (12.30 + 3pm); Silurian (1.45 + 4.15pm). Market Hall (free entry all day): RedRug (11.15am); Tarion Band (12.30pm); Mankala (1pm); Lindy Hop & Jive (2.30pm); FB Pocket Orchestra (3pm); Synergy (4.30pm); Zoe Schwarz & Rob Koral Jazz Duo (5-6.30pm). On tomorrow also. MONDAY 7 Breathe In The Silence + Lost Atlanta The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 6.30pm. Info 01685 387925. Donnie Joe’s American Swing Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £3/£2.50. Info 029 2038 7026. Grown Up Music The Full Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Billed as a "jam night for grownups". Jango Haze Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Live jazz acts here every Monday. Jonny Craig + Kyle Lucas + Seafoal Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7-10.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913. Presented by Big Scott Radio, here every Monday. Tonight features sets from Lydia Kate Howells, Korby Lenker and Naomi Rae & Band. The Verdilacs + Matthew Frederick 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Playing this month’s edition of the
live review THE GREEN MAN FESTIVAL 2015 Glanusk Park, Crickhowell, Thurs 20-Sun 23 Aug
Monday Blues night. Tracii Guns Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £15. Info mail@ givemefuel.co.uk. Onetime frontman of LA Guns (and an embryonic Guns N’ Roses) poodles on, with a band featuring Ozzy’s old bassist and one of Montrose. Ukulele Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Every Monday, with The Plucking Fourstrings. TUESDAY 8 Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk. Dave Smith Quintet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. Elliot Galvin Trio Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Jessica Bullen & Deej Williams Sugo Restaurant, Penarth. 6.30pm. Info 029 2070 9955. Jazz. The See You Next Tuesday Club The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Wraiths + Strains The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 07730 432166. Two UK rock bands whose names, together, sound like Waifs & Strays, the house act. This is probably not intentional. WEDNESDAY 9 Bruce Adams with The Dave Cottle Trio Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30-11pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789. Ghosts As Alibis + The Red Tears + Everyday Heroes + The Royals Undertone, Cardiff. 7pm, £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Jeff Hooper with The Capital City Jazz Orchestra Whiteheads Sports
& Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands.plus. com. South Wales Big Band Society gig. *Laura Cannell + Bragod + Toby Hay Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Three folk acts drawing influence from a span of hundreds of years’ worth of traditional music, and recasting it in experimental shapes. This gig will be excellent, please go to it and make a reluctant promoter happy. Open Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. RWCMD Jazz Department Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. Triptych Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 1pm, £5. Info 01656 815995. Classical trio. THURSDAY 10 Anita Harris & Peter Gill Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 7pm, £13. Info 0845 2263510. Betty & The Boy St Ishmael’s Sport & Social Club, nr Haverfordwest. 8-10.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 01646 636444. Folk. Cardiff Folk Club Dempseys, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info 029 2023 9253. Gwenno The Parrot, Carmarthen. 7.30pm, £6/£5 adv. Info 01267 231012. Priot to a tour with H Hawkline, who she now shares a label (Heavenly) with, Gwenno plays a one-off date in this revitalised venue. Jam Night The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, free. Info 01495 247178. Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123. This week’s
guest band is Siren. Jungle Brothers + Mr Phormula + DJ Jaffa + Faith Sonic + Mansfield Green Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £9 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Hip-hop icons from the late 80s onwards. I know you shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth but £9 seems way too cheap to see the Jungle Brothers. Maybe buy ‘em a drink or something. Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £18.50£20.50. Info 01656 815995. In Carmarthen tomorrow. Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm. Info 01633 858636. Open Mic Night The Open Hearth, Sebastopol, Pontypool. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01495 763752. This month’s edition of the Open Hearth Acoustic night, on the second Thursday of every month. Pete Harris Trio Newport Fugitives Athletic Club, Rogerstone, Newport. 8.45pm. Info 01633 897923. A Newport Folk Club night. The Delines Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, £14. Info 01633 221477. Soulful countryish band whose main songwriter is Willy Vlautin, of Richmond Fontaine (and adept novelist). Not heard this lot yet but might well be good. Thorun + Pizzatramp + Tradish Undertone, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info 029 2022 8883. Tomos Williams’ Miles Tribute Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. FRIDAY 11 A Band Apart The Yard, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Allan Yn Y Fan St John The Baptist’s Church, Risca Road, Newport. 7.30pm, £10. Info
alanroderick11@yahoo.co.uk. Fundraiser gig in aid of The CWTSH. An Evening Without Mary Hopkin Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01792 863722. Chain Reaction Hamptons, Penarth. 7.30pm, £36. Info 029 2070 5391. Shola Kaye performs the music of Diana Ross. A chef performs the cooking of five courses. Da4th + Built Upon Hatred Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 6pm, £6. Info mail@givemefuel.co.uk. Desecration + The Judas Cradle + Foul Body Autopsy + Tides Of Sulfur Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, £5. Info 01633 221477. Desecration are in Neath tomorrow. DSW Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. Dutch Swing College Band Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15/£13. Info 01792 602060. “These young players are fiery, soulful, tasteful, and enthusiastic,” claims the blurb. Some of them look to be in at least their 50s but I can’t comment on anything else on the basis of one photo. Eat The Evidence The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Emma Johnson & John Lenehan Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £7.50£16. Info 01873 850805. Classical recital. Ga Ga Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01600 772467. Queen tribute band, now in their 20th year together. Their ticket price has remained static for at least 10 of those years. I notice these things, lads. Ghost Train Old Cross Inn, Llanrumney, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2065 0021. Gower Bluegrass
Come on a magical, mystical journey through the lush mountains of the Brecon Beacons. Follow your ears to musical nirvana and there you will find Green Man. The festival was established 12 years ago and from then on has gained the reputation for being one of the best middle-sized festivals in the UK. It’s the perfect mixture of partying and a family-friendly atmosphere, where 18-year-old lads dance alongside parents with their children. One of the best things to do here is to wake up early, grab a shower and a coffee then venture out to explore the bricabrac stalls, workshops, talks and the amazing variety of food vendors, scattered through the festival grounds. Another great side event over the weekend is the movie screenings at the Cinedrome tent. The screening of The Holy Mountain, accompanied by a live score, was the perfect mood-setter for a long night of music and DJ sets. Now then for the main reason you go to a festival... the music! Highlight of the weekend had to be the Saturday headline slot from true blue Welsh boys, Super Furry Animals. Playing what only can be described as a psychedelic jam session mixed in with their best-known hits and a splattering of recently re-released LP Mwng, a spread of songs from their back catalogue got the crowd on their feet singing and swaying along, even in the rain. Charles Bradley was unbelievable, strutting out on the stage as ‘The Eagle Of Soul’ with an explosion of sexuality and groove. The Fall were also was a must-see: Mark E Smith does not disappoint, endearing to the end even with his almost unitelligible vocals. Other highlights included Temples, Jane Weaver, Television and The Staves, who were all incredible. To end the festival, the annual burning of the Green Man engulfs a beastly shrine in crackling flames. The flickering of light on the drunken masses and kids who forced their parents to let them stay up was a weirdly beautiful moment. For me, Green Man overall is one of the best festivals in the UK and should be experienced for itself. words JAYDON MARTIN photo DANIEL ALEXANDER HARRIS
(The Globe, Thurs 26) JUST ANNOUNCED FOR DECEMBER: THE STORY SO FAR (Cardiff University, Tue 1) THE VACCINES (Motorpoint Arena, Tue 1) DON BROCO (Tramshed, Thurs 3) KODALINE (Cardiff University, Thurs 3) CARO EMERALD (Motorpoint Arena, Fri 4) AKALA (Clwb Ifor Bach, Sat 5) HAZEL O’CONNOR (The Glee Club, Mon 7) THE CHARLATANS BUZZ 72
live music Festival Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea. £5.95/£4 (day)/£25/£22 (weekend). Info 01792 371206. Annual event, now in its 11th year and beginning today with a concert and picking session. (Until Sun 13) Hywel Dowsel Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 1pm, £6. Info 01633 868239. Vocalist. Johnny Kowalski & The Sexy Weirdos Warehouse54, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 259144. Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm, £18/£16. Info 0845 2263510. London Calling + Wolfpunch The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 6pm, £5. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Clash tribute band headline. Max Boyce Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £25. Info 01656 815995. Mike Dennis + Johnny Cage & The Rusty Cash The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Nordoff-Robbins fundraiser gig with more acts TBC. Old Samuel Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm. Info 029 2023 2199. Ricky Warwick + Damon Johnston Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info mail@ givemefuel.co.uk. A guy out of The Almighty and a guy out of Black Star Riders. Sandwitch Cellar Bar, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 07818 056599. Shop Girls + Dan Amor + Tigana + Junior Bill Dempseys, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4. Info 029 2023 9253. Headliners are a new band from Cardiff. Can you guess how many of their members are female? If your answer was a number larger than zero, then I have some bad news for you. Soweto Spiritual Singers Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £15/£10. Info 01874 611622. Rescheduled from July. The Happenings Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Radnor Improvisers The Globe At Hay, Hay-OnWye. 8pm, £3-£5. Info 01497 821762. The Spokes Band Salt, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, free. Info 029 2049 4375. SATURDAY 12 An Evening Of Dirty Dancing Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £20/£19. Info 01646 695267. Music from the movie. An Evening Without Mary Hopkin The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. BBC Proms In The Park Singleton Park, Swansea. 4.30pm, £15/£12 adv. Info 01792 637300. Featuring Rebecca Evans and John Owen-Jones with the BBC National Orchestra & Chorus Of Wales, led by conductor Gareth Jones. See Roundup. Bon Giovi Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 8pm, £14. Info 01633 868239. Bon Jovi tribute band. Desecration + Chainsaw Castration + Body Harvest + Sodomized Cadaver The
Duke, Neath. 7pm, £5. Info 01639 643892. How about those band names huh folks... sounds like a rundown of my last big night out with the lads!! That’s just my little joke. I’m no more a psychopathic killer than any of tonight’s band members. Dub Mafia The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £5-£7. Info 01497 821762. Bristolian live dub band. Festival faves etc. Fire Fences Hobo’s, Bridgend. 7.30pm, free. Info www.hobosmusicvenue.com. Forever In Blue Jeans Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm, £18/£15. Info 0845 2263510. Nostalgia garbage. Gower Bluegrass Festival Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea. £6.45/£5.45 (daytime only)/£12/£10 (evening only)£17/£13 (all day)/£25/£22 (weekend). Info 01792 371206. Today features sessions from New Essex Bluegrass Band, Kentucky Cowtippers, Blossom Hill, One Tree Hillbillies, New Generation, Murston Bapchild & The Braxton Hicks, Grass Snakes, The Hog Ranch, The Moretons, Western Edge, Whitefern Mountain String Band, Brandywine Cloggers and Tozer & Jones. (Until Sun 13) Judie Tzuke St Donats Ats Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01446 779100. Peacemaker, Die The Scene Club, Swansea. 7.30pm. Info 07730 432166. Ray Quinn Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.30pm, £17.50. Info 0300 3656677. Sam Crow The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, free. Info 01495 247178. Hard rock covers band. St Michael’s Little Summer Festival 2015 NosDa, Cardiff. 4pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Featuring live music from Featherjaw, The Johnstown Flood, The Bakestones, Tendons, Joe Kelly, Sam Griffiths, Thom Bentley and Luke Bennett. The Big What Band Porter’s, Cardiff. 9pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. The Captain’s Table Hamptons, Penarth. 7.30pm, £36. Info 029 2070 5391. Food, cocktails and live jazz from the Keith Little Band. The Naomi Rae Band + Two Piece Sweet The Yard, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. The Rosellys + Blind River Scare + Burning Ferns Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477. Headliners are Bristolian Americana peddlers. The Street Cardinals Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. Vails + Chaos Trigger + Gung Ho + Gulah + Ten Cent Toy + Grey Mondeo + Godbomber The Moon Club, Cardiff. 2pm, pay by donation. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Rock and metal benefit gig for Nordoff-Robbins. SUNDAY 13 Craig Kierce + The Noses + Weird Naked Indian Dempseys, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7/£6 adv. Info 029 2023 9253. Brooklyn singer-songwriter
headlines. Gnarwolves + Woahnows + Broadbay Le Pub, Newport. 7.30pm, £9 adv. Info 01633 221477. Punk rock, or something to that effect, presented by Jealous Lovers Club and Fuelled By Spite. Gower Bluegrass Festival Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea. £6.45/£5.45 (day)/£25/£22 (weekend). Info 01792 371206. Today features gospel singing in the chapel (morning) and bands in the Heritage Centre (afternoon). (Finishes today) Jesse Malin + Climbing Trees Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 87.30-10.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Rootsy rocker dude from NYC who has a new album out next month. Magical Music Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £16-£20. Info 01656 815995. Concert in aid of Barnardos Cymru, presented by Wynne Evans. Sundae Sessions Gwdihw, Cardiff. 4-8pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Hosted by Marisa Saraiva and featuring Ani Glass, Nicola Jayne and more. The Klatsch National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Klezmer music, part of the World Music Month Of Sundays taking place here this month. MONDAY 14 Brecon Town Concert Band Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7pm, £10/£7. Info 01874 611622. Dave Cottle Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913. Featuring sets from Jewels, Verdilacs and more TBC. *Priests + Wall + Towel Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Really invigorating lineup of punk-related rabberousing. Headliners are from Washington DC. The Collective Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Toriah Fontaine & Rick Rython Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £3/£2.50. Info 029 2038 7026. Ukulele Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. TUESDAY 15 AC Young Pianists St Donats Ats Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 3pm, £6.50. Info 01446 779100. Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk. Eternal Summers + Pinact + Caramel 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Sparky indiepop, the headliners being from the US. Michael Janisch Group Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Olivia & The Saint + Grace Hartrey + Emily Farr Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933. A Folk In The Owl’s Nest and
CHAPTERLIVE Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Fri 4 Sept / Fri 18 Sept / Fri 2 Oct Admission: free. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org ChapterLive returns to Chapter Arts Centre’s Caffi Bar for the first and third Fridays in September and October. Bringing all genres of music from around the UK and Europe to Cardiff, it’s a great chance to explore new artists and broaden your musical tastes whilst sampling the nibbles, craft ales, German beers and smooth London gins on offer. The latest eclectic lineup curated by Jealous Lovers Club includes: upbeat acoustic folk/pop from West Walian singer/songwriter Danielle Lewis and Nia Ann (Fri 4), duo Remembering August (Fri 18), whose intimate, intriguing and intuitive folk songs reveal deep, dark stories, and Australian singer, composer and musician – now living in Berlin – Emaline Delapaix [pictured] (Fri 2 Oct). Songbook night with more acts TBC. Preservation Rhythm Kings Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. *Richard Thompson St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £28.50/£25. Info 029 2087 8444. See Music. Dude is great, go to this. The See You Next Tuesday Club The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. WEDNESDAY 16 24 Hours From Tulsa: Remembering Gene Pitney St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £20. Info 029 2087 8444. Bendrix Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £3-£13. Info 01239 621200. One of Bellowhead does Jimi Hendrix songs in a folk style. See Music. Harpeth Rising Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club showcase night. John Otway Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. In Swansea tomorrow; Newport on Fri 18. Mark Pringle’s Moveable Feast Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Open Jam Session The
Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. Phil Dando Big Band Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig. Saxpax The Dingle Hotel, Narberth. 8pm, £7/£6. Info 01834 869323. A SpanJazz night. The Remi Harris Trio Jazzland, Swansea. 8.3011pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789. THURSDAY 17 Art Garfunkel St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £35. Info 029 2087 8444. Bendrix Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 8pm, £13/£11. Info 01982 552555. Cellophony Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 7.30pm, £14/£12/£1. Info 01446 773824. London-based cello octet. First event of the eight classical concerts (plus two masterclasses) between now and Fri 25 which make up Cowbridge Music Festival. Cherry Suede 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Ottawa rockers play “songs and stories” in an intimate show setting.
This is their third Cardiff date at least, I think, and they are still quite mysterious to me, in that they just seem like some totally unremarkable bar band but somehow manage to tour the UK on £12 tickets. Inevitable The Parrot, Carmarthen. 7.30pm. Info 01267 231012. Band who feature Thomas Crimble, ex of Hawkwind. Jacco Gardner Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Indie/psych type fella. Played Cardiff a few times before. Jazz Friques Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123. This week’s guest band is Bayside Boogiemen. John Otway The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £10 adv. Info 07730 432166. Max Boyce Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £25. Info 01874 611622. Miranda Sykes & Rex Preston Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 01792 863722. Folk. Mooring Lines Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £5-£7. Info 01970 623232. Poetry, music and song courtesy of performers Catrina Davies,
(Tramshed, Wed 9) SCOUTING FOR GIRLS (Cardiff University, Sat 12) STEREOPHONICS (Motorpoint Arena, Sat 12 + Sun 13) ASH (Cardiff University, Mon 14) DEF LEPPARD + WHITESNAKE + BLACK STAR RIDERS (Motorpoint Arena, Wed 16) JOOLS HOLLAND + KT TUNSTALL (Motorpoint Arena, Sat 19) DODGY (The Globe, Sun 20) BUZZ 73
live music The Mourning Moon, Kate Doubleday, Caroline Oakley and Jemima Roberts. Mynyddislwyn Male Voice Choir Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7pm, £8. Info 01495 227206. With special guests David Fortey (Only Men Aloud) and marimba percussionist Heledd Gwynant. Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm. Info 01633 858636. Roxanne De Bastion Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933. Shootin’ The Crow Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 8pm, £9. Info 01656 815995. Roots music. Space Blood + Iran Iran + Amy Grindhouse + Esuna Undertone, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Headliners come from Chicago and play what they ominously call “theatrical math-rock”. The Temple Brothers Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01633 868239. Everley Brothers tribute.
9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Apparently this band are celebrating their 20th anniversary tonight, so come down and reminisce about all the great Graffiti moments that I missed out on by having never heard of them. Harri Davies + Bella Collins Sunflower&I, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2048 4211. Presented by Newsoundwales. Hideaway Trio Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. Hungrytown The Ivy Bush, Pontardawe. 8pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com. A Valley Folk Club night. Jodie Marie Queens Hall, Narberth. 8pm, £8-£12. Info 01834 869323. She had a new album out in July, according to her Facebook page. Looks like no-one felt the need to tell Buzz’s passive-aggressive album reviews editor about it. Johnny Cage & The Voodoogroove’s Rock & Roll Revue Gwdihw, Cardiff. 9pm, £5/£4. Info 029 2039 7933. Monthly night hosted
The annual Gower Bluegrass Festival, in Swansea's Gower Heritage Centre, runs from Fri 11-Sun 13 this year. The first of those days kicks things off with a picking session; the last includes gospel singing in a chapel. Sat 12, meanwhile, boasts sets from groups called things like Kentucky Cowtippers and Brandywine Cloggers. The Ultimate Eagles Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 7.30pm, £21.50. Info 01639 763214. FRIDAY 18 2 Tickets To The Gunshow Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. ACAB Old Cross Inn, Llanrumney, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2065 0021. Afternoon In Paris Angel Hotel, Llandeilo. 8pm. Info info@llandeiloacoustic.com. Dan Owen The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Bluesy singer-songwriter from Shrewsbury. Says here he took up the blues after being blinded in one eye by an accident in a guitar workshop. Livin' the dream. Deadbeat Deluxe The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Dr Syntax Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8-10.30pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. UK hip-hop. ¡Fiesta Sinfónico! Argentina Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2pm, £10£12. Info 029 2063 6464. BBC NOW concert presenting some of Argentina’s finest classical works, conducted here by Edwin Outwater. Graffiti The Yard, Cardiff. BUZZ 74
by the band in question and also featuring DJs and dancers. John Otway Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, £10 adv. Info 01633 221477. Kizzy Crawford + Eady Crawford Pontardawe Inn. 8.30pm, free. Info 01792 864949. A Gigs Y Gwach night. Mañana Collective Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 029 2089 0862. Cuban music. In Neath tomorrow. NFWI Wales Gala Concert St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25. Info 029 2087 8444. Popes Of Chillitown Warehouse54, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 259144. The venue listings call them Popes Of Chilltown, but that wouldn’t be a warmed-over Simpsons reference would it. Remembering August Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Resurrection Stone Roses The Garage, Swansea. 9pm, £8 adv. Info 01792 475147. Tribute band. The Soul Destroyers + Ben Huws The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. The Welsh Rockabilly Fair The Hi Tide, Porthcawl. £70 (weekend)/£35 under-16s.
Info info@welshrockabilly. co.uk. Featuring, over three days, live music from The Doel Brothers, The Del Rio Ramblers, The House Rockers, The Slingshots, The Hayriders, LP & His Dirty White Buicks, Doug Perkins & The Spectaculars, Gene Gambler & The Shufflers, The Baracudas, The Valvetones, Livestock Davies & The Low Down Snakes, Russ Be-Bop & The Roadrunnerz, The Wigzville Spliffs, Jack & The Misfits and The Rhythm Bombers. Plus DJs Simon Flint, Gary’s Red Hot & Blue, Cat Talk Lee, Steve Stack O’Wax, Rockhouse and Poorboy Paul. A fairground, hot food and onsite camping are also thrown in. (Until Sun 20) Whitaker + Dominic Griffin + Winter Coat Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2023 9253. SATURDAY 19 Andrew Dawes & Trond Lysaanes Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 029 2087 7959. Welsh-Norwegian folk. An Evening With Mid Wales Opera Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £18/£16. Info 01686 614555. Featuring the Mid Wales Opera Chamber Orchestra. Bass 12 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info 029 2022 8883. Ska-pop affair from Cardiff. Dead Players + Dead Residents + Culture Vultures The Moon Club, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. September's edition of the Hold Up hip-hop night. Dictaphone Devil Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. Guns 2 Roses The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. Jo Harman Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 8pm, £12.50/£10. Info 01495 355800. Blues. Mañana Collective Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 0300 3656677. Pipe Dream The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, free. Info 01495 247178. Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers Porter’s, Cardiff. 9pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. The Hank Wedel Band The Yard, Cardiff. 4.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. The Welsh Rockabilly Fair The Hi Tide, Porthcawl. £70 (weekend)/£35 under-16s. Info info@welshrockabilly.co.uk. (Until Sun 20) Third Party + Retro Dan The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Wheatus The Scene Club, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07730 432166. This gig has been sold out since May. Congratulations to everyone attending this, or wanting to, for having given up on caring about new music. No, really. It must make life so much easier and cheaper. Zesty Playford Dancing The Heath, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8. Info 029 2039 4207. A RUFF Ceilidh night with Mike Courthold calling, plus Paul Hutchinson and Fiona Barrow (accordeon and fiddle) . Young Artists’ Recital: Charlie Lovell-Jones Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 7.30pm, £14/£12/£1. Info 01446 773824. Cardiff teen
violinist. Cowbridge Music Festival concert. SUNDAY 20 Black Thistles Undertone, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Glen Manby Quartet Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Jazz in the bar. Julian Bliss & Ailish Tynan Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 7.30pm, £14/£12/£1. Info 01446 773824. Clarinet/vocal duo. Cowbridge Music Festival concert. Luo + Calico Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Luo feature members of The Physics House Band, who are from Brighton and sounded a bit like Yes when I saw them. Dunno about these guys mind. Presented by All My Friends and Jealous Lovers Club. The Occasional Blues Band The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. The Welsh Rockabilly Fair The Hi Tide, Porthcawl. £70 (weekend)/£35 under-16s. Info info@welshrockabilly.co.uk. (Finishes today) MONDAY 21 Aled Rheon + Joe Kelly + Ofelia 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Attic Folk Sessions night. Blues & Jazz Club September Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 8pm, £8 adv. Info 0845 2263510. Camerata Alma Viva Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 7.30pm, £14/£12/£1. Info 01446 773824. Cowbridge Music Festival concert. Easy Street Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £3/£2.50. Info 029 2038 7026. Gwd Mondays Open Mic Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913. Featuring sets from Martyn Peters, Digital Criminals and more TBC. Skiltron + Gymir + Democratus The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 8pm. Info 01685 387925. Headliners are from Argentina and play folk metal. Tellison Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Tommy Harris Quartet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Ukulele Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. TUESDAY 22 Abbamania Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20/£18. Info 01792 475715. B Dolan The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. Whoever it was I was talking to the other day who was really excited about this show while I politely nodded, er, I hope you have a great time at it. Calan + The Gentle Good St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £12. Info 029 2087 8444. A Roots Unearthed gig Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info samba-
brecon@yahoo.co.uk. Crosby, Stills & Nash Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £66/£56. Info 029 2022 4488. See Music. Girl Friend Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Mancunian indie band whose unique take on classic and refined pop has seen them pick up plays on XFM, heavy rotation across Amazing Radio, and touring to a rapturous response on European dates with the Kooks. Don’t know about you but I’m pretty excited by all that. Jones/Long Duo Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5 adv. Info 029 2023 9253. The See You Next Tuesday Club The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. The Usk Valley Blue Blowers Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. WEDNESDAY 23 Alexandra Dariescu Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 6pm, £12/£10/£1. Info 01446 773824. Acclaimed pianist. Cowbridge Music Festival concert. Ewan McLennan Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club showcase night. Grace Savage Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 8pm, £12/£10. Info 01874 611622. Singer-songwriter with a beatbox aspect, indeed she has twice been UK Beatbox Champion. Greta Isaac Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, £5. Info 01446 773824. Cowbridge Music Festival concert. Joe Webb / Corrie Dick / Matt Robinson Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. John-Paul Gard Hammond Organ Trio Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30-11pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789. Leo Sayer Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £25. Info 01656 815995. Open Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. The Bee Gees Story Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £18.50. Info 01792 475715. THURSDAY 24 Alice Zawadzki Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge. 7.30pm, £14/£12/£1. Info 01446 773824. Jazz singer. Cowbridge Music Festival concert. A Mouth Full of Matches + City of Ashes + Little Ghost The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £5 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Anthony John Clarke Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 858636. A Lyceum Folk Club night. Duski Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Evile Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. UK thrash metal band touring for cheap entry fees. *Full Of Hell + Famine The Vault, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 465300. Two intense hardcore bands (with more TBC), FOH having released an
acclaimed collaborative album with Merzbow last year. Hip Hatchet + The Doublecross + Featherjaw Le Pub, Newport. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 01633 221477. Islands In The Stream Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £19. Info 01495 227206. Two-headed tribute to Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123. This week’s guest band is Canada. Rainbow Maniac + Why We Love + The Dharma Violets Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 029 2039 7933. Presented by Native Events. The Magic Of The Beatles Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £13.50-£22.50. Info 01792 475715. After this run of three tribute acts in three days at the Grand, there’s a short break in the calendar for a children’s show, but don’t worry, next Monday sees things return to normal with an ELO tribute. Will & The People The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info theglobevenue@ gmail.com. FRIDAY 25 12 Bore Old Cross Inn, Llanrumney, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2065 0021. Amser Jazz Time Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 5.30-7pm, free. Info 029 2039 1391. Every Friday until Dec 11. Caryl Parry-Jones And The 4o5s Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 7.30pm, £10£14. Info 01239 841387. Dub The Earth The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Jazz Soul Patrol Henry’s, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 4672. Dunvant Male Choir 36th Annual Patrons Concert Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15-£20. Info 01792 475715. Featuring guests Helen Jarmany (mezzo), Martin Lloyd (bass), Jodi Bird (harp and vocals) plus Mal Pope (compere). Glas Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. *Gwenno + H Hawkline Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.3010.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Heavenly Records has been going for 25 years apparently. Where does the time go? Into the latter-day promotion of these two Welsh acts, recent signings to the label, that’s where. Hot Club Gallois The Gate, Cardiff. 8pm, £12/£10. Info 029 2048 3344. Kizzy Crawford Snails Deli, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. 7pm, £18 inc buffet. Info 029 2062 0415. Price includes a buffet. Maven + A Year Today + Hansshotfirst The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Omar The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. UK soul belter of a 1980s vintage returns, with a full live band. OPM + Big B + Ceekayjones + Pretend Poets The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £10 adv. Info 07730 432166. Daily reminder that the forthcoming album by
Californian skate mooks OPM is called The Minge Dynasty. Organ Recital National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Rock Factor Salt, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, free. Info 029 2049 4375. The Eggmen The Yard, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. The Julian Bliss Jazz Septet Cowbridge Comprehensive School Theatre. 7.30pm, £14/£12/£1. Info 01446 773824. The final Cowbridge Music Festival concert of this year, apart from one on Thurs 12 Nov which is already sold out. The Lindisfarne Story The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £19. Info 01633 656757. Two members of Lindisfarne perform their best known songs, acoustically. The Modul8ors Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Osmonds Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 8pm, £34.94. Info 01639 763214. I have finally purchased a copy of The Osmonds’ Crazy Horses LP, for £2 from a charity shop. Pretty meh apart from the title track, as I half suspected. The Vestals Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477. Włodi The Garage, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 475147. Włodi, własciwie Paweł Włodkowski (ur. 5 marca 1976 w Warszawie) – polski raper i producent muzyczny, a takze przedsiebiorca. According to his tour poster he is playing the Bullingdon Club in Oxford two days after this, which I found amusing, but it seems to be a fairly standard circuit venue. So I guess people in Oxford don’t think anything of it. SATURDAY 26 Alan Davey’s Psychedelic Warlords Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7.30pm, £15/£12 adv. Info 01443 682388. Alan is an ex-member of Hawkwind, as indeed are many of us; he also plays, or has played, with Gunslinger and The Meads Of Asphodel. Alice Zawadski Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01792 602060. Vocalist, violinist and songwriter. A Tribute To Elvis Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01874 611622. Starring Abergavenny’s own Keith Davies. Aubrey Parsons Blanco’s Hotel, Port Talbot. 9pm, free. Info 01639 864500. Florence Black + Chapel Row + Tradish The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm. Info 01495 213300. *Joanna Gruesome + King Of Cats + The Jelas + Towel + Twisted Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 6pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Rambunctious lineup of indie, punk and noisy junk, with JG and KoC appearing as part of a UK tour. Experts are predicting that some of the musicians performing tonight will enjoy a drink in the adjacent Wetherspoons afterwards. Madassa Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10-£12.50. Info 029 2089 0862. “Not musicians playing soul, but musicians WITH soul! There is a big difference.” Yes, one of them is entirely subjective. Maddie & The Pandas
Porter’s, Cardiff. 9pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Mark Porter – Sinatra’s Century St Donats Ats Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 7.30pm, £11. Info 01446 779100. Top swing vocalist chooses to be Frank, as the saying goes. Reaper In Sicily + Nineteen Fifty Eight + Decoy Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7pm, £5. Info 01685 384111. Young Promoters Network gig for ages 14+. Robocobra Quartet + Aftersun Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £4 adv. Info 029 2023 9253. Jazzy punk eccentrics from the Ulster headline. Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers + Pete Spokes The Yard, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Stereophonish + Maniac Street Preachers The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. Tribute bands for people whose main criteria for their favourite music is that it’s Welsh. Survival + Insist + Unjust + Venom Prison The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £7. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Hardcore and metalcore. Venom Prison are great (and featured in One To Watch this month), don't know the curtlynamed other bands though. The Bleedin Noses The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, free. Info 01495 247178. The Sleepy Weasels Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. Tommy & The Trouble The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. War Ensemble + Dread Bolt The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 8pm, £5. Info 01685 387925. Headliners claim to be the UK’s leading Slayer tribute band. I have never come across any others however. SUNDAY 27 BBC NOW Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 3pm, £15/£13.50. Info 01686 614555. Otto Tausk conducts a performance of Beethoven’s fifth symphony. Bill Caddick + Baggyrinkle The Greyhound, Oldwalls, Llanrhidian, Gower. Info 01792 391027. This is the last ever Halfpenny Folk Club, which has been going for 30 years. That's actually pretty impressive. Pouring out a 40oz of real ale over here. Folk Music & Song Session Arvon Ale House, Llandindrod Wells. 4pm. Info 07477 627267. Heather Peace Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £22.50. Info 0871 4720400. Junior Bill + Maddie Jones + Gruff RussellJones + Dregz The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7pm. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. A Cardiff songs night with more acts TBC. Lock & Key + Oceans Apart + Ephemera + Ferinus + Good Morning Vietnam Undertone, Cardiff. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Metal and related styles. Occasional Brass Ensemble National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Peter Jablonski Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 2pm, £14-£18. Info 029 2039 1391. Concert pianist performs works by Greig, Liszt,
Prokofiev and more. Rat Boy + Zibra + The Scrotes Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Love that ‘Rat Boy’ and ‘The Scrotes’ are appearing on a bill together. Don’t know anyone’s music here though, sorry. Shan Cothi Eglwys Llandingat Church, Carmarthenshire. 6.30pm, £10£20. Info 08448 700887. First date of top Welsh opera singer Shan’s tour of churches, chapels etc in Wales – although it doesn’t start in earnest until November. The Brwymys + The Rum Puppets The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. The Christians + Roachford Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £29.50/£25. Info 01874 611622. Two 80s/90s chart acts for the price of one here. Actually it’s probably closer to two for the price of two. MONDAY 28 6 Songs 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. Singer-songwriter showcase with sets this month from with Tobias Robertson, Harri Davies, Chip Langley, Jade & Steve and more TBC. Cavalry Undertone, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Charles Howl + Thee Manatees + Albatross Archive Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2023 9253. Presented by Rockpie. Dominic Norcross Quartet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Ewan Dobson + Luke Bennett + Evan Graham The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. One of those fiddly guitar blokes who probably does unlikely pop song covers... or maybe he doesn't. Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913. Featuring sets from Mia & The Moon, James Clode Band and more TBC. The ELO Experience Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20.50/£19.50. Info 01792 475715. Ukulele Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. TUESDAY 29 Beats And Pieces Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. Capital City Jazz Orchestra Salute To The Big Bands St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £13.50. Info 029 2087 8444. Chamber Tuesdays Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2039 1391. Come and hear RWCMD chamber ensembles showcasing their work for free, every Tuesday until Dec 1. Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk. Dave Jones & Ashley John Long Sugo Restaurant, Penarth. 6.30pm. Info 029 2070 9955. Jazz. Django Dragons Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. Epic Rap Battles Of
History Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £17.50 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Popular YouTube comedy series goes on tour. Rapping about things that aren’t usually rapped about, as funny today as it was in 1985 or so. G4 Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £25.50/£75.50 meet and greet. Info 01792 475715. Featuring soprano Rebecca Newman and the Rock Choir. Jazz Workshop / Jazz Jam Session Jazzland, Swansea. Free. Info 07802 912789. The workshop is with Snake Davis, who is playing here tomorrow, and is free to attend. No Joy + Jemma Roper Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Shoegazey American band headline. The See You Next Tuesday Club The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. William Whitehead St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 1pm, £6.75/£5.75. Info 029 2087 8444. Lunchtime organ recital. WEDNESDAY 30 Big Scott Radio Originals The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 8pm, £3. Info 01685 387925. Featuring sets from Eleri Angharad, Owain Whatley and Pretend Poets. Greg Cortez, Jake Mcmurchie, Nick Malcolm, Jim Blomfield & Mark Whitlam Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. These guys should probably just come up with a band name. Gwd Jams Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £3/free for perfortmers. Info 029 2039 7933. New monthly jam session, this month curated by The Echo & The Always. *Noveller + Carw + Cotton Wolf Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Headliner is a droney synthy American woman. Not played her music as much as I could have done but I reckon this could be choice. Open Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. Open Mic Night NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Free drink for performers. Last Wednesday of every month. Snake Davis Band Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30-11pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789. Sunjay Brayne Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club showcase night. The Octopus Project Exit 7, Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2022 4488. Exit 7 is a brand new small venue within a much bigger one. It’s accessed via David Street. The band in question are an orchestral indie affair from Texas, and are presented here by Fizzi and Bluebox. Valley Folk Club Oxfam Book Shop, Castle Street. Swansea. 7.30pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com. One-off event.
stage TUESDAY 1 Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. An exploration of the call for war in a town defined by football, by Wales Drama Award winner 2014 Kelly Jones. No shows on Saturday or Sunday. (Until Fri 18) Iphigenia In Splott Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. Gary Owen’s Cardiff-themed, Greekoriginated play which debuted earlier this year and was such a success it’s been brought back for five more dates. How often does this happen with stuff round here? Never, that’s how often. Might actually try and go this time. (Until Sat 5) Mrs Beeton, My Sister Dolman Theatre, Newport. 2pm, £7 adv. Info 01633 263670. A play about Mrs Beeton, the cook, as seen through the eyes of her sister. Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.15pm, £12/£10. Info 0300 3656677. Musical, presented by the Ovation Musical Thetre Company. (Until Sat 5) WEDNESDAY 2 Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Iphigenia In Splott Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Sat 5) Michael McIntyre + Paul Tonkinson Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £35. Info 029 2022 4488. Big Mike’s new show is titled Happy & Glorious. There are five dates and some of them might be sold out. (Until Sun 6) Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.15pm, £12/£10. Info 0300 3656677. (Until Sat 5) Velvet Coalmine Comedy Night Preachers Lounge & Wine Bar, Blackwood. 7.30pm. Info 01495 227206. With standup acts TBC. THURSDAY 3 Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £45. Info 029 2063 6464. Eat a meal while three episodes of a popular 70s BBC sitcom that is spelled similarly to Faulty Towers goes on around you. This is the third run at least here for this so I guess it must be popular. (Until Thurs 10) Iphigenia In Splott Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Sat 5) Michael McIntyre + Paul Tonkinson Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £35. Info 029 2022 4488. (Until Sun 6) Oh Hello! Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £10/£8. Info 01970 623232. One-man show, performed by Jamie Rees, about the life and times of Charles Hawtrey off of Carry On. Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Gwyn Hall, Neath.
stage 7.15pm, £12/£10. Info 0300 3656677. (Until Sat 5) The Full Ponty Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £7. Info 01239 621200. An amateur Welsh theature group presents a play about an amateur Welsh theatre group, one which boasts a rendition of The Full Monty routine “in its entirety!” OK. (Until Sat 5) FRIDAY 4 Alliance Dance Company Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £8/£6.50. Info 01792 602060. Lead and choreographed by Gregory Sage and Amanda Tomlinson. Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Drones Comedy Club Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £3.50. Info 029 2030 4400. Also on Fri 18. Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £55. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Thurs 10) Iphigenia In Splott Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Sat 5) Julian Deane + Pete Johansson + Markus Birdman + Nick Doody Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £14.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also. Lucy Corbett 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2022 8883. Spoken word, performance poetry and silly songs are promised in this show, titled Stories About My Weird Friends. Mark Bourke + Craig Deeley + James Cook Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 8pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510. Killforaseat comedy night. Enjoying the quote they’ve used in the blurb for Deeley: “His 15 minutes were over far too quickly” (BBC Birmingham). Too right – I didn’t even notice him get famous. Max Boyce Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £25 adv. Info 0800 0147111. Michael McIntyre + Paul Tonkinson Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £35. Info 029 2022 4488. (Until Sun 6) Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.15pm, £12/£10. Info 0300 3656677. (Until Sat 5) The Full Ponty Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £7. Info 01239 621200. (Until Sat 5) SATURDAY 5 Caucasian Chalk Circle The Riverfront, Newport. 2 + 7.30pm, £5-£14. Info 01633 656757. National Youth Theatre Of Wales present Bertolt Brecht’s play. On tomorrow also. Dafydd Iwan: Cwm-RhysY-Rhosyn Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 11.30am, £6. Info 029 2064 6900. A session of Welsh nursery rhymes and contemporary songs for kids. To everyone’s surprise I wasn’t actually enough of a pedantic knob to put this in the Live Music section. Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 12 + 7pm, £55. Info 029 2063 6464. Midday is pretty early to eat a three-course meal. (Until Thurs 10) BUZZ 75
stage Iphigenia In Splott Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. (Finishes today) Julian Deane + Pete Johansson + Markus Birdman + Nick Doody Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £16.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Michael McIntyre + Paul Tonkinson Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £35. Info 029 2022 4488. (Until Sun 6) Sean Hughes Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 8pm, £14/£12. Info 01982 552555. Performing a new show, Mumbo Jumbo. In Cardigan tomorrow. Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Gwyn Hall, Neath. 2.15 + 7.15pm, £12/£10. Info 0300 3656677. (Finishes today) The Full Ponty Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £7. Info 01239 621200. (Finishes today) TJ McDonald + Ola + Will-E Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960. SUNDAY 6 Caucasian Chalk Circle The Riverfront, Newport. 2 + 7.30pm, £5-£14. Info 01633 656757. Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 12 + 7pm, £55. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Thurs 10) Live Cabaret Market Street
Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863. Every Sunday. Matt Richardson + Luke Honnoraty + Luke Sargeant + Robin Morgan Buffalo, Cardiff. 7pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2031 0312. Buffalo Comedy night. Michael McIntyre + Paul Tonkinson Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £35. Info 029 2022 4488. (Finishes today) Sean Hughes Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 8pm, £14/£12. Info 01239 621200. (Until Sat 5) MONDAY 7 And Then There Were None Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£26.50. Info 01792 475715. Yes, it’s a murder mystery, an Agatha Christie murder mystery. (Until Sat 12) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) TUESDAY 8 And Then There Were None Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£26.50. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 12) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £45. Info 029 2063
6464. (Until Thurs 10) Kevin Bridges St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25. Info 029 2087 8444. With a brand new show, A Whole Different Story. (Until Thurs 10) Up Pompeii Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50/£8.50 NUS. Info 01633 263670. Presented by Newport Players Society. (Until Sat 12) WEDNESDAY 9 And Then There Were None Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£26.50. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 12) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £45. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Thurs 10) Kevin Bridges St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25. Info 029 2087 8444. (Until Thurs 10) Paul Chowdhry Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 6.45pm, £15/£12 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Terry Pratchett’s Night Watch The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2048 3344. Presented by Monstrous Productions. (Until Sat 12) The Good Earth Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2030 4400. Motherlode present a new Welsh story about fighting for community. (Until Sat 12)
WAITING FOR GODOT Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare, Sat 12 Sept; Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea, Sat 21 Nov Admission: £12/£10. Info: 08000 147111 / www.rct-arts.co.uk Samuel Beckett’s timeless, absurd and captivating play returns to the stage this autumn with London Classic Theatre as they tour the UK, calling at Aberdare’s Coliseum Theatre in September and Swansea’s Taliesin Arts Centre in November. As dusk sets in on a rural road, Vladimir (Peter Cadden) and Estragon (Richard Heap) await under a tree for the ever truant Godot. And whilst they do so they become embroiled in comedic debate, grappling with the mysteries of the universe and coming to blows as they trade barbs and banter. As absurd comic sketch slips into philosophical drama, Waiting For Godot explores the meanings of life and death through allegory and burlesque and has been voted the most significant English language play of the 20th century.
BUZZ 76
Ti.Me Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 029 2064 6900. See Upfront. (Until Fri 11) THURSDAY 10 And Then There Were None Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12-£26.50. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 12) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Brief Encounters Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 01792 863722. Play presented by Lighthouse Theatre. In all kindsa quaint Welsh towns until Sun 27 – see for yourself. Comedy Carousel Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £10/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Hosted by Clint Edwards and featuring Tom Allen and more comics TBC. Elis James The Welfare, Ystradgynlais. 7.30pm, £8. Info 01639 843163. See Upfront for more on top comedian’s new standup show, which is in Welsh. The preview won’t be though. In Pentyrch, Cardiff on Sat 12; Aberystwyth on Tue 15; the RWCMD in Cardiff on Thurs 17. Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £45. Info 029 2063 6464. (Finishes today) Kevin Bridges St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25. Info 029 2087 8444. (Finishes today) Terry Pratchett’s Night Watch The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2048 3344. (Until Sat 12) The Good Earth Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 12) Ti.Me Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Fri 11) Up Pompeii Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50/£8.50 NUS. Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 12) FRIDAY 11 Andre Vincent + Jarred Christmas + Larry Dean + David Hadingham Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £14.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also. And Then There Were None Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£26.50. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 12) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Brief Encounters Maesteg Town Hall. 7.30pm, £8. Info 01656 733700. Dark Vanilla Jungle The Riverfront, Newport. 7.45pm, £10/£8. Info 01633 656757. Philip Ridley’s one-woman show. On tomorrow also. In Swansea from Wed 16-Fri 18; In Milford Haven on Sat 19; Aberystwyth on Fri 25. Homo Irrationalis Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £12.50/£10.50. Info 029 2030 4400. See Stage. On tomorrow also. I Puritani Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £5-£41. Info 029 2063 6464. Welsh National Opera present Bellini’s dramatisation of the English Civil War. Also on Sat 19 and Sun 4 Oct.
‘Stute Comedy Nights Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 8pm, £11/£10 adv. Info 01495 227206. With standups TBC. Terry Pratchett’s Night Watch The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2048 3344. (Until Sat 12) The Good Earth Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 12) The Singular Exploits Of Sherlock Holmes Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 0300 3656677. One-man show presented by Into The Cellar. Ti.Me Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 029 2064 6900. (Finishes today) Up Pompeii Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50/£8.50 NUS. Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 12) SATURDAY 12 Andre Vincent + Jarred Christmas + Larry Dean + David Hadingham Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £16.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. And Then There Were None Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12-£26.50. Info 01792 475715. (Finishes today) Ar Waith Ar Daith Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Free outdoor performance of dance, pyrotechnics and suchlike, toasting this venue’s 10th anniversary. In case you’re thinking “didn’t it open 11 years ago,” yes it did, and they’re having a year-long birthday. So now you know. Brief Encounters Garnswllt Village Hall, Carmarthenshire. 7.30pm, £8. Info 01269 597725. Elis James Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5/£4. Info 029 2089 0862. Gwydion Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £20/£15. Info 01686 614555. Welsh language theatre presented by Cwmni Theatr Maldwyn. On tomorrow also. Homo Irrationalis Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £12.50/£10.50. Info 029 2030 4400. How The Koala Learnt To Hug Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 2.30pm, £6.50. Info 01873 850805. Kids’ show presented by The People’s Theatre Company. Saly-Anne Hayward + Garr Murran + Robert White Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960. Terry Pratchett’s Night Watch The Gate, Cardiff. 2 + 7.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2048 3344. (Finishes today) The Good Earth Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2030 4400. (Finishes today) Up Pompeii Dolman Theatre, Newport. 2.30 + 7.15pm, £12.50/£8.50 NUS. Info 01633 263670. (Finishes today) Waiting For Godot Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 0800 0147111. Presented by London Classic Theatre. SUNDAY 13 Debbie Chapman Dancers Dansation XII St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 6pm, £12/£11. Info 029 2087 8444. Dance showcase. Gwydion Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 2.30 + 7.30pm,
£20/£15. Info 01686 614555. Into The Water Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 2pm, £8/£7. Info 01970 623232. An update on the Irish dance genre by Up & Over It. In Cardiff on Sat 19. Live Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863. MONDAY 14 Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Caterpillar Comedy Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Open mic standup night hosted by James Dunn. Dreamboats And Miniskirts Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£29. Info 01792 475715. Musical nostalgia set in 1963; the sequel to Dreamboats And Petticoats, which was a better title because it rhymed. (Until Sat 19) Love Me Tender New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £20/£10. Info 029 2087 8889. New musical comedy inspired by Elvis. Mica Paris stars in it. Not as Elvis. (Until Sat 19) TUESDAY 15 Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Brief Encounters Dylan Thomas Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £10/£9. Info 01792 473238. Dreamboats And Miniskirts Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£29. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 19) Elis James Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £8. Info 01970 623232. Love Me Tender New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 19) NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. See Upfront. (Until Sat 26) Piste Off Comedy Club Face 11, Cathays, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2022 8221. On the third Tuesday of every month. The Addams Family Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7pm, £9/£6. Info 01495 227206. Presented by Caerphilly Youth Theatre. On tomorrow also. The Bogus Woman Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £3-£14. Info 01239 621200. In Builth Wells tomorrow. WEDNESDAY 16 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £11/£9. Info 01646 695267. Musical comedy presented by Haverfordwest Amateur Operatic Society. (Until Sat 19) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Brief Encounters Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £7-£9. Info 01970 623232. Dark Vanilla Jungle Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01792 475715. Philip Ridley’s onewoman show. In Milford Haven on Sat 19; Aberystwyth on Fri 25. (Until Fri 18)
stage Dreamboats And Miniskirts Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12-£29. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 19) Love Me Tender New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 19) NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) The Addams Family Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7pm, £9/£6. Info 01495 227206. The Bogus Woman Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 8pm, £14/£12. Info 01982 552555. What Shall We Do With The German Sailor? Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 1pm, £6. Info 01656 815995. Lunchtime theatre presented by Fluellen. THURSDAY 17 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £11. Info 01646 695267. (Until Sat 19) Blithe Spirit Paget Rooms, Penarth. 7.30pm, £10. Info 029 2070 0721. Noel Coward, as presented by Concept Players. In Abergavenny from Thurs 24-Sat 26. (Until Sat 19) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Until Fri 18) Dark Vanilla Jungle Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01792 475715. (Until Fri 18) Disney’s Peter Pan Jr Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510. (Until Sat 19) Dreamboats And Miniskirts Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£29. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 19) Elis James Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 8pm, £10. Info 029 2039 1391. Footloose Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50. Info 01633 263670. Presented by the National Academy Of Performing Arts. (Until Sat 19) I Loved You And I Loved You Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01792 602060. Dance theatre work based on the true story of a young Welsh composer, Morfydd Owen. Love Me Tender New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £10-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 19) NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) The Scarecrow’s Wedding Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 1.30 + 6pm, £10/£8 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Kids’ show. FRIDAY 18 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £11. Info 01646 695267. (Until Sat 19) Blithe Spirit Paget Rooms, Penarth. 7.30pm, £10. Info 029 2070 0721. (Until Sat 19) Blud The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. (Finishes today) Brief Encounters Y Tabernacl, Machynlleth. 7.30pm. Info 01654 703355. Burlesque Show 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 5.30pm. Info 029 2022 8883. Not sure who’s
behind this or performing, sorry. Dark Vanilla Jungle Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01792
475715. (Finishes today) Into The Water Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 11am + 4pm, £7-£14. Info 029 2064 6900. I Puritani Wales Millennium
Kay Adshead's play, The Bogus Woman, sounds like it will be both bold in its execution and socially conscious in its message. Its protagonist is an African poet and journalist wishing to seek asylum in the UK; she, along with 50 supporting characters, is played by Krissi Bohn. It's at Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, on Tue 15; The Wyeside, Builth Wells the next day. 475715. (Finishes today) Disney’s Peter Pan Jr Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510. (Until Sat 19) Dreamboats And Miniskirts Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12-£29. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 19) Drones Comedy Club Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £3.50. Info 029 2030 4400. Felicity Ward + Jack Barry + Frank Honeybone Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 01656 815995. Comedy Network night. Footloose Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50. Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 19) Love Me Tender New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14£34.50. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 19) Michael Legge + Dan Thomas + Mickey D + Erich McElroy Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £14.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) Scarecrow’s Wedding The Riverfront, Newport. 6.30pm, £8.50. Info 01633 656757. Show aimed at ages three and up. SATURDAY 19 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £11. Info 01646 695267. (Finishes today) Blithe Spirit Paget Rooms, Penarth. 7.30pm, £10. Info 029 2070 0721. (Finishes today) Brief Encounters Melville Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm. Info 01873 853167. Disney’s Peter Pan Jr Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510. (Finishes today) Footloose Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50. Info 01633 263670. (Finishes today) Dark Vanilla Jungle Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.45pm, £10/£8. Info 01646 695267. Dreamboats And Miniskirts Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12-£29. Info 01792
Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £5-£41. Info 029 2063 6464. Love Me Tender New Theatre, Cardiff. 4 + 8pm, £12-£34.50. Info 029 2087 8889. (Finishes today) Michael Legge + Dan Thomas + Mickey D + Erich McElroy Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £16.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) Papermoon Puppet Theatre Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 3pm, pay by donation. Info 029 2063 6464. BBC Indonesian theatre company with a family-friendly production about their homeland. Susan Murray + Matt Reed + Brian Higgins Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960. Tales From Old Wales Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 11am + 2pm, £7. Info 01656 815995. Puppet show, in English first then Welsh. SUNDAY 20 India Dance Wales National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Dance showcase. Live Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863. MONDAY 21 Al Murray The Pub Landlord Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £26. Info 01792 475715. Brief Encounters Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510. Iliad: Kings Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. First part of National Theatre Wales’ multimedia theatrical staging of Christopher Logue’s War Music. Also on Mon 28. Companion piece The Husbands is on tomorrow and Tue 29; Permanent Red / Cold Calls is on Wed 23 and Wed 30; War Music on Thurs 24 and Thurs 1 Oct; Marathon on Sat 26 and Sat 3 Oct. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26)
TUESDAY 22 Brief Encounters Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, £8/£6. Info 01685 384111. Iliad: The Husbands Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Also on Tue 29. King John Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.30pm, £7/£6. Info 08000 147111. Shakespeare in the lounge bar, presented by Players Anonymous. (Until Sat 26) Puttin’ On The Ritz New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. Gershwin, Berlin and Porter gussied up for the Cardiff stage. (Until Sat 26) WEDNESDAY 23 Brief Encounters Myddfai Community Centre, Llandovery. 7.30pm. Info 01550 720449. Iliad: Permanent Red / Cold Calls Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Also on Wed 30. King John Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.30pm, £7/£6. Info 08000 147111. (Until Sat 26) Marion’s Old Time Music Hall Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 1pm, £6. Info 01633 868239. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) Puttin’ On The Ritz New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £10-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 26) The Pirates Of Penzance Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £10/£8/£5 under-16s. Info 01600 772467. Presented by Monmouth Music Theatre. (Until Fri 25) The Scarecrow’s Wedding Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 1 + 4.30pm, £8.50/£7. Info 01792 602060. Kids’ show presented by Scamp Theatre. THURSDAY 24 Blithe Spirit Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01873 850805. (Until Sat 26) Brief Encounters The Welfare, Ystradgynlais. 7.30pm, £9/£7. Info 01639 843163. Comedy Den Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff. com. Iliad: War Music Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Also on Thurs 1 Oct. King John Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.30pm, £7/£6. Info 08000 147111. (Until Sat 26) Michael Fabbri + Mike Wozniak + Tiernan Douieb Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £10. Info 01970 623232. Comedy Club night. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) Puttin’ On The Ritz New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £10-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 26) The Pirates Of Penzance Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £10/£5 under-16s. Info 01600 772467. (Finishes today) FRIDAY 25 Blithe Spirit Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01873 850805. (Until Sat 26) Brief Encounters The
Dunn’s Hall, Mumbles, Swansea. 7.30pm. Info 01792 207484. Comedy Shed The Riverfront, Newport. 7.45pm, £12.50. Info 01633 656757. Monthly night with standups TBC. Dana Alexander + Martin Mór + Matt Green + Paul Pirie Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £14.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also. Dark Vanilla Jungle Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £7-£9. Info 01970 623232. Drych Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. Cwmni’r Frân Wen presents a new Welsh language play starring Bryn Fôn and Gwenno Hodgkins. On tomorrow also; in Cardigan on Mon 28, Aberysywyth on Wed 30. King John Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.30pm, £7/£6. Info 08000 147111. (Until Sat 26) Mister Maker & The Shapes Grand Theatre, Swansea. 4pm, £14/£10.50 kids. Info 01792 475715. Live theatre based around the idea of introducing small children to shapes. On tomorrow also. Nine Lives Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01792 602060. Zodwa Nyoni’s play about a young Zimbabwean seeking sanctuary in the UK. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 26) Puttin’ On The Ritz New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £14-£33. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 26) The Pirates Of Penzance Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £10/£5 under-16s. Info 01600 772467. (Until Fri 25) Welcome To Night Vale St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £27.50/£22.50 adv. Info 029 2087 8444. Pointedly surreal serial podcast is adapted for the stage, having undertaken a 41-city US tour previously.
SATURDAY 26
Blithe Spirit Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01873 850805. (Finishes today) Dana Alexander + Martin Mór + Matt Green + Paul Pirie Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £16.25/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Drych Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7.50-£15. Info 029 2064 6900. Iliad: Marathon Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Also on Sat 3 Oct. JoJo Smith + Mickey Sharma + Geoff Boyz Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960. King John Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.30pm, £7/£6. Info 08000 147111. (Finishes today) Mister Maker & The Shapes Grand Theatre, Swansea. 10am, 1pm + 4pm, £14/£10.50 kids. Info 01792 475715. NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. (Finishes today) Puttin’ On The Ritz New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12-£34. Info 029 2087 8889. (Finishes today) Taking Root Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 12.30pm, £6/£4.50. Info 01792 475715. Lunchtime theatre.
SUNDAY 27
Live Cabaret Market Street
Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863. Milkshake! Live Party Party Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 1 + 3.30pm, from £10.50. Info 01970 623232. Kids’ show. Orlando Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 4pm, £5-£41. Info 029 2063 6464. WNO present Handel’s opera, and do so again on Sat 3 and Wed 7 Oct.
MONDAY 28
Blood Brothers New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13.50-£31.50. Info 029 2087 8889. Marti Pellow is in this one. (Until Sat 10 Oct) Drych Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £8-£10. Info 01239 621200. Iliad: Kings Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510.
TUESDAY 29
Blood Brothers New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13.50-£31.50. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 10 Oct) Iliad: The Husbands Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Still Life Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2039 1391. Mappa Mundi present a compendium of classic 19th century horror stories, presented in their own image. On tomorrow also.
WEDNESDAY 30
Blood Brothers New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13.50-£31.50. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 10 Oct) Comedy Club Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £11. Info 01792 475715. Crashtest Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £3-£5. Info 01970 623232. New night in Aberystwyth offering a chance for writers, performers, directors, artists to present work in development. Drych Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 2 + 7.30pm, £6-£12. Info 01970 623232. Iliad: Permanent Red / Cold Calls Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20/£15 kids. Info 0845 2263510. Into The Woods Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12. Info 01633 263670. Sondheim musical with, courtesy of performers New Adventure Players, “a twist”. (Until Fri 2 Oct) Still Life Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2039 1391. Stories From A Crowded Room Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01874 611622. Theatre presented by Earthfall. On tomorrow also. The Drowned Girl Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £13/£10. Info 029 2030 4400. See Upfront. (Until Sat 3 Oct) The Railway Children Lady Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01656 815995. Ignition Theatre with a rather anaemically-titled theatreical study of E. Nesbit, who write the book The Railway Children. The Signalman + The Waiting Room Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12.50£21.50. Info 01792 475715. Jack Shepherd stars in a double bill of ghost stories. (Until Sat 3 Oct) The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde Blake Theatre, Monmouth. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01600 719401. BUZZ 77
competitions PAIR OF VIP IRIS TICKETS Cardiff’s international LGBT film festival returns to celebrate diversity and nurture talent in the film industry. The festival will be bringing plenty new short and feature films to screens around the city in October. Don’t miss your chance for a pair of tickets to Scrum, The Smell of Us, Fourth Man Out and Those People, including VIP access to the after parties. Just answer the question below to be in with a chance: Q: Who is Iris?
A COPY OF THE WORLD OF CYCLING ACCORDING TO G
Saddle up as top member of the Sky Team and Olympic cycling champ Geraint Thomas offers anecdotes on his team mates Cav, Hoy and Higgins as well as a definitive guide to etiquette on the saddle. To win simply answer the following question. Q: What place did Geraint Thomas come in this year’s Tour De France?
PAIR OF TICKETS TO CARDIFF GIN FESTIVAL TICKETS
If you missed out on a ticket to the sold out Cardiff Gin Festival, featuring over 100 variations on the spirit, today might be your lucky day! Simply send us your answer to the question below to win a pair of tickets. Q: In which F Scott Fitzgerald novel was the drink Gin Rickey immortalised?
PAIR OF TICKETS TO LA TROCKS
International dance sensation Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo (La Trocks) will bringing their unique brand of ballet and comedy to Wales Millennium Centre between Fri 16 and Sat 17 Oct. For your chance to win a pair of tickets to the opening night just answer the following question. Q: Who are the two Trocks ballet masters?
PAIR OF TICKETS TO BAFTA CYMRU AWARDS
With two pairs of tickets for the awards at on Sun 27 Sept, you could be celebrating the best talent in film and television that Wales has to offer, alongside the stars at St David’s Hall, Cardiff. Just answer the following question by Sun 20 Sept. Q: What is the name of the tea lady from last year’s BAFTA Cymru winner for best factual series, The Call Centre?
MEAL FOR TWO AT BIERKELLER
Ever fancied trying springbok tagine or kangaroo burgers? Now’s your chance to sample the exotic menu and Bavarian bar, with a friend, at the new Bierkeller complex in Stadium Plaza. Just answer the following question and you can get one free main and one free side each. Q: The Springboks are the name of which national Rugby Union team?
PAIR OF TICKETS TO LOVE ME TENDER
"Love me tender, love me sweet, never let me go..." The Elvis-starring film gets a reworking at the hands of the producers behind hit musicals Hairspray and The Rocky Horror Show. Starring Shaun Williamson (EastEnders, Extras) and soul singer/presenter/ actress Mica Paris, the show tells the story of a small town visited by a musical stranger. Q: The song Love Me Tender was adapted from the tune of what Civil War ballad?
PAIR OF TICKETS TO NSFW
Set in the offices of ailing lads' mag, Dog House, NSFW (Not Safe For Work) at Cardiff's Chapter Arts Centre promises razor-sharp comedy and social observation from the team at Waking Exploits, with writer Lucy Kirkwood and director Anna Poole. To win a pair of tickets for the show on Thurs 17 Sept, simply get your answer to the following question to us by Thurs 10 Sept. Q: Which leading lads' mag left the shelves in 2014?
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Please email your answers, name, address, Twitter username (if you have one) and contact number to competitions@buzzmag.co.uk by Tue 1 Oct unless otherwise stated. T&Cs: WE DO NOT GIVE PERMISSION FOR THESE COMPETITIONS TO BE REPLICATED OR SHARED ANYWHERE ONLINE.
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1 - 31 October / Hydref 2015 diffusionfestival.org @_Diffusion diffusionfestival
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