WHAT’S ON MAY 2017
MAY
DIY
MONTH
DIFFUSION FESTIVAL REVOLUTION + ART
BUZZ DIY WORKSHOPS EVENTS +TALKS
KENNARDPHILLIPPS | IMELDA MAY | OMID DJALILI | KATY BRAND | CREATIVE RETREATS ART | CULTURE | MUSIC | FILM | TRAVEL | SPORT | LIFESTYLE | BOOKS | LISTINGS
‘Theatre at its most imaginative.’
HHHHH Daily Mail
Yn seiliedig ar y nofel gan Based on the novel by
Charlotte Brontë Wedi’i chreu gan y cwmni Devised by the company
MEH 27 JUNE GORFF 1 JULY 2017
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04roundup
“Most of my friends think I’m crazy – which of course I am”
publisher EMMA CLARK editor LUKE OWAIN BOULT listings/music editor NOEL GARDNER advertising EMMA CLARK Buzz TV JAYDON MARTIN accounts TERESA CLARK social media CONNIE MATTHEWS design BUZZ
10upfront
contributors KEIRON SELF (FILM), KRISTIAN DANDO (CLUBS), CHRIS ANDREWS, ZOE BROOKES, NEIL COLLINS, JANE COOK, DYLAN CHAUNDY, JOHN-PAUL DAVIES, SIOBHAN DENTON, SAMANTHA DOWNEY, GARETH ELLIS, ALEC EVANS, COURTNEY EVANS, BEN GALLIVAN, EMILY GARSIDE, ELOUISE HOBBS, RHIANON HOLLEY, ARABELLA ITANI, EMMA JAYNE, CADI JONES, MAB JONES, CONOR KNIGHT, LUCY MENON, FFIONA MILLS, GARETH MOULE, LYNDA NASH, DAVID NOBAHKT, IAIN PEEBLES, CHARLIE PIERCEY, RHONDA LEE REALI, NATHAN ROACH, HUGH RUSSELL, LORRIA SAHMET, OWEN SCOURFIELD, CHRIS SEAL, WILL STEEN, GRACE TODD, RHYS TOMPKINS, FEDOR TOT, CHRIS WILLIAMS, BEN WOOLHEAD phone number 029 2022 6767 general enquiries info@buzzmag.co.uk editorial editorial@buzzmag.co.uk listings listings@buzzmag.co.uk accounts accounts@buzzmag.co.uk
36film
More miserly star ratings than usual this month by Keiron Self, who is usually magnanimous with his verdicts. Could be that the latest spate of cinematic crud has left him mad as hell and unwilling to take it any more, to quote the news anchor in 1976 movie I’m Mad As Hell and I’m Not Going To Take It Any More
38food&drink
This month including a feature, “5 Cardiff date ideas to convince them you’re not a shell of a human being”. Seems that my finely honed brand of OTT negativity, created with the aim of undermining the editorial content, has become the content itself. Who knows where we’ll go from here
42previews
BUZZ MAGAZINE 220C Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1GY published EAC PUBLISHING contents MICHAL IWANOWSKI, MURMURATIONS cover KENNARDPHILLIPPS
buzzmagwales
This is our DIY issue, which relates to the Buzzhosted workshops taking place at the Diffusion Festival across Cardiff, and also the multi-page guide to getting out there and learning things. That is to say, it’s more about that than ‘DIY culture’ in the independent/underground sense of the term. Imelda May, kennardphillipps and Katy Brand also feature
We have a new clubs writer, Kristian, and he even has some half decent nights to write about this month (although the ones I’m thinking of here are actually both in June). And/or! Schlep to Crickhowell for some creepy crypto-taxidermy or watch father/ daughter electro-punk duo Yeah You at the From Now On festival (my personal recommendation)
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50reviews
“The easiest way to write an 80-word piece on this album would be to write ‘buy this amazing record’ 20 times over,” muses Ben Gallivan of one choice disc. Strictly speaking, it would be easier to write it once and paste it 19 times, or visit the label’s website and take the first 80 words from their publicity spiel
56travel
Our latest listicle focuses on Welsh ‘creative getaways’, including a “vacay-stay in yurts and tipis”. How come the word ‘vacay-stay’ infuriates me but ‘listicle’ is AOK? Could my misogynist subconscious be reading them as ‘vajayjay’ and ‘testicle’?
58sport
If you are an active participant in the stoneskimming subculture that we focus on this time every year, when the Welsh Stoneskimming Championships take place, and consider it a travesty that competitors now use artificial stones made out of grit clumped together, I hear you and consider your fury valid
59listings
Worst band names in this issue: Last Girl On Earth, Snarky Puppy, From Once We Came, Swallow And The Wolf, Witch Tripper, Rustling
78competitions
Lots of tickets to lots of things, plus the almost certainly once in a lifetime opportunity to win merchandise from the movie A Dog's Purpose
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WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
BRIEFLY pic: Chris Jobling
roundup
With the sun in the sky, the summer’s eisteddfodau will soon be upon us. First off it’s the Urdd National Eisteddfod, and this time it’s all kicking off in Bridgend. The festival will run from the end of May to early June at the Urdd hub in Bridgend College’s Pencoed Campus. The six-day Welsh language children’s arts festival attracts over 90,000 visitors each year, which makes it one of the largest youth touring festivals in Europe. The Eisteddfod sees children and young people under the age of 25 competing in a range of areas such as singing, dancing and the performing arts. Over 40,000 would have competed in local rounds to become join the elite 15,000 finalists to have to the chance to compete at the Urdd Eisteddfod. An 1,800-seater pavilion will be the main hub for the Urdd Eisteddfod where the competitions will be held. Surrounding the pavilion will be an array of activities for all the family to enjoy, helping the festival be a truly unforgettable experience for Welsh speakers and learners alike. Translation equipment will be available from a booth situated in the entrance (Canolfan Groeso) where translation headsets are available upon arrival which can then be used in the Pavilion.
pic: Elisabeth Broekaert
URDD NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD
DO NOT GO GENTLE! Dylan Day will be held on Sun 14 May to celebrate the life and work of the iconic Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. The first Dylan Day was held in 2015, with 14 May chosen due to the first reading of the famous drama Under Milk Wood conducted on that day in New York in 1953. Events including workshops, literary tours and readings are being held all over Wales and across the pond in New York. Info: www.literaturewales.org
Pencoed Campus, Bridgend, Mon 29 May-Sat 3 June. Admission: prices vary per event. Info: 0345 2571613 / www.urdd.cymru
ART CAR BOOTIQUE The Art Car Bootique returns to Cardiff’s Chapter Arts Centre on Sun 28 May. The event, hosted by Chapter and Something Creatives, has the theme of ‘revolution’ for this year’s event, reflecting the 100th anniversary of the Russian Revolution. As part of the Russia 17 Festival celebration taking place across the city, the Art Car Bootique will be asking artists and makers what Revolution looks like for them, in these uncertain times. The Bootique was established in 2011 and is an eclectic and eccentric mix of artist projects and performances, live music, street food and vintage fashion, celebrating the very best of south Wales’ creative community. Chapter’s car park is transformed into a psychedelic village fete, with over 70 pitches for you to explore and enjoy, plus live music and performances on stage. Kicking off at 11am in Chapter’s car park, from 6pm it continues in the Caffi Bar until late. Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Sun 28 May. Admission: free. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org/art-car-bootique-2017
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HAY YOU! Attracting new exciting writers, filmmakers, comedians, politicians and musicians, the Hay Festival brings together writers from around the world to share stories in the beauty of the Welsh Borders. Celebrating great writing that transforms our way of thinking, the festival will inspire, delight and entertain with stories, ideas and music. With many authors attending the festival, as well as the likes of Bernie Sanders, it gives you an opportunity to meet your favourites. If you enjoy writing, reading and have a great imagination, the festival is taking place for 10 days, from Thurs 25 May-Sun 4 June. Info: www.hayfestival.com
pic: Andy K
COUNCIL ELECTIONS On Thurs 4 May 2017, local elections will be held across Wales. Wales is governed by 22 unitary authorities which will act on an ‘all-out’ basis, which means that all councillors will be up for election this May. The last elections were held in 2012, and usually take place every four years. However, 2016’s local elections were postponed due to the Welsh Assembly election, which itself was postponed in 2015 due to the General Election taking place. Labour will be looking to keep its stronghold but Leanne Wood’s Plaid Cymru, the Lib Dems, UKIP and Andrew RT Davies’ Welsh Conservatives will be hoping that the in-fighting in the Labour party and the uncertain leadership of Jeremy Corbyn may help them make in-roads within Wales’ councils. Despite this, Welsh Labour are still favourites to do well again this May, but anything could happen come election night. Thurs 4 May. Info: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
pic: Milan G
WELSH THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE The challenge takes on the three peaks of Wales, Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Pen-y-Fan. The challenge will include a total of 17 miles of walking and an ascent of around 1,500 metres and is usually completed in under 24 hours. Records are also set for the challenge, with the fastest time to complete all three peaks being 9 hours and 6 minutes. Not only does the challenge see many complete ascents of the highest mountains in north, mid and south Wales with success, but it also allows many to witness the astonishing views that come with all three Mountains. The chance to take on this challenge is already open, with dates already set on the website, some of which have limited spaces available. Charities also take part, allowing people to not only challenge and succeed for themselves but also to raise money and achieve for others in need, making the challenge more of a goal to accomplish. The Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis, Sat 13 May. Price: £299. Info: 0330 2233 900 / www.threepeakschallenge.uk
RENTECARLO LAUNCHED IN CARDIFF Rentecarlo is a sharing platform putting together both car owners who don’t always use their cars and drivers who don't have a car and need one for a short period of time. Most cars are parked more than they are used, and through this scheme, both car owners and drivers without a car can save money. The person renting the car can make some money from their car, instead of leaving it parked outside their house. While the person renting the car is able to get on the road for less money than through a traditional hire car company. Rentecarlo is partnered by Admiral, comprehensive cover is provided as standard on all cars rented through the site. If an accident does take place, Admiral will take care of the repairs, or if the car needs to be written off, Admiral will pay out the market value of the vehicle to the owner, so there isn't any worry when renting your car. Rentecarlo is available in Cardiff, and is in fact based there, but they are still looking for drivers in Cardiff to sign their car up onto the site to allow Rentecarlo to provide a service to the people that isn't being offered by anyone else. Rentecarlo, Tŷ Admiral, Cardiff. Info: www.rentecarlo.com BUZZ 5
roundup
WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
R E V J A M E S K A R R A N Canton’s new micropub St Canna’s Alehouse is the brainchild of Baptist minister The Rev James Karran. Luke Owain Boult chats to him about micropubs, beer, breweries, and who exactly St Canna was. How would you describe St Canna's Ale House? The vision behind St. Canna’s is simple: to create a space that is warm, welcoming and people want to be in. Kind of a home away from home, but one where you can drink amazing local beer! What is a micropub? The micropub concept was first coined by Martyn Hillier in 2005, when he opened the Butcher’s Arms in Herne Bay, Kent. Essentially the idea is to rediscover the soul of the public house. As the name suggests micropubs are small and intimate but are also governed by a loose ethos: no electronic entertainment, no big brand beers, primarily real ale, try to stay off phones, seating at eye level. All of this creates an atmosphere that encourages communitybuilding and actual face to face conversation. Micropubs are intended to be the diametric opposite of the two-a-penny, plastic chain pubs. Where did the idea for St Canna’s Ale House come from? I heard about the micropub idea in 2013 and went on a pilgrimage to visit the Butcher’s Arms and meet Martyn that same year. I was inspired by the setup. I
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also visited a number of other micropubs around the country. The more I saw the more I was convinced this was the way forward for pubs. In the last few years micropubs have been springing up in Wales too, such as Mumbles Ale House and the Queen’s Head in Chepstow, and I have visited a lot of them. I have also been inspired by my personal beliefs. I am a Baptist Minister and the ideas of being hospitable, helping people build relationships and creating community have been driving forces in my life for years.
Do you think pubs in Wales could do more to support Welsh breweries? I think it is difficult for pubs to always support independent Welsh breweries because many of them are tied into the big breweries and are very limited as to what beer they can stock. But I do think where possible these smaller producers should be supported, and I also think the big breweries should make it easier for their pubs to support any local microbreweries in the area.
For those who don't know, who was St Canna? St Canna was a sixth century Welsh Saint. Not that much is known about her but it seems as though she was from Brittany and moved to the Carmarthenshire area with her family. In her later years, she became a nun and started a number of churches around Carmarthenshire. She also must have had a following in Glamorgan because Canton, Pontcanna, and Llangan (near Cowbridge) are all named after her.
What are your personal favourites? I'm a stout/porter fan, and at the moment I'm especially liking Tenby Brewery’s Black Flag (a rum porter) and Mad Dog Brewery’s It’s All Propaganda (a black IPA). Otley’s O9-Blonde and Roath Brewery’s No. 3 Tram are also winners.
Are all the beers you have Welsh? Yes, all of the casks and kegs we have on are from independent Welsh breweries.
Do you brew any of your own beer? If not, do you have any plans to do so? No, I’m not brewing, just selling. I want to get St Canna's on an even keel before I think about anything else. However, in the future who knows? I’m open to whatever comes. Info: facebook.com/stcannas
The All-Star Stand-Up Tour 2017 feat. Stewart Francis 02.05.17
Psychic Sally Call Me Psychic 12.05.17
King of Pop feat. Navi The Legend Continues 31.05.17
Sam Bailey Sing My Heart Out 18.05.17
Killer Queen 10.05.17
Imelda May Life. Love. Flesh. Blood 05.05.17
Omid Djalili Schmuck For A Night 11.05.17
Mnozil Brass Cirque 03.05.17
Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra 14.05.17
roundup
WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.
pic: Ed Webster (Barafundle Bay)
SECRET SPACES: BARAFUNDLE
BOOK NOW ANASTACIA St David’s Hall, Cardiff Sun 4 June Tickets: from £37.50 Info: 029 2087 8444 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
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CHAKA KHAN Motorpoint Arena Cardiff Wed 7 June Tickets: from £41 Info: 029 2022 4488 www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk
Everyman Theatre chairman Paul Williams speaks with Buzz about their work, including the Cardiff Open Air Theatre festival, and how to get involved. How did Everyman Theatre get started?
And your role at Everyman?
Everyman Theatre themselves were established in 1942 where we were set up as a Unity Theatre Group focusing on political theatre. In the 1970s the company played an important role in the creation and establishment of the Chapter Arts Centre, where we still meet and perform today.
My role as festival chairman is akin to birthing an elephant! Seriously though, my role covers the appointment of professional directors/designer/ production manager for all festival productions and working with a busy, hardworking festival committee overseeing: the audition process; marketing and publicity; managing relationships with the council and all commercial activity including the bar, food and sponsorship. In essence, my responsibility is for the overall delivery of the festival from start to finish. Add to that the fact that I am playing Patsy in Spamalot and most of my friends think I’m crazy – which of course I am.
Could you sum up what Everyman Theatre do? We’re based at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff where we perform a diverse season of plays every year, have an active social engagement through our club nights, and where we run exciting skills workshops for our members. We also run Everyman Youth Theatre for young aspiring performers. Our flagship is of course the Open Air Theatre Festival, which happens during June and July each summer and provides great opportunities not just for performers, but for volunteers working backstage on costumes, props, makeup, stage management, front of house management and also help run the busy festival bar.
CATFISH AND THE BOTTLEMEN Motorpoint Arena Cardiff Fri 9 June Tickets: from £22 Info: 029 2022 4488 www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk
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TAKE THAT Liberty Stadium, Swansea Wed 14 June Tickets: from £55 Info: 0871 222 3224 www.liberty-stadium.com
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ROBBIE WILLIAMS Principality Stadium, Cardiff Wed 21 June Tickets: from £65 Info: 0870 0138600 www.principalitystadium.wales
If you could only suggest one place to visit in Wales to someone who had never visited, where would you pick and why? For me the Pembrokeshire National Park every time. It has stunning beaches (Barafundle, Marloes), beautiful coastal park walks and some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.
Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival, Thurs 22 June-Sat 29 July. Tickets: prices vary per event. Info: 0333 6663366 / www.cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk
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JUSTIN BIEBER Principality Stadium, Cardiff Fri 30 June Tickets: from £45 Info: 0870 0138600 www.principalitystadium.wales
17-2 AUGU0 ST
PJ HARVEY
RYAN ADAMS
FUTURE ISLANDS
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TUMBLE THROUGH TEN WILD LANDS OF COMEDY, LITERATURE, ART, SCIENCE, MISCHIEF & MUSIC
FESTIVAL OF WELSH BEER, CIDER & GREAT LIVE MUSIC
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW »COURTYARD2O17.COM«
TICKETS N SALE NOW! THE GUARDIAN
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THE TIMES
upfront
KENNARD PHILLIPPS
Luke Owain Boult speaks to kennardphillipps, an artistic collaboration between Peter Kennard and Cat Phillipps, about the role of art in protest. Peter Kennard and Cat Phillipps, the minds behind a project rooted in the spirit of protest, begin by recounting kennardphillipps origins following the start of the Iraq War. “We met just before the invasion of Iraq, and after being on the enormous demo against the invasion we wanted to continue to protest the horror that was unleashed on the people of Iraq. As artists, we wanted to make visual work that would cut through the anodyne media images that were published and broadcast in the establishment media after the invasion. We were angry and horrified that Britain had backed the USA on the false premise of WMDs, and whatever skills we have as artists we wanted to use to cut through the lies and ensuing gung-ho atmosphere that always builds up when the West invades a country.” I ask them how they explain what it is they do, and where they take inspiration from. “Our work uses digital printing as a basis for work that can go into galleries, books, magazines, placards and online. It can be in the form of photomontage, paintings, installations and workshops. By using documentary photos, we reconfigure the disparate images by joining photos that are kept separate in the media. This allows us to show the victims of capitalism in the same visual frame as the perpetrators of global violence and poverty and the struggles against oppression with those that perpetuate repression. “It’s important that our work can communicate beyond the art world to a general audience. We are trying to respond to what’s happening NOW. Our work is a visual backup for protesters and dissenters against the state of things.” As part of Diffusion, Cardiff’s international festival of photography, kennardphillipps will be exhibiting pieces that reflect the international status quo. I ask them about their plans for Diffusion: “Our installation The State Of The Nations is our most ambitious work to date. We’ve got a great space in an abandoned shop, next to Tesco on the high street. We’re hoping that as well as people coming specifically for Diffusion, people who are just passing by look in the window, see something that corresponds to their experience of living in 2017 and come in to look around. “We’re trying to make an installation that maps some of the turbulence of the last couple of years: Brexit, Trump, massive migration forced on people by war and poverty, starvation in East Africa and Yemen, austerity cuts to infrastructure and social space and services in the UK, and the coming General Election. We want the work to be a focus for critical discussion, involvement and a cry out for action. “Numerous prints will be propped up by a giant red graph that will snake down the walls onto the floor of the space spiking back up to the ceiling,” they continue. “All our lives seem to be reduced to graphs that monitor: the profits of corporate profit, often rising up when war is waged, austerity bites, and the rich get richer, going down when there is peace and even a miniscule lowering of inequality for workers in a country that produces the goods we consume. We are taking hold of this graph and smashing it into images that reveal the workings of the financial powers that be and the terrible fate meted out to refugees from wars we create, from homelessness we create, from an NHS we are destroying and from the billions spent on weapons we create to destroy each other.”
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With the arts targeted under austerity policies, I ask about the importance of festivals like Diffusion. “Photography and arts festivals are vital in bringing local practitioners and those outside together to share their work in a collective space created by the city for a local and international audience. Diffusion always picks a very topical theme, no more so than this year’s focus on ‘Revolution’. With the General Election coming up and the population being more politically engaged now than in decades, there is now more need than ever for festivals like Diffusion which provide essential new space for public debate.”
State Of The Nations, Diffusion: International Festival Of Photography, Wood Street, Cardiff, throughout May. Info: www.diffusionfestival.org
State of the Nations
Theresa
Democracy 2003-2008
Cristina's World
Deadhead
In Humanity
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. . . U O Y T ' N O D WHY E D I U G . Y . I . D Z Z U B TRAMSHED TECH
COMPUTER STUDIES
Another community workspace that offers talks on digital tech is Tramshed Tech. This community initiative is committed to giving back and offers local youngsters internships as well as running affordable workshops to help develop the digital industry in Cardiff. Their latest talk by DK, author of the successful book Zen And The Heart Of Social Media, included his experiences of working in the social media and creative industry, and useful advice for people getting started. They are currently planning more talks, but they fill up quickly, so make sure to book as soon as they have availability.
Cardiff University run a host of part-time courses for adult learners in how to get started learning computer programmes to the more in-depth database course. You don’t need prior experience or qualifications; just some enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Their computer studies department runs courses in everything from learning Java script to CSS web development to introduction to visual basics; the classes usually run in the evening so are easy to attend alongside your day job.
Pendyris Street, Cardiff
DIGITAL MEDIA
Compiled by S ELOUISE HOBB
RABBLE STUDIOS
103 Bute Street, Cardiff Bay Rabble Studios is a co-working space in the centre of Cardiff. Alongside offering a relaxing and productive office space, they also run fun events where freelancers and creatives can come together and learn new skills and share ideas. Their monthly ‘Rabble Talks’ sees local industry professionals cover everything from branding to energy, and include a helpful Q&A session. They also run great workshops, such as ‘Introduction To Adobe Illustrator’ and product photography sessions, that will get you creating great online content. Further behind-thescenes workshops will help develop digital business skills, from accounting to the importance of online branding and search engine optimisation (SEO). Admission: £30 per workshop Info: www.rabble.studio
CREATIVE MORNINGS CARDIFF Uncommon Ground Coffee, Cardiff
Creative Mornings Cardiff are definitely worth getting out of bed to attend. These monthly talks by local creatives are free and are always fully booked. The idea behind Creative Mornings, which began in New York, was to create an accessible place where art communities can regularly meet. There are now hundreds of talks, well stocked with coffee, breakfast treats and great speakers, that take place from Australia to Paris every month. Past Cardiff speakers include Senior Designer at Bristol’s Aardman Animations, Gavin Strange, who spoke about his experiments with everything from film making, toy design, illustration and photography; Graphic Designer, Sean Rees who gave a talk on the importance of taking risks; and Jo Leech who gave a fascinating talk about the relationship between psychology and User Experience Design. Admission: free Info: www.creativemornings.com
Chapter Arts Centre began life as a school and despite the rejuvenation to attract a more artistic crowd, the place hasn’t forgotten its roots and continues to offer lessons to help develop the Cardiff community. Their latest course in Creative Web Design introduces the basics of HTML design, with tutors on hand to guide students to construct a simple, user friendly website. The course uses open source software like Codeine.io and Brackets to create user-friendly navigation, layouts and readability. They also cover simple graphics creation using Adobe Photoshop and sections in how to host multimedia content.
CARDIFF START
Admission: £200 for 10 weeks Info: www.chapter.org
Admission: varies per course Info: www.cardiff.ac.uk
Admission: price varies per event Info: www.tramshedtech.net
CREATIVE WEB DESIGN
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff Every Tuesday from Tue 9 May
Cardiff University
Various venues, Cardiff Cardiff Start was founded by a group of creatives, students, start-up founders and entrepreneurs, with a vision to share knowledge and helpful advice. The group have a real passion around Cardiff as a city and want to help it to develop and grow. They believe that Cardiff can be a capital city not just of Wales, but the central place to go for tech and design needs. The group hold regular talks around many themes, from ‘the evolution of Artificial Intelligence’ to ‘Startup Grind’ – a group aimed at bringing local entrepreneurs together so they can network, develop and share ideas and ultimately, grow individually and collectively.
:L Im ag e
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Admission: free Info: www.cardiffstart.com
This month, as part of our 25th an niversary festivities, we’re celebrat ing the creative spirit in all its aspects and are hosting a series of talks and wo rkshops on the meaning of creativity and ho w to best get involved in the creati ve arts. With this mood of inspiration in mi nd, we’ve put together this guide to help you get creative. ONE MILE BAKERY CLASSES
ANGELA GRAY’S COOKERY SCHOOL
If you love bread, but couldn’t say what goes into a sourdough or a granary loaf, then the classes at One Mile Bakery are for you. Whether you are in the ‘Introduction To Baking Bread’, ‘Breads Of The World’ or the ‘Festive Baking’ class you are sure to have a great time. The bakery, which has expanded from Cardiff to Cirencester, with more locations set to open this year, have a simple ethos: they teach to small groups so everyone can enjoy learning, and they make sure everybody leaves with plenty of bakes to take home along with the recipes. Each class also includes a two-course lunch with a glass of wine, alongside snacks throughout the day.
If you love entertaining guests but blush at the thought of presenting your food, then Angela Gray’s Cookery School may be a perfect fit. Formed in 2010, the school is hidden away in Llanerch Vineyard in the Glamorganshire countryside and offers fun and relaxed cookery classes which can help anyone to cook an Instagram worthy dish. Favourite courses include ‘Delicious Supper For Friends’, ‘Skills Builders’ and themed cooking lessons like ‘Spring Italian’, with each course lasting from a few hours to a full day. Alongside their cookery courses, they also host a lunch club, chef nights and are currently the only place in Wales to offer Weber Grill Academy courses.
Admission: £125 Info: www.onemilebakery.com
Admission: prices vary per event Info: www.angelagray.co.uk
CORNERHOUSE COOKERY
PURPLE POPPADOM
Cornerhouse Cookery is located close to the centre of Cardiff and offers a range of classes from ‘Modern Vegetarian Feast’, and ‘Middle Eastern Cooking’, to traditional bread baking and lessons on how to create ‘One Pot Wonders’. Founded in 2010 by former TV director and producer Tina Moss, classes are held in a traditional Edwardian family home in Whitchurch; the kitchen, where lessons are held, is inspired by Tina’s grandmother’s kitchen in Ammanford. The homely atmosphere, though, makes it feel like the dishes could easily be achieved in any kitchen. Set to suit beginners and experienced cooks, everyone is bound to learn something, and better yet, have something tasty to take home at the end.
Learn from some of the best. Purple Poppadom has grown quite a reputation under head chef Anand George and in addition to offering tasting menus at both lunch and early dinner, the pièce de résistance is the seven-course evening taster menu, which offers a specially selected glass of wine with each course. Dishes from their sample menu include slow-cooked beef with chunks of tapioca and spices, sea bass wrapped in banana leaf, and cardamom infused tikka supreme. This tasting menu will allow you go on a journey to discover dishes which experiment with tastes, flavours and ingredients to inspire you for home cooking.
21 Syr David’s Avenue, Cardiff
FOOD + DRINK
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21 Heol Don, Cardiff
Admission: £135 Info: www.cornerhousecookery.co.uk
MADAME FROMAGE 21 Castle Arcade, Cardiff
This French bistro, known for its delicious lunchtime menu, also hosts cheese and wine events and gourmet taster evenings. The cheese and wine events include a talk by a cheese connoisseur who recounts the history of cheese and discusses the ‘new and unusual’ cheeses (and complimentary wines) which are presented to diners. This is followed by music, more drinks and a tapas buffet. The gourmet taster evening, meanwhile, presents guests with an eight-course “taste extravaganza for enthusiastic gastronauts”. The night boasts dishes that are never usually seen on the menu and creative plates with a unique French twist.
Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol
185a Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff
Admission: £45 Info: www.purplepoppadom.com
RESTAURANT JAMES SOMMERIN The Esplanade, Penarth
James Sommerin is a Michelin-starred restaurant located on the Penarth Seafront, which offers unique dishes inspired by head chef and patron, Sommerin himself, as well as his grandmother and Welsh childhood. A restaurant this high-end is notable for being a family-run business: James cooks everyday alongside his eldest daughter, Georgia. They also offer this family experience to their diners at the chef’s table. Sat in the heart of the kitchen, diners are invited to watch a specially devised 14-course dinner being prepared before them and discover their secrets. Info: www.jamessommerinrestaurant.co.uk
Info: 029 2064 4888 / www.madamefromage.co.uk
BUZZ 13
ING WRLYINT DA NASH
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RESIDENTIAL WRITING COURSE Conwy, north Wales
Admission: £100 Info: www.cinnamonpress.com
EARTH SONG AND HEART STORIES New Quay, West Wales Fri 23-Sun 25 June
Get in touch with nature on a woodland yurt retreat that combines story and song. Naked Voice practitioners Sally Davies and Sonia Caller will help you discover your own unique and authentic voice through storytelling and poetry dives. Enjoy a gong bath for relaxation – ideal for unblocking your imagination – share words and music around the fire and connect with the elements. Admission: TBC Info: 01239 711859 / saldavies@hotmail.com
NEWPORT U3A
Shaftesbury Street Church, Shaftesbury Street, Newport It's never too late to learn and the U3A offer creative writing courses for beginners. Work at your own pace under the guidance of Wales Comic Verse winner Pam Cocchiara and poet Angela Platt. No experience needed and no qualifications gained – simply experience the joy of discovering your own potential.
Pic: Jaydon Martin
Sat 4-Thurs 9 Nov and Sat 3-Thurs 8 Mar 2018 Run by Cinnamon Press authors Jan Fortune and Adam Craig and held at Ty’n y Coed cottages in the peaceful Snowdonia countryside, these courses are designed to help stimulate your creativity, improve your writing techniques and bring your words to life whether you are working on fiction or poetry. Groups are small and each participant will have a chance to share their work as well as time to write and relax.
Info: www.newportu3a.org.uk
OPEN MIC POETRY
Every month Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil Wales Book Of The Year-shortlisted author Stephen Payne leads the evening and introduces some of Wales’ best writers. Attendees are encouraged to read their own work and there’s time to chat informally with the visiting author. An open mic is just the place to share your writing with a wider audience and practise your performance skills.
FREE WRITE
Last Friday of the month Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff A drop-in writers’ group created by performance poet Mab Jones and hosted by writer Will Ford. The sessions have no fixed agenda except to get you in the flow. Come along and connect with poets, storytellers, spoken word artists, novelists and other wordsmiths: read, write and share.
Admission: free Info: www.literaturewales.org
Admission: free Info: willdeanford.wordpress.com
SWANSEA AND DISTRICT WRITERS’ CIRCLE
CAERPHILLY SCRIBES
CARDIFF MUSEUM WRITERS
County Hall, Oystermouth Road, Swansea
Every Thursday Caerphilly Library, The Twyn
First Wednesday of every month except August A group for writers of all ages and experience, from beginner to professional, who meet to discuss the craft of writing. Meetings often include guest speakers and members get chance to share their work and receive feedback in a supportive atmosphere.
Writing is a serious business but this writing workshop puts the fun back into learning. Discuss techniques, try exercises in poetry and prose, share your work and receive feedback from a professional tutor. Informal and friendly, there is also a morning session for more advanced writers.
Need to awaken your muse? The group was set up to encourage the writing and sharing of short prose and poetry written in response to chosen objects. Where better to find inspiration than from the exhibits and artefacts?
Admission: free Info: www.swanseawriters.co.uk
Info: caerphillyscribes.wordpress.com
BUZZ 14
Every other Tuesday during autumn and spring school terms Cardiff Story Museum
Admission: £15 Tel: 01446 733945 / www.cardiffmuseum.com
1-31 May / Mai 17
diffusionfestival.org _Diffusion
diffusionfestival
_Diffusion
Image © Laís Pontes Born Nowhere
MUSICEVANS URTNEY
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JACK MAC South Wales
Cost: £25 hourly rate Info: info@jackmacsax.com / jackmacsax.com/education
MUSIC AND THE MUSE
Date is arranged to suit you or there are various workshops to attend Throughout Wales Music And The Muse is a dynamic group of arts practitioners, experienced in leading exciting community projects in Wales. These projects include creative music workshops and training in running workshops. The group can teach a range of skills through the workshops such as taiko drumming, samba drumming, a cappella singing and songwriting. Admission: contact for prices Info: 07425 143038 / www.musicandthemuse.com
CHAPTER – CARDIFF COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL Canton, Cardiff
For over 40 years, Chapter has been a centre of creativity in Cardiff, offering a music school to help many people to learn to play an instrument. The workshops provide lessons for a range of instruments including the flute, guitar, drums, piano and singing. They also offer one-toone and group lessons, as well as parent-child combined lessons, and always provide a free introductory lesson. Admission: contact for prices Info: 029 2063 8059 / www.chapter.org/ people/creative-community-tenant/cardiff-community-music-school
CORNER HOUSE STUDIO Grangetown, Cardiff
Corner House Studio is the brainchild of music industry veteran Andy Lewis (who’s worked with the likes of One Direction and Elvis Costello) and sound engineer Liam Ross (whose clients include Simple Minds and Iggy Azalea). Offering outstanding recording facilities and an extensive range of equipment, along with help in production and mixing, Corner House Studio is a fantastic spot to work on a musical project and get expert advice while doing it. Cost: from £30 per hour Info: 07813 888509 / www.corner-house-studio.com
GAMLIN’S MUSIC CENTRE St Mary Street, Cardiff
Gamlin’s Music Centre offers a vast variety of instruments including keyboards and pianos in many shapes, sizes and colours. This includes both new and second-hand items to suit every price range. Parent who knows how much instruments can cost and is hesitating in case your child loses interest? The music centre provides a rental option and also offers a professional concert hire service for those playing in front of an audience. Info: 029 2022 0828 / www.gamlinsmusic.co.uk
PMT
St Mary Street, Cardiff PMT is an award-winning musical instrument and equipment retailer, established in 1991, which specialises in the supply of guitars, drums, amps, keyboards, pianos, live sound and pro audio equipment, and recording and DJ equipment. The store has won nine awards in the music industry including MIA Best Presented Retailer 2014 and Fender Europe's Top Dealer Award 2015. Info: 02920 221029 / www.pmtonline.co.uk
BUZZ 16
Pic: Eric Aydin-Barberini
For those who want to learn a musical instrument, or pick it back up again, Jack Mac is an accomplished music teacher offering fun lessons from beginner to advanced level. Lessons are available for piano, saxophone, clarinet, keyboard, flute and music theory. His lessons can be adapted to those musicians working towards grades and examination requirements or for those simply playing for personal enjoyment, with additional support in performance for those with their eyes set on the stage.
PIRATE STUDIOS
Curran Embankment, Cardiff Pirate Studios offer unrivalled sound quality and is open 24/7. The studios offer everything you need to get started, as well as private XL studios with plenty of room for large bands. If you want to create an album as a single artist or as a group, Pirate Studios has you covered. From £4-£10 per hour, the studios include instruments for free to ensure that the recordings are created at a professional level. Cost: from £4 per hour Info: 01159 659747 / www.piratestudios.co.uk
STIR STUDIO
Williams Court, Trade Street, Cardiff Over the years, Stir has had many clients and has worked with a number of high-profile acts and tracks. Two Manic Street Preachers albums, Lifeblood and Send Away The Tigers, have been recorded at Stir Studio, as well as some material by Super Furry Animals. The studio is a professional facility which houses a range of different equipment. As well as being equipped with everything needed to make professional music, the studio is run by Paul Durrant, one of south Wales’ most experienced producers. Cost: £50-£200 for a song Info: www.stirstudio.co.uk
LIVE COMEDY EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY The best comedians want to play The Glee so don’t miss out on a superb night of live entertainment that will keep you laughing until Monday.
COMEDY TOUR SHOWS SUN 4TH JUNE
WAHALA COMEDY CLASH: JAMAICA VS AFRICA TUES 6TH JUNE
MON 12TH JUNE
THUR 26TH OCT
THUR 14TH SEPT
TALK & BOOK SIGNING
QI PODCAST
(DOUBLE HEADER)
LIMMY
TUE 4TH JULY
CAMBRIDGE TOM GREEN’S EUROPEAN COMEDY FOOTLIGHTS INTERNATIONAL TOUR: ROAD TRIP DREAM SEQUENCE SOLD OUT
THUR 8TH JUNE
SUN 10TH SEP
OWEN BENJAMIN TOM GREEN’S EUROPEAN COMEDY ROAD TRIP
NO SUCH THING AS A FISH
CARL DONNELLY & CARL HUTCHINSON
WED 13TH DEC
THUR 5TH OCT
THUR 6TH JULY
WED 11TH OCT
PAUL CHOWDHRY THE NOISE NEXT DOOR
LUISA OMIELAN TOM STADE
NEW 2017 SHOW THUR 12TH OCT
NICK HELM
EXTRA DATE
MERMAID QUAY • CARDIFF BAY • CF10 5BZ
SPECIAL EVENTS MON 16TH OCT
SIMON DAY: IN CHARACTER
(BRIAN PERN, BILLY BLEACH, GEOFFREY ALLERTON, TONY BACKTON) SUN 3RD DEC
THE GILDED MERKIN
BURLESQUE & CABARET
kennardphillipps - everybody 4
ART
URTNEY EVANS
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THE SHO GALLERY AND SHOP
Castle Emporium, Womanby Street, Cardiff Bringing together collections of contemporary design, digital art and original artworks, this gallery and shop stocks a wide range of art and supplies for both art designers and people who want to decorate their homes with art. Their products are designed to inspire and to stimulate the imagination of the viewers. They are currently opening up their space to new artists and gallery submissions, so if you want your work to be on display, get in touch with them. Info: www.thesho.co.uk / info@thesho.co.uk
THE ART WORKSHOP
Various dates depending on course Rhiwbina, Cardiff Offering a range of workshops for all ages, this art school gives everyone the opportunity to realise their potential through art and to see their ability to create new designs. The workshops can help you learn how to draw and paint, to study the history of art and to try different materials and techniques with the support of the team in small, friendly groups. The school offers daytime courses for adults and afterschool sessions for children, so that everyone can get involved and get creative. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 07561 507638 / www.theartworkshop.co.uk
CARDIFF POTTERY WORKSHOPS Various dates depending on course Curran Road, Cardiff
These workshops invite people to get creative and to get involved with pottery, whether as a hobby or as a career. The workshops allow many people to learn new skills, make work to either keep or sell, be part of a community and to be able to relax and unwind and to be creative. The classes are friendly, relaxed and welcoming and are suitable for both beginners and those who may have some experience in ceramics or pottery. The aim of the workshops is to help you with all of the skills needed to produce high quality pottery products. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 07949 765221 / www.cardiffpotteryworkshops.com BUZZ 18
ART CLASSES WALES
Various dates depending on course Picton Castle Studios, Henllan Amgoed, Carmarthenshire The art classes offered here are for artists of all abilities – including those who enjoy painting at home, those who haven’t painted since school or those who have never picked up a paintbrush. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, but also fun. The classes aim to encourage, teach and guide, but the priority is to encourage enjoyment in what you learn and in what you create. The courses give you the skills and ideas to create new designs, and to give you the opportunity to create art that may be shown in their exhibitions. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 01994 448600 / www.artclasseswales.com
STUDY SCULPTURES
GILES GALLERY
Various dates depending on course Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun Giles Gallery exhibits, promotes and sells the work of new and local independent artists from around south Wales. The gallery is interested in artists that feel their work would suit the gallery environment. For those who are interested in promoting and selling their work, the gallery can help you take those first steps towards promoting yourself and your craft. It also offers exhibition space for larger solo or group shows, as well as art classes, art supplies and framing services. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 01443 228638 / www.gilesgallery.net
Various dates depending on course Builth Wells, Powys
CHURCHILLS
These workshops are being offered with the aim of providing a level of tuition in the arts which respects the fundamental skills of looking, seeing and making art. The courses offered teach skills that are both traditional and contemporary, and are available to beginners and those who have some skill in creating sculptures. There are a range of workshops to suit everyone’s needs, abilities and time availabilities.
This art supply store stocks a range of materials that are suitable for students, beginners and more accomplished artists. It supplies leading brands including Canson and Winsor & Newton, and a range of artists’ materials such as watercolours, oil paints, brushes and pastel paper. For artists who enjoy creating at home, Churchills offers everything to make art easy.
Admission: prices vary per course Info: 01982 560352 / www.studysculpture.com
Info: 01443 485200 / www.churchills.uk.net
High Street, Pontypridd
£10 FREE REHEARSAL CREDIT
Try us free, head to piratestudios.co.uk/cardiff-rehearsal-studios and use BUZZ10 Book your first session now!
Free Drums, Amps, Mics & PAs
Unrivalled Sound Quality
Live Recordings
Open 24/7
RECORDING STUDIO IN CARDIFF
www.corner-house-studio.com enquiries@corner-house-studio.com
cornerhousestudio cornerhousestudio cornerhouse148
Andy Lewis 07813888509 Liam Ross 07731141684
N FASHTINEO Y EVANS COUR
Pic: Jaydon Martin
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ALL SEWN UP WORKSHOPS
Various dates depending on course Dunvant, Swansea All Sewn Up has been spreading the joy of sewing and creating products throughout south Wales since setting up its workshops in 2010. The workshops are available for beginners and individuals who want to improve their skills in sewing and use a wide range of different fabrics to create both fashionable and desirable products. With many workshops to choose from for beginners and experts, All Sewn Up offers a range of services for everyone. It also offers a variety of different fabrics to purchase in different styles and patterns for those interested in creating their own designs. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 07867 915993 / www.allsewnupwales.co.uk
LEE MILL FABRICS Oxford Street, Swansea
This fabric store has traded for 40 years for a range of individuals including dressmakers, professionals, hobbyists and students, providing quality fabrics at very low prices. It has over 10,000 fabrics to choose from in a variety of patterns, including McCall’s patterns, cottons and polyester. They are also able to post examples of fabric for free if you’re unsure of what you’re looking for. Info: 01792 468504 / www.leemillfabrics.co.uk
CARDIFF FASHION WEEK 2017
CARDIFF VINTAGE KILO SALE
This is a week-long celebration of fashion, design and style, promoting Cardiff as an epicentre of fashion for a range of people and featuring products which have been sold across Wales. CFW promotes and celebrates fashion created by designers, students, retail outlets, and hair and beauty artists. As well as a fashion showcase, there will also be a number of events taking place across the city, including charity fundraising activities and style workshops.
Five tonnes of retro-style clothing is coming to Cardiff, to be sold at a mere £15 per kilo. From vintage t-shirts to denim jackets, jumpers, shorts, skirts and accessories from the 1970s onwards, this and other Kilo Sales provide a range of different materials, patterns and accessories to create many designs. As such, they’re perfect events for fashion designers to gather material from.
Admission: £10/£15 VIP Info: www.visitcfw.co.uk
Admission: £3 11am entry/£1.50 12pm entry Info: www.judysvintagefair.co.uk/ events/cardiff-vintage-kilo-sale-4
Sat 28 Oct-Wed 4 Nov Various locations, Cardiff
BUZZ 20
Sun 7 May Portland House, Bute Street, Cardiff
LOVE YOUR CLOTHES – BEGINNERS MACHINE SEWING Sat 13, 20 + 27 May Sew Lovely, Glebe Street, Penarth
This workshop offers beginners and rusty returners an opportunity to learn how to sew and to create products from a range of fabrics. Being one of the most popular classes with Love Your Clothes, it will teach you how to sew independently and with confidence. The workshop covers a range of techniques including how to thread-up, making seams, adding a zip and making buttonholes to help you create products in the future. Admission: £85 per person (includes materials) Info: loveyourclothes.org.uk/events/ beginners-machine-sewing-0
BUTTERFLY FABRICS City Road, Cardiff
Butterfly Fabrics offers an extensive and exclusive range of patchwork and quilting, bridal, evening and fancy dress fabrics. The fabric store stocks thousands of different fabrics for fashion designers to choose one. It is one of the largest independent fabric stores in Wales, and it has sourced its fabrics from around the world. Info: www.butterflyfabrics.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON/AR FYND April / Ebrill – November / Tachwedd 2017
NANCY KERR & THE SWEET VISITOR BAND 25.04.17 – 8pm
COOPE, BOYES & SIMPSON 09.05.2017 – 8pm
RACHEL NEWTON BAND 27.06.2017 – 8pm
JOSIENNE CLARK & BEN WALKER 24.07.2017 – 8pm
TOM RUSSELL 22.11.2017 – 8pm
HY P A R G O T O H P FILM ANEYD EVANS URTN
Bojan Radovic The Icon The Star
Compiled by CO
Paolo Ciregia Perestrojka
Tatiana Vinogradova Days of Melancholy
Lais Pontes Born Now Here
RED KITE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Date is arranged to suit you Gigrin Farm, Rhayader, Powys
Join award-winning landscape and wildlife photographer Drew Buckley on a Red Kite photography workshop in the heart of Wales. It’s one of the best places to get up close and personal to these magnificent birds, which will give you the opportunity to take superb photos of the stunning acrobatic flyers. Capturing birds in flight is one of the greatest challenges as a photographer, but it can also be the most rewarding. Admission: from £83 per person depending on group size Info: www.drewbuckleyphotography.com/ red-kite-photography-workshop
COLEG CEREDIGION If you are interested in working within the media, creating films, editing or designing graphics, Coleg Ceredigion offers a programme to help you learn the skills you need to have a career in the media industry. The programme will allow you to complete projects using a variety of high-end film and sound-recording equipment. Everyone who has left Coleg Ceredigion has been given the skills and experience needed to begin a career in the media industry; past students have gone on to set up their own production companies and start teaching. Info: www.ceredigion.ac.uk/en/ department/media
FFOTOGALLERY
Various dates depending on course Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff This art gallery offers a range of courses in photography from black and white prints to documentary photography. Some classes will teach you the techniques of taking different pictures of people and locations, for example, while others will explore photography as a topic, allowing you to learn the history behind taking a photo. The courses range from beginner to advanced and cover all abilities. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 029 2034 1667 / www.ffotogallery. org/courses
CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY WALES Date is arranged to suit you Talybont-On-Usk, Brecon Beacons
This photography studio runs workshops for both beginners and those with more experience. Being situated in the Brecon Beacons, the pictures taken will include wildlife and the landscape of the beautiful Beacons themselves. The courses give you the opportunity to challenge yourself and to take incredible photos from the skills you will be learning. Admission: prices vary per course Info: 01874 676402 / www.creativephotographywales.com
LEARN ABOUT FILM – FILMMAKING ON IPADS AND IPHONES Date and location is arranged to suit you (based in Penarth)
This workshop provides the opportunity to use your iPhone or iPad to create films straight from your devices. It’s designed for people with no experience of making videos, providing you with the key skills needed to make short factual or training films. You will learn how to film different shots and stills with a camera app. You will then put both the film and the stills together, editing the order of the shots and adding other features to make it more professional. This course is available to both individuals and groups. Admission: prices vary per course and location Info: 029 2009 5900 / www.learnaboutfilm.com/education-training/filmmaking-ipad
BAFTA CYMRU Set up in 1987, BAFTA Cymru are an incredibly useful organisation that helps filmmakers and enthusiasts get ahead. If you want help getting into the film industry, BAFTA Cymru offer a wide range of masterclasses, workshops, talks and networking events to help you meet people who can support Welsh filmmakers. Memberships are also available, which include benefits like free cinema, with special screenings featuring Q&A sessions with some of the biggest names in Welsh cinema. Some events are also open to non-members, so members of the public can head down to see if it’s for them before signing up. nfo: www.bafta.org/wales
BUZZ 22
Ffilm Factory 35 film studio facility located in the heart of Wales
Filming location of: The Chamber, Doctor Who, Decline and Fall and Will 30,000 sq ft. of filming space available with onsite services such as: world class post production facilities, catering, dedicated parking and 24/7 Security located along the M4 corridor, close to Cardiff.
Tel: 01656 867303 | nabila.elias@sony.com | @SonyUKTEC
BUZZ 24
NIGHT EVENTS TALKS TALKS TALKS TALKS TALKS TALKS TALKS TALKS
WALES, THE IMAGINED NATION SIMON DANCEY 11/05/17
LGBTQ+ IN THE MODERN WORLD BERWYN ROWLANDS IRIS PRIZE 18/05/17
IS PUNK DEAD? PAUL GRAY THE DAMNED 25/05/17
FREE FILM SCREENING + Q&A FREE FILM SCREENING + Q&A
TRAMSHED CINEMA 6PM SATURDAY 13TH OF MAY
+ Q&A WITH PRIDE WELSH PREMIERE
TICKETS ONLY AVAILABLE AT: www.buzzmag.co.uk/buzzdiy/
PARTNERS PARTNERS
upfront
IMELDA M AY
John-Paul Davies speaks to Dublin’s reigning queen about abdicating the rockabilly throne. Imelda May is getting ready to go on tour. She's about to share with the world her most intimate and personal album yet. But to make Life. Love. Flesh. Blood. May needed to move away from her rockabilly roots. "It’s not a matter of losing rockabilly, that’s always with me, I’ve always loved it." May speaks with a fierce love for the music through her impassioned, Liberties accent. "Rockabilly was the most rebellious thing that had happened in music and it changed the course of music. But I’ve done that. I think I hit a glass ceiling with rockabilly. I don’t want to limit myself." Life. Love. Flesh. Blood. was written in the aftermath of her divorce from husband and band member Darrel Hingham. But, as the title suggests, the album covers much more ground than that, reflected in May's new musical directions. "I want to spend time exploring other music that I love - blues and jazz and gospel and soul. When I started writing this album I made everything stop; to not think about what it should be but just see where it went. I found that really liberating." Interesting then, that May, an artist who has either produced or co-produced her previous four albums, should relinquish production responsibilities on such a defining new album. "I wasn’t sure how it would go. I’d never handed over the reins, if you like." She needn't have been concerned. T Bone Burnett, the multi-award winning producer who brought Americana to the masses with the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack, is one of the most singular talents in the business. "We did a lot of discussion, before going into the studio. Often he wanted to know where I heard this song going. He wanted references, even visual references. I’d say 'I feel this could be a movie soundtrack,' so he had a visual
or a vibe for it. And then he called in the right musicians to match the sound that I had envisaged for this album. Like a beautiful play or movie, he got all the right cast and it was just gorgeous." For the first time, guitarist Darrel Hingham doesn't appear in that cast. "Well, we knew we were going in different directions for a long time, I think even on the last album. And he wanted to leave the band ages before [we separated] just musically. So, in the studio, it wouldn’t have been right, both of us working together. We were both wanting to do completely different things." Like all the great musicians May has an appetite for pushing, moving on, developing and learning as an artist. "I’m a very big fan of T Bone. So I wanted to learn from T Bone about production. I wanted to see how he got a sound and what he did, so I was curious too." And this is just one important collaboration on the album. The influential Jools Holland appears - "instrumental in helping my career". And May's long-term friend and regular collaborator, Jeff Beck, adds a stunning solo to single Black Tears. "I’ve been doing this for 26 years and I’ve sang with a lot of guitarists, but Jeff is the only guitarist I’ve ever sang with where it feels like I’m singing a duet with another vocalist. He takes it to another level, it’s like an extension of him. If he was a singer they’re the notes he’d sing." A kindred spirit too. "He’s very open minded. You never know what album he’s going to do next, he never gets stuck in a rut. I love that about Jeff - he does what he feels and he follows his heart." If May continues to do the same, her reign will long continue, whatever style she chooses to sing. Imelda May, St David's Hall, Cardiff, Fri 5 May £35/£25 Info: 029 2087 8444 / www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
BUZZ 26
upfront
THE VIEW Moments after the birth of his baby girl Kyle Falconer, the lead singer of The View, talks about their upcoming tour, reflections on the past, and looking ahead to the future. “Oh, I’m over the moon!” starts Kyle. “I’ve just registered our baby five minutes ago. I’m just so dazed and tired, but happy!” Celebrating 10 years since the release of their debut album Hats Off To The Buskers, The View will be playing the full album back to front. “I haven’t seen the boys yet,” Kyle refrains, “so I’m not sure if that is still our plan. We’re meeting up soon to discuss it.” Kyle then fires down rumours of him working with George Ezra: “I’m not working with George, but I am working with his producer. I’ve been working on new material for a solo career. We’ve decided to take a year out of work as a band, because we have been working nonstop for years! We aren’t splitting up, though, we just each have our own things to do.” Ten years on, what would Kyle like to say to his fans? “Thanks for sticking around! We’re lucky. There are those fans that just get it. They turn up at every gig – and some of them with tattoos of the band across their face!” But how have The View changed over the past decade? “There are some obvious changes for me. I think we became better writers – when we were first out we were punks who thought they knew everything. Partying used to come before gigs, and there were times when we missed out on so much because of that attitude. We were foolish. Now the band comes first. However, we’re taking this year out to explore new things on our own. No one has had time or sense to do that until now. But I’m now a dad too. Hopefully in 10 years we will still be touring as The View.” In keeping with the anniversary theme, how would Kyle describe the tour in just 10 words? In short, he doesn’t: “‘The songs you want to hear at a lovely time of year.’ Wait. That isn’t 10 words is it? Ah, just come and check it out!” ZOE BROOKES The View, Tramshed, Cardiff, Fri 12 May. Tickets: £15. Info: 029 2023 5555 / www.tramshedcardiff.com
CATTLE & CANE With their second album Mirrors set to be released on Fri 5 May, northeastern English indie-folk outfit Cattle & Cane are embarking on a UK-wide tour. “I guess this album is less introspective at times compared to our debut album Home,” starts vocalist Joe Hammill when asked about the new record. “It’s more looking at things from outside a situation, like I've Been Silent and Dealing With The Devil. Some of the album was recorded in Belgium and some of it in Malta, so I think that experience of travelling and getting away from it all probably shows too. “Our hearts are always rooted in Teesside though, so I feel like there will always be elements of that. We have a song on the new album, Tonight We Dance (Cleveland Hills), which is about home being our first love and always being there to go back to.” I ask Joe about the range in sounds on the album, comparing the soulful I’ve Been Silent to the synthy Make Your Vision. “We didn’t want to just record a repeat version of our debut album, so we were keen to try a few new things. Helen [Hammill, Joe’s bandmate and sister] sings a lot more on Mirrors; also, the album producer Luuk Cox comes from a very different background to us, so it was great to experiment with new ideas and new sounds.” Despite this difference in sounds, what ties it all together as a Cattle & Cane record? “Whatever the arrangement or instrumentation, we always try to build songs around our harmonies and our vocals,” says Helen. “I think when you first start a band, it can take a little while to really find your sound. The harmonies are still a big part of the tracks, but there's certainly more pianos and keyboards. We built a lot of the tracks around the drums, too, which probably wasn't the case on our debut. We like trying to do different things – we had a lot of fun with Fool For You, especially with the orchestral elements in it.” To finish, I ask Joe what’s next for the band. “We’ve got a few festivals over the summer and then, all being well, we’ll be touring Germany again in the autumn. We’re always writing and demoing new material… is it too early to start thinking about a third album?” LUKE OWAIN BOULT Cattle & Cane, Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Sat 13 May. Tickets: £8. Info: 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net BUZZ 28
TOM ODELL JACK SAVORETTI
THE SHIRES MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS INTO THE ARK ZERVAS & PEPPER THE GENTLE GOOD KIZZY CRAWFORD PLUS MORE ARTISTS TO BE ANNOUNCED! Streetfood Village Kids Area & Entertainment featuring: Crafts, Circus Skills, Entertainers, Pony Rides & More!
Community Artists & Entertainers Acoustic Stage Local Craft Beers
SATURDAY 12TH AUGUST 2017
ST FAGANS NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM, CARDIFF ticketmaster.co.uk | orchardentertainment.co.uk | ticketlineuk.com Tickets:
burninglantern.com
02920 230 130
upfront
KATY BRAND “I took the show to Edinburgh last year, and it went really well so I decided I would like to carry it on!” starts Katy when asked about the reasons behind her I Was A Teenage Christian tour. “It was my first live show in six years, and a new performing style for me – as myself, much more chatty and informal – so I didn’t know what to expect but I was blown away by the response. “It’s the story of my years as a teenage Christian, from the moment I was converted aged 13, to when I left the church seven years later. I got really stuck in, going to church four or five times a week, falling in love with the worship band leader – unrequited – and even being involved in an exorcism. It was an odd time.” I ask whether she’s familiar with the Mortified movement, which gets people to open up about the teenage memories they cringe most about. “I’m not familiar with that, although I’m sure I have unwittingly experienced it many times,” she answers. “In the show, I often cringe telling stories of my teenage exploits such as taking full school assemblies and preaching in the local shopping centre on a Saturday morning.” Brand then offers her advice to aspiring comedians: “Just do it. Don’t wait for permission – just find a way to get something going and get your material out there. People in the comedy business only really pay attention to those who are already doing things for themselves, however small it may be, so there is no substitute for booking an open spot and getting behind the mic and in front of an audience, even if it’s only three people. “Try not to self-edit or self-censor before you get anything on the page. Just write it down and worry about whether it’s good or not later. If it makes you laugh out loud when you think of an idea, there is a very good chance it will make someone else laugh out loud too, and then you’re on your way.” LUKE OWAIN BOULT Katy Brand: I Was A Teenage Christian, The Riverfront, Newport, Fri 5 May. Tickets: £14. Info: 01633 656757 / www.newportlive. co.uk; Grand Theatre, Swansea, Sat 6 May. Tickets: £13.50. Info: 01792 475715 / www.swanseagrand.co.uk
OMID DJALILI “They’re the best audiences, I don’t know what it is,” Omid Djalili muses on his past experiences of Cardiff and Swansea. “I take an outsider’s view. I think the Welsh probably feel like outsiders within Britain, so they immediately tune into me more than anywhere else.” He’s already looking into adapting parts of his show to suit Wales, because he has learnt that one joke does not fit all when it comes to the British Isles. Take, for example, his joke about an English superhero called Anonymous-Note-OnWindscreen Man. “They laughed at that in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, but in southern Ireland, three gigs, absolutely nothing”. That said, he’s looking out for local news to parody. It’s not just local news, though – Djalili, as much as any comedian, will tell you that Trump’s America is a goldmine for comic material. Speaking just after White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer’s controversial comments on Hitler’s use of chemical weapons, Djalili says that simply repeating real-life quotes can result in some of the most hilarity. “I may go onstage and start off literally by quoting what he said,” he says. “Then expand into a joke about just shooting yourself in the foot more and more. The climate is such that you can make up anything, not true but strangely plausible, playing on the fake news thing.” This has been the case from early in Djalili’s career, when George W. Bush was in the White House. When better to revisit that period than last summer, when he produced an Edinburgh Fringe piece called Iraq Out & Loud, an entire reading of the Chilcot Report by him and many others over the space of 15 and a half days. “There were gasps when I was reading it!” he recalls. “It was a very good continuation of being the producer on [2003 anti-war demonstrations documentary] We Are Many.” While there is an element of seriousness, Shmuck For A Night is primarily a show you can expect a lot of laughs from. Just don’t come along expecting an accurate Welsh accent. He laughs, “Whenever I come to Wales I try, but it usually ends up sounding like an Afghan who’s spent some time in Merthyr Tydfil.” ALEC EVANS Omid Djalili: Schmuck For A Night, Grand Theatre, Swansea, Wed 10 May. Tickets: £24.50. Info: 01792 475715 / www. swanseagrand.co.uk; St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Thurs 11 May. Tickets: £24. Info: 029 2087 8444 / www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
BUZZ 30
MAY MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET 2-6 May
Discover the true story behind one unforgettable recording session that brought together rock’n’roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins, with Jason Donovan as Sam Phillips.
OUT OF ORDER 16-20 May
An all-star ensemble cast including Shaun Williamson (EastEnders), Sue Holderness (Only Fools & Horses) and Andrew Hall (Coronation Street) bring Ray Cooney’s hilarious farce to Cardiff.
THE CRUCIBLE 23-27 May
Charlie Condou (Coronation Street) and Victoria Yeates (Call the Midwife) are the leads in Arthur Miller’s landmark play about paranoia, accusation and manipulation, a political parable for our times. THE WIPERS TIMES
ORBIT THEATRE: MADAGASCAR 31 May – 4 June
Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hop Hippo and, of course, those hilarious penguins in the musical adventure of a lifetime, courtesy of Wales’ no.1 amateur theatre company.
THE CRUCIBLE
SEPTEMBER
AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS
THE WIPERS TIMES 12-16 September
Written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, this is the true and extraordinary story of the satirical newspaper created in the mud and mayhem of the Somme during the First World War.
AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS 19-24 September
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
A hugely talented cast of 8 play over 25 characters in this imaginative, high-spirited escapade about Phileas Fogg, who wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in only eighty days!
6-10 June
Susan Hill’s brilliantly successful study in atmosphere, illusion and controlled horror is back in Cardiff to excite and terrify in equal measure.
BLOOD BROTHERS 26-30 September
NOT DEAD ENOUGH
After previous successes in Cardiff, Willy Russell’s legendary musical returns to the New Theatre. The captivating and moving tale comes with a superb score, including Bright New Day and Tell Me It’s Not Over.
Bill Ward (Emmerdale) and Laura Whitmore (Strictly Come Dancing) star in the stage adaptation of multi-million selling crime writer Peter James’ award winning Roy Grace series and acclaimed stage franchise.
DEATHTRAP
13-17 June
THE GRADUATE
OCTOBER 10-14 October NOT DEAD ENOUGH
20-24 June
Hollywood star Catherine McCormack (Braveheart) is Mrs Robinson in this hilarious West End comedy based on the Oscar-winning film, with a soundtrack featuring The Beach Boys and Simon and Garfunkel. SHIRLEY VALENTINE
SHIRLEY VALENTINE
Stage and television stars Paul Bradley and Jessie Wallace lead the cast in this truly spine-chilling whodunit. Book now for this wickedly enjoyable show, the longest running thriller in Broadway history.
CABARET 17-21 October
Featuring show-stopping choreography, dazzling costumes and iconic songs like Money Makes the World Go Round and Maybe This Time, this 1930-set landmark musical will blow you away.
27 June – 1 July
Willy Russell’s heart-warming one-woman comedy has its first major revival on its 30th anniversary, with Jodie Prenger as the bored housewife learning about the world and herself on a holiday in Greece.
PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE
25 & 26 October
Enjoy this new live stage version of the hugely successful CBeebies show, featuring Peppa Pig, George and their friends in a brand new story full of songs and heaps of fun.
JULY BUDDY – THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY
TAP FACTORY
28 October
4-8 July
In a production full of pure pleasure and positive energy, this international hit-show for all the family features urban tap dance, percussion, comedy and acrobatics.
Two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, as a cast of phenomenally talented actors and musicians tell the rock’n’roll legend’s sensational story.
BEN & HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM
15-16 July
CILLA THE MUSICAL 31 October – 4 November
BUDDY
From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter-join Ben, Holly and their friends for this beautiful story that will delight the whole family.
20 July
Platinum-selling singing sensation Joe McElderry will present a night of smash hit songs from his upcoming album Saturday Night at the Movies, including Daydream Believer, Love is All Around and new single Gloria.
THEATRE TOURS 28-29 July
AUGUST VARIETY 5 August
Young musicians, dancers, actors, circus performers and artists come together to present an evening of entertaining and engaging acts that promises to amuse and amaze.
THE GRUFFALO
31 August – 3 September
There are songs, laughs and scary fun galore for children aged 3+ in this much-loved show, as Mouse goes on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical adaptation of the classic picture book.
CILLA THE MUSICAL
PEPPA PIG
This spectacular and heart-warming musical tells the extraordinary story of the ordinary girl from Liverpool, Cilla Black, whose rise to stardom made her one of Britain’s best-loved entertainers.
NOVEMBER
JOE McELDERRY – THE GLORIA TOUR
Ever fancied a look into a star’s dressing room or stepping onto the New Theatre stage? Join us for a behind-the-scenes tour of the building and learn about the theatre’s long history.
CABARET
ORBIT THEATRE: WEST SIDE STORY 7-11 November
Wales No.1 amateur theatre company are bringing one of the most memorable musicals of all time to the New. From first notes to final breath, this is one of the most innovative and relevant musical dramas of our time.
WAIT UNTIL DARK THE GRUFFALO
14-18 November
Often ranked as one of the top 100 scariest films of all time, this exciting new stage adaptation of the classic, edge-of-your-seat thriller stars Jack Ellis (Prime Suspect, Bad Girls) and Oliver Mellor (Coronation Street).
LEGALLY BLONDE 20-25 November
OMG you guys!! Award-winning actress Rita Simons (Roxy in EastEnders) stars alongside Bill Ward in the all-singing, all dancing romantic comedy.
DECEMBER/JANUARY SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS
LEGALLY BLONDE
9 December 2017 – 14 January 2018
There’ll be a magical mirror, seven friendly dwarfs, a beautiful princess, a handsome prince and plenty of audience participation in the New Theatre’s 2017-18 pantomime, the fairest in all the land!
BOX OFFICE
029 2087 8889 www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk Purchases may be subject to a Ticketing Service Charge
Pic: Kayla Kandzorra
upfront
HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE IN CONCERT The Harry Potter films are cinema classics. Introducing us to the world of dementors, basilisks and wingardium leviosa on screen, it was a family favourite for my generation and will be for generations to come. Its translation to the screen proved as popular as the books, ranking as the highest-grossing film franchise in history (beaten only by the whole Marvel Cinematic Universe). So what could make it any better? Accompanying it with the enthralling sound of the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra live, of course. Gracing the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff stage on Sun 14 May, get swept away with Harry and his friends
alongside a live orchestral concert. Displayed on a high-definition 40-foot screen, the film will be accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra as they relive the famous John Williams score. The origin for the legendary franchise of films features an innocent Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron (Rupert Grint) as they adjust to their first year at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. Moving away from his mundane existence, Harry is quickly thrown into a foreign world full of trolls, squealing mandrakes and quidditch as we slowly learn the ways of the magical
world. As enthralling as flying golden snitches are though, it soon becomes apparent that not all wizards are good, and there is a destiny that awaits Harry and his iconic thunderbolt scar that starts deep in the heart of Hogwarts castle. For the first time in the UK, audiences will be able to follow the journey from Privet Drive to Hogwarts alongside a symphony orchestra. In a packed Motorpoint Arena with thousands of buzzing Potter fans, this will be an unforgettable cinematic experience. The wizarding world of Harry Potter never sounded so great. CONOR KNIGHT
Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone In Concert, Motorpoint Arena Cardiff, Sun 14 May. Tickets: £25-£65. Info: 029 2022 4488 / www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk
MOSCOW PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA This month the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, under the award-winning direction of conductor Maestro Yuri Simonov, plays Cardiff’s St David’s Hall as part of the Hall’s International Concert Series; and also part of the MPO’s concert tour of the UK. Yuri Simonov is nearing 20 years as the Maestro of the Moscow Philharmonic. Since becoming the musical director and principal conductor in 1998 the Orchestra flourished – included by critics in the top three orchestras in Moscow and becoming world famous. Maestro Simonov is no stranger to Britain either, having also conducted all the major London orchestras. The programme features excerpts from Sergei Prokofiev’s 1938 ballet Romeo and Juliet, the tragedy in the evening’s lineup. Based on the Shakespeare tragedy, Prokofiev reused music from the ballet in three suites for orchestra. Now somewhat notoriously known as providing the theme tune to The Apprentice, the music from Prokofiev’s Romeo And Juliet is rarely matched for drama. Joining the Moscow Philharmonic is London-based Russian solo violinist Natalia Lomeiko, who will be playing Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto No 1. Born into a family of musicians in Russia, Lomeiko debuted
with the Novosibirsk Symphony Orchestra at the age of only seven. Among other schools, Natalia studied at the Yehudi Menuhin School in England with Yehudi Menuhin himself – the late Lord Menuhin described her as “one of the most brilliant of our younger violinists”. Since her debut, Natalia performed as a soloist with a list of orchestras, such as Britain’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Singapore Symphony, the New Zealand Symphony and Melbourne Symphony among many others.
Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Sun 14 May. Tickets: £5-£39.50. Info: 029 2087 8500 / www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
BUZZ BUZZ32 32
Completing the night's program is an early piece from Rimsky-Korsakov, Sadko, sometimes called the first Russian symphonic poem. Rimsky later wrote an opera of the same name, Sadko is a Russian fairy tale about minstrel who finds himself transported to the realm of the Sea King where he is expected to provide music to accompany the dance at the marriage of the King's daughter. CHRIS WILLIAMS
22nd June/Mehefin – 29th July/Gorffennaf 2017
Sophia Gardens/ Gerddi Sophia Monty Python’s
Richard Curtis & Paul Mayhew-Archer
SPAMALOT
THE VICAR OF DIBLEY
22nd June/Mehefin – 1st July/Gorffennaf
6th – 15th July/Gorffennaf
William Shakespeare’s
Disney’s
MACBETH
ALADDIN Jr
20th – 29th July/Gorffennaf
22nd – 29th July/Gorffennaf
Tickets Now On Sale/Tocynnau Bellach Ar Werth: 0333 666 3366 www.cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk All seats under cover/Pob un sedd o dan yswiriant #everymancdf
/EverymanTheatre
Bar open from 6.30pm/Bar yn agored o 6.30pm @everymancardiff
Die Fledermaus Johann Strauss ll Der Rosenkavalier Richard Strauss Mai 20 May – Meh 24 Jun 16 – 30 oed? Tocynnau ar gael am £5* Aged 16 – 30? Tickets available for £5*
029 2063 6464
Mae croeso i chi gysylltu â ni yn Gymraeg
yganolfan.org.uk | wmc.org.uk wno.org.uk/summer17
Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig | Registered Charity No 221538
*mae telerau ac amodau yn berthnasol | terms and conditions apply
profile
HAY FESTIVAL Luke Owain Boult speaks with the chairman and founder of the Hay Festival Of Literature & Arts Peter Florence about its origins, speakers, and the art of telling stories. The Hay Festival, held as you can probably guess from its name in the charming Welsh border town of Hay-On-Wye, is not only Wales’ premier literature festival, it was the starting point for Hay Festivals held around the world, from Powys to Peru. “It was dreamed up around my mother’s kitchen table, and the idea was simply to invite some mates up for the weekend to talk about what was going on in the world and tell stories,” founder Peter Florence says. “We wanted to throw a party and have fun. It’s pretty much the same now, just bigger. “There were lots of inspirations behind it. In 1969, my father had run an international Shakespeare festival on a wasteland in big tents on the site of what is now Shakespeare’s Globe. And my family have been Eisteddfodau regulars for decades. Those were two big influences on the festival, and as an actor I’d performed at lots of theatre festivals around the world for the British Council – it was cheap, and easy to tour. I loved the buzz of festivals, the energy of people coming together to celebrate.”
BUZZ 34
So why exactly was Hay-On-Wye – a sleepy Powys town affectionately known as “the town of books” and the National Book Town of Wales, with two dozen bookshops servicing a population under 2,000 – chosen as the location? “It was home. Everyone who works here lives here. We have three astonishing opportunities at the recce stage at the moment,” Peter reveals about international Hay Festivals. “I’ve got less precious about what’s ideal and much more interested in what’s possible, so we’ll see what we can do. We love stories. We love experts. We love hanging out.” Peter’s story-loving intellectual ethos applies whether you’re in the Andes or the Brecon Beacons, and has birthed festivals in Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Spain, and Denmark. He continues: “Literature can do something that no other art form can quite manage and it connects us to the most fundamental human condition of empathy. It allows us to experience the world from other people’s perspectives. You are quite literally taken out of yourself.” Among the lineup for this year’s festival are Eddie Izzard, Jeremy Paxman, Tom Daley, Graham Norton, Stephen Fry, Bettany Hughes, and US Democratic Party leader candidate Bernie Sanders. “I think he’s a remarkable
politician. I wish we had more like him in Britain,” muses Peter, of Sanders. He then reflects on another incident involving an American politician at the festival. “When Bill Clinton was coming here in 2001, a few days after we’d paid his fee upfront there was an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in Glasbury, a few miles down the road. We knew we had to cancel the festival so we called a public meeting to explain it. The Young Farmers stood up. They said, if you fold we all go down – they manned footbaths and disinfectant carpets for the cars, and they delivered the festival. At that point, it went beyond being an arts event and became part of life here.” After discussing the importance of literature and the rise and expansion of the festival, Peter Florence summarises why people should come along to the Hay Festival this year. “It’s a blast, the ice-cream is fabulous, the welcome is warm and the grass really is greener. You’ll never be bored. And you might meet the love of your life.” Hay Festival, Hay-On-Wye, Thurs 25 May-Sun 4 June. Tickets: prices vary per event. Info: 01497 822629 / www.hayfestival.com
ADAM BEN EZRA Gall Adam Ben Ezra weld potensial sydd heb ei wireddu cystal â neb, ac felly aeth ati i ddangos i’r byd beth y gall y bas dwbl ei wneud mewn gwirionedd. Mae ei gyfuniad unigryw o jazz, roc a cherddoriaeth y byd wedi cael ei wylio bron i ddeng miliwn gwaith ar YouTube, sy’n dangos bod ei chwyldro tawel ar fin ffrwydro. Mae’r rhyfeddod hwn o Israel i’w weld o flaen eich llygaid yng Nghanolfan Mileniwm Cymru. Gyda rhaglen anhygoel, amrywiol o gerddoriaeth fyw, comedi a cabaret, mae gan y Ganolfan bopeth at eich dant ar nos Wener a nos Sadwrn. Ymunwch â ni i weld perfformiad ac i fwynhau coctels (a weinir i’ch bwrdd) ym Mae Caerdydd. Adam Ben Ezra knows unfulfilled potential when he sees it, so he set-out to show the world what the double-bass is truly capable of. His unique blend of jazz, rock and world music has clocked nearly ten million YouTube views, proving his quiet revolution is poised to explode. Catch this breathtaking Israeli sensation at close-quarters at Wales Millennium Centre. With an incredible, diverse programme of live music, comedy and cabaret, the Centre has got Friday and Saturday night covered. Join us for performance and cocktails (served to your table) in Cardiff Bay.
Mai 12 May 2017 Gyda drysau’n agor am 8pm / Doors open at 8pm I gael rhagor o wybodaeth a’r manylion llawn / For more information and full listings
wmc.org.uk/livemusic
film
by Keiron Self
ALIEN: COVENANT ****
Dir: Ridley Scott (15, 120 mins) Could this be the film that makes the alien scary again, or at least a more satisfying sequel for the acid-blooded xenomorph? After the intriguing but ultimately disappointing Prometheus, an emboldened Ridley Scott continues the franchise directing his third Alien film. The good ship Covenant is on its way to a remote planet in a bid to start a new colony. Their destination seems to be an uncharted if eerie paradise; then they discover a ship, like others in films before them, and soon they are fighting for their lives. Heading up the merry band of fodder are Katherine Waterston in a Ripley-esque role, Michael Fassbender who returns as an upgraded synthetic, while Danny McBride, James Franco, Carmen Ejogo and Billy Crudup are among the others who are about to have a very bad back-bursting experience. Hopefully, with Scott back in charge of a full blooded Alien film, this will make up for the flaws of Prometheus whilst expanding the universe. Promising some pant-wetting sequences, a classy, diverse cast and topdrawer special effects, this should be a return to form for a franchise that is nearly 40 years old. Opens May 18
JAWBONE ***
Dir: Thomas Napper (15, 91mins) A British boxing movie written by its star, reliable character actor Johnny Harris, Jawbone grittily punches above its weight despite inevitable cliches. Harris plays Jimmy McCabe, a former youth boxing champion who has fallen on hard times and alcoholism. Needing to find a way out of his downward spiral he returns to the boxing club of his youth in search of redemption. Harris has drawn from elements of his own life, he too was a former amateur champ, but hopefully without so much depression. Ray Winstone does his predictable cockney shtick as the boxing club’s owner and Michael Smiley is as reliable as ever as the trainer thinking his ex-protege is signing his own death sentence. Ian McShane crops up as a dodgy fight promoter and Paul Weller supplies the soundtrack. It’s nothing we haven’t seen before but this pugilistic production is done with commitment and verve. Opens May 12
MINDHORN ****
Dir: Sean Foley (15, 89 mins) A rather excellent and boundlessly silly comedy from the minds behind The Mighty Boosh and Horrible Histories, Julian Barratt and Simon Farnaby, Mindhorn is a very funny and very British romp. Barratt plays Richard Thorncroft, a washed-up actor who was big in the 1980s playing TV detective Mindhorn – an investigator with a robotic eye that can literally see the truth. Set on the Isle Of Man, Mindhorn references many TV shows of that era from Bergerac to Sapphire and Steele via the leather jackets of The Professionals and more. Now somewhat past his prime and struggling to make a living, his last gig being selling orthopaedic socks, Mindern is called out of thespian retirement to negotiate with Russell Tovey’s serial murderer, who has said he will only talk to the 80s detective. Barrett has to stay in character as Mindhorn as events unfold, humiliating himself many times. Essie Smith plays his former co-star/girlfriend, Andrea Riseborough an exasperated copper, Simon Farnaby is Barratt’s former stunt double camping it up with an outrageous Dutch accent, Steve Coogan is Barratt’s now far more famous ex-co-star and Kenneth Branagh gamely cameos as himself. Unapologetically daft, Mindhorn is great fun and will resonate mightily with anyone who lived through the 1980s. Opens May 5
KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD ***
Dir: Guy Ritchie (12A, 126 mins) Guy Ritchie brings his brand of slo-mo, speedy-up mockney swagger to the Arthurian legend in this mash-up of Lock, Stock and Excalibur. After the successes of the style-over-substance Sherlock Holmes films with an indestructible Robert Downey Jnr, Ritchie has embarked on a proposed six-film odyssey of kingly japes. Charlie Hunnam plays the titular king, in this version from the streets, raised in a brothel and robbed of his birthright by dastardly Jude Law’s Vortigen who now rules in his place. Soon he finds out that there is a contender to the throne and Vortigen wants his rival dead. Cue lots of homoerotic topless fisticuffs, hefty CGI (huge elephants, snakes, castles) and bants. Ritchie’s brash style papers over any real characterisation with another loud, noisy and in-yourface, smugly masculine romp. Opens May 19
SLEEPLESS **
Dir: Baran bo Odar (15, 95 mins) Silly overblown thriller borrowing heavily from Taken et al, with Jamie Foxx doing all the bone-breaking as an apparently corrupt Nevada cop being investigated by Michelle Monaghan's Internal Affairs officer. Foxx is partnered with a dirty cop but isn’t dirty himself, obvs – he is in fact, ‘deep undercover’. Events take a turn for the worst after a drugs bust and Foxx’s son gets ‘taken’ in revenge by nasty crime boss Scoot McNairy. Foxx then goes after the baddies who took his son and all manner of hoary cliches rear their heads. There are the occasional action set pieces to liven up matters to the beat of a relentless soundtrack but this police corruption thriller is obvious, free from tension and an attempt by Foxx to break into the Keanu Reeves/Liam Neeson generic hardman niche. Sleepless is not one to lose any sleep over missing. Opens May 5
ALSO RELEASED MAY 2017: BURDEN (15) Documentary about the artist Chris Burden and the extremes he went to. A DOG’S PURPOSE (PG) A dog moves from family to family in a quest to find a purpose to its life. That’s right. A dog. HARMONIUM (15) Low-key but gripping Japanese drama as a man released from prison insinuates himself into a friend’s family life. THE JOURNEY (15) A chronicle of the relationship between Ian Paisley and Martin McGuiness as they hammered out the Northern Ireland Peace Process. Timothy Spall and Colm Meaney play the opponents, in this very timely drama. FRANTZ (12A) Following the First World War, a German woman grieves the death of her fiancé, only to meet a Frenchman at his graveside. Francois Ozon scores again with this affecting drama.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: SALAZAR’S REVENGE ****
Dir: Joachim Renning, Espen Sandberg (12A, 145 mins) After the bloated original trilogy and its lacklustre followup On Stranger Tides, Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow is back in another nautical adventure that feels far more in spirit with the original, The Curse Of The Black Pearl. Sparrow is being pursued by the ghostly Salazar played by a menacing and heavily CGI-enhanced Javier Bardem, out for revenge on all pirates. The only way Sparrow can survive this onslaught is to find the trident of Poseidon himself, which will give its wielder control over the seas. Sparrow, however, is washed-up, scared of the water and has two fresh faces to deal with: Brendon Thwaites and Kaya Scodelario are the new Keira and Orlando, star-crossed lovers for Sparrow to bounce off. Geoffrey Rush also returns to the franchise with bumbling pirates played by Giles New and Angus Barnett in tow. Kevin McNally also returns as Sparrow’s first mate and Orlando Bloom himself is also cameoing. Big on spectacle, the budget is over $300 million and directed by Scandinavian mega-blockbuster newbies Renning and Sandberg, who directed the excellent smaller scale seagoing adventure Kontiki, this will hopefully return the piratical franchise to its original salty glory. And there are ghost sharks. Oooooh and indeed arrrrrrrrrr. Opens May 26
THE RED TURTLE ****
Dir: Michael Dudok de Wit (PG, 80 mins) An animated film with no dialogue may seem like a tough sell, but this is a charming, beautiful and absorbing fable about the cycle of life. Backed by the animation arthouse Studio Ghibli that brought us the delights of Spirited Away, The Red Turtle follows a castaway on a desert island, as he struggles to survive, finding food, befriending crabs and trying to escape his apparent prison on a self-made raft, only for a red turtle to prevent him doing so. Why is the turtle trying to keep him there? Offering no easy answers and existing in a dream-like state, The Red Turtle offers many interpretations and is not kiddie-friendly Disneyesque fare. Instead it is a patient, beguiling tale that will move those willing to embrace it. Truly different and extraordinary and with an emotional, human resonance that lingers. Opens May 26
SNATCHED ****
Dir: Johnathan Levine (15, 99 mins) An inspired pairing of new and old-school Hollywood comediennes, and written by the woman behind The Heat, Katie Dippold, Snatched should allow Amy Schumer and Goldie Hawn to flex their funny bones. Dumped by her boyfriend, Schumer goes on a South American vacation with her mother, Hawn. One is an impetuous dreamer, the other erring on the side of caution. Schumer meets a dubious but hunky flirter Tom Bateman and they find themselves kidnapped, or indeed Snatched, embroiled in a nefarious plot and doing a lot of running and improvisational mother/daughter banter. Life lessons will be learned amongst the swearing, sun tan lotion covering and incompetent fight scenes. It’s been 15 years since Hawn last appeared in the cinema with the underwhelming Banger Sisters, but with Schumer to bounce off, this could provide a late flowering for the woman behind the ace Private Benjamin. Schumer’s trademark controversial shtick, after the success of Trainwreck, is now funnelled into an action comedy template with hopefully uproarious results. Directed by the man behind 50/50 and Christmas improvathon The Night Before, Johnathan Levine, this should have some character behind the comedy too. Snatch it if you can. Opens May 19
THE SECRET SCRIPTURE **
Dir: Jim Sheridan (12A, 108 mins) A period romance adapted from Sebastian Barry’s novel, The Secret Scripture promises much but ends up rather unsatisfying. Vanessa Redgrave plays Rose McNulty, who has been confined to an insane asylum for four decades after discretions made by her younger self, Rooney Mara, in wartime Ireland. She is about to be discharged to another asylum but has to be assessed by psychologist Eric Bana first. She does not want to leave, as she believes her long-lost son will find her there. The film then goes into her history with Mara caught as an object of desire by several men, priest Theo James, blokey Aidan Turner, nice boy Jack Reynor and sinister Tom Vaughan-Lawler. What follows is a little scattershot: plot contrivances are abundant, Irish accents slip and no one seems worthy of interest. It’s handsomely shot and evocative but ultimately rather confused and not a patch on some of director Sheridan’s other work. Opens May 19
UNLOCKED **
Dir: Michael Apted (15, 98 mins) The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Noomi Rapace, goes all Jason Bourne in this underwhelming spy thriller. London is under the threat of biological attack and CIA interrogator Rapace is called in to interview a suspect, all, however, is not as it seems and she is on the run and not knowing who to really trust. She is forced to team up with a deeply unconvincing Orlando Bloom as an MI5 cockernee hardman, whilst other high calibre actors potentially double cross her. Michael Douglas, Toni Collette and John Malkovich all show up in the uninvolving plot but to little avail, as events spiral into regulation straight to DVD moments. There are brief action set pieces with Rapace displaying Bourne-like fisticuffs, but the plot and characters never entirely convince. A work-a-day thriller that promises much with the talent on show, but fails to deliver. Opens May 5
THE LEVELLING (12A) Absorbing family drama as a daughter returns home to a family farm following a tragedy and tries to piece her father back together. THE LAST FACE (15) Director Sean Penn’s much derided aid worker romance despite starring Charlize Theron and Javier Bardem just isn’t very good. SPACESHIP (15) A girl fakes her own alien abduction in this self-consciously quirky annoyance. WHISKY GALORE (PG) Another unnecessary remake of a classic British comedy as Scottish folk plunder cases of whisky from a ship. Eddie Izzard crops up. Not needed. THE OTHER SIDE OF HOPE (15) Comedy drama of the quirky kind from the always reliably odd writer/director Aki Kaurismaki. SPARK (PG) Underwhelming CGI space monkey hijinks. You know, for kids.
pic: Mattiaswinbladh
Fairyhill Hotel-
food/drink
THE FULL MOON RUM FESTIVAL
EAT OUT THIS BANK HOLIDAY With this month’s Bank Holidays, you might find you’ve got a bit of extra time on your hands. Lorria Sahmet takes a look at some of the best places to eat out in style on a day off.
Taking place over the bank holiday weekend, the Moon – previously the Full Moon, and already renowned for its huge spirits selection – welcomes the much-loved annual Rum Festival to its doors once again following the success of the last two events. The bar staff have an incredible knowledge and passion for rum and they’ll help everyone navigate the enormous menu, from complete beginners to seasoned aficionados. The festival kicks off with Cuban Night on the Friday with live music from 9pm and a DJ until 4am. Pirate Night is on the Saturday with Seas Of Mirth playing from 9pm with the event starting at 3pm. The final night is a Caribbean night, with reggae music provided by reggae/ska/soul band Captain Accident and the Disasters playing from 9pm. Full Moon Rum Festival, The Moon, Cardiff, Fri 26-Sun 28 May. Admission: free. Info: www.thefullmooncardiff.com
THE POTTED PIG, CARDIFF Located in a former bank vault beneath the city, this calls for an exciting Bank Holiday dinner. Dip into their extensive menu of modern British cuisine with a bit of a French and New York influence, and expect mouthwatering flavours and delicious twists on classics. Also worth checking out is their extensive gin menu. With over 30 options, this is definitely one for those who loves a kick with their meal. 27 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Info: 029 2022 4187 / www.thepottedpig.com
CHAI STREET, CARDIFF Spice up your Bank Holiday with a trip to Chai Street. Offering authentic Indian street food, the restaurant has up a unique urban design – worlds apart from Mint And Mustard, the fine dining restaurant behind the Chai Street venture. With an array of delicious delicacies, think of this as Indian tapas and try a bit of everything! Stylish but casual, the restaurant takes no bookings, so hurry because you can always expect a queue. 153 Cowbridge Road East / 15 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Info: 029 2022 8888 / 029 2039 9399 / www.chaistreet.com
COAST SAUNDERSFOOT, PEMBROKESHIRE This is dining with a delicious view. Built on the Pembrokeshire coast, celebrate with a day getaway to Coast Saundersfoot for a refreshing seafood lunch. BUZZ 38
All ingredients are locally sourced, packed with flavour and beautifully presented. Head over during lunchtime to enjoy the sunny weather and dine on the terrace for stunning coastal views. A range of choices from lobster to fish, there’s something for everyone. Coppet Hall Beach, Saundersfoot. Info: 01834 810800 www.coastsaundersfoot.co.uk
THE BAY VIEW, SWANSEA Head to the Bay View for a pub meal with a twist. Like a regular pub, the Bay View offers an extensive choice of beers and lagers but interestingly specialise in not your traditional pub meals but Thai cuisine. Offering an array of dishes filled with exotic flavours and aromatic scents, it is definitely worth a visit. 400 Oystermouth Road, Swansea. Info: 01792 652610 www.bayviewswansea.co.uk
FAIRYHILL, GOWER Switch it up and go for a stylish three-course meal at the Fairyhill. Tucked away amongst the Gower woodland, enjoy an elegant meal by the breathtaking 24 acres of greenery that surrounds the property. But don’t worry, there isn’t a set menu so you’re free to choose whatever fits your fancy. Whether it’s for dinner, lunch or just a light afternoon tea, the cooking is fresh and flavourful. Reynoldston, Swansea. Info: 01792 390139 / www.fairyhill.co.uk
THE MONMOUTHSHIRE FOOD FESTIVAL A number of food producers will feature at this festival, including Brecon Brewing, Castle Brewery, Ty Gwyn and Chockshop Brownies. There will be a demonstration theatre which celebrates the very best of Monmouthshire’s chefs and cooks. Chefs will show off dishes from fine dining restaurants to top quality pubs, and also in the demonstration theatre will be Adrian Walker, a master butcher from Golden Valley Meat & Game, Grossmont, Monmouthshire, who’ll be giving a butchery masterclass. Other demonstrations will include Charles Rouse, chef and patron of the Chainbridge Inn, and Ane Klaassens, director of Aa Haan Thai. There will also be a guide dog demonstration courtesy of Guide Dogs Cymru. Monmouthshire Food Festival, Caldicot Castle, Chepstow, Sat 20 + Sun 21 May. Tickets: £5. Info: www. monmouthshirefoodfestival.co.uk
pic: Thomas Leuthard
FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST SALAD Words FFIONA MILLS
CARDIFF DATE IDEAS
(TO CONVINCE THEM YOU’RE NOT A SHELL OF A HUMAN BEING) Picture the scene. You meet a charming prospective mate. You’re smitten. You ask them out. They agree. One problem: you’re a shell of a human being and don’t want them to realise this until at least the fourth date. Nathan Roach is here to help. SHOW THEM YOU HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOUR
There are many things we want in a relationship: sharing the same funnybone is definitely near top of the list, and a plus when it comes to having a good time. The Glee Club in Cardiff Bay has a huge number of comedy events to cater to all senses of humour. Even if your date turns out to be a Mrs Brown’s Boys fan, you’ll still have had a good time. Things went well? Try Moksh opposite for experimental Indian cuisine. The Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. Info: 0871 4720400 / www.glee.co.uk; Moksh, Cardiff Bay. Info: 029 2049 8120 / www.moksh.co.uk
FLAUNT YOUR PHYSICAL PROWESS
Nothing screams ‘possible soulmate’ more than witnessing a comical attempt at a double backflip in a warehouse crammed full of trampolines. Cardiff’s Go Air Trampoline Park is not only a great afternoon out but it’s also a great way to shake off those early nervous vibes that everyone has on a date and discover one another’s goofiness. Head down to Nicky’s afterwards for a coffee and cake. Go Air, Llanishen. Info: 029 2009 9899 / www.goairtrampolinepark.co.uk; Nicky’s, Llanishen. Info: 029 2061 4237
FLAUNT YOUR WEALTH
There’s no doubt that golf is a sign of wealth, so what could be more impressive than taking a date golfing? Taking a date mini-golfing, of course! Look no further than Treetop Adventure Golf. Amidst these heavily decorated courses in Cardiff’s St Davids Car Park, you may pull back the plastic leaves of some Amazonian tree in search of your ball to discover the girl/guy of your dreams. If they’re not convinced of your immeasurable wealth, head down to The Dead Canary and treat them to a fancy cocktail. Treetop Adventure Golf, St David’s Centre. Info: 029 2022 6590 / www. adventuregolf.com; The Dead Canary, Barrack Lane. Info: 029 2023 1263 / www. thedeadcanary.co.uk
SECRETLY TEST WHETHER YOU’RE COMPATIBLE
Compatibility is crucial but do you share the necessary skills to keep a strong and steady head when faced with a time limit and a set of confusing puzzles to escape a life or death situation? City Mazes in Cardiff’s city centre will have you thrown in at the deep end with a number of interesting scenarios, including facing alien invasion in a 1950s/2025 nuclear fallout. Be warned, losers may walk away without a second date. The Classroom nearby is a great spot for a fancy after-date dinner. City Mazes, Trade Street. Info: 029 2000 4008 / www.citymazes.com; The Classroom, Dumballs Road. Info: 029 2025 0377 / www.theclassroom.wales
BE FANCY
Want to convince your prospective partner that your diet doesn’t just consist of chicken Kievs, curly fries and Irn Bru? Nothing will trick them into thinking you’re a fancy go-getter than a high-culture trip to a tea rooms. The award-winning Waterloo Gardens Teahouse is a sophisticated spot in a charming corner of Cardiff that offer light lunches, home-baked cakes, fine teas, and afternoon tea, just perfect for a refined date. Waterloo Gardens Teahouse, Penylan, Cardiff. Info: 029 2045 6073 / www.waterlootea.com
The season of salads is upon us with lettuce, radicchio, spinach, and countless other British leaves and vegetables coming into season. It seems a shame then, that the salad is a dish that’s often an afterthought, an aside: the rejected dish at the buffet. Here, however, I’ve tweaked a salad recipe of my mother’s: undoubtedly a salad delicious and sumptuous enough to tempt even the staunchest of salad-haters. It’s a hearty and filling dish, yet manages to retain the freshness of a salad one yearns for on these lighter, warmer summer evenings. Not quite containing all of the ingredients of a full English, but arguably the best ones! Serves 2, but can easily be multiplied.
INGREDIENTS FOR THE SALAD
FOR THE DRESSING
• 2 eggs • 1-2 tbsps of vegetable oil • 4 rashers of bacon • 1 pack of spinach, washed • 2 tomatoes, washed and chopped • 2 slices of stale bread, chopped into cubes
• 6 tbsps olive oil • 2 tbsps red wine vinegar • 1 tsp of Dijon mustard • ½ tsp sugar • 1 crushed clove of garlic • Salt and pepper, to taste
METHOD 1. Combine the dressing ingredients in a jug and whisk thoroughly. Separate the spinach and tomatoes between two serving bowls. Put to one side. 2. Bring water to the boil in a pan and gently place the eggs in. Boil for 7-8 minutes for a slightly gooey centre. 3. In the meantime, heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Start cooking the bacon rashers in the pan until they’ve lost their pink colour. Add the other tbsp of oil to the pan, then add the cubes of bread. 4. Keep turning the bacon and the cubes of bread with tongs, ensuring everything gets crispy and golden. 5. Once the eggs are cooked, remove them from the hot water and run under the cold tap. Peel the eggs and halve them. 6. Separate the bacon and crouton mixture between the two bowls and mix around a little. Place two halves of egg on top of each salad and drizzle with the dressing to finish.
www.thethinkingwomanscrumpet.com @ffionamills BUZZ 39
BUZZ TV FOODIE BITES: CURADO To reflect the booming food and drink scene in Wales, we’re showing off some of the best foodie spots the country has to offer with a series of short foodie films revealing just how our foodie favourites are created.
A
MAY FOODIE FOCUS
This video series, which will be on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, will include a new video of a recipe every week from a selected restaurant, café, bar, patisserie or any other foodie wonder from around Wales, and will be around one minute long... straight to the point and mouth-watering, a nice little Buzz Bite.
Words JANE COOK www.hungrycityhippy.co.uk
We’re delighted to announce the first in series, which takes a look at Curado on Cardiff’s Westgate Street, a charming pintxos bar that serve up a sumptuous range of nibbles from around Spain. Get behind the scenes with Buzz, and learn more about Spanish cuisine and even how to make your own at home.
ward-winning Cardiff blogger Jane Cook (of hungrycityhippy. co.uk) rounds up five of this month’s most interesting, must-try food and drink events that the city has to offer.
Rhiwbina Village pop-up produce market – Sat 6 May The weekly Rhiwbina farmers’ market usually takes place on Friday mornings at the Butchers Arms, but on Sat 6 May it will move to the centre of Rhiwbina village for one week only, giving a new wave of locals a chance to meet the producers and traders, and sample some of their handmade produce. This first date is a trial run, but if it proves successful, there’s a chance it will become a regular fixture. For details, see facebook.com/cardifffarmersmarkets Lee Skeet takeover at Brewdog Cardiff – Sun 7 May This is the third date in this acclaimed Dorset chef’s Cardiff supperclub series. The menu changes at every event as the seasons change from spring to summer, giving Lee the chance to showcase the very best native Cornish produce. His last series of Cardiff events sold out in 48 hours but tickets for this one are still available at www.leeskeet.com Beer & Cheese night at Small Bar – Thurs 11 May What happens when you combine independently sourced, hand-picked cheeses with beers from one of the best brewers in the UK? Enjoy five world-class Thornbridge
BUZZ 40
Brewery beers paired with four favourites from the Penylan Cheese Pantry at Small Bar Cardiff and you’ll find out. Tickets are £15pp – find out more at: facebook.com/ smallbarcardiff Brother Thai Pop-Up at Washington Tea, Penarth – Sat 13 May Promising a selection of traditional noodle dishes using gentle spices, Cardiff’s favourite Thai pop-up are holding a selection of supperclubs at Waterloo Tea in Penarth over May, June and July. The set menu can be made vegan on request, and includes a noodle-based main followed by a Thai sticky rice for dessert. Tickets cost £16pp and are available at: www.waterlootea.com Spring Foraging Courses in Bute Park – Sat 13 + Sun 28 May If you fancy yourself as a bit of an urban hunter-gatherer, this guided forage walk around Bute Park in Cardiff city centre will help you to identify a selection of spring shoots, edible plants, flowers and some spring mushrooms – and also teach you what to avoid. The guided walk also ends with a lunch made from forage ingredients. Tickets and more info available from: www. wildfooduk.com
If you work in a bar, restaurant, café, patisserie, or anything else foodie-related and you’d like to contribute to the Buzz Bites series, then please get in touch on editorial@buzzmag.co.uk with Buzz Bites Contributor as the subject, or contact us on our social media channels. If you’d like to get involved or want to find our more we’d love to hear from you. Happy eating and drinking! Info: www.buzzmag.co.uk / www.youtube. com/buzzmagtv
food/drink
GOT BEEF CANTON
CHEZ FRANCIS
THE STEEL HORSE
21 Glebe Street, Penarth. 029 2022 4959 / www.chez-francis.co.uk Food **** Atmosphere ***** There needn’t be a reason to celebrate, rejoice and thoroughly enjoy oneself where good food and wine is a must, but saying au revoir to a friend before she heads off to Paris is good enough for me. Where better than a French restaurant to see her on her way? The Penarth branch of Chez Francis joined its Canton-based elder sibling a few months ago, and after salutations, numerous toasts, air kissing and several glasses of vino, the gang who assembled there were seated to the small but perfectly formed dining area. The layout is pleasing and set out bistro style: subdued lighting, with interesting furniture and art scattered around. To start, we were encouraged by the friendly staff to try and share the Camembert au fort – baked camembert, served with fig marmalade and toasted bread – which I devoured with a fellow wellwisher. I’m sure she had more bread than me, but it was delicious. A beautifully presented coq au vin followed: chicken marinated in red wine, carrots and celery, served with potato puree. My adjacent diner had an 8oz ribeye with parmentier potatoes, green salad and peppercorn sauce, which I did try and was also a good choice. Others had the fish of the day, served with mash, fine beans and veal jus, which looked incredibly enticing. The throng shared a few side dishes of pain a l’ail (oven-baked garlic bread) while frites, with garlic mayonnaise, probably lasted about 10 minutes. For dessert I managed a tarte pomme and cannelle – apple and cinnamon tart topped with toasted almonds and served with Chantilly – say no more! The food, wine and company were a joy. Chez Francis is set up to entertain and deliver an authentic French experience, which Francis and his team deliver with bundles of joie de vivre. ANTONIA LEVAY
Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff. 029 2023 5012 / www.gotbeef.co.uk/ Food ***** Atmosphere **** Since 2012, Got Beef’s Cai Pritchard has graduated from serving gourmet burgers out of a mobile catering truck, to a temporary residency at the Canadian pub in Adamsdown, to opening his own restaurant in Whitchurch, to (most recently) expanding operations into Canton. While the choice of location for Got Beef’s new premises makes sense in that this stretch of Cowbridge Road East is fast becoming a foodie’s mecca (Chai Street, Viva Latino, Chez Francis, Purple Poppadom are all within a stone’s throw of each other), it does pitch the new branch in direct competition with the well-established, much-loved Time & Beef, just a few doors down. It’s a declaration of turf war. So what sets Got Beef apart? The canteen-style interior and pared-back menu (no starters) promise a no-nonsense dining experience focused firmly on the food – even if serving drinks in jam jars is an increasingly cliched hipster affectation. The presence of Crafty Devil beer on tap and the pork-heavy David Hameron burger on the menu show commendable support for a fellow local enterprise and a sound sense of humour respectively. My Soprano is downright delicious – the Welsh Black beef burger piled with Monterey Jack cheese, bacon, chorizo and jalapeno mayo – but non-carnivores are equally well catered for, able to order any of the burgers with a three-bean patty in place of the meat. My partner’s veggie Dirty South, oozing with Cajun flavours and stacked so high as to require jaw dislocation, packs enough of a kick to necessitate a second can of Pistonhead. Neither of us are normally fries fans, preferring a good, stout English chip. But the dirty fries are something special, slathered with cheese sauce and jalapenos and generously salted with bacon bits – and better still are the pickled fries accompanied by a beetroot crème fraiche and a small dish of potent Carolina-style vinegar hot sauce. Dessert – smooth, good-quality vanilla ice cream rolled in coconut and sandwiched between two soft double chocolate cookies – is an unnecessary indulgence, but, frankly, who cares? BEN WOOLHEAD
The Charthouse, Llanvihangel Gobion, nr Abergavenny. 01873 840002 / www. steelhorsecafe.co.uk Food: **** Atmosphere: ***** Midway between Abergavenny, Raglan and Usk, in an area where there is nothing but fields and hedges for miles, you will find an oasis. Formally The Charthouse Restaurant and before that The Herbert Arms, this old pub is now a biker-friendly café – but don’t let that put you off. Delete images of spit, sawdust and engine oil: here old meets new and the sunny terrace outside leads to a cool interior where contemporary décor is combined with a log fire and wooden bar. It was late afternoon on a Saturday when I discovered this hidden gem. The menu is down-to-earth and includes an all-day breakfast and its vegetarian equivalent, soup of the day and various sandwiches and cakes all made from locally-sourced ingredients. I ordered a filled baguette but, on seeing what was leaving the kitchen, soon changed my mind. If the café has a signature dish it has to be the burgers, which are homemade and served with chips and fresh salad – and the chef doesn’t skimp on the portions. There is a range of drinks on offer from Welsh Brew tea and Lavazza Rossa coffee to real ales, cider and the old biker favourite Newcastle Brown. And if you are into motorcycles, Bike Night is back on the first Friday of the month from Fri 5 May. Open from 9am-4pm on weekdays and 9am-5pm on weekends, with food served until 3.30, The Steel Horse is owned and run by Finn McLoughlin, a man who knows what it takes to keep customers happy: good banter, good beer and good grub. Staff are friendly, service is efficient, the food is well prepared and presented, and the music is good too. I will definitely eat here again – it’s shame I don't live nearer. LYNDA NASH BUZZ 41
art
BEASTS OF THE MABINOGION Oriel Cric, Crickhowell Fri 26 May-Fri 23 June
Beasts Of The Mabinogion is a collection of Welsh tales from long ago which combines history, tradition and legend. The tales have been passed on through a largely oral tradition which has proven inspiring to artists across the ages. One such artist is Helly Powell who has used her skills as a textile artist to create life size ‘fauxidermy’ sculptures out of cloth, which realise her interpretation of what the beasts of the Mabinogion may look like if they came to life. The sculptures are made using fabrics woven at the restored 17th century Welsh mill, Melin Tregwynt. Long ago, local farmers would bring their fleeces to be spun into yarn and woven into sturdy wool blankets, and now the Mill produces blankets, cushions and accessories, all in their own unique fabrics. Eifion Griffiths from Melin Tregwynt says: “Each animal could have just stepped out of the Welsh landscape. This, combined with the subtle mix of selected fabrics she has used, gives each piece a magical quality.” Earthy tones allow the creatures to appear almost camouflaged in nature but their size and majestic qualities draw them back into the forefront to captivate the attention and imagination of the audience. The project has been funded by the Welsh Government’s Tourism Innovation Fund; Helly hopes that her exhibition will encourage others to “explore the Welsh landscape with the eyes of our ancestors” and see the Welsh countryside in a different light. Reflecting on her research which inspired the pieces, Helly said: “As possibly the earliest writings they are based around tales of love, betrayal and conquest with the native animals playing a cameo role – often sitting on the boundaries of reality and other worlds.” Suitable for both children and adults alike, the pieces are evocative of a different time and create a feeling of recognising parts of your own personal childhood in the creatures, and the Welsh landscape they represent, whilst understanding that they exist in the imagination of many others. Admission: free. Info: www.fauxidermy.co.uk ELOUISE HOBBS
DAVID CARPANINI Attic Gallery, Swansea Sat 6 May-Sat 3 June
David Carpanini’s work has been the subject of three television documentaries and has been acquired by numerous prestigious collections including National Museum Wales, the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery in Swansea, Newport Museum & Art Gallery and the Queen’s collection in Windsor. Whilst most of his work is devoted to the presentation of the valleys and former mining communities of South Wales he has also undertaken numerous portrait commissions. Most recently, he has begun to explore his Italian roots with a series of drawings and etchings of the towns and landscapes of northern and central Italy. David Carpanini contributed to the 2004 Attic Gallery exhibition, Visions Of The Valleys, which featured 10 artists and their responses to living in or observing the South Wales industrial valleys. Carpanini has said of his own work: “My inspiration lies in the contemplation of the familiar. I believe that man has a special bond, a special relationship with that part of Earth which nourishes his boyhood and it is in the valleys and former mining communities of South Wales, scarred by industrialisation but home for a resolute people that I have found the trigger for my creative imagination.” Admission: free. Info: 01792 653387 / www.atticgallery.co.uk (GE) BUZZ 42
DORIAN SPENCER DAVIES
EPSY PHOTOAWARD NOW OPEN
Dorian Spencer Davies is a Carmarthenshire-born artist who studied Art at Dyfed College of Art from 1979-1983. His work has consisted of a mixture of illustration, graphics and paintings which he is developing all the time. Dorian has spent most of his life in Pembrokeshire and was influenced by the beauty and magic of this coastline, which can be seen in most of his work. The new show reveals many aspects of his work and styles with his new semi aspects acrylics inspired by the Gower will be on display as well as the work he is more well-known for. Davies said of the exhibition: “I wanted this show to display the many facets and breadth of my work and influences as well as a contrast of styles. My work is always changing and I think experimentation of styles and media is healthy and keeps my work fresh and exciting”. He added that: “The Welsh coast is always an important element and influence on me and this will continue to be for many years to come.” The exhibition is a delight, with colourful, vivid and playful almost dreamlike musings on undeniably Welsh landscapes and seaside towns, showcasing Davies’ inspired imagination. Admission: free. Info: 01792 602060 / www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk (GE)
Now in its fourth year, the ESPY photography award hopes to discover new and exciting photography both in Swansea and from the international stage. The open competition invites professional, amateur and student photographers to enter a piece that that shows their best work with the prize being the opportunity to showcase their art in and around Swansea in a city-wide exhibition. For the first time, the competition does not have a theme, hoping to give artists more space to experiment, both with the modern photography medium as well as exploring more traditional forms of photography. The award is the brainchild of Daniel Staveley, a photographer and lecturer who founded the not-for-profit organisation alongside Elysium gallery to help promote work created in both Swansea and around the world. The award’s prestige has now grown and this year, it has received more entries than ever before. The award has been provided with extra exhibition space to showcase more photographers; for the first time, selfpublished books can also be entered. The exhibition in Elysium, Round Reading Room and the Grand Theatre will run from Fri 18 Aug-Sat 9 Sept and will include the top three photographers, and the winner. Entry: £20 per photographer. Info: 07980 925449 / www.elysiumgallery.com (EH)
Ceri Richards Gallery, Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea Until Sat 20 May
Elysium Gallery, Swansea Until Sat 1 July
VOICES FROM THE EDGE: MURMURATIONS
Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay Sat 13 May-Sun 9 July
Located opposite the Wales Millennium Centre, the centre prides itself on being the regional heart of craft and applied art in Wales. Craft In The Bay will host an exhibition which combines pieces from five visual artists: Emma Prentice, Michal Iwanowski, Prue Thimbleby, Ticky Lowe and Claire Cawte. From spending two years working with residents of care homes throughout Wales, they have created an environment in which the residents felt comfortable and encouraged to share their stories and treasured memories. Some of whom had dementia, but as a result of this unique interaction, the artists were able to connect with the elderly and in the process, create pieces of art. As a direct result of this connection, and through the artists developing their practice, the exhibition reflects the sensitivity and preciousness of the experiences shared through these visits. In doing so, it captures past memories of the people they have met. The collection of works held at the centre is broad, but there’s a running theme throughout them, as they all present the experiences of the elderly. Murmurations aims to appeal to a wider audience and to challenge society’s misconception of growing old. Admission: free. Info: 029 2048 4611 / www.makersguildinwales.org.uk (CJ)
Buz ad.qxp_Layout 1 20/03/2017 15:44 Page 1
Amgueddfa Genedlaethol Caerdydd National Museum Cardiff
Gillian Ayres
Myn e am d diad d Free im entr y
Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre, London. © the artist
Gillian Ayres, Lure, 1963, Casgliad Cyngor y Celfyddydau, Canolfan Southbank, Llundain. © yr artist
08. 04. 2017 – 03. 09. 2017
Parc Cathays, Caerdydd CF10 3NP www.amgueddfa.cymru/caerdydd Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP www.museum.wales/cardiff
Arddangosfa Deithiol
Bwystfilod y Mabinogi Beasts of the Mabinogion Touring Exhibition artist tecstilau
Helly Powell textile artist
26 Mawrth/March - 5 Mai/May 2017 Melin Tregwynt, Haverfordwest www.visitcrickhowell.co.uk
www.fauxidermy.co.uk
stage
POLARBEAR: DARK CORNERS
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff Mon 8 May Polarbear asks the questions: What happens when you take a risk? How wrong can it go? Dark Corners ia a new storytelling performance from Polarbear about how the decisions we’re scared to make can come back to haunt us. And maybe even hunt us. On the back of his international hit Mouth Open Story Jump Out, Dark Corners follows a 13-year-old Polarbear over 24 fateful hours when he takes a risk that leads to a showdown with his future selves. This is a show for the audience to play a part in, as much as being told a story. Set on a pristine set of white papers, the audience help to shape the fate of our young hero as things start to get messy, especially when he learns to follow his heart – often the messiest story of all. Polarbear, aka Steven Camden, is one of the UK’s most respected spoken word artists and is the acclaimed young adult author of Tape and It's About Love. This is a performance that bridges genres of storytelling and puts the audience in the heart of the story. For young and older audience members who haven’t yet tried theatre, or think it’s not for them, this is a piece that might change their minds. Tickets: £10. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org (EG)
BUZZ 44
DIE FLEDERMAUS
Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Sat 20 May-Sat 24 June Die Fledermaus retruns to the Welsh National Opera season, directed by John Copley. This traditional dress production promises a return to the bubbly sparkle and fizz to the Vienna art-nouveau backdrop; John Copley’s production is as opulent as a Viennese desert, full of splendour, posh frocks, masks, and warm comedy. Johann Strauss’ 1874 operetta comedy is viewed as the supreme example of Viennese operetta; Die Fledermaus both defines and transcends that genre. Its story centres on a magnificent masked ball, thrown by a Russian prince, that brings together all the main characters in various disguises. The three-act journey from boudoir to ballroom to jail provides ample opportunities for farce and humour, but also for genuine human emotion and a surprisingly realistic view of urban life. Although the plot may border on the ridiculous (based as it is on the German farce novel of the same name), it’s hard not to fall under the charms of this operetta. Gabriel von Eisenstein goes with his friend Dr Falke to a fancy-dress party. On their way back, Eisenstein left Falke on his own, sleeping peacefully. When he awoke, it was daylight and he had to make his way home dressed in his bat’s costume, accompanied by all the jeering urchins in town. He has never forgotten this humiliation. Meanwhile, Rosanlinde is looking forward to a few care-free days to spend with her lover while her husband is in prison, while her maid is sneaking out to care for a ‘sick’ aunt. In fact, they are all headed for the same masquerade ball. And in true masquerade fashion, mistaken identities ensue in hilarious form. Conducted by Tomas Hanus, Die Fledermaus promises the highest quality opera. Meanwhile the choreography by Stuart Hopps is set to bring the Viennese ball to the WMC stage. With Soprano Mary Elizabeth Williams as Rosalinde and Mark Stone as Eisenstein and supported by the ever-strong WNO chorus, this is opulent, entertaining and a perfect introduction to the genre – even for the opera-wary. Tickets: £7-£43. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk EMILY GARSIDE
EDGE
Dance House, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Fri 12 May The EDge dance crew, the postgraduate performance company of London Contemporary Dance School, will be performing at the Dance House with National Dance Company Wales. The performance includes three freshly created works by Tony Adigun, Patricia Okenwa and Karen and Allen Kaeja, alongside Strange Blooms, a restaging of the Shobna Jeyasingh creation that explores the anatomy of plant cells under a microscope. Members of the group work across media and styles as contemporary dancers, offering an experience accurately reflecting the breadth of the industry and their futures within it. The group also works with high-calibre professional dance choreographers and an artistic director and tour programmes of original work and repertory to venues nationally and internationally. They also engage in a broad variety of other projects exploring the creative process; using professional improvisational work or site specific choreography. This allows them to further collaborate with dance organisations and artists across the industry. Tickets: £10. Info: 029 2063 5600 / www.ndcwales.co.uk
THE CRUCIBLE
New Theatre, Cardiff Tue 23-Sat 27 May Imagine you live in a small town and are accused of a serious crime you didn’t commit. You’re put on trial, found guilty and put to death. Then you wake up. Whew, it’s only a nightmare. Yet an incident like this did happen in the darkest days of American history. 25 people died – 19 were convicted of consorting with the devil and executed, one refused to enter a plea and was tortured to death and five others died in prison – in the 17th century Salem Witch Trials. The Crucible is playwright Arthur Miller’s most frequently produced work worldwide. He wrote this in response to the McCarthy Red Scare of the 1950s. From the Hudson to Hollywood, the US government was hunting down Communists. Miller wanted to protest but was afraid of being labelled a closet Commie, so he dramatized what happened in New England and partially fictionalized the story of vengeance, paranoia and hysteria where neighbour turned on neighbour. He himself was convicted of contempt of Congress for refusing to name names. Charlie Condou and Victoria Yeates star in this new production that brews morality, politics and religion and is as potent today as it was over 60 years ago. Tickets: £13-£35. Info: 029 2087 8889 / www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk (RLR)
JORDAN BROOKES: BODY OF WORK
The Big Top, Cardiff Mon 22 May The Wales Unsigned Standup Award 2012 winner and Comedians Choice Nominee for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Fringe 2015 is returning to Edinburgh again this year for his third successive show at the Scottish capital. Jordan Brookes has earned many admirers in recent years for his original and experimental style, combining the meta-textuality of Stewart Lee with the physicality of a silent-era comedian and the downright out-of-nowhere surrealness of Chris Morris’ Jam and Blue Jam series. Brookes has at times been divisive: Fringe Biscuit described 2016’s show The Making Of as “self-pitying,” but it’s a badge that he wears with pride. This preview of his 2017 Edinburgh show Body Of Work deals, supposedly, with the passing of Brookes’ grandmother in 2015 at the age of 95. That said, considering that this is a comedian who is quite happy to spend 10 minutes simulating a Scouse accent by way of guttural noises and vein-popping facial gymnastics, it’s safe to say that expectations might be worth forgetting. Whatever happens, Jordan Brookes is bound to be strange, bizarre, and well off the beaten track when it comes to standup comedy. Admission: £3. Info: 029 2022 8883 / www.10feettall.co.uk (FT)
Sherman Theatre, Royal Exchange Theatre & Theatre by the Lake
HOW MY LIGHT IS SPENT 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27 May 2017
RHODRI MEILIR
By Alan Harris Director Liz Stevenson
Set in Newport, this is a funny, hopeful play about loneliness, longing and being left behind
SHERMANTHEATRE.CO.UK #HowMyLight 029 2064 6900 ST0156_HMLIS_Buzz Mag Advert_V2.indd 1
ALEXANDRIA RILEY
19/04/2017 14:17
MIDLAND / HUNEE / YOUNG MARCO
clubs
C-Y-N-T @ Great Hall, Cardiff University Students Union Fri 2 June It’s funny to think of C-Y-N-T as being 10 years old and something of an elder statesman of Cardiff nightlife. A decade ago, when it started its notorious weekly sessions at Clwb Ifor Bach, it was the capital’s bratty upstart – one which gave Cardiff’s slightly ailing club scene a jolt of youthful vim. It also gifted many their first taste of scuzzy basslines and very late nights, writing off untold Fridays in the process. Roadblock scenes outside Clwb were commonplace on a Thursday night (‘see you next Thursday’, get it?), and the crew welcomed names like 2ManyDJs and Deadmau5 to its parties, which later expanded to bigger weekend events. After a hiatus during the early part of this decade, it returned under new management several years ago. No longer a weekly affair, the music policy has evolved too and has kept pace with an increasingly disco-centric tastes of Cardiff clubbers accustomed to the headsy sounds of relative newcomers like Teak and Blue Honey. Stepping up for this super-sized event at the Great Hall are Midland, Hunee and Young Marco – all fixtures in the upper echelons of the annual poll of Resident Advisor, that international arbiter of dance music taste. Midland’s emotive, disco-tinged Final Credits on Classic was one of last year’s largest tunes and he’s renowned for his DJ sets, which deftly tread the line of fine taste and heads-down 4/4 bangers. Amsterdam-based Hunee [pictured], meanwhile, returns to Cardiff after last year’s rapturously received set at Blue Honey’s Easter garden soiree at Gwidhw. A fearlessly eclectic selector, you can expect anything from world music jams, disco, techno, acid and everything in-between. It’s little wonder that other DJs often fear the prospect of playing him. Dutchman Young Marco, who works dancefloors with his self-professed ‘strange music’ and ‘unclassics’, completes the trio of visitors. The stellar line-up is bolstered by the presence local hero Clare James, whose energetic sets at the likes of City Bass and Backroom helped define that particular era of Cardiff club life. It looks set to be one to remember. Tickets: £20. Info: 029 2078 1458 KRISTIAN DANDO pic: Marie Staggat
SUBMERGE OFFICIAL OUTLOOK LAUNCH PARTY
Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Fri 26 May Dubstep never really quite took hacross the water in Bristol, which became one of the sound’s most fertile breeding grounds. Submerge, however, have been one of dubstep’s only representatives in the city through the sound’s boom-and-bust years. For this instalment of their parties, held to celebrate the launch of Croatian soundsystem festival Outlook’s 10th instalment, they welcome Compa. He’s signed to Deep Medi, the label of Mala – the Digital Mystikz man and dubstep OG, which is as good a barometer of his quality as any. The Gilles Peterson-approved whippersnapper will be pushing Clwb’s soundsystem to the limit with one of his strictly vinyl-only sets. Finwa, meanwhile, is a resident for Leeds’ long-running and influential SubDub night, which helped fire the eager minds of Ben UFO, Pangaea and the rest of the Hessle Audio crew. He’s known for forays into the deeper, edgier recesses of dubstep, grime and dub so expect things to get pleasingly dark. They’ll be joined by the able hands and ears of residents Ransom, Blokeye and Effigy. If that’s not enough, Cardiff’s Concrete Junglists crew will be ramping up the BPM in the second room with their customary brand of drum’n’bass if you’re in need of a lift of tempo. All in all, a chest-rattling night of heavy bass is to expected. Tickets: £10. Info: 029 2023 2199 (KD) BUZZ 46
EDDIE HALLIWELL
Logic @ Rainbow Rooms, Gorseinon Sun 28 May Hard dance has always been massive in the valleys. While tracking it down in Cardiff has become a tall order since the demise of Bionic, devotees of the tougher stuff continue to flock to events outside of the capital in their droves. Crowdsurfing, deck-scratching Eddie Halliwell is one of the scene’s hardestworking and longest-serving soldiers. His early sets combined the energy of hard dance with the sort of turntable trickery usually found in hip-hop. In fact, he was one of the first DJs to push the limits of the then-new CDJ technology in the early 00s. He was even called upon by Pioneer to help develop the DJM909 mixer and CDJ2000, the industry standard CD and digital turntable, and his loyal fanbase often report plumes of smoke coming from the decks, such is the ferocity of his scratching. Alright, we may have made that last bit up. While Eddie’s sound has moved on since the early 90s (you’re just as likely to hear him throwing down electrohouse as hard dance) it’s still a rare treat to see and hear the Wigan-born veteran in a smaller venue. Much smaller, in fact, than the enormous venues in the big cities or the vast Judgement parties at Eden in Ibiza for which he’s famous for. Come prepared for a tops-off romp. Tickets: £17.50/£15 early bird. Info: 07563 111225 (KD)
DJ STINGRAY
Doppler @ Level 2, Kongs, Cardiff Fri 2 June Think St Mary Street and what comes to mind? Pink stetsons and ‘SCRUM AND GET ME’ t-shirts on international days? Hoards of white-shirted geezers in tan loafers and bootcut denim, oi-oi-ing their way to Fantasy Lounge? Seagulls feasting on cheese, chips and curry sauce scattered on the corner of Caroline Street? Leftfield Detroit techno probably isn’t one of the first things that jumps ito mind, but that’s what Doppler are bringing to Cardiff this June. Following on from the success of their launch party, where they welcomed Tangible Assets man Stojche to Undertone, Doppler are packing their bags and moving the party 50 metres or so over the road to the subway-tiled environs of Level 2. It’s the new club venue attached to the arcade games-and-beers joint Kong’s and the announcement of the masked, mysterious DJ Stingray has already set tongues a-wagging amongst the fans of slightly more esoteric sounds in the city. It’s the sort of booking that was unforeseeable in Cardiff five or so years ago, but it’s testament to the great strides the capital has made that it’s happening at all. Backing up Stingray’s onslaught of thumping 808s, acid and icy electro melodies will be residents Jessie B, Mr Ben and Mikey H, alongside the exquisitely titled Dai Murder. One to say you were there for. Tickets: £15/£12.50. Info: info@ kongsbars.com (KD)
THE GROOVE STAGE
Rhigol Outdoor Backyard Party @ The Last Resort, Swansea Sat 13 May Ah, May in Swansea. The air’s getting warmer, the days are longer, the smoke of disposable barbeques begins to waft in from the beach. Braver souls might steel themselves for an icy dip in Bracelet Bay, while queues of weekenders snake outside Joe’s ice cream parlour. If that’s not a tantalising enough prospect, how about the idea of a juicy outdoor rave-up? Rhigol are purveyors of house, disco and garage sounds and have been bringing good times aplenty to venues like the Monkey Bar and the Lemon Factory since launching in 2015. This year they’re throwing a big day-to-night party in the 300-capacity outdoor space of High Street newcomer The Last Resort, already famed for the quality of its food and booze. So, you can rock up safe in the knowledge that what you’re drinking will match the music and that if all that dancing works up an appetite you can order something suitably bolstering (our interest has been piqued by the wings) to help you power on through. The Rhigol crew will be welcoming down kindred spirits from Leicester, The Groove Stage, to head up proceedings, with support coming from residents Richie Curran, Kye and Jamie Richards. While the weather certainly isn’t guaranteed, you can count on vibes aplenty. Best pack the Factor 30, as well as an umbrella. Tickets: £7.50. Info: www. lastresortswansea.com (KD)
A6 Steelhouse Flyers v.4
22/3/17
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FROM NOW ON
live
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff Fri 19 + Sat 20 May Returning in a more concentrated dose this year, From Now On’s 2017 edition once again offers a snapshot of high quality contemporary music, of esoteric sounds and playful experimentalism. Organised by Welsh label Shape Records, the previous three years’ worth of festivals have seen gold star sets from Julia Holter, Anna Meredith and Richard Dawson, as well as finding room for marginal thrills such as LA’s audience-manipulating Lucky Dragons, an H. Hawkline live soundtrack to an S4C horror film, and the incomparable, baguette-assisted drone of Breadwoman. The emphasis is on fun as much as Wire magazine-fondling, on gender balance as a matter of course, and always feels like a treat of leftfield musical discoveries. Chapter also has an excellent booze selection. Hovering at the top of this year’s bill is the premiere of a new piece by Gruff Rhys and Roger Paez, the former having been invited to produce a musical response to the latter's architectural work, in this case of a progressive, rehabilitative prison in Catalonia. Rhys’ specially invited band will be armed with heart monitors and a map of the prison, in what sounds like unmissable, improvisational greatness. Shape Records’ alter egos Islet [pictured] also take another step back into live performance after something of a hiatus: last year’s Liquid Half Moon EP and subsequent gig showed the band still a fiery blast of rattling percussion and feral yelping so, again, do not miss. Of the newer breed of curated acts, put a massive arrow pointing towards Yeah You, a father/daughter combo of fizzing noise, rambling vocals and other associated weirdness. Seriously, they are brilliant. Also in the top drawer are Yama Warashi, a Japanese/ Bristolian folklore-infused dream, the London-via-Bahrain psych dervishes Flamingods, Roshi and Pars Radio's colloquial electronica gathered from Wales, London and Iran, and superb analogue dystopian beats from local boy Twinfield. There is more. You don't need a reminder of the State Of The World to feel all this progressive internationalism doing you good, so for anyone not hiding in a nuclear bunker this month, you know what to do. Tickets: £15 per day/£25 weekend. Info: 029 2030 4400 WILL STEEN
Pic: Eleanor Hardwick
EXIT_INTERNATIONAL
Le Pub, Newport Sat 13 May South Wales trio Exit_International split up in 2015, in advance of lead vocalist Scott Lee Andrews moving to Australia with his wife. As such, it was logical to assume that that was that for their sassy, noisy rock – save for the ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ principle, which this month will see Andrews return to the UK, hook back up with his bandmates and play three UK shows. E_I formed in 2010, a few years after the end of both Andrews’ previous group Midasuno, and The Martini Henry Rifles, who featured bassist Fudge Wilson. Both members play bass in E_I (drummer Adam Thomas completes the trio), a quasi-nod to similarly equipped Chicago group Girls Against Boys, with the result a punchy, rhythm-driven melange of groove and punk. This manifested itself in two albums during their time together, 2011’s {Black Junk} and the self-released {Our Science Is Golden}, from 2014. New music was promised at the start of this year, although given the 10,000-mile distance between members it’s likely that it’s not been recorded yet. Exit_International also play London on Thurs 11 May Wrexham’s Focus Wales weekender on Fri 12. Thereafter, June will see the release of the third Mutation album, an impressively OTT clash of noise, metal and electronics from Andrews and Ginger Wildheart. Tickets: £7. Info: 01633 221477 (NG) BUZZ 48
JESS GLYNNE
Parc Y Scarlets, Llanelli Sat 3 June Hitting the big time as the vocalist on Clean Bandit’s Grammy-winning number one single Rather Be, British pop favourite Jess Glynne has since progressed to become one of the best breakthrough acts of recent years. Her number-one charting debut album, I Cry When I Laugh turned double platinum in the UK, making it one of the highest selling debuts of the past few years. One of only two British female solo artists to have five consecutive UK number one singles, last year was a massive year for Jess, including a sold-out UK arena tour as well as nominations for British Breakthrough Act, British Female Solo Artist and British Single for Hold My Hand at the 2016 Brit Awards. This summer sees her trying to add to that success. Looking forward to her upcoming tour dates, Jess said: “It’s going to be great fun playing at Parc Y Scarlets, home of the Scarlets. I love outdoor shows and can’t wait to share the summer evening with my Welsh fans!” David Stock, General Manager at Parc Y Scarlets, added: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Jess Glynne to Parc Y Scarlets for what will be her first show in west Wales, having already staged the likes of The Saturdays, Alexandra Burke and Status Quo only a few months ago.” Tickets: from £35. Info: 01554 783900 (OS)
MAARJA NUUT
Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff Fri 12 May When you Google the country Estonia, their main contribution to singing at first seems to be as 2001’s Eurovision Song Contest winner, but that should be changing with musician Maarja Nuut gaining more worldwide recognition. The singer, who’s been called the ‘Baltic Björk’, had wanted to play the violin ever since she saw an orchestra on TV at the age of four. Taking up the instrument at seven, music continued to be her major study all through school. After a few years with an international music project, she decided to strike out on her own with the aptly-titled record Soolo in 2013. Her latest release Une Meeles (In The Hold Of A Dream) continues with the mixing of centuries-old folk stories with modern electronic minimalism. She says, “Perhaps the strongest common denominator between my music and traditional music is that the axis remains but everything around it has to adapt and change to survive and remain current.” Nuut uses looped music and vocals, and with her Runic chanting she’s like a mesmerizing shaman. Her work evokes her homeland’s landscape of primeval forests, bogs, rivers and thousands of lakes and islands. Prepare to taken on a wild journey to past and present with Nuut; as Duran Duran’s Simon Le Bon tweeted, “When angels sing they probably sound like this.” Tickets: £12/£10. Info: 029 2039 1391 (RLR)
WARD THOMAS
Tramshed, Cardiff Wed 17 May Twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas, from rural Hampshire, are stopping off in Cardiff this month with an array of cool country numbers. These two were first turned to this genre after a friend played them the Dixie Chicks at a young age. From then on they began writing together throughout the sixth form. Both talented singers and instrumentalists, their traditional country is topped with stunning close-harmony vocals. Ward Thomas’ second album Cartwheels made chart history as the first ever British country act to reach number one on the chart. It moves away from their debut album, From Where We Stand, touching upon different influences they have grown up with: Fleetwood Mac, The Beatles and KT Tunstall. They have experimented with contemporary pop/rock, and from the name itself, this album contains a cartwheel of sounds and emotions. They succeed by bringing a uniquely British perspective to the genre. This tour brings on a more mature approach to the basis of their country melodies and spellbinding vocals. Catherine and Lizzy have said that Cartwheels is the most honest they have ever been through their lyrics. When played for the first time in front of a London crowd at the O2 Arena, the fans fell silent; my bet is that it will have the same effect at the Tramshed. Tickets: £17. Info: 029 2023 5555 (CJ)
007 16:02
A Celebration of 50 Years
motorpoint arena cardiff
sunday 25 june 2017
motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk | 029 2022 4488 livenation.co.uk | ticketmaster.co.uk orchardentertainment.co.uk thejacksons.live jacksons
@jacksons
hayvenhurst
SATURDAY 12TH AUGUST 2017
SINGLETON PARK, SWANSEA MON
10 APR
MON
24 APR
DAN OWEN
Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff
14
SHAKIN’ STEVENS
19
St David’s Hall, Cardiff
SUN
MAY FRI
MAY
AL STEWART
Grand Theatre, Swansea
20
THE ALARM
07
Y Plas, Cardiff University
03.21.2007 16:01 BLACK YELLOW MAGENTA BK12_88697089302_BK012_XX_01_01_01_P001.pgs CYAN
FRI
05 MAY
THE ONE HUNDRED Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff
AUDIENCE WITH MARTIN KEMP 12 AN Aberdare Coliseum FRI
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reviews albums ALICE COLTRANE *** Turiyasangitananda (Luaka Bop) Worthwhile archival work from Luaka Bop, who serve up a selection of tracks from Alice Coltrane’s devotional music tapes of the 80s and 90s – which were only really available to members of her California Ashram. There’s plenty of swirling synth, eastern percussion and peppy devotional chanting. Perhaps too much. Om Shanti – which foregrounds Coltrane’s own voice, the harp led Er Ra and the stately synth dirge of Journey To Satchidananda are the standouts, primarily because they keep things simple. IP
AT THE DRIVE-IN *** in•ter a•li•a (Rise) It’s risky when it comes to new material from At the Drive-In, sending transmissions for the first time in 17 years on in•ter a•li•a. Risks worth taking in the case of the angular riffs of Hostage Stamps and Call Broken Arrow, with drummer Tony Hajjar excelling on Incurably Innocent. Arguments on this being a disappointment would be a reflection on Relationship Of Command or the 17-year wait, rather than in•ter a•li•a being a bad album.
BLACK LIPS **** Satan’s Graffiti Or God’s Art? (Vice) Black Lips treat flower punk fans to a varied pallet of DIY alt-everything on this brilliantly titled album. Being produced by Sean Lennon and featuring guest vocals from Yoko Ono is probably the least remarkable thing about it. This rogues’ gallery of a collection pushes everything in your face – picture a Jim Morrison hung next to a Lou Reed exhibited on a boat in 90s Seattle. In answer, the devil gets the best tunes. JPD
BLONDIE *** Pollinator (BMG) Still boasting half of the original Parallel Lines lineup, Blondie’s 11th studio album in a little over 40 years has a fair bit going for it. The strong tunes certainly outnumber the weak and lead single Fun harks back to the disco-fuelled tuneage of their heyday, septuagenarian Debbie Harry still pulling off that trademark sneer. The album feels like it’s being recorded by a proper band again after recent collaborative outings fell somewhat short of the mark. BG
BONNIE PRINCE BILLY ****
DRAGONFORCE ****
HO99O9 **
Best Troubador (Domino)
Reaching Into Infinity (earMUSIC)
United States Of Horror (Toys Have Power)
The influence of the late, great Merle Haggard on Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy (and, ultimately, every other country, folk and roots musician) is boundless. On this album, which was conceived before Merle’s passing in 2016, Will Oldham pays beautiful homage to his musical hero. Recorded in Oldham’s home studio with the Bonafide United Musicians, Best Troubador comprises of 16 tracks from across Haggard's career, rendered pretty faithfully to their original incarnations but sounding all the better for the addition of the Oldham twang. GT
‘Speed metal’ is an apt label for a band that defies all labels. Their sixth studio album begins with a graceful musical intro, but don’t be fooled: from then on tracks take off at such a pace it’s hard to keep up. There are some pauses for thought with slower songs like Silence and The Edge Of The World but as usual it’s the screaming guitar numbers that stand out. Vocally and musically the boys are on form and doing what they do best. LN
Fresh off the hype train with backing from El-P and Killer Mike comes the latest subversive hip-hop group with numbers in their name instead of letters. With production from a multitude of different names across its 17 different tracks, the album is a mixed bag of ‘hardcore’, ‘industrial’ and ‘metal’. Were this the year 1997, Ho9909 would make an excellent nu-metal band. However, in the year 2017 they simply come across as genre-hopping cultural tourists. GM
ELLEN ALLIEN ****
JANE WEAVER ****
Nost (BPitch Control)
Modern Kosmology (Fire)
Music has always been a hobby for Ellen Allien. She sees running her label BPitch Control, which is regarded as one of Berlin techno’s most important, as a hobby rather than a business. Nost, her seventh solo album, features Allien’s own vocals and relates to her past, present and future – a reflection of how she sees and feels dancefloors around the world. The nine tracks here keep up the pace throughout and there is plenty to get your teeth into. EJ
H>A>K kicks off Weaver's third LP with a driving Neu! rhythm, and analogue synths which burble into a tsunami of electronica and drumfills. There are echoes of Stereolab on the multitrack harmonies of Did You See Butterflies? and the swinging exotica of the title track with its “now I'm changing my world“ chorus. Slow Motion and The Lightning Back have the deft synthpop touch of Au Revoir Simone. Combining futurism with the bucolic, Weaver deserves to see her name written in the stars. CS
CALAN **** Solomon (Sain) Fourth outing for this award-winning folk-pop band flying the Welsh flag with their mix of traditional yet modern sound with a rhythmic twist. They particularly shine on the lovely quieter songs (Hayes & Quinn’s, Pe Cawn I Hon, The Rejected Maiden) and on the enchanting fairy tale single Apparition. Bilingual rap Kan is a wonderful surprise and really works fusing both worlds. The jigs are OK, with the most interesting parts being the change of pace halfway through. RLR
COLDCUT X ON-U SOUND *** Outside The Echo Chamber (Ahead Of Our Time) This album, Coldcut’s first full-length for over a decade, has some impressive pedigree. Recorded with Adrian Sherwood of British dub pioneers On-U Sound, and a cast of global greats including Lee Scratch Perry, Junior Reid and Roots Manuva, it’s a dose of positive electronic-dub-pop with some electro quirkiness. It appears that the UK sound system culture is still alive and kicking, and beneath the smooth groove there are some pertinent messages to be heard. GT
COTTON WOLF ***** Life in Analogue (Bubblewrap) The easiest way to write an 80-word piece on this album would be to write “buy this amazing record” 20 times over. It’s a delight; what a Warp Records bestof would sound like if you had to condense 25 years of ambient electro down to 40 minutes. The instrumentals more than hold their own but the collaborations with the astonishing Alys Williams and Lois Rogers, on Lliwiau and Future Never respectively, provide the highlights on Cotton Wolf’s stunning debut. BG
ERASURE **** World Be Gone (Mute) The key to Vince Clarke and Andy Bell’s continuing success is that most of – if not all of their songs – start off as acoustic songs, with electronic beats and pieces added later, so the heart and soul of the song is never lost or buried. World Be Gone is Erasure’s moodiest album since Chorus. Nina Simone is quoted as saying “it’s the job of the artist to reflect the times,” and Erasure have done just that with World Be Gone. DN
FEIST **** Pleasure (Polydor) Six years after last album Metals, Feist returns with a gratifyingly simple record in which the Canadian pares back all but the essential elements. Not to suggest that Pleasure is without texture or dynamic range: the self-titled opener flips between twisted, stripped-down grunge and those softly delivered, breathy harmonies which have become something of a calling card. Feist is an artist who long ago found her voice and by painting with a minimal palette, that voice is given ample opportunity to shine through. HR
GAMES REVIEWS CARD QUEST ***
WinterSpring Games, PC Tactical card-based video games are few and far between, and Card Quest is a very decent stab at a pretty underrepresented genre. Equal parts indie RPG, dungeon crawling adventure and unique turn-based card combat, Card Quest is a deceptively challenging title with a neat old-school art-style and a plethora of deep interconnecting mechanics. It’s surprisingly replayable with a trio of campaigns (Rogue, Fighter and Wizard) each with their own gameplay styles and customisation options. Those into retro 8-bit RPGs like Shadowgate should give this title a look. DYLAN CHAUNDY
THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: BREATH OF THE WILD *****
Nintendo, Wii U/Switch Nintendo’s illustrious and critically lauded series makes its welcome return on brand new hardware and takes the series into a bold, fresh open-world direction. Forgoing the usual linear conventions of its forebears, Breath Of The Wild is a game that celebrates freedom and choice; you really can go anywhere, at any time (after the opening Plateau tutorial level, that is). After awakening from a 100-year slumber, peppy amnesiac protagonist Link is tasked with venturing into the vast expanse of Hyrule to rescue Princess Zelda in a bid to defeat his arch-rival Calamity Ganon. It’s a game that has taken many cues from modern RPGs and has meticulously intermixed them into the core concept of the Zelda experience. This game is essential! DYLAN CHAUNDY
BUZZ 50
LOWRI EVANS & LEE MASON **** A Little Bit Of Everything (Shimi) Here’s a treat for fans of this great Welsh partnership. A Little Bit Of Everything brings together a variety of songs Evans and Mason have performed and recorded over the past 10 years. What this new release captures is the intimacy of Evans’ performances alongside the clarity of Mason’s excellent production work. The material moves seamlessly from Welsh language folk to gentle jazz, with Evans’ warm, delicate vocals beautifully complimented by Mason’s gentlemanly guitar work. JPD
MAC DEMARCO *** This Old Dog (Captured Tracks) Amiable Canuck DeMarco is a laid-back Lennon for our times, and he’s learnt a few more tricks for his three minute slacker pop songs. Baby You’re Out is for indie kids steeped in Screamadelica and Dreams From Yesterday is a sunkissed one-note samba, with wonky keyboard. Lurve song For The First Time sees a fey 80s soft rock keyboard but is eclipsed by the classier One More Love Song. One Another espouses tolerance in relationships, culminating in a brief, polite solo and sleigh bells. CS
MARK LANEGAN BAND *** Gargoyle (Heavenly) Written in collaboration with friend and musician Rob Marshall, and featuring frequent associates Josh Homme and Greg Dulli, the latest album by one-time Screaming Trees vocalist Mark Lanegan has the familiar swagger, moodiness and gravelly baritone that defines his output. Lyrically there’s a lot of darkness, but it’s not a brooding album. There’s a lot of synth action and a lot less guitar feedback on Gargoyle, which for me doesn’t add up to the gutwrenching impact of his other solo albums. GT
MAXIMO PARK ** Risk To Exist (Cooking Vinyl) Maximo Park are no strangers to unlikely alliances (an improbable marriage to Warp Records ended in divorce after three albums), but the involvement of Low's Mimi Parker on five tracks still comes as a surprise. However, not even her stellar vocal presence can rescue a record that too often strains towards a substandard impression of the whiteboy funk of Field Music and Metronomy and hamfistedly shoehorns in contemporary political references in a doomed bid to ensure continued relevance. BW
PENGUIN CAFÉ ****
PEANESS ***
The Imperfect Sea (Erased Tapes)
Are You Sure? (Alcopop!)
This label’s catalogue is generally an attestation of quality and distinctive sounds leaning towards the ‘out there’. Penguin Café’s latest is a perfect fit; blending energetic rhythms, hypnotic melodies and intense ambience to create something pleasingly familiar (particularly to the jazz and folk crowd) and concurrently fresh. The album’s concept is finding beauty in the sum of the parts and all their inborn imperfections, and the layered acoustic instrument motifs following a typically ‘electronica’ routine yields some interesting results. CPI
Alcopop!’s Jack Clothier signed Peaness – no sniggering at the back – because they’re “pretty much the BEST band I’ve heard in the last few months”. Hyperbole, perhaps – but the five tracks on Are You Sure? are guaranteed to warm the heart of anyone smitten by Best Coast and sweet-but-not-sickly guitar pop. BW
SLACKK ***
SILENT FORUM *****
A Litle Light (R&S)
Limbo (self-released)
Instrumental grime is as old as the genre itself, of course, but in the case of newer producers like Paul ‘Slackk’ Lynch, it’s not specifically created with MCs in mind. As such, A Little Light – his second album – relies on its own merits, and starts slowly, with a spate of unexciting keys’n’snares noodling. Things perk up bigtime with the bruising Desert Eagle, and a halfway house between Slackk’s meditative and dancefloortroubling tendencies is found in tracks like Deluxe Night Edition. NG
Once over the shock of Richard Wiggin’s deep yet slightly Morrisseyesque voice bursting unexpectedly into the melody, I found Silent Forum’s new single an enjoyable ride. Music and vocals sometimes felt at odds, but the song has a catchy quality and when it ended I wanted more. LN
THURSTON MOORE **** Rock N Roll Consciousness (Caroline) Sonic Youth were one of the most important bands of the 80s/90s and at the helm of that band was Thurston Moore. More indulgent and with dreamier melodies, than his previous work, Rock N Roll Consciousness is sonic excess, in its purest form. Collaborating these days with, amongst others, Deb Googe of My Bloody Valentine, you can definitely hear that particular influence, in these tracks. The term shoegaze springs to mind. Great album. CA
singles ANI GLASS *** Ffrwydrad Tawel EP (Recordiau Neb) Translating as Quiet Explosion, this W H Dyfodol (Y Pencadlys)produced EP is the next stage in Ani Saunders’ metamorphosis into an accomplished electronic artist. Last year’s excellent single Y Ddawns is included here and, along with Geiriau, provides the poppier angle of an otherwise experimental EP. BG
HMS MORRIS **** Morbid Mind / Arth (Waco Gwenci) The colourful sounds of this Cardiff group are always set to catch you off guard. Morbid Mind is an agitated amalgamation of Blondie and Gong with an infectious volatile energy whilst Arth brings a welcome solace and spacey tranquillity in soothing contrast. This re-emerging double A-side trend is frustratingly tantalizing! CPI
NINETEEN FIFTY EIGHT **** Dark Blue (Transcend Music) Six tracks from the Swansea five-piece dealing with relationships, feelings and the tribulations of growing up. It’s not hard to spot the stated Catatonia influence but Ceryn Sara’s vocals are softer and more melodic, although it did feel as though she was holding back. The band is musically tight and Liam Grundie’s drumming is showcased throughout. LN
UMOJA ***** 707 EP (Awesome Tapes From Africa) It’s on the ATFA label, so it’s gotta be an African classic you’ve never heard unless you collect this stuff or lived there at the time. ‘There’ being late 80s South Africa, where Umoja blew up national radio with Money Money (“bananas!” goes the refrain) and the title track, both of which are wicked spins on American electro and freestyle. NG
demos BRITISH ACID britishacid.bandcamp.com From the weirdly prosaic name onwards, there’s an inscrutability to British Acid that makes me feel like I’m being pranked – but to what end? As far as I can tell, it’s a guy called David who lives in Cardiff and has made electronic music for several years, under this pseudonym and a couple of others. British Acid Trax III, his latest Bandcamp release, is rough-surfaced squelchy braindance workouts for fans of Ceephax and Syntheme (what happened to Syntheme?). I love shit like this and don’t care how David got my personal email address. NG
6FOOT7 facebook.com/6foot7band While Cardiff ska-punks 6foot7 claim to do decent business elsewhere – they’re playing Boomtown in July, admittedly alongside 800,000 other acts – their hometown has been less receptive, they say. That’s where I step in to inform you of their frantic tempos, fruity horn sections, gobby streetpunk vocals, a truly howling cover of Lionel Richie’s Hello and songs hailing bin dippers and getting banjoed on Buckfast and speed. NG
THE CALM COLLECTIVE twitter.com/thecalmcouk While appreciating, or at least assuming, that these guys’ chosen name is a pun, it’s hardly one to get the blood racing. Equally, that’s probably not on The Calm Collective’s agenda: they’re a Cardiff-based duo (also, you need more than two people for a ‘collective’, surely?) whose track Praise You combines wistful MOR indiepop melodies and Coldplay-in-training soaring parts with a rickety drum machine. Unsure if this is out of necessity or because they want to sound like The Postal Service (they don’t), but it’s really not in my wheelhouse. NG
WE'VE BEEN WATCHING... RICK AND MORTY AdultSwim (available on AdultSwim.com) How did you spend April Fool’s Day? Clingfilming a toilet seat? Placing fake vomit on the carpet? Well if you’re Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland you released the brand-new episode of Rick And Morty, The Rickshank Redemption, and aired it on a continuous loop for the day. The episode picks up almost exactly where the previous season ended, with Rick incarcerated and Morty and the rest of the family adjusting to life on Earth as a part of the Galactic Federation. What follows is a hilarious and at times bizarre prison break story, which has a surprisingly self-aware ending that will leave viewers’ shocked. *****GE TRAILER PARK BOYS Swearnet (available on Netflix) The latest series of Trailer Park Boys seems to be a cut and paste job of the past few series. There’s little to no character development; the characters themselves have become tired shadows of their former selves, doing little more than following the very basic formulae their characters are bound by. The result is a disappointing and drawn-out death of what was once a hysterical, clever, and charming show. I suppose it’s time though – Canadian cannabis legalisation sort of destroys a big part of the series’ source of humour. **LOB MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000: THE RETURN Netflix (available on Netflix) A B-movie lover favourite, MST3K is back and has laid any concerns that it won’t live up to the originals to rest. With a new host (Jonah Ray) looking after his robot friends, Crow and Tom Servo, the trio riff over the likes of Starcrash and Avalanche (which I highly recommend for its shittiness). Felicia Day and Patton Oswalt also offer their comic talents in this reboot, and with references younger generations may actually get, it feels more relevant than ever. Ray fills former hosts Mike Nelson and Joel Hodgson’s boots perfectly. *****LOB MR HOLMES BBC Films (available on Netflix) Mr Holmes is an interesting take on the recently overlyexploited Sherlock Holmes series: Ian McKellen masterfully stars as a 93-year-old Sherlock, now in retirement in a sleepy Sussex cottage battling against Alzheimer’s, living with his housekeeper and her young son. The beautifully shot film sees Sherlock investigate one last case from his past and as he tries to delay the effects of dementia to be able to resolve it. Mr Holmes is refreshingly different and poignant, all while maintaining that typical sense of mystery. ****LOB LEAD BALLOON Open Mike Productions (available on Netflix) Jack Dee and Pete Sinclair’s British sort-of-answer to Larry David’s Curb Your Enthusiasm sees Dee star as Rick Spleen, a petty and cynical comedian whose life is one embarrassment after another. What sets it apart from Curb, however, is the insufferable nature of Rick Spleen, who comes across as needlessly mean and spiteful, in comparison to Larry David’s strong sense of petty morals that constantly get him into trouble. I found myself getting annoyed at Dee’s character, but it’s still got some funny moments and wellcrafted characters… Spleen’s just not one of them. ***LOB BIG LITTLE LIES HBO (available on Netflix) Don’t be fooled by the glossy exterior: Little Big Lies is dark and unexpectedly complex. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman and Shailene Woodley, the series focuses on the various entangled lives of the residents of Montery, California. Featuring largely female protagonists, the narrative hinges on the identity of a murder victim and the crime’s perpetrator. Intelligently interspersing police interviews with local residents throughout, the resulting drama is cohesive and engaging, highlighting the opportunities TV now offers for A list actors. ****SD
BUZZ 51
music news EXTRA
The huddle of music venues on Cardiff’s Womanby Street, already subject to no little upheaval in 2017, have had an especially tumultuous last few weeks. Following the news that Wetherspoons intended to build hotel rooms above adjacent bar the Gatekeeper, leading to fears of resultant noise complaints from guests, metal club Fuel fielded such a grievance long before a power drill had been plugged in. The timing of this complaint, which came from a flat at the venue’s rear, was regarded as suspicious by some conspiracy-minded folk; either way, Cardiff City Council served Fuel with a Noise Abatement Notice that requires them to pay for soundproofing and interior structural work. An all-day fundraising gig is booked for Sun 7 May; the lineup’s TBC but early bird tickets are £10 A campaign group, Save Womanby Street, was also set up in late March. Its aim is to raise awareness of the vulnerability of music venues in the area, and lobby Cardiff Council to deem Womanby Street ‘culturally significant’ and protect its extant businesses accordingly. When it emerged, only a few days after SWS’ launch, that plans had been approved
to construct a seven-storey residential/ commercial unit directly next door to Clwb Ifor Bach, the necessity of the group’s work was put into sharp focus. So far, though, it’s proved effective, gaining them local media coverage and support of councillors – ahead, it might be noted, of local elections on Thurs 4 May. Meanwhile, an unaffiliated petition for planning laws to be altered was started by Plaid Cymru candidate Richard Williams; having reached 5,000 signatures, it will now be debated in the Senedd As with Fuel, events outpaced people’s fears when The Full Moon unexpectedly closed its doors early last month. A statement [above, left] taped to the door on Wed 5 Apr, noting that the property and its contents had been repossessed, was swiftly confirmed by the venue, who cited a period of “difficult trading” – the Moon having already downsized from two floors to one in January. With equal haste, a number of staff members announced their intention to reopen it as a co-operative; launching a few days later as Creative Republic Of Cardiff [above, right], by the middle of the month they were confirmed as the new leaseholders
for the venue. With a scheduled opening date of Fri 28 Apr, and all subsequent gigs still planned to take place there (a few have been moved to the Transport Club, a new Cardiff venue on Tudor Street with a similar capacity), an impressively fast and committed turnaround is hopefully just the beginning of a stable period Offsetting the above itinerary of chaos, invective and ill-fortune is the relative oasis of unfussy pop calm that’s to be found in the new album by Sweet Baboo. Wild Imagination is released by Moshi Moshi Records on Fri 2 June and, according to Babs himself – Cardiff-based Stephen Black, to be more formal – is a concerted effort at positivity, in the wake of 2016’s many ghastly events. Its 10 songs delve into some of the cult heroes of oddball pop, from Brian Wilson to Robert Wyatt and Arthur Russell; the latter’s non-disco work comes to mind a few times, through Black’s use of drum machine and synth. Partly inspired by his young son and the world he now occupies, the album also features a co-writing credit for someone else of toddling age: three-year-old Arlo Blackwell, son of Liverpudlian indie couple The Lovely Eggs
ONES TO WATCH... KHAMIRA
When is best to begin the watching of a Ones To Watch inductee, you may ask? How long is a piece of string? Sometimes they end up lying publicity-shunningly low for years afterwards. In the case of Khamira, you should watch them this month, specifically on one of their five live dates in this area. Comprised of four Wales-based jazzers and three Indian musicians (two of whom live in the United States), it’s hard to know when they might reconvene. In the meantime, though, you’ll have their luscious self-titled debut album, and the only strings you need mull are those on Aidan Thorne’s bass and Suhail Yusuf Khan’s sarangi. You might conceivably recognise the latter name from last month’s Buzz, which previewed the Indian/Scottish/ English folk hybrid Yorkston/Thorne/Khan. The Thorne of that ensemble (Jon) is not the Thorne of this one – Aidan Thorne lives in south Wales, as do Khamira members Tomos Williams, Dave Jones and Mark O’Connor – but Y/T/K fans are enthusiastically directed to this album, which combines Indian classical motifs, beatific jazz fusion and folky ambience. There’s a pronounced sonic link, too, to Burum, who feature all of Khamira’s Welsh contingent and who are like a 1970s Sain Records band recording for ECM. Generally sedate in its cross-continental hybrids, Khamira can still let loose, notably during the wiggy tabla’n’bass babble of Y Gwydd. Experience this up close in Abergavenny (Mon 22 May), Ystradgynlais (Tue 23), Cardiff (Wed 24), Narberth (Thurs 25) and Aberystwyth (Fri 26). www.khamira.net BUZZ 52
one louder YOU don’t have to believe me, but I was planning to make this month’s column a lolstalgic trip back to the General Election of May 1997 long before the June 2017 edition was announced. Wrote a note to myself on my computer and everything. Even before that, I had repeatedly asserted to confidantes that this year is ripe with epochal 20th anniversaries, and by God I intend to dip my bread in that gravy. Unfortunately, One Louder is written as part of my job each month, meaning that I get no extra payment on top of my salary for writing it, but I am still available to pen rheumy-eyed and probably historically inaccurate reminiscences about the death of Princess Di, the release of OK Computer etc in exchange for money. Moving away from this display of unashamed selfinterest, let us ponder Tony Blair’s Labour Party, and the national discourse around it at the time. I was not quite 17, so too young to vote, but nevertheless caught up in the trawler net of New Labour’s appeals to youth. A political party with a media strategy that took people under 25 into consideration was an amusing novelty – associated, perhaps, with the well-meaning but doomed Red Wedge musical collective which did very little to turn the Tory tide Labourwards in the 1987 election. This was a different era, though: Labour-endorsing pop stars of ‘97 may not have been that much cooler, but they bent with the wind of overwhelming public disdain for the Conservative Party, enough for the snake oil of centrism to be a simple sell. I’d be lying if I said it felt like that at the time, mind. Outside the varied worlds of (a) forensic political analysts, (b) a probably tiny rump of disaffected leftists to whom New Labour was functionally indistinguishable from the Tories, and (c) Tories, people seemed prepared to accept anything that resulted in the most loathed and most electorally triumphant government of the 20th century being binned off. And so May 1, 1997 was the first General Election I watched, and the only one to date I have enjoyed watching. My uncle, my cousin and I drank crates of cheap beer and turned the air ironically blue with glee as big game like David Mellor, Neil Hamilton and Michael Portillo (whose later rebranding as a kind of quasiliberal Nice Tory doesn’t get remarked on enough for its improbability) were gunned down. Mellor’s post-defeat speech, in which the visibly chastened ex-minister aims fire at his rival candidate – the even more revolting James Goldsmith – is on YouTube, and remains a deeply pleasurable viewing experience. Goldsmith stood as a member of the Referendum Party, whose aim was to bring about a referendum on Britain’s membership of the EU, and lost his deposit. “Dead in the water!” Mellor barks at Goldsmith, who would be dead in a coffin less than three months later, and indeed the Referendum Party never advanced beyond political footnote status. Many of its members defected to something called the UK Independence Party, whose primary aims were taking us out of the EU and being given far more TV coverage than they deserved. And it’s they who, in 2017, will undoubtedly contribute to my General Election viewing experience being awful, dispiriting and shit. GNOD are playing in the (reopened) Moon in Cardiff that night, so that’ll be something at least. Before that, May has DARKEST HOUR and VENOM PRISON (Clwb Ifor Bach, Mon 1), HEY COLOSSUS, THINK PRETTY and OBLONG (the Moon, Fri 5), THE NIGHTINGALES and MWSTARD (Moon, Thurs 11), BRUNCH, MODERN RITUALS and DISJOY (Moon, Fri 19), DIVIDER and DEADLINES (Mozarts, Swansea, Fri 19), HIGH FUNCTIONING FLESH, BURL and BEAUTY PARLOUR (Undertone, Mon 22), GALLOPS (Clwb Ifor, Fri 26) and THE ADMIRAL SIR CLOUDSLEY SHOVELL (Scene Club, Swansea, Sat 27). NOEL GARDNER
46161-47 Lido RHP Buzz Mag advert April.May2017.qxp_Layout 1 24/04/2017 10:09 Page 1
Diwrnodau i'w Cofio yn Rhondda Cynon Taf
Great Days Out In Rhondda Cynon Taf
Boed glaw neu hindda, mae Rhondda Cynon Taf yn cynnig y diwrnod allan perffaith i'r teulu cyfan.
Whatever the weather, Rhondda Cynon Taf offers the perfect day out for all the family.
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Galwch heibio i Barc Treftadaeth Cwm Rhondda, Amgueddfa Glofeydd Cymru, a mwynhau profiad unigryw mewn pwll glo go iawn yng Nghymoedd De Cymru. Mae Rhondda Cynon Taf hefyd yn gartref i Lido Ponty, Lido Cenedlaethol Cymru – atyniad unigryw i'r teulu heb ei debyg yng Nghymru.
Make a ‘Pit Stop’ at the Museum of Welsh Mining - Rhondda Heritage Park, and enjoy a unique experience at an authentic coal mine in the South Wales Valleys, or visit the home of Lido Ponty, the National Lido of Wales - a unique family attraction which is the only one of its kind in Wales.
Mae Parc Treftadaeth Cwm Rhondda yn dyst hyd heddiw o'n cymunedau o'r oes a fu oedd yn ffynnu oherwydd y diwydiant glo. Mae'r atyniad poblogaidd i deuluoedd a thwristiaid yn cynnig darlun gwych o ddiwylliant a chymeriad cyfoethog yr ardal.
Rhondda Heritage Park is a living testament to our once-thriving coal-mining communities. The popular family tourist attraction offers a fascinating insight into the rich culture and character of the area.
Mae glowyr sydd wedi ymddeol yn tywys ymwelwyr ar Daith yr Aur Du, taith 40 o funudau drwy safle hen lofa Lewis Merthyr. Mae ymwelwyr yn rhyfeddu o glywed eu hanesion am fywyd dan ddaear.
Mae Taith yr Aur Du yn cynnwys ymweld â'r Ystafell Lampau lle mae ymwelwyr yn casglu helmedau a lampau glowyr, ymweld â'r Iard Lo Wreiddiol, a chyfle i weld Corn Simnai hanesyddol trawiadol Cwm Rhondda mae modd ei weld o bell a'r Ffrâm Uwchben y Pwll a'r Olwyn Godi. Dim ond ychydig o filltiroedd o Barc Treftadaeth Cwm Rhondda y mae Lido Ponty, Lido Cenedlaethol Cymru. Bydd plant 16 oed ac iau unwaith eto yn cael nofio AM DDIM yn Lido Ponty yn 2017. Y gost i oedolion fydd £1, neu £2.50 i gymryd rhan mewn gweithgareddau yn 2017.
Retired coal miners guide visitors on the Black Gold Experience, a 40-minute journey around the former Lewis Merthyr Colliery site, relaying tales of life underground. The Black Gold Experience includes a visit to the Lamp Room, where visitors collect their miner’s helmets and lamps, the original Court Yard, taking in the breathtaking sights of the historic Chimney Stack, which dominates the Rhondda Valley skyline, along with the original Pit-head Wheel and Winding Gear. Just a few miles down the road from Rhondda Heritage Park is Lido Ponty, the National Lido of Wales. Children under the age of 16 will again be able to swim FREE at Lido Ponty in 2017, with a minimal charge of £1 for adults and £2.50 for activities in 2017.
Yn ogystal â'r cyfle i nofio mewn lôn, ac i nofio'n hamddenol, a Phwll Sblash ar gyfer y rhai bach, unwaith eto fe fydd llu o weithgareddau ar gael yn Lido Ponty drwy gydol y tymor.
As well as the opportunity for lane swimming and more relaxed swims, and a Splash Pool for the little ones, there will once again be a whole host of activities on offer at Lido Ponty throughout the season.
Bydd modd i ymwelwyr gadw lle mewn sesiynau nofio a gweithgareddau arlein. Yn ogystal â hynny, bydd nifer cyfyngedig o lefydd ar gael bob dydd wrth y dderbynfa. Noder: Does dim modd cadw lle dros y ffôn.
Visitors will be able to book their swim sessions and activities online, with limited spaces also being made available daily at our Reception Desk. Please note: Bookings cannot be made over the telephone.
Bydd Lido Ponty yn ailagor i'r cyhoedd ar yn llawn ar gyfer tymor yr Haf 2017 o ddydd Sadwrn, 27 Mai, tan ddydd Sul, 10 Medi.
Lido Ponty is set to open fully for the 2017 summer season from Saturday, May 27, to Sunday, September 10.
NATIONAL LIDO OF WALES
www.croesorhct.cymru www.visitrct.wales
LIDO CENEDL AETHOL CYMRU
I GAEL RHAGOR O WYBODAETH, EWCH I: FOR MORE INFORMATION VIST:
books SORRY TO DISRUPT THE PEACE Patty Yumi Cottrell (And Other Stories)
BOOK OF THE MONTH
A striking debut, Sorry To Disrupt The Peace provides a unique and intriguing angle by delving into the complex subject matter of suicide, as a mix of emotions are explored in this dark, deep and at times humorous novel. The story is narrated by Helen Moran, the main character who has been informed of her adoptive brother’s suicide. Having moved to New York, she is determined to discover the reason behind his untimely death and decides to return to her childhood home in Milwaukee after five years to provide support to her adoptive parents. A host of unsettling emotions resurface as we are introduced to numerous characters and learn about her unconventional upbringing and cultural differences between family members, leading her to evaluate her own life and relationships – both past and present. Dealing with a complex subject matter, this is a raw and vivid account of the effects on the remaining family members following a sudden and unexpected death. Life, loss and grief are predominant themes which are conveyed with both empathy and humour. It’s a fine balance to get right but the author manages to simultaneously relay the story in both a sad and serious way. The scenes are set with vivid detail which works well, highlighting the contrasting themes while the intense plot provides additional elements, bringing the characters to life during their highly emotive state. An absorbing read, I await the next novel from this talented writer following this engrossing, dark and comic novel. RHIANON HOLLEY Price: £10. Info: www.andotherstories.org
RETURN FROM DARKNESS
HIGHLIGHTS FROM WELSH HISTORY
Graham Jones (Y Lolfa)
Emrys Roberts (Y Lolfa)
Inspired by the tale from the Mabinogi of Twrch Trwyth, the boar hunted down by King Arthur, Graham Jones uses the rich Welsh tradition of storytelling and juxtaposes it with various beautiful and spiritual descriptions of the Welsh landscape to create a compelling narrative of his own. With many a twist and turn, the book never has a dull moment, as we are moved through over 25 years and shown the impact that this mythology has had on a group of people. Despite some of the strands of the plot remaining frustratingly unravelled at the end, the story coalesces in terms of looking to the future where mythical spirits, present in each of us, have the capacity to bring light from the darkness within. LM Price: £8.99. Info: www.ylolfa.com
One of the biggest issues we face as a nation is a lack of our own media, and as a result Welsh history tends to get sidelined in favour of an English/ British narrative. How many in Wales can answer when the Battle Of Hastings took place but don’t have a clue when the monumentally important Battle of Orewin Bridge was fought (1282 by the way)? Emrys Roberts admirably sets out to provide a short and speedy overview of Welsh history in this book, spanning from the pre-Roman period to the modern age. It does exactly what it sets out to do, and although Mr Roberts seems to be overly fond of exclamation marks at times, it still provides a solid foundation on which to build a more advanced understanding of Welsh history. Perfect for kids or those who are truly clueless about Welsh history and find longer history books terrifying. LOB Price: £3.99. Info: www.ylolfa.com
50 BUILDINGS THAT BUILT WALES
Mark Baker, Greg Stevenson and David Wilson (Graffeg) This fascinating coffee-table book combines photography of some Wales’ most important and interesting buildings by Mark Baker alongside analysis by architectural historians Dr Greg Stevenson and Dr David Wilson. Good formatting, interesting insights and captivating photography make this book a great overview of Welsh history and Wales as a nation. The book uses structures to mark the visual history of the nation; from Glyndwr’s Parliament in Machynlleth and the Big Pit to the Senedd and Dylan Thomas’ Writing Shed, it jumps from chapter to chapter in Welsh history, linking them thematically. With buildings that changed the world, formed Wales, built Welsh identity, language, politics and the economy, and seats of learning, 50 Buildings That Built Wales is not only interesting for its photography, its historical overviews go a long way to help the reader understand the face of Wales today. LOB Price: £25. Info: www.graffeg.com BUZZ 54
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@mabjones
Perhaps the largest literary festival this month is International Dylan Thomas Day on Sun 14 May, which is now in its third year and has grown to encompass around 50 events not just in Wales but around the globe. Local highlights this year include the Dylan Thomas Prize at Swansea University’s Bay Campus on Wed 10; the Dunvant Male Voice Choir at St James’ Church in Swansea on Sat 13; and, on Sun 14 itself, plenty of events including a poetry drop-in workshop and reading by the National Poet of Wales and Youth Poet Laureate in Chirk Castle; a live link-up between poets in Wales, New York, and Sweden in Ferryside; and a promenade walk by Lighthouse Theatre in Swansea. Please see the Literature Wales website for more details of these events as more are currently being added daily: www. literaturewales.org/dylan-day. You can also find out about what’s happening on social media by using the hashtag #DylanDay. If you’re looking to join the literati yourself, then the one-day ‘Starting Your Novel’ course at Chapter Arts Centre on Sat 6 looks very enticing. It’s facilitated by Holly Muller and Kate Hamer, and “is for anyone who wants to write a novel, no matter what stage you’re at.” The cost of the course is £32 and it runs from 11am-4pm. Please contact tynewydd@literaturewales.org for further details. On Sat 17, you can toddle along to two events in Pontypridd. Free Write is a drop-in writing session at the Library from 1-4pm. Start something new, work on something in progress, meet other writers in every form and of all experiences. Then, you can take part and perhaps read out what you’ve written at the town’s most popular long-running open mic night, The Salon. Hosted by the delightful Cara Cullen, the banjo- and fiddle-playing poetess will gently encourage you to share your work, in whatever form – music, words, clowning, literally anything goes at this cosy laid-back night. Another creative writing workshop, this time for young people, takes place on Tue 30 at Swansea’s Dylan Thomas Centre. Poet Sion Tomos Owen, fresh from his adventures in India, will deliver a fun and engaging creative writing workshop for children and young people as part of their half term programme of activities. Perfect for the young wannabe Dylans in your life! The workshop begins at 10am and is free. So, lots to do once again and, especially this month, plenty of opportunities for you to have a go at being a wordsmith yourself. I highly recommend it!
lifestyle
Personalised BBQ Apron and Tool Set Not On The High Street, £33 www.notonthehighstreet.com
SPRING SPECIAL The lambs are young, there’s a smell of dung, yes it’s true, Spring has sprung. From growing your own vegetables to throwing a better barbecue, in keeping with our DIY theme, here are a few ideas for making the most of your garden while you can. Multi Coloured Blue Mosaic Wall Mountable Butterfly Garden Wall Art Ornament
Plant Theatre 2 Willow Teacup Planters
Tesco, £15.95 www.tesco.com
Amazon, £19.99 www.amazon.co.uk
Paint Your Own Gnome The Range, £3.99 www.therange.co.uk
Lantern Tea Light Holder Homebase, £4.03 www.homebase.co.uk
Kids Personalised Crate with Seeds Plantabox, £26.95 www.plantabox.co.uk
Vegetable Growing Compost Marshalls, £9.98 www.marshalls-seeds.co.uk
Trolley Barbecue Wilko, £35.99 www.wilko.com
Carrot Seeds Qualcast Garden 3 Piece Hand Tools Set
Suttons, £2.79 www.suttons.co.uk
Argos, £12.99 www.argos.co.uk BUZZ 55
travel
Lorria Sahmet gets into the creative spirit and takes a look at some of the best places in Wales to let those creative juices flow.
C R E AT I V E G E TA W AY S pic: Steve Bittinger
INDIGO BROWN PAINTING HOLIDAYS, PEMBROKESHIRE Unleash your inner artist and develop your artistic skills along the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline and countryside. Run by Andrew and Maggie Brown, Indigo Brown offers a choice of three, five or seven days of a full-board, residential painting holiday. With an extensive artistic background, Maggie designs the creative workshops that include a stunning ‘painting on location’ experience for beginner or experienced artists. Perfect for those who are looking for a quick relaxing getaway but also want to learn a new skill. Surrounded by tranquility and combined with tasty home-cooked meals specially created by Andrew; this getaway calls for a weekend of unwinding, discovering and recovering creative energies without feeling like you’ve left home at all. Info: www.indigobrown.co.uk
TINY LIVING AT SCAMPER HOLIDAYS, LLANGENNITH / RHOSSILLI, GOWER PENINSULA, SWANSEA Here’s a unique way to switch off, unwind and let those creative ideas flow. Tiny homes have become popular and Scamper Holidays has not only offered the experience of tiny-home living to the public but combined it with the picturesque Welsh sea and countryside. With a choice at either the Llangennith or Rhossili camping site, Scamper Holidays takes getaways to a whole new level of ‘glamping’ (glamorous camping). Stick to traditional huts, lodges or cabins or try something new with camper vans and air tents; bear in mind of the small living spaces inside which are designed to encourage as much time spent outdoors as possible. Enjoy the fun in the sun and spectacular Gower sights. Furry friends are also encouraged. Info: www.scampervanhire.co.uk
ECO RETREATS, DYFI VALLEYS, POWYS A vacay-stay in yurts and tipis is possibly the most exciting idea for a getaway and Eco Retreats offers just that. Tucked away in one of the largest forests in Wales, Dyfi Valleys offers some of the finest landscapes and wildlife areas across Europe. The retreat is set on a 1,300-acre organic farm that allows for more than enough adventure exploring around the nearby forest tracks. The yurts and tipis are also set a good distance apart from each other making sure you are able to fully enjoy the serene natural surroundings. But here’s the catch – there’s no electricity! So let those screens go and make the most out of your refreshing retreat in the heart of the Welsh mountains. Info: www.ecoretreats.co.uk
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WOOD SHACK, BRECON BEACONS, ABERGAVENNY If you’re looking for a secret getaway, head to the Wood Shack hidden in the Brecon Beacons National Park. Subtlety named, this holiday home is tucked away amongst the wooded valley surrounded by towering trees and leafy greens. A beautiful place with an intriguing story – the cabin was originally a writer’s cabin where its owner Rob cut down a native ash tree to discover how many things could be made from it. Many of these things can be found within the shack with an added touch of style and comfort courtesy of Rob’s wife, artist Vicks. Designed with natural oak wood, the shack blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. If there’s any place that can inspire creative imagination, this is it. Info: www.sugarandloaf.com
OVER THE RAINBOW, CARDIGAN BAY Over The Rainbow is a unique vegetarian guest house offering relaxed, informal and good quality accommodation by the stunning coastline of Cardigan Bay. Guests are welcome to enjoy on-site facilities such as creative workshops or outdoor picnic areas. For activities outside of the property, enjoy a nature walk around the Wales coast path and Pembrokeshire National Park or head to the west Wales coastline where you can enjoy a relaxing day of dolphin watching. Of course, don’t forget the delicious home-cooked vegetarian meals which are made with organic, local and even homegrown produce – suitable for all tastes. Info: www.overtherainbowwales.co.uk HAFAN CERNIOG, CERNIOG, CAERSWS Get away from the city and head up north for a creative break with Hafan Cerniog. Nestled in the Cambrian Mountains, Cerniog is away from the hustle and bustle of the city and is filled with endless green fields and mountains. It also neighbours Snowdonia National Park, if you’re looking for epic landscapes for inspiration. Hafan – Welsh for haven – not only provides a comfortable atmosphere with breathtaking sights, but it also has various artistic workshops from rug making to wine making and ceramic mosaic art. All done in a relaxing natural setting – the sky’s the limit here and it seems to go on forever. Info: www.cerniog.co.uk
Credit: Keith Morris
Gorffenaf 22 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30 July Richard Blackford Welsh Chamber Orchestra David Campbell Toby Purser Rosanna Cooper Guy Johnston Sigyn Fossnes Jeremy Huw Williams Jamie Campbell Orion Orchestra Kyle Horch Sacconi Quartet Tom Poster Solem Quartet GĹľyl 8 niwrnod o gyngherddau, cyrsiau a pherfformiadau ymylol am ddim yn Aberystwyth 8 day festival of concerts, courses and free fringe performances in Aberystwyth
www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk www.facebook.com/AberMusicFest
01970 623232 @MusicFestAber
sport
pic: fromthevalleys
ABERYSTWYTH CYCLE FEST
This festival is a celebration of cycling in Mid Wales, including town centre criterium racing, downhill mountain biking and a mass participation ride – the Continental Welsh Wild West Sportive, covering all the best roads in Ceredigion. Aberystwyth Cycle Festival also includes fringe events all week and brings you all the thrills of town centre cycle races all afternoon and evening on Fri 26 May. With some of Britain’s top cyclists making a rare appearance in mid-Wales, festival visitors can watch all the on- and off-road action and also experience the beautiful lanes of Ceredigion on their own bikes. The Ceredigion Grand Prix Criterium is a part of the festival. The awardwinning course circumnavigates the iconic 19th-century Old College, the 13thcentury Castle, the Victorian pier and also brushes the town centre for what is a great day’s entertainment for all. Whilst the professionals display their talents on the evening of Fri 26 May, cyclists from as young as eight also have their chance to race from 2pm with six separate school races, followed by a Town vs Gown fun challenge for local adults and students. There’s also a 4th category ‘GoRace’ for first-time
senior racers, and finally the Aberystwyth Seafront Criterium for 2nd and 3rd category amateurs – meaning that over 500 cyclists will be racing around the streets of Aberystwyth as part of the proceedings. The races provide the backbone of the festival, with everyone being able to watch top UK-ranked pro riders race later, whilst being catered for by the many cafés, bars and restaurants around the course that stay open on the night. After the urban events on Friday and Saturday, it’s time to get out into the countryside and relax. Explore the challenging local terrain on one of three routes which provide something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking to take on the challenging ‘Cawr’ or ‘Mynach’ rides, or perhaps fancy a more relaxing tour of Ceredigion on the ‘Diafol’ or ‘Corrach’, you’ll be sure of one thing: one of the most spectacular rides in Great Britain. GARETH ELLIS Aberystwyth Cycle Fest, various locations, Ceredigion, Sun 21-Tue 30 May. Admission: prices vary per event. Info: www. abercyclefest.com
On the Sunday of the May bank holiday weekend, Llanwrtyd Wells hosts the Welsh Open Stone Skimming Championships on the lake at the Abernant Lake Hotel. Everyone’s skimmed a stone on water at some point in their lives, so this is an opportunity to see how your skills measure up against some of the world’s top exponents of the sport. The British version of the championships is concerned with total distance travelled by the stone rather than the number of bounces, with the current Welsh record standing at over 100 metres. The American discipline is termed stone-skipping and has the object of achieving the maximum number of bounces, whereas the British and European version, stoneskimming, is concerned with the distance achieved. Both have their World Championships: in the States it’s been held for many years on Mackinac Island, Michigan, whilst here in Europe, now in its 15th year, it's on the island of Easdale in Scotland. Anyone can have a go and it’s a great family day out with children’s categories included as well. Up until recently, though, the sport has been limited to just a few venues that had locally available ammunition, the problem being the illegality of removing natural stones in bulk from water-courses and beaches for competitive use elsewhere. This problem has now been overcome. After much research and development, a range of artificial skimming stones have been produced. They bring a consistency of performance that’s difficult to achieve with natural stones, however carefully selected, and bring a long overdue level playing field. They are set to become the clay pigeons of the skimming game.Formed from re-constituted stone in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit all ages and capabilities, they are available for use at the Welsh Open. Given the capabilities of the top competitors who have signified their current BUZZ 58
pic: Samantha Beddoes
WELSH OPEN STONE SKIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS
former World Competition Record will be broken at this event. Competitors in the adult male category should indicate if they are “stoned” or “stoneless” at the time of registration. GARETH ELLIS Welsh Open Stoneskimming Championships, Llanwrtyd Wells, Sun 28 May. Info: www.green-events.co.uk
listings
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* – recommended u – repeated
IN A DREAM YOU SAW A WAY TO SURVIVE AND YOU WERE FULL OF JOY
The unlikely creative arc of Elizabeth Price has led her from singer in a late 80s indie band, the infamously twee Talulah Gosh, to a conceptual artist who won the Turner Prize in 2012 with a video work, The Woolworths Choir Of 1979. An albatross of sorts for some winners, Price’s standing has arguably increased since that award. Most recently, she’s curated this floridly-titled and, in an art world sense, star-studded Hayward Touring exhibition. First shown in Manchester last year, it visited Bexhill in Sussex before this summer-long residency in Swansea. Featuring work by over 40 artists across multiple disciplines, In A Dream You Saw A Way… (a quote from renowned slogan-wielding conceptualist Jenny Holzer) categorises pieces into four groups: ‘sleeping’, ‘working’, ‘mourning’ and ‘dancing’. Accordingly, wilful focus is placed on the human body, whose movements can betray its physical condition, or the mental state of the self which occupies it. Bridget Riley, Francesca Woodman, Gavin Turk and the recentlydeceased artist-cum-activist Gustav Metzger are among the more thrilling names to feature in this collection. Turk’s Nomad is a bronze sculpture of a body inside a sleeping bag, notable for its alarmingly lifelike appearance. At the opposite end of the sombre scale, there’s Carolee Schneemann’s Meat Joy, a video of 1960s-era American artists gadding about with sausages in quasi-sexual fashion. Price’s chosen works cover enough disciplines, movements and eras that they’ll inevitably inspire a wide range of responses, as Great Art generally should.
pic: Enfield Poltergeist Janet Lands
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea Sat 13 May-Mon 28 Aug Admission: free. Info: 01792 516900 / www.glynnviviangallery.org
CONTENTS pg 60 pg 62 pg 64 pg 69 pg 75
art clubs events live stage BUZZ 59
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art
art Aberystwyth Arts Centre
University Of Wales, Aberystwyth. Free. Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. 01970 621903 / www.aber.ac.uk/artscentre *Stitched Voices Arpilleras, wall hangings, quilts and memorabilia from the international Conflict Textiles collection; Mexican handkerchiefs produced by the Embroidering For Peace movement and a collection of Welsh quilts and banners made by local artists and activists. (Until Sat 13 May) James Morris ‘For The People’ Photographs of James Morris which capture new buildings or renovations that were recognised by architectural juries in Wales in 2016. (Until Sat 20 May) Stephen Bailey ‘Walking The Dog’ Photographs taken along the Ceredigion coastal path between Poppit Sands and Ynyslas. (Until Wed 24 May) Julian Ruddock ‘Earth Core: The Hominim Project’ An exploration of the relationship between art, science and climate change, a collaboration with HSPDP, The Hominin Sites and Paleolakes Drilling Project. (From Sat 20 May until Sat 10 June) Ben Boswell ‘David And Margaret Frith’ Boswell has been photographing the Friths, who are both potters, since the 1980s. This is the first exhibition in the Ceramics In Context series.
(From Sat 23 May until Sun 23 July) World Illustration Awards 2016 Featuring work from the UK to USA, South Korea to France, and covering practice including books, design and editorial, to reflect the diversity within the industry. (From Mon 29 May until Sun 9 July)
Albany Gallery
74b Albany Road, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Free. 029 2048 7158 / www.albanygallery. com David Tress Highly regarded British artist noted for his inventive landscapes and represented internationally by Messum’s Ltd, London. Until Sat 6 May) Group Exhibition Featuring work by Peter Brown, Andrew DouglasForbes, Mike Jones, Euan McGregor, William Selwyn, Peter Wileman and Kyffin Williams RA. (From Thurs 11 May until Sat 3 June)
Andrew Lamont Gallery (Theatr Brycheiniog)
Canal Wharf, Brecon. Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free. 01874 611622 / enquiries@ brycheiniog.co.uk / www. brycheiniog.co.uk An Art Tour Of The Border Country An eclectic exhibition of work featuring the Welsh Borders and Brecon Beacons in mixed media. Featured artists include Sue Williams, Clarissa Price, Mike Shiels and Mark Zytynski. (From Fri 5 until Sun 28 May)
Arcadecardiff
Queens Arcade, off Queen Street, Cardiff. Usually open Wed-Sat 12.30-5.30pm. www.arcadecardiff.co.uk Rosanna Blatchford A residency exhibiton playing on ideas of display within collections, questioning the space an object is placed within and pushing the formalities of the museum display. (Until Sat 6 May) Bojan Radovic ‘The Icon / The Star’ Slovenian artist Radovic examines how the five-pointed star as a revolutionary symbol is appropriated and re-used in a contemporary globalised world. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (From Wed 10 until Sat 27 May)
Art Central
ings of the South Wales Afan Valley, and Italy. (From Sat 6 May until Sat 3 June)
Barnabas Arts House
New Ruperra Street, Newport. Tue-Fri 9.30am4.30pm, Sat 9.30am1.30pm. Free. 01633 673739 / www.barnabasartshouse. co.uk Attachment A collection of artwork courtesy of USW MA Art Psychotherapy students. (From Sat 6 until Fri 12 May) Gerard Whyman ‘Newport – Old & New’ Newport-based artist Wyman looks at the wide variety of architecture in Newport, in a wide range of media including acrylics and oils.. (From Tue 16 May until Sat 1 July)
Barry Town Hall, King Square, Barry. Tue-Sat 11am-4pm. Free. 01446 709805. Antonia Spowers & Martina JirankovaLimbrick ‘Six Hands’ Welsh sculptor and Czech illustrator draw and study hands for this exhibition. Working at different scales, the studies are drawn in a wide range of mediums. (From Mon 8 May until Sat 3 June)
Barker Gallery / Torfaen Gallery
Attic Gallery
54 B/C Bute Street, Cardiff Bay. Free. 029 2065 0016 / www.bayart.org.uk Danila Tkachenko ‘Lost Horizon’ Images of Soviet architecture and technical buildings, photographed at night in a manner that references Kazimir Malevich and the early Russian avantgarde. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May) Manuel Bougot ‘Chadigarh: Portrait Of A City’ French photographer Bougot examines this Indian ‘planned city’, designed by famous architect Le Corbusier. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May)
37 Pocketts Wharf, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Fri 10am-5.30pm, Sat 10am4.30pm. Free. 01792 653387 / www.atticgallery.co.uk David Carpanini Solo exhibition by significant Welsh painter, featuring recent paintings, drawings and etch-
Pontypool Museum, Park Buildings, Pontypool. MonSat 11am-5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free Wed/Sun 2-5pm. 01495 752036. See You In The Park In August Images of the awardwinning Pontypool Park from the museum and private collection. Plus local artists work for sale. (Until Sun 15 Oct)
Bay Art
Boundary Art pic: The Assamese lining of the banyan revealed
3 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2048 9869 / www. boundaryart.com Hilary Powell ‘Farewell Rock’ A photographic document of the last group of working coal miners in south Wales, at a mine in the Swansea valley, and the landscape and culture that surrounds them. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May)
HIDDEN IN THE LINING – KRISHNA IN THE GARDEN OF ASSAM Chepstow Museum, until Sun 3 Sept Admission: free. Info: 01291 625981 / chepstowmuseum@ monmouthshire.gov.uk How did a lavish coat made from 18th-century Indian textiles come to end up in Monmouthshire? Despite the best efforts of various experts, no-one really knows. However, the coat in question – a silk garment known as a banyan, owned by Chepstow Museum and loaned to the British Museum in 2015 – has enabled this exhibition, which focuses on the northern Indian textile style Vrindavani vastra of which the coat is also an example. Here, you’ll be able to see a full digital-print-on-fabric reproduction (the original is too delicate to transport, sorry folks) of a nine-metre tapestry-style work paying tribute to Krishna’s life, plus various masks, films, manuscripts and cartoons relating to the topic. Plus, of course, Chepstow’s very own banyan as the figurative jewel. BUZZ 60
Cardiff School Of Art & Design
Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff. Free. www. cardiffmet.ac.uk Summer Show 2017 Feature work from across CSAD’s undergraduate courses including: Architectural Design & Technology, Artist Designer Maker, Ceramics, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Illustration, International Design, Product Design, Photographic Practice (Bridgend College) and Textiles. (From Sat 27 May until Fri 2 June)
Cardiff Story
The Hayes, Cardiff. Mon-Sat
10am-5pm, Sun 10am4pm. Free. 029 2034 6214 / museum@cardiff.gov.uk Tiger Bay Brawlers Exhibition offering an introduction to Cardiff’s first and most successful roller derby team. (Until Sun 28 May) From Wembley To Wales: Celebrating Cardiff City’s 1927 FA Cup Victory Discover the stories behind the objects at this rare opportunity to see original artefacts from Cardiff City’s 1927 FA Cup match. (Until Mon 4 Sept)
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 These Rotten Words Via photography, painting, sculpture, sound and moving image works, the artists featured here – Rebecca Ackroyd, David Austen, Johann Arens, Anna Barham, Marie-Michelle Deschamps, Foundation Press, Anneke Kampman, Joanna Piotrowska and Devlin Shea – focus on the physicality of textual, gestural and vocal forms of communication. (Until Sun 11 June)
Chepstow Museum
Gwy House, Bridge Street, Chepstow. Mon-Sat 11am5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free. 01291 625981 / www. monmouthshire.gov.uk/ Hidden In The Lining – Krishna In The Garden Of Assam, The Tales Of Two Textiles Specially created partnership exhibition with the British Museum exploring the origins, stories and meanings of silk woven temple textiles from 17th century north-east India. (Until Sun 3 Sept)
Craft In The Bay
The Flourish, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff. Mon-Sun 10.30am-5.30pm. Free. 029 2048 4611 / www. makersguildinwales.org.uk SuperBowls: Interpretations Of An Ageless Design Curator, Geoffrey Swindell has invited 13 UK artists working in clay – Natalia Dias, Vilas Silverton, Rachel Foxwell, Ian Rylatt, David Burnham Smith, Peter Wills, Zoe Hillyard, Paul Taylor, Caroline Taylor, Duncan Ayscough, Sean Gordon, Ashraf Hanna and Sue Hanna, plus Swindell himself – to create bowl-like art pieces. (Until Sun 7 May) Voices From The Edge: Murmurations Works by five visual artists – Emma Prentice, Michal Iwanowski, Prue Thimbleby, Ticky Lowe and Claire Cawte – who spent two years working with residents of care homes across Wales. See Art. (From Sat 13 May until Sun 9 July)
Cwtsh Community and Arts Centre
226 Stow Hill, Newport. 01633 664498 / www.cwtsh. org Phoenix Together Twelve members of the Newportbased Phoenix Art Group are showing watercolour work for
u – repeated
the first time. (Until Sun 7 May) Brian Haggerty ‘Is It Art?’ Thirty photographs creatively manipulated resulting in impressionistic images. (From Sun 21 May until Fri 23 June)
Diffusion Festival Hub
Unit 6-7, Wood Street, Cardiff. Free. www. diffusionfestival.org Peter Kennard & Cat Phillips ‘State Of The Nations’ Specially commissioned work from this duo, operating as kennardphillips, which deconstructs news images and creates narratives built from everyday materials, photomontage and text.. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May)
Dylan Thomas Centre
Somerset Place, Swansea. Daily 10am-4pm. Free. 01792 463980 / dylanthomas.lit@swansea. gov.uk / www.dylanthomas. com I Might Want To smile Dylan Thomas’ work is full of humour, from his early Swansea Grammar School poems to later prose writing, such as ‘A Story’. This exhibition of such work brings together loan material from the National Library Of Wales alongside items from our own collection. (From Sat 13 May unil Fri 22 Dec)
Elysium Gallery
16 College Street, Swansea. Wed-Sat 12-5pm. Free. www. elysiumgallery.com Helen Dennis ‘Ephemeral Coast’ Brooklyn-based artist’s exhibition, the result of her residency at fellow Swansea gallery Mission in February 2016. (Until Sat 6 May) Kathryn Anne Trussler Swansea-based artist with a work described as “a postapocalyptic Zen garden-type show made from all things unwanted and consumerist”. (From Fri 19 May until Fri 17 June)
Ffotogallery
Turner House, Plymouth Road, Penarth. Tue-Sat 11am-5pm. Free. 029 2070 8870 / turnerhouse@ ffotogallery.org *John ‘Hoppy’ Hopkins ‘Taking Liberties’ Between 1960 and 1966 Hopkins, who died in 2015, captured the emerging counter-culture in Britain; this exhibition for Diffusion brings together previously unseen and rare archive images, including Malcolm X and Martin Luther King’s first visits to London plus various marches and demos. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May) Marcelo Brodsky ‘1968: The Fire Of Ideas’ Archival images of student and worker demonstrations around the world, annotated by hand in order to deconstruct what lay behind worldwide social turbulence in the late 1960s. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May)
Fountain Fine Art
Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm. Free. www. fountainfineart.com
David Grosvenor & Alastair Elkes-Jones Figurative work from Alastair to complement David’s North Walian landscapes. (From Sat 6 until Sat 27 May)
Futures Gallery / Oriel Gallery
Pierhead Building / Senedd, Cardiff Bay. Daily 10.30am4pm. Free. 0845 0105500 / www.pierhead.org Porthcawl’s Secret Tragedy An exhibition telling the story of the Liberty ship SS Samtampa and the Mumbles lifeboat, Edward Prince Of Wales disaster that happened on 23 Apr 1947. (Until Mon 8 May) Vale Photographic Club Annual show featuring a wide ranging selection of photographs by members of this club. (Until Fri 19 May) The Bridge A celebration of the artistic achievements of The Bridge Alternative Provisions GCSE Art and Design students. (From Tue 9 until Fri 19 May) Cardiff Metropolitan University Graduate Exhibition - BA (Hons) Photographic Practice Show with self-explanatory title. (From Mon 22 May until Fri 2 June)
Y Galeri, Caerffili
Lower Ground Floor, The Visit Caerphilly Centre, The Twyn, Caerphilly. Tue-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2132 2570 / www.ygalericaerffili. co.uk Howard Jones ‘Land Shapes Of Wales’ Expressionistic paintings of rural scenes such as old farms and cottages, depicting Jones’ passion for his Welsh homeland. (Until Sat 13 May) Christine Gittins ‘Fire, Earth & Sky’ New pottery work inspired by the landscape after devastating fires, the burnt land and the sunsets as result of the smokefilled atmosphere. (Until Sat 13 May) Luke Barker Barker, the runner-up in this year’s Open Art Competition here, exhibit as part of his prize. The work questions landscape painting as a process of transferring three dimensions into two and seeking equivalent responses. (From Sat 20 May until Sat 17 June)
The Gate
Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 10am-9pm. Free. 029 2048 3344 / info@ thegate.org.uk South Wales Art Society Varied exhibition of different members works from this 130-year-old group, made up of both professionals and amateurs and who meet fortnightly. (Until Fri 5 May)
The Gate / Y Gat
Pentre Road, St Clears, Carmarthenshire. Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-3pm. Free. 01994 232726 / thegate@carmarthenshire. gov.uk Botanics Members of Carmarthen Artists’ Network present a mixed media show based on the early stages of their joint project with the National Botanic Garden Of Wales. The works interpret the themes emerging from
Garden’s Regency Restoration scheme. (Until Sun 4 June)
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
Alexandra Rd, Swansea. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, Free. 01792 516900 / www. swansea.gov.uk/glynnvivian *Elizabeth Price ‘In A Dream You Saw A Way To Survive And You Were Full Of Joy’ Price, a former Turner Prize winner, curates an impressive Hayward Touring exhibition which features work from over 50 artists including Becky Beasley, Guy Bourdin, Henry Moore, Bridget Riley and Francesca Woodman. (From Fri 12 May until Mon 28 Aug)
Grand Pavilion
The Esplanade, Porthcawl. Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01656 815995 / www. grandpavilion.co.uk Tim Wood Landscape photographs from someone who has been taking pictures of that type for over 20 years. (Until Sun 21 May)
IAP Fine Art
15 Church Street, Monmouth. Wed-Sat 11am5pm. Free. 0844 5611833 / www.iapfineart.com 20th/21st Century Painting & Printmaking Paintings and prints by Chris Gollon, Maggi Hambling and Peter Howson, plus prints by Hockney, Matisse, Picasso and Sutherland. (From Wed 3 May until Sat 3 June)
King Street Gallery
33 King Street, Carmarthen. Free. 01267 220121 / gallery@kingstreetgallery. co.uk Spring Show New and diverse work by the Gallery’s members. (Until Wed 3 May) Andrew McCutcheon An exhibition of current work from this West Wales artist. (Throughout May) Summer Show New and diverse work by the Gallery’s members. (From Fri 5 May until Fri 7 July)
Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre
St. David’s Rd, Cwmbran, Torfaen. Mon-Sat 10am5pm. Free. 01633 483321 / www.lgac.org.uk Alison Lochhead ‘Abandonment And Migration’ Sculptural installation which alludes to the 65 million people across the globe who are currently fleeing their homes. (Until Sat 27 May) Micki Schloessingk ‘Earth, Fire And Salt’ Everyday, useable poettry from an artist/maker who created and developed Bridge Pottery in the small village of Cheriton on the Gower peninsula. (Until Sat 27 May) Louise Hall Fragile, delicate hand built vessels, made from porcelain and with an ethereal and calming ambience. (Until Sat 27 May) Anne Morgan A collection of jewellery influenced by Morgan’s passion for the coastline, combining her own work and found objects. The pieces are often one-offs, and echo the land around the beaches. (Until Sat 27 May)
M.A.D.E. Gallery
41 Lochaber St, Cardiff. Wed-Sat 10am-6pm. Free. 029 2047 3373. Merthyr College Fine Art Degree Show New wave of this year’s graduates exhibiting their final work in various media from video to painting. (From Thurs 4 until Sat 13 May) BLOOM Annual naturebased affordable art showcase of locally-based artists working across all 2D media. (From Thurs 18 May until Sat 9 June)
Martin Tinney Gallery
18 St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2064 1411 / mtg@artwales. com 25th Anniversary Exhibition Part I Work by Augustus John, Gwen John, James Dickson Innes, Sir Cedric Morris, David Jones, Evan Walters, Edward Moorland Lewis, Ceri Richards, John Piper, Evan Charlton, George Chapman, Merlyn Evans, Jack Jones, Josef Herman, Sir Kyffin Williams, John Elwyn, Ernest Zobole, Gwilym Prichard, Evelyn Williams, Peter Prendergast and John Knapp Fisher – all of which have been sold by the gallery in its 25 years open. (Until Sat 6 May) 25th Anniversary Exhibition Part II Work by Harry Holland, Shani Rhys James, Mary Lloyd Jones, Claudia Williams, Kevin Sinnott, Clive Hicks-Jenkins, William Wilkins, Sally Moore, John Macfarlane, Sigrid Muller, Vivienne Williams, Meirion Ginsberg and others. (From Thurs 11 May until Sat 17 June)
Mission Gallery
Gloucester Place, Swansea. Tue-Sun 11am-5pm. Free. 01792 652016 / www. missiongallery.co.uk Ann Jordan ‘Strata’ Fine artist who creates site specific works often related to either the urban or rural landscapes, Strata is made from naturally coloured Welsh sheep fleeces and represents the fragility of our coastline. (Until Sun 21 May) Adele Vye Work in the [...] space from an artist awarded the John Brookes Memorial Prize for Fine Art in 2005 and Welsh Artist Of The Year for Time-Based Media in 2009. (Until Sun 21 May) Annie Thibault & Gemma Copp ‘Situation/ Material/Ocean’ Copp, a Welsh artist whose work is animated by the coast of Swansea, and Thibault, a Canadian who engages with the biology of aquatic life, present studies that explore the perception and sensibility of coastal materiality. (Until Sun 4 June) Lee Williams Work in the [...] space from an artist based in Port Talbot and working in a broad interdisciplinary practice including painting, printmaking, sculpture, the moving image and ever-emerging technologies. (From Tue 23 May until Sun 25 June) Stuart Cairns Maker In Focus show from an Irish artist whose practice is concerned with investigating the environment and his
Midsummer-lighter – Sally Williams
art relationship with it through walking, photography and the collection of found objects. (From Tue 23 May until Sun 25 June)
National Museum Cardiff
Cathays Park, Cardiff. TueSun 10am-5pm. Free except where noted. 029 2057 3500 / www.museumwales.ac.uk/ cardiff Gillian Ayres Celebratory exhibition for one of Britain’s best known abstract artists. Previewed in Art last month. (Until Sun 3 Sept) Bacon To Doig: Modern Masterpieces From A Private Collection The collection in question belonging to Ian and Mercedes Stoutzker. and featuring two Francis Bacon paintings as well as works by Lucian Freud, Frank Auerbach, Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and Grayson Perry among others. It’s on loan here for nearly a year, as well. (Until Wed 31 Jan) Dinosaur Babies Family-friendly exhibition bringing together some of the world’s most amazing finds of dinosaur eggs and embryos. (From Sat 27 May until Sun 5 Nov)
National Waterfront Museum
Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Daily 10am-5pm. Free. 01792 638950. Frank Brangwyn: The Graphic Art Of The First World War A selection from the 80+ poster designs Brangwyn created during WWI, reproduced at their original size. (Throughout May)
National Wool Museum
Dre-fach Felindre, Llandysul, Carmarthenshire. Daily 10am-5pm. Free. 0300 1112333. For Freedom And Empire A look at how the slate quarrying communities of Wales responded to the call to fight in WWI. (Until September)
Newport Museum & Art Gallery
John Frost Square, Newport.Tue-Fri 9.30am5.30pm, Sat 9.30am-4pm. Free. 01633 656656 / museum@newport.gov.uk Images From The Stone A selection of prints chosen from a group of lithographs acquired by Newport Museum from London’s Redfern Gallery in 1953. (Until Sat 3 June)
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
Harbour Drive, Cardiff Bay. Daily 11am-4pm. Free. 029 2087 7959 / www. norwegianchurchcardiff.com Julian Culley ‘A Brush With The Valleys’ New work painted in black Chinese ink and influence variously by Turner, American abstract expressionism and Zen calligraphy. (Until Sun 7 May) Linda Agostini ‘Wild Things’ Abstract animal art. (From Mon 22 May until Sun 4 June)
Cardiff MADE: Summer begins to BLOOM As the spring days begin to roll into the summer months, Cardiff MADE gallery and café has a bounty of art, events and food for all the community to enjoy. On the new spring/summer menu you’ll find a selection of refreshing, healthy juices and smoothies to invigorate the mind and nourish the body, which you can enjoy alongside fresh and colourful salads created with care by passionate and friendly staff to enjoy in the sunshine in our revamped outdoor courtyard. To enhance your gardens as well as ours, we'll be holding our annual spring plant fayre of young herbs, vegetables and herbaceous plants all day on Sat 20 May. Annually the gallery hosts a spring affordable art wall, part of our platform supporting over 40 emerging, as well as established, local artists in exhibiting their selected works from invited and open submissions. This will feature works in print, photography, painting and drawing with prices that keep art accessible whilst giving artists an opportunity to break into the market and encourage new collectors, essential to develop their careers as Sat 3 June will mark our second annual musical celebration of summer with the summertime sessions. Expect good quality drink, food and of course an exceptional lineup of local music with performances from Buzzard, Winter Coat and Quiet Marauder. Check out our Facebook page for full event details and to buy tickets.
www.cardiffmade.co.uk
Facebook: /CardiffMADE Twitter: @cardiffMADE
BUZZ 61
* – recommended
clubs Oriel Canfas
Glamorgan Street, Canton, Cardiff. Tue-Fri 1-4.30pm, Sat 10.30am-4.30pm. 029 2066 6455 / www. orielcanfas.co.uk Alun Hemming New work by Welsh sculptor, active in that discipline since the early 1970s. (Until Sat 20 May)
Oriel Cric
Beaufort Street, Crickhowell. 01873 813669. Torfaen Factory Art Colourful, vibrant paintings from a group of 20 diverse Welsh artists and photographer, exhibiting for the 3rd year in the studio. (From Fri 26 until Mon 29 May) Helly Powell ‘Beasts Of The Mabinogion’ See Art for more on this artist’s ‘fauxidermy’ cloth sculptures, this specific collection being inspired by the famous ancient Welsh tale. (From Fri 26 May until Fri 23 June)
Oriel Davies
The Park, Newtown, Powys. Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm. Free. 01686 625041 / enquiries@orieldavies.org Kelly Best ‘Vanishing Point’ Cardiff artist’s debut exhibition proper, working in mixed media and forging interconnections between sculpture, painting and drawing in order to consider site, space and surface. (Until Wed 10 May) Rory Duckhouse ‘Instructions For Imagined Spaces’ Duckhouse, also from Cardiff, presents a series of instructional guides, which riff on the general idea of visiting an art gallery, and play on the attendee’s previous experience of such. (Until Wed 10 May)
Oriel Mwldan
Bath House Rd, Cardigan. Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. Free. 01239 621200 / helena@ mwldan.co.uk Lea Sautin ‘Through The Paper Window’ Sautin’s work focuses on the storytelling traditions of Wales, using processes from print to sculpture to photography to reflect the evolution and alteration of the stories themselves. (Until Sun 18 June)
based on memories of living in Laugharne). Stairs: TBC. Main gallery 3D area: assorted ceramics and jewellery by students and well-known artists. (From Sat 20 May until Sat 24 June)
Pontypridd Museum
Bridge Street, Pontypridd. Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm. Free. 01443 490748 / www. pontypriddmuseum.cymru Cilfynydd Art Society 2017 Annual exhibition showcasing art by members of the Cilfynydd Art Society. (From Tue 2 May until Fri 2 June)
Redhouse
Old Town Hall, High Street, Merthyr Tydfil. Free. 01685 384111 / info@ redhousecymru.com Stephen Hopkin-Jones Wales-based, Canadian-born photographer who studied Photographic Art at the University Of Wales College Newport and honed his skills working as a freelance photographer. (From Thurs 25 May until Sat 24 June)
Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama
Castle Grounds, Cathays Park, Cardiff. Free. 029 2039 1391 / www.rwcmd. ac.uk Fabergé Egg Exhibition Part of the year-long R17 programme of Russian Revolution-related cultural happenings, this features one individual egg inspired by Carl Fabergé’s ‘Catherine The Great Egg’. I’ve just had a look at the original and Carl didn’t depict Catherine in the manner I would done, I can tell you. (From Tue 2 until Fri 26 May)
The Sho Gallery
Upstairs, The Castle Emporium, Womanby Street, Cardiff. Free. www. thesho.co.uk 12x12 A collection of LP artwork at the size suggested by the exhibition title, as well as vinyl inspired designs by local and national artists. (Until Sat 13 May)
The Sustainable Studio
Church Lane, Carmarthen. 01267 222775 / www. orielmyrddingallery.co.uk David Jones ‘Angels On Washing Lines’ Sculptures, installations and linocuts inspired by folk art, outsider art, illustration and commercial art. (Until Sat 13 May)
Curran Road, Cardiff. MonSun 9.30am-5.30pm. Free. 01792 475715 / www. swanseagrand.co.uk Paolo Ciregia ‘Perestrojka’ A document of the Kiev uprising in Ukraine, shot by Ciregia over four years and taken from his private archives. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May)
Oriel Q
Swansea Grand Theatre
Oriel Myrddin
The Queens Hall, High Street, Narberth. Wed-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01834 869454 / www. orielqueenshallgallery. org.uk Mary Lloyd Jones Work by the main gallery and Oriel Fach. Stairs: TBC. Main gallery 3D area: assorted ceramics and jewellery by students and well-known artists. (Until Sat 13 May) Osi Rhys Osmond A selection of paintings, sketchbooks, films and interviews from this artist, teacher and writer. Oriel Fach: Keith Williams, The White Book Of Llareggub (paintings BUZZ 62
Singleton St, Swansea. MonSat 10am-5pm. Free. 01792 475715 / www. swanseagrand.co.uk UWTSD / PSYDDS That’s University Of Wales Trinity St David / Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant. I guess this is work from students there, but Swansea Grand don’t give explanations for their exhibitions any more. (From Tue 2 May until Fri 2 June)
Swansea Museum
Victoria Road, The Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Sun
10am-5pm. Free. 01792 653763 / www. swanseamuseum.co.uk Lwchwr Art Group Founded in 1960 and currently based at Gorseinon Institute, this exhibition aims to showcase the variety of work produced by members using a range of media including watercolour, oil, acrylic, pastel and batik. (Until Sun 7 May)
Taliesin Arts Centre
Singleton Park, Swansea. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 12pm-6pm and performance evenings 6pm8.15pm. Free. 01792 295526 / www.taliesinartscentre. co.uk Dorian Spencer Davies New show by Pembrokeshire painter, revealing many aspects of his work and styles and his new semi aspect acrylics inspired by the Gower. (Until Sat 20 May) Noah Loo Original images in pencil and ink by a nine-year-old artist who started to draw age five. Looks quite fun actually. (Throughout May) A Picture Of Swansea Exhibition curated by Swansea University Art Society, featuring artists working in Swansea and the surrounding area. (From Fri 26 May until Sat 1 July)
Tenby Museum & Art Gallery
Castle Hill, Tenby. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, £4/£3/£2 kids. 01834 842809 / www. tenbymuseum.org.uk Linda Thompson ‘Tenby Enchanted’ / Bill Thompson ‘It’s All Subjective’ Details TBC, I’m assuming this is a husband and wife duo but I could be wrong! Very easily! (Until Sun 7 May)
Theatr Hafren
Llanidloes Road, Newtown, Powys. Mon-Sat 10am5.30pm. Free. 01686 625007 / boxoffice@ theatrhafren.co.uk Elfyn Roberts Multidiscipline artist with skills in drawing and painting, printmaking, Raku ceramics and sculpting in foundry cast bronze. (Throughout May)
Tower Gallery
49 High Street, Crickhowell. Wed-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01873 812495 / www. towergallery.co.uk Sue Hiley Harris An exhibition of weaving, collage and drawing by guest artist Harris. Also showing work by all members of the Usk Valley Artists’ Co-operative. (Until Sat 6 May)
Tower Gallery
Oriel Y Parc Landscape Gallery & Visitor Centre, The Grove, St Davids, Pembrokeshire. Free. 01437 720392 / info@ orielyparc.co.uk Annie Coombs Jewellery. (Throughout May) Ray Burnell Landscape paintings. (Throughout May) Christopher Baker Landscape paintings, this time located in the Artist In Residence tower. (Until Sat 3 June) Enchanted Landscapes: Pembrokeshire In Myth & Legend More or less
self-explanatory collection of artwork from Amgueddfa Cymru collections. (Until Sun 17 Sept)
Tramshed Tech
Clare Road, Grangetown, Cardiff. 029 2023 5555 / www.tramshedcardiff.com Laís Pontes ‘Born Nowhere’ London-based photographic artist explores how characters are developed and constructed on social media platforms, and the fluidity of identity in contemporary society. Diffusion Festival exhibition. (Throughout May)
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. Spring Is Here A mixed exhibition featuring gallery artists with a ‘spring’ theme. (Until Sat 20 May)
Wales Millennium Centre
Bute Place, Cardiff Bay. Free. 029 2063 6464 / www. wmc.org.uk Nigel Pugh ‘Creating Sanctuary’ a series of new photographic portraits and texts documenting volunteers working with refugees across Wales. Displayed to coincide with Volunteers’ Week (Thurs 1-Wed 7 June) and Refugee Week (Mon 19-Sun 25 June). (From Wed 31 May until Sun 2 July)
The Welsh Quilt Centre
Town Hall, Lampeter. Tue-Sat 11am-4.30pm. Free. 01570422088 / www. welshquilts.com As Good As It Gets A celebration of Welsh quilts made by quilters from the south Wales valleys especially for a luxury market, including arostocracy and distinguished hotels, from 1921 to 1939 during a time of economic hardship. (Until Sat 4 Nov)
Workers Gallery
99 Ynyshir Road, Ynyshir, Rhondda Cynon Taff. Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm or by appointment. Free. 01443 682024 / wood4tt@gmail. com Headmost Another group show, this time by artists based in the UK who have never before shown at the Workers Gallery. (Until Sat 20 May) Martin Harman ‘In-Between’ Bristol based ceramic artist shows new work on the Mates Beyond Wall. (From Thurs 25 May until Thurs 8 June)
Wyeside Arts Centre
Castle Street, Builth Wells. Tue-Fri 12.30-9pm, Sat + Sun 2-9pm. Free. 01982 552555 / www.wyeside.co.uk Sean Milne ‘An Eye For Nature’ Milne is a wildlife and medical illustrator; this exhibition features original
artwork for field guides to a variety of natural history subjects, as well as his more recent watercolours. (Until Thurs 1 June)
clubs Aberystwyth University Campus
Old College, King Street, Aberystwyth. 01970 621700 / www.aber.ac.uk Fri 12 One Festival 7pm3am, £20-£40. This takes place across the Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Students Union and Concourse and features Beardyman, Big Narstie, Dimension, Gentleman’s Dub Club, JFB, Majistrate feat. Skibadee, TQD, Born On Road representatives (Kelvin 373, Jman, Joe Peng and Skibadee again) and Father Funk’s Church Of Love. There are seven arenas in total so presumably more acts are TBC.
The Angel Inn
Great Darkgate Street, Aberystwyth. 01970 617878. Fri 5 BerlinBerlin Electronic music. “Techno is education. Not fashion,” state the organisers.
The Big Top / 10 Feet Tall
11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / thisis10feettall@yahoo.co.uk Thursdays Rock hits from DJ Andy Rhys Lewis. Fridays + Saturdays Resident DJs playing soul and funk. Fri 5 + Fri 2 June Hey Mary 10.30pm, £5. In a new venue and on the first Friday of every month, this is Cardiff’s top gay/queer/drag/etc night. Fri 19 Club Tropicana 10pm. Tropical house, afroboogie and other nice weather musics. Saturdays Under A Groove 9pm-3am, £3 after 10. Funk and neo-soul.
Blind Tiger
49 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 243500. Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Cocktails, drink deals and tunes as part of a cross-city midweek session. Fridays Koncept & Friends 11pm, £3-£5. House, techno and bass music with guest DJs, breaking producers and residents from Wales’ freshest nights. May’s guests: Fri 5 Pete Lori; Fri 12 Con_R; Fri 19 ASC5S; Fri 26 Fated.TV takeover. Saturdays Re:work 11pm, £5. Underground and cutting edge club music promised. Sat 13 Deep Down Low 10pm-5am, £3-£5. Nineties jungle fave Jumping Jack Frost headlines, with Koncept, NuKing and Ransom the local talent. Sun 29 Re:work Summer Sizzler 10pm-5am, £5. Double bill of house and bass music.
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
u – repeated
11.30. 90s r’n’b/hip-hop night. Saturdays The Shake Up 10pm-4am, £3. Pop, chart, house, r’n’b funk and soul from residents over two floors. Plus, when you order a drink from the bar you roll a dice and, if you roll a double, it’s half price. My commiserations to this venue’s bar staff for having to put up with this. Sun 28 Marvellous Party 9pm-3am. Swing, jazz, big band, boogie-woogie and electroswing with a 1920s dress code.
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 5 Bedlam 9pm-4am, £20 adv. Featuring Pendulum (DJ set), High Contrast, DJ Hype, Kings Of The Rollers (Serum, Bladerunner and Voltage), Jamie Duggan, Bassboy, Conducta, Murder He Wrote and MCs Skibadee and XL. Rooms 2 and 3 are hosted by Bassline and Shelter. *Fri 2 June C-Y-N-T 9pm-4am, £20 adv. Solid lineup of classy and house and techno spinners: Hunee, Young Marco, Midland and Clare James. Saturdays Juice 10pm-3am, £5/£4 NUS. Chart, dance and pop.
Club Oxygen
1 Northampton Lane, Swansea. 0844 8849171 / www.globaloxygen.co.uk Fridays Dance Anthems 11pm-6am, free. House and commercial music all night from Big Al, Nicky G, 3 Bird, Jordan Steins, LJ Isaac and Tom Chizzy. Saturdays 10pm-6am, £5/free before 1.
Clwb Ifor Bach
Womanby St, Cardiff. 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net Thurs 4 Soul Jam 11pm. Funk and soul. Thurs 1 June Brooklyn Zoo 10pm-3am, £5/£4. Hip-hop and grime night aimed at students – indeed billed as an ‘end of exams’ party. Thurs 18 Propaganda 11pm. UK-wide indie disco institution, also featuring pop-punk pizza party night Slice. Thurs 25 Outré 11pm-4am, £5-£15. Launch event for a new night promising grime, hip-hop, UK garage and bassline. President T headlines tonight over Ms Banks, Sonny Double One and Clique (bassline set). Fridays (bottom) Zerox 10.30pm-3am, £4/£3 NUS. A “party jukebox” night. With DJs, though, not an actual jukebox. Fri 5 Journey 10pm-4am, £10. The return of local trance likers sees Belgian DJ Airwave play a six-hour set. Drum’n’b Fri 12 Concrete Junglists 11pm4am. Drum’n’bass, lineup TBC. Fri 19 Disco Motel 11pm. Disco, funk and soul from DJ Jaffa and others. Fri 26 Submerge Outlook Party 10pm-4am, £10 adv/£5 early bird. Dubstep weight from guests Compa and
clubs Finwa, plus locals Blokeye, Effigy and Ransom (room 1) plus Concrete Junglists residents in room 2. Special night to celebrate 10 years of the Outlook Festival. See Clubs. Saturdays Dirty Pop 10pm4am, £5. Three floors of fun: The Vinyl Vendettas’ top floor resident indie shindig; Dirty Pop and Mr Potter's proper disco. Sat 13 is a Eurovision party special, wherein you watch the whole show on big screens before the club night proper, and starts at 7pm (free entry to the earlier bit as well).
Courtyard
48 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161. Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Upfront dance anthems and “Urban Vibes”. Fridays Spotlight Sessions / The Kickstart 5pm, £3/ free before 9. Urban and club anthems and drinks deals. Part of the NPCLUBHOP price deal which also includes entry to Blind Tiger, Meze Lounge and Lambaba. Saturdays Mischief Beat-driven anthems is the ambiguous description for tonight’s music policy. Sundays Sunday Shisha Sessions 8pm, free. DJs til late and the weekend’s sports highlights. Sun 29 The NPCLUBHOP Summer Ball 9pm-6am, £5. Price includes entry to all the affiliated venues listed above.
Depot
22 Dumballs Road, Cardiff. 029 2034 1199 / www. depotcardiff.com Thurs 1 June Good Life Cardiff 2-11pm, £10-£15. This is billed as a ‘Caribbean Carnival’ and, while the description makes no mention
of anything that gives weight to that name, there is a set promised by disco specialist Late Nite Tuff Guy.
Fuel
5 Womanby Street, Cardiff. 07970 063107 / facebook. com/fuelcardiff 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 Garage
47 Uplands Crescent, Swansea. 01792 475147 / http://www.whitez. co.uk/#garage Sat 6 + Sat 3 June Dead Of Night 10pm-3am, £3. Goth/alternative club night, on the first Saturday of every month. Now moved from The Scene back to its original location!
Glam
Greyfriars Road, Cardiff. 029 2022 9311 / info@ glamnightclub.co.uk Mondays New Quid On The Block 10pm-3am, £2/£free before 11. A mashup of chart, r’n’b, cheese and dance across two floors. The name is to commemorate the launch of the new pound coin, which in time you may also be able to use to purchase this nightclub. Saturdays Vanity 9pm-3am, £5-£10. Two rooms of quality music, everyone catered for it is claimed. Sat 6 Groove 4-10.30pm, £8-£15 adv. The first of Glam’s summer rooftop parties has a headline set by Leftwing & Kody, plus various local residents.
The Glascoed Pub
Off the A472, Usk, Monmouthshire. 01291 673275 / www. theglascoedpub.com Sat 6 Blackwood Soul Club 7pm-2am, £5. Info 07789 582491. With Dave Thorley, Jerry Hipkiss, Jay Jones, the Soul Twins, Nigel, Leon and Al Kent.
Gwdihw
6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff. 029 2039 7933 / www.gwdihw.co.uk Fri 12 Bass 12 House Party 9pm, £3/free NUS. “Brassblasted pop tunes funked up to the max” are hereby promised. Fri 19 The Hold Up 9pm. Regular hip-hop night with sets from DJ Alkemy, DJ Jaffa and DJ Auricom, plus guests TBC. Sat 6 Signor Funk 9pm, £4/£3 adv. Motown, funk, disco and soul with special guests the Mixtape DJs. Sat 13 Sure Shot 9pm. Hip-hop, funk etc. Sat 27 Hully Gully 9pm. Disco, funk etc. Sun 14 The Hold Up Dylan Thomas Special A mix of hip-hop interpretations of Dylan Thomas’ work (you heard), open mic and poetry slam style dedications. Sun 29 Delete 1pm-2am, £7. Locals-only night billed as a thanks for seven years of parties. Jack Siddal, Tom Bateman, Scott Kerr, Justin Vale, Shaun Edwards, Alex Taylor, Gareth Richards, Lewis Williams, Neil Anthony and Delete residents Matt Owen, Lee Graves and Marc Parsons are on it until 10pm outside, 2am inside.
Inkspot
The Old Church, Newport Road, Cardiff. 029 2049
0254 / www. inkspotartsandcrafts.com Fri 19 SurplusTek 9pm3am, £7/£5 before 12. Surplus Festival people with a fundraising event for their fest in July. Room 1: drum’n’bass and techno from Dave Sandison, 4G, Twospeed and Taffari DJs/ Room 2: psytrance and psydub from Mr Chuffed, Iolo, Shifter Senses and Vagrant Misfit.
Karma
75 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Fri + Sat 8pm-6am. karmaclubcardiff@gmail. com Fri 12 Digidol Pre Summer Mashup 10pm-6am, £6/£5 adv. Drum’n’bass night with Bristol-based DJ Exposure headlining. Slamfish, Mr Chuffed, Inventure, Brix and Rev Dread are the rest of the roster. Sat 20 Elise’s Jungle Rave 10pm-6am, £10 adv. Charity night in aid of Cancer Research, Teenage Cancer Trust and Clic Sargent. DJs, Nicky Blackmarket, Joe Blow, Stu Grady, T.Bone, Rogue One, Bason, Pabz and Shanny Shan. MCs: Chew, Slim Teng, Deadly Knightshade, Ras Robbie and 4dee.
The Last Resort
207 High Street, Swansea. www.lastresortswansea.com Sat 13 Rhigol Outdoor Back Yard Party 2pm, £7.50 adv. House and garage from The Groove Stage (Leicester), Richie Curran, Kye Davies and Jamie Richards. As the event name suggests, this is being held in TLR’s back yard, which holds 300 people apparently. See Clubs.
Level 2 @ Kongs
114-116 St Mary Street, Cardiff. info@kongsbars. com / www.kongsbars.com *Fri 2 June Doppler 10pm4am, £15/£12.50. See Clubs for more on Doppler’s second night, headlined by Detroit electro don and Drexciya live member DJ Stingray. Dai Murder, Mikey H, Mr Ben and Jessie B also feature.
Mary’s
pic: Nathan Roach
89 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Mon-Thurs 4pm-2am, Fri 4pm-3am, Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-1am. 029 2066 8647 / www.maryscardiff. co.uk Sundays Mary’s Mad Sundays 12pm-1am, free. Cabaret and cocktails with Mary Mac.
Metros
ONE FESTIVAL Fri 12 May, Aberystwyth University. Tickets: £20-£40. Info: 01970 621700 / www.aber.ac.uk You’re a student at Aberystwyth University*! It’s the end of term! Relieve yourself of the stress induced by your BA in Applied Beach Frisbee and hit the university campus for a whomping eight-hour rave featuring an eclectic gaggle of acts and genres. Beardyman, a human beatbox/ loopstation type bloke with some kind of political undertone, tops the bill ahead of kingsized grime MC and viral video rant blog favourite, Big Narstie [pictured]. Also present across seven stages are live dub combo Gentleman’s Dub Club, three-man UK garage dream team (not the Dreem Teem) TQD and something called Father Funk’s Church Of Love. *You don’t have to be a student to attend
Baker’s Row, Cardiff. 029 2039 9942 / www. metroscardiff.com Wednesdays Cheapskates 9pm-4am, £5. Hywel plays ‘alternative mayhem’ and old skool cheese. Fridays Freespirit 9.30pm-3.30am, £3 with flyer before 10.30pm. Drinks promos, no dress code. Rock, punk, metal and alternative beats. Saturdays Cherry Bomb 9.30pm3.30am. Indie, electroclash (!) and good time rock’n’roll. Sun 28 Twisted By Design 17th Birthday Party 9pm-2am, £3.50/£3 NUS. Long-running indie night, currently of no fixed abode as a result of Dempseys and then The Full Moon getting the chop, comes
to this even longer-running rock club for a bank holiday birthday bash. TBD bossman Gary promises it’ll be just like old days.
Meze Lounge
6 Market Street, Newport. 01633 259144 / facebook. com/mezeloungenewport Fridays Panic! Alternative anthems, pop-punk, hardcore and guilty pleasures. Saturdays Rock You! 10pm, £3-£5. A selection of anthems across the decades plus party/ covers bands each week. Sat 27 A+L International Afterparty 10pm, £5. Reggae and soul from Carl Bassett and special guests. Sun 29 The NPCLUBHOP Summer Ball 9pm-6am, £5. Price includes entry to Courtyard, Blind Tiger, Warehouse54 and Labamba.
Minskys Show Bar
Cathedral Walk, St David’s Centre, Cardiff. 029 2023 3128 / www.minskysshowbar.com 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 2016. Saturdays ‘Miss’ Behaviour Music, cocktails, party. All these things are found here.
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.
The Moon
Womanby Street, Cardiff. 029 2037 3022 / info@ thefullmooncardiff.com Wed 31 Womanby’s Clubbing 5.30-8pm. Monthly clubbing events for adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health conditions. Run in partnership with Student Volunteering Cardiff.
Mozarts
Walter Road, Swansea. 01792 649984 / www. mozartsswansea.co.uk Fri 5 Hip Drop 10pm2.30am, £2/free before 12. Northern soul, Motown and Stax. Fri 12 Yum Yum Club 10pm-2.30am, £2/free before 12. Funk, soul, disco and reggae. Fri 19 Rebel Yell 10pm-2.30am, £2/free before 12. Punk, ska, rock, alt-rock and grunge. Sat 20
Dub Dragon Soundsystem 10pm, free before 12. Reggae, salsa, funk, ska, world music and more. Sat 3 June Can’t Touch This 10pm-2.30am, £2/free before 12. Nineties revival night, prevously known as Rewind.
Penarth Ex-Servicemens Club
69 Windsor Rd, Penarth. 029 2070 7530 / www. penarthexservicemensclub. co.uk Sat 27 Penarth Soul Club 7.30pm-12.30am, £3 adv. A night of classic soul, northern soul etc. Also at this venue in July, September and November this year.
Popworld
96 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Mon, Tue + Thurs 9pm3am; Wed 8pm-3am; Fri 5pm-3am; Sat 1pm-3am. 029 2023 5825. Mondays Pop Rocks 9pm. A night of what they call alternative pop but their examples (Green Day, Blink, Linkin Park) seem to suggest will be pop-punk and nu-metal. Ah, it’s all just names at the end of the day. Wednesdays Giggle Free before 12. Student night. Thursdays Poptails. 9pm-3am. Non-stop pop with DJ Lyndon and 2-4-1 cocktails deals. Fridays + Saturdays Until 3am. Drinks deals from 5-11pm (Fri) and 3-8pm (Sat).
Popworld
Wind Street, Swansea. MonFri + Sun 8pm-3am; Sat 3pm-3am. 01792 470676. Mondays Society Wars The name sounds pretty interesting but sadly it actually refers to university societies. There are however various cheap drinks to ease your disappointment. Wednesdays Toast Student night where drinks are £1 and they give you free toast. Thursdays Destination Popworld Lots of cocktails, 2-4-1 offers and, naturally, pop music. Fridays + Saturdays Ain’t No Party Like A Popworld Party 8pm-3am, £2-£4 (Fri)/£3-£5 (Sat).
Pryzm
Greyfriars Road, Cardiff. 029 2023 3854 / www. pryzm.co.uk/cardiff Mondays House Party 10pm-3am, £4 “Imagine the greatest ever house party, with 2000 mates, the best drink deals, the freshest tunes and craziest entertainment you could ever imagine!” I... I can’t. Fridays + Saturdays 10pm-3am, £4. Three music arenas, VIP booths, other stuff. Saturday is in conjunction with Jongleurs comedy club, which also takes place here. Fridays Smack. 9pm3am. Weekly student event described by one enthusiast as “lit Friday nights with chilled fam bams and regular bants”. Was in nearby Glam until recently.
Pulse
3 Churchill Way, Cardiff. 029 2064 1010 / www. pulsecardiff.com. Gay venue.
BUZZ 63
* – recommended
events
The Rainbow Rooms
12 High Street, Gorseinon, Swansea. 07563 111225 / www.the-rainbowrooms.com Sun 28 Logic 8pm-4am, £17.50 adv/£15 early bird. Hard dance big dog Eddie Halliwell is tonight’s major guest. Other DJs TBC. See Clubs.
Revolution
Castle Street, Cardiff. Open from 11am. 029 2023 6689 / www.revolution-bars.co.uk Tuesdays Mode 9pm-3am, £4 adv. Popular student night returns. Fridays + Saturdays 9pm-3am. DJs, drinks offers, free area hire.
Room 112
3-6 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Thurs 9pm-3am, Fri + Sat 10pm-4am. 029 2066 7996 / www.room112.net Fridays Bedrock 9pm-4am, £10/£5 before 12. R’n’b, hip-hop and dancehall. Saturdays Cliché 9pm-4am, £10. Old and new skool r’n’b and hip-hop is this night’s deal.
The Scene
Plymouth Street, Swansea. events@thesceneclub.co.uk / www.thesceneclub.co.uk Fri 26 100% Old Skool 10pm-5am, £10 adv. Retro garage night. Room one: funky house and speed garage classics from Grant Nelson, Greg P, John Stefanick and Karl Newman b2b Jordan Stiens. Room 2: Greg P, Lloyd-E and Team Williams. Sun 28 Strictly Techno 1st Birthday 10pm-4am, £5 adv. Does what the event name says on the tin. Jason Wilkinson, Nathan Lazda, Sam Balla b2b Sean Morris and Blake Parker are the main room DJS; The Loft has Dean Morgan, Rhys Howells, Jack Phillips and Luke Armstrong b2b Alex Eley.
Sin City
Dilwyn Street, Swansea. 01792 468892 / www. sincityclub.co.uk Tuesdays Hustle 10pm3am, £3/£2 before 12. Motown, r’n’b and hip-hop. Thursdays Sin Savers 10pm-3am, £3. Student night. 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. Sat 6 The Lighthouse Project 10pm-4am, £15 adv. With a headline set by UK trance/ house perennial Steve Lawler. Sat 13 Bassline 10pm-4am, £7/£5. A night of bassline. And garage and grime. Holy Goof is the guest of honour here. Sat 20 Rise 10pm-4am, £7 adv. Regular drum’n’bass night BUZZ 64
St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2037 3363 / www. sodacardiff.com Thursdays Thursday Club 10pm, £4. Live music, live DJ and live games. Saturdays Soiree 9pm-4am. 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.
night, lineup TBC. Sat 6 Unity 10pm, £6/£5. House and techno from Paul Blandford, Dean Morgan, Jon Williams and Oliver Harvey. Sat 13 Paranoize 10pm, £8/£6. Drum’n’bass from veteran DJ Digital plus support Ransom, Lubi J, Kooley, Sub:Stance, Beeson, South and host MC XL. Sat 20 Flatline 11pm. Didn’t know what this was last month. It seems to be drum’n’bass but that’s all I can tell you. Sat 27 Bodhi Presents Roots 10pm. Intermittent parties hosted by south Wales houseish duo Bodhi, further details TBC right now.
SSE SWALEC
The Vaults
serves up Calyx & Teebee in May, with Teagle, SMG, Casey Jones, Hutton and host MC XL too.
Soda
Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. 0870 2183835 / www. thesseswalec.com Sun 28 Elrow Town Cardiff – Singermorning 12-10pm, £39.50 adv. Elrow is a Spanish club brand who offer a “joyous brand of music, colour, and unhindered hedonism”. This event features Eats Everything and Patrick Topping, presumably along with other acts during its 10-hour shift, and sold out as soon as it went on sale. I find this confusing in a lot of ways.
Tiger Tiger
Friary House, Greyfriars Rd, Cardiff. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-2am, Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-12.30am. 029 2039 1944 / www. tigertiger-cardiff.co.uk Every Day Lucky Voice Karaoke From £2.50 per session. The UK's leading private karaoke experience each day of the week. Wednesdays Shotgun Rules 10pm-3am, £5/£3.50. Exclusive midweek student party, now transferred from Revolution. You don’t need NUS to get in though. Fridays Tic Toc 10pm-3am, £4. Saturdays Kanaloa Polynesian style area with cocktails, VIP booths, dancers etc.
Tramshed
Clare Road, Grangetown, Cardiff. 029 2023 5555 / www.tramshedcardiff.com Sun 28 Bump & Grind / Flava In Ya Ear Day Party 1-11pm, £5. As well as 10 hours of hip-hop and r'n'b, this bank holiday event also features a byzantine-sounding competition in which food vendors have to compete for people's votes by cooking to a live soundtrack.
Undertone (basement of 10 Feet Tall)
11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / www.undertonecardiff.com Fri 5 System 909 10pm, £5. Pounding techno specialists who took a break for a few years but returned in February to a reportedly bouncing crowd. Here they are again. Fri 12 La Fiesta 11pm, £4/£6 VIP. Spanish-themed night featuring DJ Adam and “the best beats”. Not sure what paying the VIP price gets you. I love Undertone but it’s hard to feel ‘very important’ in it. Fri 19 + Sun 28 Selecta 10pm, £5/£3. Classic garage night. Sun 28 is a bank holiday special. Fri 26 Temple 10pm. Monthly drum’n’bass
The Old Natwest Bank, 113116 Bute Street, Cardiff Bay. www.vaultspresents.com Sat 27 Cellar Door 10pm5am, £15 adv. Techno in room one, house and disco in room 2 and cartoons/ chillout in room 3. Sun 28 Concept 10pm-5am. Jungle and drum’n’bass for the bank holiday, with Mickey Finn and MC Felon the headline act. Bladerunner, T>I, Stu Grady, DJ Low & MC Chew, Bason and Kalo & Kyam rock the main room, while room 2 has T-Spoon & Deadly Nightshade, Pabz, Hoodfella, Joe Blow, D:Reaper, Luke Ebbens and more.
Warehouse 54
54 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161. Fridays The Good Time Social Club 11pm, £3. Laid back bar beats and live sessions to kick off the weekend. Entry fee also grants you entry to Courtyard, Blind Tiger, Meze Lounge and Labamba. Saturdays Viva R’n’b and club classics. Sun 29 The NPCLUBHOP Summer Ball 9pm-6am, £5. Price includes entry to all the affiliated venues listed above.
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. Runs until Mon 10 July. Bharatanatyam Dance Classes For Adult Beginners Bayview House, Cardiff Bay. 8.15-9.15pm. Info 029 2075 1158. 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. Cardio Climb Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 6.30-7.15pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4880. High intensity workout combining cardio and climbing. Children’s Ballet The Gate, Cardiff. 4-7.30pm, £6.50/£5.50/£3 taster. Info 029 2048 3344. Ages 4-6 4pm; 6-8 4.45; grade 1 5.45; grade 3 6.45. Runs until Mon 10 July. 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 every Monday during term time. Drop-in Meditation And Mindfulness Classes The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £5/£3 unwaged. Info 01792 458245. New weekly class led by Mike Garside, Resident Teacher of Dharmavajra Kadampa Buddhist Centre in Swansea. Funkypump Fitness Various venues across south Wales. 6am-8pm. Info www. funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Boxing-based high-intensity workout with a house soundtrack. Today’s lineup looks like this. Ware-house, Swansea: Bootcamp 6-7 + 10-11am; Funkypump 5-6 + 6-7pm; Warehouse ABC 5-7pm.Ware-house, Port Talbot: HIIT 5-5.45pm. Rainbow Rooms, Gorseinon: Funkypump 6-7pm. First Choice Fitness, Llantrisant: Funkypump 6-7 + 7-8pm. Funkypump Fitness, Ammanford: Funkypump 6-7pm. Elympia Fitness, Ely, Cardiff: 6.15-7.15pm. Funkypump Fitness, Carmarthen: Funkypump 6.157.15pm. Making Music The Gate, Cardiff. 6-10pm. Info 029 2048 3344. Learn how to play improvised rock and pop grooves and basic chord sequences. Beginners 6pm; improvers 8pm. Runs until Mon 10 July. 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 Bettws Active Centre,
Newport. 7-8.30pm. Info 07789 965285. One of the largest badminton clubs in South East Wales. Also on Thursdays. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate. org. Today’s schedule looks like this. 4.30-6pm:Youth: Wookies (7-9 years); Youth: Padawans (9-11 years). 6-8pm: Aerial Hoop Level 4, Static Trapeze Level 3. 7.459.45pm: Aerial Hoop Level 2, Aerial Hoop Level 3, Static Trapeze Level 4. 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. 10.30am-1.30pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Gentle fitness for the first hour, general for the second two. Runs until Mon 10 July. Qigong Class The Sunhouse, Gwaelod-y-Garth, Cardiff. 6-7.15pm, £5. Info 07779 151916. More at www. bringingbalance.co.uk. Ruff Folk Dance Club St Andrew’s Methodist Church Hall, Birchgrove, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2051 3440. With Ian Lewis. Salsa Classes Horse & Groom, Cowbridge. 8-10pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651. Beginners for the first hour, then improvers/ intermediate. St Donats Atlantic Chorale St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 7.30pm. Info 01446 799100. Choir rehears-
Wow Bar
4 Churchill Way, Cardiff. Gay venue. Free all day Sun-Thurs; 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 entertainment.” Fridays The Greatest Show In The City Free before 11. With WOW Showgirls Miss Kitty and Marcia, plus special guests every week. Saturdays The VKend Free before 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.
Alabama 3
Wednesdays Warped 10pm-4am. 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.
u – repeated
MERTHYR RISING FESTIVL 2017 Penderyn Square, Merthyr Tydfil, Fri 26 + Sat 27 May Tickets: £20/£12.50 per day. Info: www.merthyrrising.co.uk Debuting in 2014 and celebrating the history of radicalism in Merthyr Tydfil, Merthyr Rising has grown in stature each year. Its 2016 edition – rabblerousing rock bands, speeches from notable soapboxers of the British left and other attractions from film screenings to marches – didn’t, however, stop the town voting to leave the EU that funds it handsomely. This year, Merthyr Rising is bigger and better, with a stuffed programme including live sets from Alabama 3 [pictured], Stereo MCs and local faves like The Moon Birds and The Dole Age; speaking engagements for Francesca Martinez and Peter Stefanovic among many others; and a performance of Breathe, a new Anthony Bunko play. Will this be enough to prevent local MP Gerald Jones’ 11,500 majority being overturned in the June election? One would bloody hope so.
events als. 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.
EVERY TUESDAY
A Ballroom Dance Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7-11pm. Info 01495 243252. Acrobalance The Gate, Cardiff. 8-10pm, £7/£5.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Combining elements of partner lifts, poses and transitions that involve two and sometimes more people. Runs until Tue 11 July. Adult Give It A Go Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £10. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Tuesday to Thursday. Aikido Village Hall, Heol Syr Lewis, Morganstown. 8-10pm. Info 07790 167560. Every Tuesday and Friday. Beginners Show Girl & Burlesque Dancing Market House Dance Studio. Chapter Art Centre, Cardiff. 6.157.15pm, £6. Info www. cardiffcabaretclub.com. With Steph. Belly Dance Market House Dance Studio. Chapter Art Centre, Cardiff. 8.15-9.15pm, £7/£30 for five sessions. Info www.cardiffcabaretclub.com. With Steph. Contemporary Dance The Gate, Cardiff. 6-8pm, £5-£6.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Beginners 6-7pm; intermediate 7-8. Runs until Tue 11 July. Extend The Gate, Cardiff. 10am, £3. Info 029 2048 3344. Exercise to music, aimed at over-60s and people with a disability. Runs until Tue 11 July. Funkypump Fitness Various venues across south Wales. 6am-8.15pm. Info www. funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Ware-house, Swansea: TRX & Kettlebell 6-7am; Buggy Blast 10.30-11.30am; HIIT 1.151.45pm; Funkypump 5.15-6 + 6-7pm; Funkypump Kidz 5.15-6pm; White Collar Boxing Training 6-7pm; Funky Pump Lite 7-8pm. Ware-house, Port Talbot: HIIT 6.30-7.15pm. Rainbow Rooms, Gorseinon: Bootcamp 6-7am. Funkypump Fitness, Ammanford: Bootcamp 6.15-7.15pm; Bags 7.15-8.15pm. Ufit, Cardiff: Funkypump 6-7pm. Daleon Fitness, Merthyr: Funkypump 6-7pm. Gitananda Yoga St David's Uniting Church, Pontypridd. 7-8.30pm, free. Info 01443 408065. 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. 6.30-8pm. Info 029 2075 1158. From beginners to grade 2 and for all ages and abilities. Irish Dance The Gate, Cardiff. 6.15-8.15pm, £6.50/£5.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Taught by Riverdance and former Lord Of The Dance cast member Nicola Dempsey. 6.15-7.15pm: advanced; 7.158.15pm: intermediate; 8.159.15: beginners. Runs until Tue 11 July. Jazz Workshops For Beginners Atradius Offices (4th floor), Cardiff Bay. 6.208pm, £10. Info 07806 625717. All instruments and ages welcome. Karate Classes Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.15-8.15pm. Info 029 2087 7959. With Emma Robins. Laughter Yoga Llandaff North Community Centre, Cardiff. 7.15-8.15pm, £5 (suggested donation). Info www.sparklylaughter.co.uk. “No experience required, no stretching and no mats needed,” promise the organisers. Learn To Rock’n’Roll 50s Style Kenfig Hill Rugby Club, Bridgend. 8-10.30pm, £5. Info 07400 080101. Hosted by Frank. Lessons are from 8.15-9pm; there’s a disco from 9-10.30. First dance lesson free. Life Drawing Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 6-8pm, £7.50. Info 07830 381930. Hosted by Cardiff Life Model. Lindy Hop Dance Classes & Social Swing Dancing The Garage, Swansea. 6-10pm. Info 01792 475147. Music Tots The Riverfront, Newport. 9.45-10.30am, £3 per session. Info 01633 656757. Energetic music and movement class. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate. org. Today’s schedule: 4.156pm: Jedis Ground Skills (11+). 5-6pm: Youth: Ewoks (5-7 years). 6-7pm: Hula Hoop. 6-8pm: Supervised Training, Creative Circus. 7.45-9.45pm: Mixed Aerial. 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: Beginners The Gate, Cardiff. 6.30-7.30pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Runs until Tue 11 July. Pregnancy Yoga Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 6-7.15pm, £35/£30 (five-week blocks). Info kalavathi@ omstudio.co.uk. Salsa Classes Kapu, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651. Beginners’ class starts 7.30pm; improvers 8.30; bachata 9.30. 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 07772 657692. Yoga Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5.30-6.30 + 6.45-8pm. Info 029 2087 7959. Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £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. 7-8pm, £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. Zhan Zhuang Qigong Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 12.301.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 029 2087 7959. New weekly class, ZZQ being an ancient Chinese health system based on a series of static postures. 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
Adult Give It A Go Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £10. Info 029 2048 4880. A Tea Dance Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 2-4pm. Info 01495 243252. 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. City Of Cardiff Rotaract Meeting Refectory Cafe, Windsor Place, Cardiff. 6.30pm. Info 07768 108394. An 18-30s community group that integrates young professionals, students and refugees through community projects and social events. Drop-in Exploring Drawing Workshop Workers Gallery, Ynyshir, Rhondda. 7-9pm, £10. Info 01443 682034. With tutor Chris Williams. Funkypump Fitness Various venues across south Wales. 6am-8pm. Info www. funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Ware-house, Swansea: Bootcamp 6-7 + 10-11am; Bag Circuit 5-6 + 6-7pm; Warehouse ABC 5-7pm; Abs 7-8pm. Ware-house, Port Talbot: HIIT 6.30-7.15pm. Rainbow Rooms, Gorseinon: Bootcamp 6-7pm. First Choice Fitness, Llantrisant: Funkypump 6-7 + 7-8pm. Funkypump Fitness, Ammanford: Funkypump
6-7pm. Funkypump Fitness, Carmarthen: Funkypump 6.157.15pm. Newport Youth Dance The Riverfront, Newport. 4.156.30pm, £3 per session. Info 01633 656757. 5-10 years old: 4.15-5pm; 11-14: 5-5.45pm; 14-18: 5.45-6.30pm. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate. org. Today’s schedule: 4.156pm: Youth: Jedi Acrobatics (11+); 6-8pm: Adult Acrobatics. Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Pilates The Gate, Cardiff. 7-7pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Beginners session 7pm; advanced 8pm. Runs until Wed 12 July. 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). 9am5.30pm, £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. Toddler Time Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 10-11am. Info 01685 384111. Pre-school stories, rhymes and crafts for toddlers. 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. 7-8pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4880. Yu-Gi-Oh Tournaments The Freaks Geeks and Autographs Store, Swansea. 5.30pm, £3.50. Info 07914 683534.
EVERY THURSDAY
Adult Give It A Go Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm, £10. Info 029 2048 4880. Alexander Technique & Yoga M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 11.30am-1pm, £16/£80 for six sessions. Info 029 2047 3373. American Line Dance The Gate, Cardiff. 1.15-3pm, £3.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Runs until Thurs 13 July. Art Club Penarth Pier Pavilion. 4.15-5.15pm, £5. Info 0844 8700887. Creative fun for 5-11-year-olds with tutor Becky. Bachata & Bachatango Classes O’Neills, Cardiff. 7.30-9.30pm, £4-£7. Info 07800 565651. Beginners 7.30pm; improvers/intermediates 8.30. Free bachata dancing from 9.45pm-12am. 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. 6.15-7.15pm, £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. Funkypump Fitness Various venues across south Wales. 6am-8.15pm. Info www. funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Ware-house, Swansea: TRX & Kettlebells 6-7am; Buggy Blast 10-11.30am; HIIT 1.151.45pm; Funkypump 5-6 + 6-7pm; White Collar Boxing Training 6-7pm; Funkypump Lite 7-8pm. Ware-house, Port Talbot: HIIT 6.30-7.15pm. Rainbow Rooms, Gorseinon: Bootcamp 6-7am. Ufit, Cardiff: Funkypump 6-7 + 7.15-8.15pm. Elympia Fitness, Ely: Funkypump 7.158.15pm. First Choice Fitness, Llantrisant: Funkypump Lite 6-7pm. Funkypump Fitness, Ammanford: Funkypump 6-7pm. Funkypump Fitness, Carmarthen: Funkypump 6.157.15pm. 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. Every Thursday and Saturday; contact takepart@wmc.org.uk for further details. Hatch The Riverfront, Newport. 4.30-6.30pm, £8 per session/£60 per term/£220 per year. Info 01633 656757. New youth theatre programme organised by the Tin Shed Theatre Co. Age 5-8 4.305.30pm; 13-21 5-6.30; 9-12 5.30-6.30. Newport Badminton Club Pill Millennium Centre, Newport. 8-10pm. Info 07789 965285. Coached by Rhys Pritchard who represented Wales at the Junior Commonwealth Games. Newport Junior Badminton Club Pill Millennium Centre, Newport. 7-8.30pm. Info 07789 965285. Coached by Rhys Pritchard. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate. org. Today’s schedule: 6-8pm: Ropes & Silks Level 2, Static Trapeze Level 2. 7.45-9.45pm: Static Trapeze Level 2, Ropes & Silks Level 3, Ropes & Silks Level 4. 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 / sarasclasses4@ gmail.com. Every Thursday. Qigong For Winter Church Hall, Minster Rd, Roath, Cardiff. 12pm. Info 07772 657692. Quiz Night NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, £1. Info 029 2037 8866. With money, beers and pizza to be won. 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. Thursday and Sunday. This one visits the Gower, Swansea Bay, Parc-Le-Breos, the Dylan Thomas Centre and more. Story And Rhyme Time In Welsh For Babies Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 10-11.30am, free. Info 029 2057 3650. Every Thursday during term time; aimed at 0-4 years. Tai Chi / Qigong Moorland Rd Community Centre, Splott, Cardiff. 10.15-11.15am. Info 07772 657692. The Alexander Technique M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 11.30am-1pm, £16. Info info@yogaskies.co.uk. Small group class hosted by Mike Young. Yoga Classes Cardiff Steiner School, Llandaff North, Cardiff. 6-7.15 + 7.15-8.30pm, £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. Bingo Lingo The Depot, Cardiff. 6pm, £5. Info www. depotcardiff.co.uk. This is now on every Friday and features street food, a wheel of fortune and “rubbish prizes”. 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. Check in advance on the sessions as the hall is occasionally booked by someone else. 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. Dance Tots The Riverfront, Newport. 9.30-10.05am + 10.15-10.50am, £3 per session. Info 01633 656757. Funkypump Fitness Various venues across south Wales. 6am-7pm. Info www.
BUZZ 65
* – recommended
events It’s often said that all good things come to an end and that’s certainly true this month as we bid farewell to one of British folk’s finest groups, Coope, Boyes and Simpson, a vocal trio renowned for their creatively arranged mixture of traditional, contemporary and politically astute folk songs performed mostly a cappella. Formed around 1990, the three singers from South Yorkshire and Derbyshire – Barry Coope, Jim Boyes (formerly of Swan Arcade) and Lester Simpson – released their debut album Funny Old World in 1993. A collection of a cappella songs full of social comment and harmonies to die for, Q magazine named it their Roots Album Of The Year in 1994, and it quickly established the trio as among the leading lights of the British folk scene. Twenty-four years and at least a dozen albums later, with numerous tours and festivals to their name as well as a Folk Award nomination, Coope, Boyes and Simpson recently released Coda, their final studio album. A collection of songs that are either self-penned or drawn from the tradition, the political edge remains as sharp as ever with songs covering issues such as refugees, Iraq and climate change. With their anger undimmed, Coope, Boyes and Simpson are returning to their roots and completing the circle that began with Funny Old World. Between those two albums Coope, Boyes and Simpson have pursued a varied career that’s included 2014’s In Flanders Fields: a double album that pays homage to the music and song of World War I through recordings of wartime songs and their own compositions. In addition to their own recordings Coope, Boyes and Simpson have also been involved with the occasional supergroup Blue Murder alongside members of Waterson:Carthy and The Watersons and have frequently collaborated with label mates Chumbawamba – contributing vocals on their albums A Singsong And A Scrap, Get On With It! and The Boy Bands Have Won. This month Coope, Boyes and Simpson embark on their final tour. A celebration of their career, they’ll be featuring material from across their entire repertoire as you’ll be able to hear on Tue 9 May when they appear as part of the Roots Unearthed series at Cardiff’s St. David’s Hall. Buzz also recommends: Jon Boden. Erstwhile Bellowhead front man goes it alone. Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Mon 15; Pontardawe Arts Centre, Tue 16. Miranda Sykes. Solo outing for the Show Of Hands double bassist. Lyceum Folk Club, Constitutional Club, Newport, Thurs 18. Khamira. Stunning collision of jazz with Welsh and Indian folk music. Various towns, Mon 22-Fri 26. Please send your folk and roots listings to listings@buzzmag.co.uk or phone them in to 029 2022 6767
BUZZ 66
funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Ware-house, Swansea: Bootcamp 6-7 + 10-11am; ABC 5-7pm; Kettlebell 5.156pm; Bag Circuit 6.15-7pm. Ware-house, Port Talbot: HIIT 6-6.45pm. Funkypump Fitness, Ammanford: Funkypump 6-7pm. Rainbow Rooms, Gorseinon: Bag Circuit 6-7pm. Newport Photographic Club Skip Jennings Hall, Maindee, Newport. 7.30pm. Info 01633 400685. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate.org. Today’s schedule: 4.15-6pm: Youth: Jedi Aerial Skills (11+); 6-7.30pm: Aerial Fitness; 6-8pm: Supervised Training. Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Older Adult Dance/ Exercise The Riverfront, Newport. 11am-12pm, £3. Info 01633 656757. Low impact dance and exercise class aimed at the over 50s. Reggae Yoga Breakfast Club Anna-Loka, Cardiff. 7.30-8.30am, £10. Info 029 2049 7703. Vegan cafe launches new session, on every Friday, where you do yoga (with one Yogi Bare) and listen to reggae. 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. 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
African Drumming Sessions Penarth Pier Pavilion. 10.30-11.30am, £5. Info 0844 8700887. Ballroom Dancing Class Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 10am kids / 11am adults, £4 per class. Info 01685 384111. 10am: kids; 11am: adults; 12pm: private tuition. Children’s Climbing Classes Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 10-11.30am, £15. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Saturday and Sunday. Family Give It A Go Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 12, 2 + 4pm, £15. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Saturday and Sunday. Family Saturdays Foyer, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2063 6464. Craft workshops for kids and parents. Funkypump Fitness Various venues across south Wales. 6am-7pm. Info www. funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Ware-house, Swansea: Abs 8-9am; TRX & Kettlebells
9.15-10.15am; Funkypump Kidz 10.30-11.30am; Bag Circuit 10.30-11.30am. Ware-house, Port Talbot: Bag Circuit 10.30-11.30am. Ufit, Cardiff: Bag Circuit 9.30-10.30am. Funkypump Fitness, Ammanford: Bag Circuit 10.30-11.30am. Funkypump Fitness, Carmarthen: Boot Camp 8-9pm. Hard Côr Sony Room, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am, free. Info 029 2063 6464. India Dance Wales Classes Lewis Street Methodist Church, Ystrad Mynach. Info ym.natyam@ gmail.com. New classes from beginner to Grade 3 level, every Saturday morning – email to confirm specific times. Mini Musical Theatre The Riverfront, Newport. 10-11am, £6. Info 01633 656757. Run by Defying Gravity, professional tutors will teach ballet and drama to kids aged 3-6. Movement For Children Volcano, Swansea. 10am12pm, £4. Info www. volcanotheatre.co.uk. Energetic classes with a focus on creativity, supporting physical development and building confidence. Ages 4-7: 10am; 8-12: 11am. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today’s schedule: 10-11.30am: Youth: Wookies (7-9 years); 11.30am-12.30pm: Youth: Ewoks (5-7 years); 12.302pm: Youth: Padawans (9-11 years); 2-4pm: Youth: Jedi Performance Skills (11+); 4-6pm: Youth: Jedi General Skills (11+). Performance Academy Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 10am-1pm, £10. Info 01685 384111. Offering professional theatre and performance coaching in dance, acting, musical theatre and singing. Roath Real Food Market Mackintosh Sports Club Car Park, Roath, Cardiff. 9.30am-1pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982. SeeWales Sightseeing Tour: Romans And Ruins National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Sewing Workshops Barnabas Arts House, Newport. 10am-1pm. Info 01633 673739. Hosted by Ellery Design – see www. ellerydesign.com for details of how to book and/or contact them. 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.
EVERY SUNDAY
Ballet Academy Wales Classes – Adults Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 12-1pm, £6.50. Info 07837 937351.
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. Children’s Climbing Classes Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 10-11.30am, £15. Info 029 2048 4880. Cooper’s Quiz Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm, £1 to play. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Hosted by Ben Cooper. Draw Somebody’s Sunday Body Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 1.30-3.30pm, £7.50. Info 07830 381930. Hosted by Cardiff Life Model. Family Give It A Go Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 12, 2 + 4pm, £15. Info 029 2048 4880. Farmers’ Market National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Welsh producers sell their wares every week. Lindy Hop Dance Classes & Social Swing Dancing Pontardawe Arts Centre. 6-10pm. Info 01792 863722. NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today’s schedule: 1-3pm: Flying Trapeze Level 2; 3-5 + 5-7pm: Flying Trapeze Level 1; 7-9pm: Flying Trapeze Level 3. 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.
MONDAY 1
uBeginners Saxophone Class Upstairs at The Park Hotel, Barry. 7-9pm, £15. Info 07806 625717. With Beverley from Sax For Fun. Every other Monday; also on Mon 15 and Mon 29 this month. Boutique Gift Markets Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am5.30pm. Info 029 2087 7959. Calan Mai National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Welsh music and clog dancing for May Day. Cardiff Uni Vinyl Society Music Quiz Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7pm, £1 entry. Info 029 2039 7933. Gino’s Italian Escape Live St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £27.50. Info 029 2087 8444. TV cook takes to the stage. Hornbill Premier Slalom Cardiff International White Water, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2087 7900. Featuring Premier Race 3 and Division 4 races.
u – repeated
Mayday Bank Holiday National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Merriment, music and the raising of the maypole, with a specific Welsh slant. May Day Carnival Llandaff Rowing Club, Cardiff. 11am4pm, free. Info 029 2240 2670. Family event organised by and in aid of Welsh Hearts. uNight And Day Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. £1.50 after admission fee. Info 029 2047 5475. Meet lots of interesting night-time animals in this show suitable for under-7s. (Every Saturday and Sunday until Sun 21) Scrappy Shakers National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Make a musical shaker. uSearch For Life Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. £1.50 after admission fee. Info 029 2047 5475.Beyond our Solar System, around distant stars, new planets are being found all the time. May they hold the secret we are looking for? That ‘may’ implies they’re asking our permission. (Every Saturday and Sunday until Sun 21) Welsh History Forum National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. An exhibition and informal talks by various Welsh history groups. uWrite 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. Also on Mon 15 (it takes place here every first and third Monday of the month).
TUESDAY 2
uArt Course – Painting And Drawing Penarth Pier Pavilion. 10am-12.30pm, £105 (10 weeks). Info 0844 8700887. Led by Pauline Williams. Every Tuesday (excepting Tue 30 May) until 4 July. uExplore Books National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am, free. Info 01792 463980. Discuss books and authors in a casual setting (no obligation to have read the books in advance). Also on Tue 9, Tue 16 and Tue 23 this month. uQigong Class Bute Park, Cardiff. 6-7pm, pay by donation. Info 07779 151916. Every Tuesday in May, June and July. More at www. bringingbalance.co.uk.
WEDNESDAY 3
uBlack Kettle Collective Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 3.30-5pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Gain experience and benefit from collaborating on real projects with like-minded people in a supportive and creative space. Also on Wed 10, Wed 17 and Wed 24 this month. City Crops Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm, £12. Info hannah@ greencityevents.co.uk. Green City Events present a guide to starting an urban garden. They have similar classes scheduled until November as things stand. Reminiscence Monthly
events Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 11am-1pm, free. Info 029 2034 6214. Come to the museum and share your memories of Cardiff, on the first Wednesday of every month. uScriveners Writers’ Group Royal Exchange, Brynmawr. 8pm. Info 01495 753629. Also on Wed 17 and Wed 31. uWales International Poetry Festival Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7-9pm. Info 01970 623232. Fifth edition of this festival, happening over two days here. Today features readings by Juana Adcock, Nicky Arscott, Menna Elfyn, Anja Golob, Ann Mathews and Luis David Palacios; a panel discussion on ‘Poetry As Resistance’ with Juana Adcock, Yolanda Castaño, Luna Montenegro and Luis David Palacios. Tomorrow is from 6-9pm and features poetry film screenings and a Performance Night with Yolanda Castaño, Luna Montenegro, Mamta Sagar and Rhys Trimble; readings by Gavin Goodwin and Elin ap Hywel.
THURSDAY 4
uBuzz DIY Workshops: Zine Making Tramshed, Cardiff. 11am-8pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. The first of a series of free (book in advance please) workshops this periodical is hosting all month. This one is also on Thurs 11, Thurs 18 and Thurs 25, from 11am-7pm each day. Cardiff Independent Film Festival Launch Party The Big Top, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. Book in advance via www.cardifffilmfest.com. Charity Fashion Show Village Hotel, Pendwyallt Road, Cardiff. 7am-11.30pm, £2.50. Info info@gthc.org.uk. A George Thomas Hospice Care charity event. uEssential Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 9pm, £8. Info 07538 878609. By Cardiff History & Hauntings. Also on Wed 10, Thurs 11 (9.15pm start), Thurs 18 (9.30pm start, as are all the rest this month), Wed 24, Thurs 25 and Wed 31. First Thursday Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £2.50. Info 029 2030 4400. Readings by Rhian Edwards and Crystal Jeans. uHedgehog Helper Morning Venue TBC, nr Builth Wells. £20. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event. Also on Tue 9, Sat 13, Wed 17, Wed 24 and Wed 31. May The 4th Be With You – A Star Wars Celebration Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 8pm-2am, £5 adv. Info 07970 063107. Featuring a Star Warsthemed quiz from 8-10pm, then two movies from the franchise screened afterwards. New Welsh Writing Awards 2017 Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 6.30-8pm, free. Info 01970 623232. Poems & Pints Cambrian Arms, Neath. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01639 641556. With Mike Jenkins and Red Poets. Storytelling Suppers Kemi’s, Pontcanna, Cardiff.
7pm, £14. Info 029 2037 2055. With special guests Frances Maxey and Megan Lloyd. Entry fee includes food.
FRIDAY 5
An Evening With Sandy Ingham Queens Hall, Narberth. 6.30pm, £16. Info 01834 869323. Spirit medium. Buzz DIY Workshops: Smartphone Filming Tramshed, Cardiff. 12-3pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With David Evan. 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. uCastle Tales Myths And Legends Margam Park, nr Port Talbot. 12.15-1pm, free. Info 01639 881635. On every Friday this month. Cricket: Royal London One-Day Cup – Glamorgan v Somerset SSE SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 11am. Info 029 2040 9380. Diffusion & Buzz DIY
Cardiff Castle. 9.45pm, £15. Info 07538 878609. By Cardiff History & Hauntings. Also on Sat 13. uSwanseabertawe Multilingual Festival Volcano, Swansea. 7.30pm, free. Info www. volcanotheatre.co.uk. Poetry, music and discussion every Friday until June 23. Today’s performers: Preti Taneja, Ali Sizer and Hannah Sabatia; Fri 12: Marie Darrieussecq, Mamta Sagar and Nia Davies; Fri 19: Shirin Ramazanali Fazel and Alhaji Kamara; Fri 26: Jörg Bernig and Wioletta Greg. Toddler Days Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Monthly term-time events for toddlers and their parents, this month’s theme being ‘food glorious food’. WWE Live Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25-£65. Info 029 2022 4488. “Fans will be able to see all their favourite WWE Superstars live in action all under one roof including Dean Ambrose, AJ Styles, Randy Orton, Dolph Ziggler, The Miz, Bray Wyatt, Becky Lynch, Natalya and many more!*” Eerily, the asterisk at the end isn’t
Sat 13 sees the first of 2017's Ty Hafan Rainbow Runs take place in Barry Island. Assemble at the Eastern Promenade, having already registered and raised a bit of sponsor money, and embark on a 5K run which will see your clothes showered in multicoloured powder. Workshop Festival Launch Party Castle Arms, Angel Hotel, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2022 1695. Featuring DJs, video and art from John Rae (The Shakedown) in this rarely-used subterranean pub space. Fun! 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. First Fridays Cwtsh Arts Centre, Newport. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01633 664498. Featuring crime writer Belinda Bauer. Friday Talk: Caesar, Sihtric And Owain Glyndwr National Museum Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Numismatist Edward Besly on newly discovered coins from Wales. Book in advance please. Introduction To Greek Kitchen Basics Venue TBC, central Cardiff. 6.30-9.30pm, £35. Info 07870 131558. Class hosted by Lia Moutselou. Let’s Get Quizzical The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £2 to enter. Info 01497 821762. Pub quiz. Little Mice Club: Transport National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am-12pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Bilingual playtime for babies/ toddlers. uPremium Ghost Tour
paired with the explanatory note you might expect. uWorkshop Bike Sale Cardiff Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 1-5pm. Info www.cycletrainingwales.org. uk. Adult bikes on sale from £60; kids’ bikes from £10. On every Friday this month, plus Sat 6 (from 10am-12pm).
SATURDAY 6
60 Second Show And Tell National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 2pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Museum curators try to explain an object without hesitation repetition or deviation in just a minute. Buzz DIY Workshops: Graffiti Tramshed, Cardiff. 11am-6pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Keiron Jones of Oner Signs. Caerphilly Food Festival Caerphilly town centre. 10am-5pm, free. Info 01443 866390. Over 100 stalls, cookery demos, kids’ activities and more. Cardiff Astronomical Family Day National Museum Cardiff. 10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Family-friendly activities with Cardiff Astronomical Society and Museum scientists. Cardiff Storytelling Circle Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2030 4400. uCheese & Cider Weekend Gower Heritage
Centre, Swansea. 10am, free. Info 01792 371206. Tasters from a large selection of locally made cider and cheese, plus live music and craf stalls/activities. On tomorrow also. 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. Craft Fair St Mary’s Church, Swansea. 10.30am-4pm, free. Info ariancrafts@hotmail. co.uk. Dewch i Ganu National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am, free. Info 01792 463980. Join musician Delyth Jenkins and learn Welsh through song. Eclectic Crafters Centenary Hall, Maryport Street, Usk. Info eclectic. crafters@gmail.com. Craft fair held on the first Saturday of each month. Enfys Craft Fair St. Francis Millennium Centre, Barry. 10am-4pm. Info 01446 792149. Every first Saturday of the month. Football: Barclays Premier League – Swansea City v Everton Liberty Stadium, Swansea. 5pm. Info 0870 400004. Half Day Art Class: Seascapes The Gate, Cardiff. 9.30am-12.30pm, £20/£25 with resources supplied. Info 029 2048 3344. uHands-On Art Club Oriel Myrddin, Carmarthen. 11am1pm + 2-4pm, £20 per term. Info 01267 222775. Aimed at ages 8-11, this term the theme will be making art outdoors and will include land art, printmaking with natural materials and making art on the beach. Also on Fri 20 this month. Introduction To Embroidery The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 11am1pm, £20. Info 07445 200707. Creative workshop hosted by Twin Made, who have further events later today, tomorrow, Fri 12, Sat 13, Sat 20 and a bunch in June too. Local And Family History Fair National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Organised in partnership with the Historical Association, Swansea branch. More Bike Maintenance Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am4pm, £65. Info www.cycletrainingwales.org.uk. Museum Friends Lecture National Museum Cardiff. 10.30am, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Dean Powell, ‘Treorchy And The Land of Song’. uMuseum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 9pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Presented by Cardiff History & Hauntings. Also on Sat 20 and Fri 26 (9.45pm start). Open Haus The Printhaus / The Boneyard, Canton, Cardiff. 10am-2pm, free. Info 029 2022 0349. Monthly open studios here, an opportunity to meet the artists and makers in this creative community. On the first Saturday of every month. Penydarren Steam Locomotive National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-3.30pm, free.
Info 01792 463980. uPig Street Craft Fair The Queens Hall, Narberth. 10am-4pm, free. Info enquiries@pigstreetcrafts.co.uk. Selling original arts and crafts. Also on Mon 29. uPremium Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8.45pm, £11. Info 07538 878609. By Cardiff History & Hauntings. Also on Fri 12 and Sat 27. Saturday Craft Workshop For Adults Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 11am-1pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Monthly session. This month’s theme is Under Milk Wood. Saturday Family Workshops Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am-4pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Book in advance please. Sew Simple Pyjamas The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 2-5pm, £30. Info 07445 200707. Twin Made workshop. uSheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Spend the afternoon in a 200-acre organic farm. A Good Day Out Event. Also on Sun 7, Sat 13, Sun 14, Wed 17, Sat 20, Sun 21, Wed 24 and Sat 27. uStreet Food Social The Depot, Cardiff. 5-11pm, free. Info www.depotcardiff.com. Lots of local street food traders, every Saturday this month. Swansea Festival of Stitch Workshop Swansea Museum. £15. Info 01792 653763. Ring 07715 711798 or email robi.thomas@ btinternet.com for more info on this one. uTalks At 4 Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 4pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Exhibition tours hosted by artists Richard Higlett and Thomas Williams. Also on Sat 20. uVintage_Kilo_Sale_ Cardiff Cathays Community Centre, Cardiff. 10am-6pm, free. Info 029 2037 3144. Buy clothes by the kilo. On tomorrow also. Wales On Wheels National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Display of various vehicles outside the museum. Weber Essential Course Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10am2pm, £99. Info 01443 222716. Willow For The Garden Adamsdown Community Garden, Cardiff. 10am12.30pm, £12. Info hannah@ greencityevents.co.uk. Hosted by Green City Events. Young Makers Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am1pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Expand your skills and experience in this new class aimed at children aged 14-16 who want to work collectively on projects. Book in advance please. Young Writers Workshop Carnegie House, Bridgend. 10.30am, free. Info 01656 815757. With Rhian Edwards.
SUNDAY 7
Advanced Cabaret Course Talent Shack, Penarth Road, Cardiff. 2-3.15pm, £7/£60 for full course. Info www.
cardiffcabaretclub.com. With Stephanie. An add-on to the weekly classes in Pontcanna, which start tomorrow. uBeginners Show Girl And Burlesque Dancing Talent Shack, Penarth Road, Cardiff. 3.30-4.45pm, £7/£60 for full course. Info www. cardiffcabaretclub.com. With Stephanie. Classes continue on Wed 10 and are then on every Wednesday (from 6.307.45pm) until 28 June. Cushion / Clock / Lampshade Making The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 11am-4pm, £50/£15-£25 per class. Info 07445 200707. Twin Made workshops. Cricket: Royal London One-Day Cup – Glamorgan v Essex SSE SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 11am. Info 029 2040 9380. Cwmbran Craft Fayre Our Lady’s School Hall, Cwmbran. 1-4pm. Info cwmbran_crafts@hotmail. co.uk. Every first Sunday of the month. uEssential Ghost Tour Cardiff Castle. 9.15pm, £11.50. Info 07538 878609. Cut-price 85-minute tour, by Cardiff History & Hauntings. Also on Sun 14 (starting at 9.30pm). Lee Skeet Supper Club Brewdog, Cardiff. £40. Info 029 2023 1684. Cornish seafood specialist with March’s instalment of a series of supper clubs which run until July. Book here: www. leeskeet.com/shop. Legends And Tails Parc Slip Nature Reserve / Bryngarw Country Park, Bridgend. 5am (approx), free. Info 001656 724100. Join the Wildlife Trust at Parc Slip at dawn for the wildlife phenomenon that is the Dawn Chorus. In the afternoon, there’ll be a bushcraft survival skills at Bryngarw Country Park, plus guided walks and storytelling sessions across both sites. Mediterranean Kitchen Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 9.30am-3.30pm, £170. Info 01443 222716 / www. angelagray.co.uk. uOpen Level Chair Dance Talent Shack, Penarth Road, Cardiff. 4.45-6pm, £7/£60 for full course. Info www. cardiffcabaretclub.com. With Stephanie. Classes continue on Wed 10 and are then on every Wednesday (from 8-9.15pm) until 28 June. Piggy Walking With A ‘Pig-Nic’ Senni Valley, Brecon Beacons. £25/£10 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Take a pair of friendly Kune Kune pigs (from New Zealand, look a bit like Ewoks) for a walk, then return to the smallholding for refreshments. Stretch Revive And Relax Workshop Pontcanna Dojo, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info 07774 601544 / sarasclasses4@gmail.com.
MONDAY 8
uAdvanced Cabaret Course Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 8-9.15pm, £7/£60 for full course. Info info@ burlesquecardiff.co.uk. With Stephanie. Every Monday
BUZZ 67
* – recommended
events
BAFTA CYMRU MAY 2017 Entries are now closed for the Cymru Awards – mark the diary now for the event which will take place at St David’s Hall on Sun 8 Oct. Nominees will be announced on Fri 1 Sept and tickets go on sale to the public on the same day – a chance to come and rub shoulders and sip champagne with the best of Welsh film, television and games talent. In terms of events for the public with an interest in creative media to attend, we are hosting a few great sessions around South Wales this month. First up is a masterclass on directing with BAFTA-nominated Phil John, who will talk about working on Outlander, Downton Abbey, Moon Dogs and more. Phil, originally from Newport, will be speaking on Wed 3 May as part of the Ffresh Festival at University Of South Wales. Next, on Fri 5 May, last year’s Factual Directing winner Vaughan Sivell will be discussing documentary filmmaking at Aberystwyth University following a screening of his winning film Mr Calzaghe. On Sat 6 May we will be supporting the screening of Gozo, winner of the best UK feature award last year at Raindance, as part of the Cardiff Independent Film Festival at Chapter Arts Centre. On Wed 10 May, back at Chapter, we’ll be hosting a preview of new Welsh feature B&B followed by a Q&A hosted by Boyd Clack with BAFTA-nominated writer/ director Joe Ahearne (The Replacement, Da Vinci’s Demons, This Life, Doctor Who) and producer Jayne Chard (Hollyoaks, Grange Hill). Finally, on Mon 22 May, we’ll be hosting a preview of the Tate Britain’s Great British Walks – a new series of epic travelogues through British art. In the episode we are screening at Cineworld, Michael Sheen joins art curator Gus Casely-Hayford on a moving journey back to his native South Wales in the footsteps of Josef Herman, a name you may not recognize but someone who was a fascinating and fantastic artist. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the talent available. All of these events are open to the public (at a cost) or to our members for free and you can book via our website below. We’re also still accepting membership applications and you are able to join now for 13 months at special rates. Have a look at all the benefits of membership, including free cinema, on our website. Info: www.bafta.org/wales
BUZZ 68
until 26 June. Elliecoptor Hoops Hula Hoop Class Plasnewydd YMCA, Cardiff. 6-7pm, £5. Info elliecoptor@hotmail. com. Second Monday of every month. Heritage Volunteer Conference 2017 National Museum Cardiff. 9.20am-5am, £35 adv. Info 029 2039 7951. Conference exploring various topics relating to volunteering and its attendant culture. uJoy Of Living Mindfulness Group Meeting Gaia Yoga Studio, Roath, Cardiff. 7.30-9pm, free (donations welcome). Info 07412 346054. On the second and fourth Monday of every month (also on Mon 22 in April). uPilates And Core Stretch Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 6.457.45pm, £30 for six sessions. Info info@burlesquecardiff. co.uk. With Stephanie. Every Monday until 12 June.
TUESDAY 9
uBelly Dance Class Talent Shack, Penarth Road, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7/£30 for five weeks. Info www.cardiffcabaretclub. com. With Stephanie. Every Tuesday until 6 June. Poetry Nights Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm. Info 01792 863722. With Rosie Wood Bevan. Spirituality Cafe The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, pay by donation. Info 029 2048 3344. Second Tuesday of every month. uTea Dance Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 2.30pm, £5. Info 01656 815995. Also on Tue 23. The Wonderful World Of Islamic Art Queens Hall, Narberth. 11am, £10. Info 01834 869323. Lecture by Sarah Seabright.
WEDNESDAY 10
Friends Of The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery Talk Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 6.30pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Illustrated talk by Dr Barry Plummer and Byron Beynon titled ‘Beauty most wild, a fever for colour: the life and art of J.D. Innes, 1887-1914’. Open Mic Spoken Word Extravaganza 40 Ye Olde Murenger, Newport. 7.30pm, £5/£3. Info 01633 263977. Featuring poets Amy Wack and Rebecca Parfitt. Penned On The Bont Carnegie House, Bridgend. 7.30pm, £4. Info 01656 815757. With John Osborne and Emily Blewitt. Tea Dance Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 2pm, £5 adv. Info 0845 2263510.
THURSDAY 11
Buzz DIY Workshops: What Is Welsh Culture? Tramshed, Cardiff. 6-7pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Simon Dancey. Clink Charity Fundraising Dinner St David’s Hotel, Cardiff Bay. £75. Info cardiff@theclinkrestaurant. com. Featuring a four-course menu created by Martyn Watkins, with proceeds going to this in-prison restaurant’s charitable activities. uHowl Mozarts, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 01792 649984. Poetry open mic, every second
and third Thursday of the month (also on Thurs 18). Off Grid Gourmet Supper Club The Globe At Hay, HayOn-Wye. 7pm, £30 meat eaters/£25 vegetarian. Info 01497 821762. Hosted by Hugh. Book in advance please. SWDFAS Lecture: The Rise And Fall Of Napoleon Bonaparte Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2pm, £6. Info 029 2030 4400.
FRIDAY 12
An Afternoon With Kev Johns Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2pm, £8.50. Info 01792 475715. Light entertainment/variety. An Evening With Martin Kemp Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £22.50. Info 0800 0147111. Spandau Ballet man talks about his life to date. Artist Talk: Elizabeth Price Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 6-6.45pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Launch of new exhibition, curated by Price and launching tonight (see Art listings). Buzz DIY Workshops: Corner House Studio Tramshed, Cardiff. 10am5pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. 10am-12pm: Studio Engineering; 1-2pm: Playing On A Studio Session; 3-5pm: Music Production. Crafty Beer Night The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 6.30-8.30pm, £20. Info 07445 200707. Twin Made workshop. Dinky Dragons Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 10am-3pm, free. Info 029 2034 6214. Family fun day for 0-5-year-olds on the second Friday of every month. Friday Talk: Something Old And Something New National Museum Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Kitty McKenny, Senior Paintings Conservator, explains how conservation has evolved to care for the wide variety of art which has survived over the centuries Psychic Sally St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £24. Info 029 2087 8444. Sally Morgan is investigational and the show is for the purpose of entertainment. In Llanelli on Tue 16. Spring Weekend Fused Glass Course Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am4.30pm, £195 (three days). Info 029 2048 4611. With Bill Swann. Tea Dance St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 2pm, £5. Info 01446 799100. With Alan Taylor. Under Milk Wood Twitter Exchange #6 Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Annual event related to International Dylan Day (Sun 14) where the residents of Llareggub talk to each other on Twitter. Not sure if there’s actually any live aspect to this event. Wine Tasting Talk Evening – A Mediterranean Summer National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 7pm, £15/£12.50. Info 01792 463980.
SATURDAY 13
uAlfie’s Charity Bootcamp Bryn Bettws Lodge, Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot. 9am-4pm, £40 (two
days). Info info@gthc.org. uk. A George Thomas Hospice Care charity event hosted by Forces Fitness. On tomorrow also. Beginners’ Sewing The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 12-1.30pm, £20. Info 07445 200707. Twin Made workshop. uBoutique Gift Markets Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am5.30pm. Info 029 2087 7959. On tomorrow also. Buzz DIY Workshops: Skate Photography And Filming Tramshed, Cardiff. 11am-6pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Cardiff Skate Club. uCaerwent Craft Fayre Caerwent Village Hall, Monmouthshire. 2.30-4.30pm. Info cwmbran_crafts@ hotmail.co.uk. Every second Saturday of the month (also on Sat 27 in May). Cardiff Vegetarian Festival 2017 Mackintosh Hall, Roath, Cardiff. 4.30-10pm, free. Info cardiffveggie@mail.com. Annual event of fleshless fodder and live music. uChepstow Farmers’ Market Cormeilles Square, Chepstow. 8.30am-1pm, free. Info 01291 626370. Every second and fourth Saturday of the month (also on Sat 27 in May). Essential Bike Maintenance Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £65. Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk. ‘I Might Want To Smile’ Family Drop-In Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Book in advance please. Drop-In Knotwork & Beadwork Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-4pm, £5. Info 029 2048 4611. Monthly class, normally on the second Saturday of the month. Farmers’ Market Twyn Community Centre, Caerphilly. 9.30am, free. Info 01656 658963. Every second Saturday of the month. Kidsmarkets Family Sale YMCA Plas, Roath, Cardiff. 11am-12.30pm, £1/kids free. Info 07760 802088. Featuring 30 stalls of great quality new and pre-loved baby and children’s items. 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 Fayre Victoria Hall, Mumbles, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 07790 298913. On the second Saturday of every month. Open Day With Curators And Conservators National Museum Cardiff. 10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Playpen Workshop Aberystwyth Arts Centre. Info 01970 623232. Saturday Adult Art Classes Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am-4pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Learn how to make a clay slab vessel and explore ceramic hand-building techniques such as press moulding and embellishing. Book in advance please.
u – repeated
Scooter Rally Redhouse / Penderyn Square, Merthyr Tydfil. 10am-4pm, free. Info 01685 384111. Seafood Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 9.30am-3.30pm, £180. Info 01443 222716 / www.angelagray.co.uk. Sew Up A Dress Pattern The Boneyard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 2-5pm, £30. Info 07445 200707. Twin Made workshop. Spoken Word Saturday Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 3pm, £3. Info 0845 2263510. uSpring/Summer Foraging Courses Bute Park, Cardiff. 12-3.30pm, £35/£17.50 under-16s. Info 07971 411875. Presented by Wild Food UK; Also on Sun 28. Summer Flowers: HandTied Bouquet And Vase Arrangement Humble By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth. 10am-12.30pm, £65. Info 01600 714595. The Good Life Festival National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre, Llandysul. 10am-3pm, free. Info 0300 1112333. As far as I can tell this isn’t related to the north Wales festival of the same name that Cerys Matthews is involved in. It does however showcase the talents of some of the area’s craftspeople. Trial A Sheep Dog Morning Location TBC, Brecon Beacons. £45. Info 01874 749092. Work with a Welsh sheep dog on a scenic hill farm and learn the commands to move sheep around the field. A Good Day Out event. Ty Hafan’s Rainbow Run Eastern Promenade, Barry Island (registration point). 11.30am, £12 to register. Info events@tyhafan.org. Charity 5K run in which runners get their white clothes showered in bright colours. Minimum sponsorshop amount to raise is £50, or £20 if you’re under 16. Welsh Longbow Championships Margam Park, nr Port Talbot. 10.30am, free. Info 01639 881635. Wrestling: ICW Fight Club Tramshed, Cardiff. 6pm, £18.50 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Young Archaeologists Club Swansea Museum. Info 01792 653763. Young Writers Squad Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am12.30pm. Info 01792 463980. With poet Jonathan Edwards.
SUNDAY 14
Barry Island Handmade Market Barry Island train station. 11am-3pm, free. Info facebook.com/ barryislandhandmademarket. Every second Sunday of the month. Cardiff Dragon Boat Race County Hall, Atlantic Wharf, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2087 7900. Supporting the Lord Mayor’s Appeal Charity – Cancer Research Wales. uTuneless Choir Cardiff Aspire Fitness, Canton, Cardiff. 7.30-9.30pm, £10 first session/£7 drop-in/£40 for eight weeks. Info 07745 683723. Choir, led by Mei Gwynedd, for people who want to sing but can’t carry a tune. Also on Sun 28, and every
events fortnight after that. Dylan Day Drop-In Activities Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Activities include creative writing, make a mini comic, puppets, games, reading corner, crafts and dressing up costumes, all inspired by Dylan Thomas. Marina Market National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Regional Indian (Goa) Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 9.30am3.30pm, £170. Info 01443 222716 / www.angelagray. co.uk. Tea Dance Penarth Pier Pavilion. 2-4pm, £7. Info 0844 8700887. With Alan Taylor. Vintage And Handmade Fair National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Wenvoe Spring Craft Fair Wenvoe Community Centre, Cardiff. 10am-4pm, free. Info 07922 109721. Wedding Venue Showcase National Museum Cardiff. 6-9pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.
MONDAY 15
Gwd Mondays Quiz Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Juke: Dylan Day M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 7-10.30pm, free. Info 029 2047 3373. Cardiff writers’ open mic night with an evening inviting you to perform Dylan’s original pieces or your own, inspired by his work. uPint Of Science Various venues, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4 per event. Info www. pintofscience.co.uk. The return of this pop culturefriendly programme of science events, taking place in various Cardiff venues as well as lots of locations around the UK. O’Neills: Cardiff Versus Cancer (Mon 15); Recent Discoveries In Kidney Disease (Tue 16); Battling The Superbug Apocalypse (Wed 17). 10 Feet Tall: Impact Of Past & Present Rises In CO2 (Mon 15); Changing Tropical Marine Ecosystems (Tue 16); How The Earth Moves (Wed 17). Old Market Tavern: Science Of The Tiny (Mon 15); What Would Life Look Like On Other Planets? (Tue 16); An Element Of Danger (Wed 17). Little Man Coffee Co.: Curious Connections (Mon 15); A Trip Down Memory Lane (Tue 16); Sex, Drugs And Big Mutations (Wed 17). (Until Wed 17) uVelotech Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £495 (four days). Info www.cycletrainingwales. org.uk. (Until Fri 19)
TUESDAY 16
Script Cafe Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm. Info 01792 863722. With Derek Cobley Philosophy Cafe The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, pay by donation. Info 029 2048 3344. Third Tuesday of every month. Psychic Sally Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £24. Info 0845 2263510. The History Of Opera Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01646 695267. Hosted by Brendan
Wheatley.
WEDNESDAY 17
Ask The Expert Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 2-3pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Come and meet the conservation team and find out how to care for your own artworks. Professor Brian Cox Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 8pm, £40/£30. Info 029 2022 4488. SCIENCE! The Art Of Conservation Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am-12pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Meet the Glynn Vivian conservation team and go behind the scenes of the Gallery.
THURSDAY 18
Buzz DIY Workshops: LGBTQ In The Modern World Tramshed, Cardiff. 6-7pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. Short films and a Q&A. Charity Golf Day Whitchurch Golf Club, Cardiff. 1pm, £225 per team of four. Info info@gthc.org.uk. A George Thomas Hospice Care charity event. Open Space: Japanese Gardens with Yoko Kawaguchi Central Library Hub, Cardiff. 5.45pm, free. Info 029 2038 2116. Author of Japanese Zen Gardens and Authentic Japanese Gardens explores their popularity and background.
FRIDAY 19
Buzz DIY Workshops: Zines Tramshed, Cardiff. 2-5pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Tristan Manco. uCricket: Specsavers County Championship – Glamorgan v Nottinghamshire SSE SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. 11am. Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Mon 22) Exploring The Collection Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 2-3 + 3.30-4.30pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Friday Talk: From Riches To Rags? National Museum Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. With Dr Christian Baars. Lunch Club Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10.30am-2.30pm, £37. Info 01443 222716 / www. angelagray.co.uk. Rose Matthews Folk Dancing Rhys Pritchard Hall, Llandovery. 7.30pm, £5. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com. Also featuring live music from DiEnw. So You Think You’re Smart? Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7pm, free. Info 01495 243252. Quiz night, every third Friday of the month. Wheelbuilding Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £95. Info www.cycletrainingwales. org.uk. uWriting And Yoga Felinganol Retreat, Cardigan. 4pm, £270-£310 (three days). Info siandafydd@gmail.com. A weekend for people interested in yoga and/or writing, and how they work together. (Until Sun 21)
SATURDAY 20
Bdwen Lyfrau 2017 Aberystwyth Arts Centre. Info 01970 623232. Day-long festi-
val of Welsh-language publishing featuring book launches and other events for readers of all ages. Blaenavon Little Monthly Market Bethlehem Court, Blaenavon. 10am-2pm, free (£10 to set up a table/£5 if you bring your own table). Info 01495 792878. Sellin crafts, bric-a-brac, bits and pieces and breads/pastries, Brecon Craft Fair Market Hall, Brecon. 9am-4.30pm. Info 01495 753782. Every third Saturday of the month. Buzz DIY Workshops: Zines Tramshed, Cardiff. 3-5pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With James Green. Kidsmarkets Family Sale All Hallows Church Hall, Miskin, Pontyclun. 11am12.30pm, £1/kids free. Info 07760 802088. Featuring 20 stalls of great quality new and pre-loved baby and children’s items.
greencityevents.co.uk. Hosted by Green City Events. Thrifty Kids: Shampoo Bottle Planes National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am-12.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me / The Missing Pieces Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 7-11pm, £22.50. Info 07933 844234. So if you’re anything like me you’re probably wondering “why the hell does it cost £22.50 to watch two films in a coffee shop?” However if you actually are me you’ll have looked on Snowcat Cinema’s website, where it says that The Missing Pieces is hardly ever shown anywhere, so it probably cost a bundle to get. Fancy dress is encouraged, as it is at the Twin Peaks-related event below I think. uVictorian Weekend Cardiff Castle. £2-£6. Info 029
Eddie The Eagle: a classic British hero, by virtue of representing his country in a discipline he wasn't very good at. There's now a film about his life, and on Wed 31 he's at Newtown Theatr Hafren to do a Q&A, with said film screened in the afternoon. Lazy Crafternoons: Driftwood Sailboat Decorations National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 1.30pm, £5. Info 01792 463980. uMonmouthshire Food Festival Caldicot Castle & Country Park. 10am-4.30pm, £5/free under-12s. Info 01291 420241. Featuring a producers’ market, demonstration theatre, a children’s quarter and other activities. On tomorrow also. Needlefelting Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am4.30pm, £75. Info 029 2048 4611. With Mandy Nash. Richard Price: Talk National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Talk by Paul Frame about Price, a noted Welsh radical. Organised by the Historical Association, Swansea Branch. uRoyal Welsh Spring Fair Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. 9am-6pm, £13 adv/free under-16s. Info www.rwas. wales. Hosted by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. On tomorrow also. Saturday Kitchen Summer Recipe Book Launch Extravaganza Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10.30am-1pm, £27. Info 01443 222716 / www. angelagray.co.uk. Spring Plant Sale & Book Sale M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2047 3373. Annual fundraiser for the gallery and children’s book group. Springtime Food Forage Bute Park, Cardiff. 10am12.30pm, £12. Info hannah@
2087 8100. On tomorrow also. Wrapped In Plastic: A Twin Peaks Tribute The Big Top, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2022 8883. Upfront of the new, Lazarus-like comeback series of Twin Peaks, a multifaceted night featuring live bands, DJ sets, Diane and the log lady, a Black Lodge photobooth and more.
SUNDAY 21
Advanced Cabaret Course Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2-3.15pm, £7/£60 for full course. Info www. cardiffcabaretclub.com. With Stephanie. An add-on to the weekly classes in Pontcanna. Cardiff Coffee Festival Portland House, Cardiff Bay. 10am-1.30pm + 2-5.30pm, £9/£7. Info 029 2048 7602. One-day event “showcase some of the best coffee roasters, baristas and coffee contributors from Cardiff and beyond”. Dreams And Insights Drawn Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 1-4pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Explore the process of dream interpretation with artist Julia Lockheart and sleep scientist Mark Blagrove, in one-to-one sessions of about 30 minutes each. Book in advance please. Football: Barclays Premier League – Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion Liberty Stadium, Swansea. 3pm. Info 0870 400004. Jnani: Film & Supper Night Small World Theatre, Cardigan. 6-8.30pm, free. Info 01239 615952. Documentary on the Indian sage, Sri Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi. The screening is free and so
is the food! Meditation For Peace Natural Health Clinic, Cathedral Road, Cardiff. 6-7.45pm, free. Info 029 2034 3052. Taster event, no booking necessary, hosted by Brahma Kumaris. Sheep For Beginners Humble By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth. 9.45am-4.30pm, £105. Info 01600 714595. Weber Seafood Essentials Course Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 5-9pm, £99. Info 01443 222716. Winning The Game.... The Spiritual Way! Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11.30am-1pm, free. Info 07708 425509. This workshop is described as “a light-hearted look at how to play the game of life through understanding the deep underlying spiritual rules” and is hosted by Brahma Kumaris.
WEDNESDAY 24
Beginners Carpentry Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm, £11.99. Info 07933 844234. Find out what tools and materials you’ll need to get started on basic carpentry projects at home. Hosted by Green City Events. uMaibock Beer Festival Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 5-11pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Annual bonanza for German beer fans, this one traditionally celebrates the winter-spring transition. On from 5pm-12.30am on Fri 26; 12pm-12am Sat 27; 12-11.30pm Sun 28. (Until Sun 28) Maiden Day Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 12pm-4am, free. Info 07970 063107. Fuel is not officially an Iron Maiden bar, nor this event strictly Ironsapproved, but it’s as close as you’re going to get on the day of the band’s Motorpoint gig. Spice Preview Night Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. Info 07376 604291. Monthly evening offering a chance for you to go along and see what you might get out of this adventure, activity, sports and social group.
THURSDAY 25
Buzz DIY Workshops: Is Punk Dead? Tramshed, Cardiff. 6-7pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Paul Gray of the PRS (and formerly, perhaps more relevantly, The Damned). Friday Talk: International Day Of Biodiversity National Museum Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. A Museum scientist talks about their work and the animals and plants in their care. uHay Festival 2016 Various venues, Hay-On-Wye. 11.30am-11pm. Info 01497 822629. The full programme is at www.hayfestival.com, you’ll have to make do with highlights from Buzz I’m afraid. Today this includes Hugo Spowers, Morgan & West (twice) and Eddie Izzard. Fri 26: Digby Jones, Miriam González Durántez, Nick Clegg, Helen Fielding, Chris Boardman, Bonnie Greer, Filip Springer, Andy Parsons, Amy Macdonand and Norman Jay. Sat 27: Victoria Hislop, Julia Donaldson, Horatio Clare, Cory Doctorow, Dai Smith, Dick and Dom,
Jeremy Paxman “interrogated” by Marcus Brigstocke, Nicholas Hytner, Peter Singer, David Mitchell, Axel Scheffler, Ed Balls talking to Joan Bakewell, Charlotte Rampling, Michael Rosen (twice), Tom Daley (twice), Graham Norton, Simon Schama, Lucy Worsley, Simon Garfield, Richard Parks, Andy Hamilton and Nahezdha from Pussy Riot. Sun 28: Bettany Hughes, Ben Cort, Philippe Sands, Robert Winston, Judith Kerr, Tony Robinson, Garry Kasparov, Shappi Khorsandi, Tracey Emin talking to Dylan Jones, Danny Dorling, Thomasina Miers, James Rhodes, Tariq Ramadan, Cat Weatherill and DJ Yoda. Mon 29: Laura Bates, Oliver Jeffers, Polly Toynbee, Chris Riddell, Yanis Varoufakis, Sayeeda Warsi, Jinathan Safran Foer, Neil Gaiman, Tristram Hunt, Joe Lycett, Ifor ap Glyn, Amanda Palmer, Fat Freddy’s Drop and Craig Charles. Tue 30: Owen Sheers, Carrie Quinlan, Paddy Ashdown, Germaine Greer, Alexander Todorov, Marcus Sedgwick, Brian May, Pete Brown. Wed 31: John Guy (I don’t really know who this is but his name makes me laugh), Daniel Hahn, Roy Hattersley, Richard Holmes, Michael Parkinson, Esther Rantzen, Will Young (who is now doing jazz standards for some reason) and Khamira. Go to the website for now if you want to know about June’s listings, yeah. (Until Sun 4 June) Taith Iaith National Museum Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Practice your Welsh language skills and celebrate International Day of Biodiversity with Senior Curator Katie-Mortimer Jones.
FRIDAY 26
Aber Cycle Fest: Criterium Racing Marine Terrace, Aberystwyth (meeting point). 2pm. Info info@abercyclefest.com. Daytime fun event open to anyone from eight years old. Angela Cooks The Book: The Summer Recipe Book Pop-Up Restaurant Launch Event Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 6.30pm, £65. Info 01443 222716 / www.angelagray. co.uk. Boxing: Cyclone Promotions Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 4pm, £62/£42/£102 VIP. Info 029 2022 4488. With cruiserweight title bout between Craig Kennedy and Matty Askin at the top of the bill. Rescheduled from March. Buzz DIY Workshops: Independent Publishing Tramshed, Cardiff. 3-6pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Buzz magazine its damn self. Community Café: Elaine Cooper Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 12.301.30pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Talk on the history and traditions of Japanese papermaking. Book in advance please. Galaxy Gala National Museum Wales, Cardiff. 7pm12am, £65. Info info@gthc. org.uk. A George Thomas Hospice Care charity event. BUZZ 69
* – recommended
live music uMerthyr Rising Festival Penderyn Square, Merthyr Tydfil. 12pm, £20/£12.50 per day. Info www.merthyrrising. uk. “Celebrating the heritage and history of radicalism at the birthplace of the red flag”. Heck yeah. Music from Stereo MCs, Alabama 3, Adrenaline Animals, Buck & Evans, Chapel Row, Chris King, David Rovics, Digital Criminals, Fireroad, Florence Black, Plasterscene, Tenpole Tudor with Agent 13, The Contrast, The Dole Age, The HomeGrown, The Moon Birds, The Sandinistas, Thee Faction, Tracy Island and Upbeat Sneakers. Talks, debates etc from Francesca Martinez, Raoul Martinez, Ben Griffin, Craig Murray, Lindsay German, Roger Mckenzie (Unison), Ross Ashcroft, Peter Stefanovic, Rob Griffiths, Steve Keen and Roger Huddle (Rock Agianst Racism). Plus a performance of Anthony Bunko’s play Breathe, the Merthyr Rising Radical Film Festival, comedy, street food and more. On tomorrow also. uThe Moon Rum Festival The Moon, Cardiff. 3pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Three-day fest which started last year and featured 100 rums, live bands and other jolly stuff. Today is ‘Cuban Friday’, tomorrow is ‘Pirate Saturday’ and has live music from Seas Of Mirth, and Sun 28 is ‘Reggae Sunday’ with live music from Captain Accident. (Until Sun 28) uWelsh Perry & Cider Festival Caldicot Castle & Country Park. 6.30-11pm, £8 adv (£25 adv for four days/£50 with camping). Info welshciderfestival.wordpress. com. Over 100 ciders and perries from across Wales (plus a few from outside). Plus live music each day. Running from 12-30-11pm on Sat 27-Mon 29. (Until Mon 29)
SATURDAY 27
Aber Cycle Fest: Downhill MTB Constitution Hill, Aberystwyth. 1pm. Info info@ abercyclefest.com. Buzz DIY Workshops Closing Party Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm-12am, free. Info 029 2023 5555. Featuring an exhibition of work created during the month. Buzz DIY Workshops: Poster/Flyer Making Tramshed, Cardiff. 3-6pm, free. Info 029 2023 5555. With Liam Barrett. Craft Fair Community Hall, Neath. 10.30am-4pm. Info ariancrafts@hotmail.co.uk. Craft Fair & Workshops Tabernacl Chapel, The Hayes, Cardiff. 10am-4pm, free. Info uniquefairs@gmx.co.uk. Dinosaur Babies Family Activity Day National Museum Cardiff. 10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Relating to the new exhibition opening here. uDress Up St Fagans National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Drop in to various buildings this bank
holiday to check if there’s anyone home. While dressed in period costume, if you like. (Until Mon 29) Enamel Jewellery Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am4.30pm, £80. Info 029 2048 4611. With Kathryn Willis. uFundamentals Of Improv Comedy: Weekend Intensive The Arches, Cardiff. 11am-5pm, £95 (two days). Info 029 2087 7959. Two-day course (on tomorrow also) run by Nathan Improv. uLandscape Detectives Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 12-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3650. Explore the Coity Tip – so called because it was a tip, yet now looks nice thanks to NATURE – and hunt for treasures of the natural world. (Until Sun 4 June) uMakers Market National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-5pm, free (small charge for some activities to cover cost of materials). Info 029 2057 3500. Meet the makers and find out more about their crafts as they run workshops and demonstrations throughout the week. (Until Sun 4 June) uMargam International Kite Festival Margam Park, nr Port Talbot. 10am, free. Info 01639 881635. On the new album by the brilliant band Endless Boogie, there’s a song about going to a kite festival in 1974 and seeing Kiss play. There’s no mention in Margam Park’s listings of Kiss playing this one, but equally no confirmation that they won’t be. An entry fee applies for Mon 29, maybe due to a secret Kiss set. (Until Mon 29) uMargam Model Boat Club Show Margam Park, nr Port Talbot. 10am, free. Info 01639 881635. Demonstrations taking place on the pond. Can’t see Kiss playing this one to be honest. (Until Mon 29) Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science The Riverfront, Newport. 3pm, £11. Info 01633 656757. Live science demonstrations by Thompson, a TV astronomer and author. May Holiday Workshop Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am-2pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Family workshop aimed at ages 4-14. Book in advance please. More workshops are on on Tue 30 and Wed 31. uPawprints In The Summer Sky Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. £1.50 after admission fee. Info 029 2047 5475. Discover all the animal shapes hidden in the constellations. Suitable for under-7s. (Until Wed 31) Record Fair The Parrot, Carmarthen. 10am-5pm, free. Info 01267 231012. Get in touch via 07817 781493 or music@theparrot.cymru if you want to book a table. Space & Architecture Adult Workshop Mission Gallery, Swansea. 10am-4pm, £22. Info 01792 652016. With Jason & Becky; aimed at ages 16+. uStar Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. £1.50 after admis-
sion fee. Info 029 2047 5475. Find out more about some familiar constellations, the planets, how stars are born and how they die. (Until Wed 31) Superhero Day! National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. In partnership with the Research Institute For Arts And Humanities, Swansea University. Not sure who their favourite superhero is. Swansea Comic & Gaming Convention 2017 Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 10am-6pm, £5 adv. Info 01792 475715. Taff & Yank’s Vegan Fayre Newport Market. 11am-4pm, free. Info 07739 581464. Hosted by Sicily To Seattle, a new vegan cafe in Newport. The Science Of Superheroes National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 1 + 3pm, free. Info 01792 463980. With Author Mark Brake and CBBC’s Jon Chase. Try Gamelan St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 1pm, £8/£5. Info 029 2087 8444. Weber Art Of Charcoal Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 10am2pm, £99. Info 01443 222716. Writing For Children Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-3.30pm, £4-£10. Info 01792 463980. Workshop with Eloise Williams.
SUNDAY 28
A Day Of Nourishing And Nurturing Barnabas Arts House, Newport. 10am-3pm, £50. Info 01633 673739. Join Philomena for a day of wellbeing practices, mindfulness, Qigong, Yoga Nidra, food and tea. Art Car Bootique Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11am11.30pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Annual day of art, stalls, food, music etc, held in Chapter’s car park from 11am-6pm and the inside bar from 6-11.30pm. Aber Cycle Fest: Sportive Various routes, Ceredigion. 8am. Info info@abercyclefest. com. Featuring four different routes: Y Corrach (28.2 miles, easy); Y Diafol (44.5 miles, medium); Y Mynach (61.5 miles, medium) and Y Cawr (105.8 miles, hard). Booklaunch: Dave Randall The Moon, Cardiff. 2pm. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Launching a book called Sound System: The Political Power Of Music. Classic Desserts (Freezable) Angela Gray’s Cookery School At Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 9.30am-3.30pm, £170. Info 01443 222716 / www.angelagray.co.uk. uCowbridge Food And Drink Festival 2017 North Road / High Street, Cowbridge. 9.30am-5.30pm, £5/£8 both days. Info 07875 290428. Annual weekender, billed as one of the jewels of this well-to-do l’il town. On tomorrow also. uDylan’s Travels: Family Self-Led Activities Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. themed self-led creative writing activities, puzzles,
word searches and crafts all inspired Dylan’s adventures and travels. Also on Tue 30, Wed 31, Thurs 1 June and Sun 4 June. uGower Good Food Festival Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea. 10am5.30pm, free. Info 01792 371206. Featuring lots of stalls by local/artisan/just plain ol’good quality producers, plus demonstrations and workshops. On tomorrow also. Guided Tour: Dylan’s Swansea Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea (starting point). 10.30am-12.30pm, £4-£10. Info 01792 463980. Welsh Open Stoneskimming Championships Llanwrtyd Wells. 10am, £5 to enter. Info 01591 610666. Sponsored by the Heart Of Wales Brewery, this is the first Green Events competition of 2016, presaging many more marginal rural challenges (bog snorkelling, man v horse racing etc).
MONDAY 29
uBecome A Legend! National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon. 11am4pm, £2. Info 029 2057 3550. Listen to stories of heroic Roman deeds and act out some of their battles. (Until Fri 2 June) uDinosaur Babies Family Workshops National Museum Cardiff. 11am, 1pm + 3pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Find out more about baby dinosaurs and make a dinosaur egg craft to take home. (Until Fri 2 June) Dylan’s Travels: Story Map Family Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Drop-in workshop. Flying Kites & Lazy Owls Caerphilly Castle. 11am-4pm, £7.95/£5.20 NUS/OAP/under16s. Info 01443 336000. Maps And Travels Creative Writing Workshop For Children Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am-12pm, free. Info 01792 463980. With writer, artist, and tutor Siôn Tomos Owen. Pirates Of Port Talbot Family Fun Day Margam Park, nr Port Talbot. 10am, £7/£5 kids. Info 01639 881635. An invitation to, in the exact words of Margam Park, “join in plenty of squash buckling fun and mayhem”. uUrdd National Eisteddfod Maes Y Eisteddfod, Felindre Rd, Bridgend. 7am, £13 per days/£5 under-16s and competitors. Info helo@urdd.org. Annual youth-oriented festival for/about/promoting the Welsh language and culture visits Bridgend this year. Features various concerts and other performances across six days; visit www.urdd.cymru for a fuller programme. (Until Sat 3 June)
TUESDAY 30
3 Cool Things To Make With A Penny National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980. uA Dinosaur Encounter
u – repeated
Cardiff Castle. £4. Info 029 2087 8100. Take a look at dinosaur models, their bones and eggs and see the animals that were living at that time but are still alive today, including cockroaches, scorpions, lizards and snakes. On tomorrow also. uCreative Creatures Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 12-4pm, £1. Info 029 2057 3650. Drop in to make cool creatures and beautiful bugs. (Until Thurs 1 June) Lucy Worsley: Jane Austen At Home Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £18.50/£31 with book. Info 01495 227206. TV historian with a new biography of Austen, which she’ll be talking about. May Holiday Workshop Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am-12.30pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Design and create your own working clock using mixed media in this workshop for ages 7+. uSoft Play Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 12-4pm, £1. Info 029 2057 3650. For kids under five and the adults who accompany them. (Until Thurs 1 June) Watercolour Techniques Mission Gallery, Swansea. 11am-2pm, £6. Info 01792 652016. Discover new ways to use watercolour paintsincluding resists, salts, cling film and marbling.
WEDNESDAY 31
Craft At The Museum Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 10am-3pm, £1. Info 029 2034 6214. Drop-in family events for half-term. Eddie The Eagle: Try Hard Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £16/£15. Info 01686 614555. Don’t worry, they’re not caling Eddie a tryhard, at least I don’t think so. Either way the noted 1980s skijumper talks about his life, with the new film about same being screened here today at 1.30pm as well. Elliecoptor Hoops Hula Hoop Class / Hoop Jam Plasnewydd YMCA, Cardiff. 8-10pm, £5/£8 both classes. Info 07934 011061. Last Wednesday of every month. The class is from 8-9pm and is followed by a hoop jam from 9-10. Games Wales The Big Top, Cardiff. 6pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. Monthly meetup for gaming enthusiasts. May Holiday Workshop: Science Conservation Day Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 11am-4pm, free. Info 01792 516900. explore the science behind conserving the range of artworks in the Gallery’s collection Science Cafe National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 7.30pm, free. Info 01792463980.
live MONDAY 1
Darkest Hour + Venom Prison Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Older and newer generations of noncrap metalcore combine on one bill. Jazz Commanders Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Live jazz, with acts here every Monday. uMatt Pauley Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Cardiff’s new jazz and blues venue with acts playing for £0.00 every day this month apart from Saturdays. Matt is also on Wed 10 this month. Red Hot Pokers Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015. uUkulele Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Every Monday, with The Plucking Fourstrings.
TUESDAY 2
Acoustic Tuesday South Riverside Community Development Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2030 4400. Regular event led by pioneering local musicians and singers. An Evening With Maesteg Gleemen & Melbourne Male Voice Choir Maesteg Town Hall. 7pm, £8. Info 01656 733269. Battle For The Crown Round 1 Group 3 The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 7pm, £2. Info 01685 387925. Featuring Revival, Heavy Flames, Hang11 and Drowning Flowers. uCommunity Samba Band – Practise Dates Llanfrynach Village Hall, Brecon. 7-9pm, £4/£2 under16s. Info sambabrecon@ yahoo.co.uk. Every Tuesday. Eddie Reader + Adam Holmes Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm, £22.50 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Longstanding singer-songwriter who first hit the big time with her band Fairground Attraction, whose songs were all about wanting to bang a fairground. Huw Warren Jazz Masterclass & Jazz Jam Session Jazzland, Swansea. 7.30pm, free. Info 07802 912789. uOpen Mic The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, free. Info 01497 821762. Every Tuesday. uOpen Mic Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Every Tuesday. uPete Mathison Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Tue 23 this month. Sam Brookes Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Singersongwriter. The Innocent Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £2.50. Info 01686 614555. Folk-rock band from Shropshire. The Sandringham Six
JUST ANNOUNCED FOR JUNE: GEORGE EZRA (Cardiff University Students Union, Fri 2; Brangwyn Hall, Swansea, Sat 3) INTO T H E A R K ( T h e G l o b e , C a r d i f f , S a t 3 ) S A I N T E T I E N N E ( Tr a m s h e d , C a r d i f f , S a t 3 ) C H A KA K H A N ( M o t o r p o i n t A r e n a C a r d i f f , We d 7 ) BUZZ 70
live music Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. YCare Battle Of The Bands Undertone, Cardiff. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Featuring sets from Last Girl On Earth, Free Pizza, Wise Man Otis and Crystalline.
WEDNESDAY 3
Acoustic Open Mic Night Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7-11pm, free. Info 01685 384111. uBandaoke Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. “Sing with a fully rehearsed band and become the Popstar you always dreamed of being.” Also on Fri 19. Battle For The Crown Round 1 Group 4 The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 7pm, £2. Info 01685 387925. Featuring Smiling Tigers, The Bakestones, The Boom Sons and Mud Mouth. uBay Rum Hounds Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2038 7026. Also on Wed 24. Blanche Rowan & Mike Gulston Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club night. Bob Dylan Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 6.30pm, £65/£55. Info 029 2022 4488. Bob Dylan concerts feature him singing like a man having his throat operated on and most of his audience can’t work out which song he’s playing. If you point this out his superfans get mad though. Capital City Jazz Orchestra Swing Session Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig. Dark Valley Revival Tiny Rebel, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2039 9557. Bluegrass band from the valleys Excellent Skeleton + Esuna + Guide Dog The Big Top, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2022 8883. Huw Warren Trio Brasil Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30pm, £10. Info 07802 912789. Also featuring Iain Ballamy. Jamee Summers + Saccharyn + Luna Tides NosDa, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Presented by U&I Radio. Mnozil Brass St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25.50/£16.50 under-16s. Info 029 2087 8444. Theatrical brass band with a new show, Cirque. Newton Country + The Folk Fusion Of All Things Considered + Eleri Angharad Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. A Folk In The Owl’s Nest night. uOpen Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Every Wednesday. Expect to hear jazz, blues, rock or ska here. uOpen Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. Every Wednesday. Ophelia Brewdog, Cardiff. Info 029 2023 1684. These guys play “British Americana rock” and are doing a UK tour
where they play lots of different Brewdog bars. Brewdog is one of those entities where everyone’s opinion on it, no matter how positive or negative, is really irritating, so I’ll refrain from adding mine. Partikel The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767. uSarah Meek Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Mon 8, Wed 17 and Tue 30 this month. Tom Smith & Ella O’Neill The Riverfront, Newport. 2pm, £6. Info 01633 656757. A Concerts & Cakes night. Trampolene The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £6/£5 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Presented by This Feeling.
THURSDAY 4
BBC NOW: Berlioz – Symphonie Fantastique St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5-£37. Info 029 2087 8444. Xian Zhang conducts a programme of Tan Dun, Rachmaninov and Berlioz. In Swansea tomorrow. Dan Patlansky The Globe, Cardiff. 7pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Blues guitarist, popular with people who like blues guitarists. Hackensack with Partikel Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £5-£10. Info 029 2038 7026. Local jazz combo. You can pay £5, £7 or £10 depending on what you think their performance is worth. Hot 8 Brass Band Tramshed, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £17 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. New Orleans brass band who are hot, kinda, and there’s eight of them, I think. Howie Payne Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Someone from the band The Stands. Jane’s Calamity Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. An evening of singing along to songs from the musicals round the piano. Jess Morgan Cuffern Manor, Roch, Pembrokeshire. 7pm. Info 01437 710071. Singersongwriter from Norwich. uOpen Mic Night Crindau Constitutional Club, Newport. 8.30pm. Info 01633 858268. Every Thursday except when there’s a guest on – also on Thurs 11 and 25 this month. Off The Record Beaufort Arms, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 01792 234447. Presented by Nailed It Events. Paul Edwards The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042. Presented by Nailed It Events. Paves The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £6/£5 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Presented by This Feeling. Slimline Henry Duo Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. SnakeStrings Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £14/£12. Info 0845 2263510. Featuring sax player Snake Davis alongside a string quartet. Tall Ships + Silent Forum + Shadows Into Light Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. WNO Summer Classics Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £14/£12. Info 01970 623232.
Featuring soprano Rebecca Evans.
FRIDAY 5
101% Pantera Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 07970 063107. Tribute band. Amser Jazz Time Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 5-7pm, free. Info 029 2039 1391. Aubrey Parsons Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Backhand Jags + Idiot Box + Bad Shampoo The Parrot, Carmarthen. 8pm, £5. Info 01267 231012. BBC NOW: Berlioz – Symphonie Fantastique Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15-£20 adv. Info 01792 475715. Brigitte Kloareg St Fagans Village Hall. 7.30pm, £4-£8/ free under-12s. Info 029 2023 2970. Pentreffest Noz monthly folk session. Chris Kelly Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 407767. Presented by Nailed It Events. Concepts + The Forgotten Age + Today, They Are Older + Conflicts The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, £3. Info 01495 213300. Conductors Showcase Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.15pm, £6-£9. Info 029 2039 1391. Dansette The Park Hotel, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 735589. Presented by Nailed It Events. Edwina Hayes Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 7pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510. Folkrock singer. Explosive Light Orchestra Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £16.50/£15.50. Info 01495 227206. ELO tribute. Gypsy & Swing Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £12. Info 029 2089 0862. Band made up of Adrien Chevalier (violin), Tatiana Eva Marie (vocals), Ben Creighton Griffiths (harp) and Ashley John Long (bass). Henge + Palomino Party Fluidity Freerun Academy, Cardiff. 9pm-3am. Info otislarkins@gmail.com. This night is hosted by Frontal Lobe and also features DJs, art curated by Phosphorus and trippy decor etc. It’s billed as a tribute to the late Full Moon venue, except that’s planned to be reopened by this date, and has a gig (see below) which is now in direct competition with this one. Henry’s Funeral Shoe + The Bastard Joe Kelly + Hang 11 The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £5. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. *Hey Colossus + Think Pretty + Oblong The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £8.50 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Great lineup. Hey C always bring the joy. Hollow Log Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £3-£5. Info 01970 623232. Acoustic blues. Imelda May St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7pm, £35/£25. Info 029 2087 8444. See Upfront. James Kennedy The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592. Presented by Nailed It Events.
KRS-One Sin City, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20 adv. Info 01792 468892. Tinfoil-hatted rap icon who played Cardiff earlier this year. It sold out, too, so act fast on this one. Lifting Gear Engineer + Salvador Sanchez Mozarts, Swansea. 8pm, £3. Info 01792 649984. Live electronic oddness. Live Acoustic Night The Pilot, Penarth. Free. Info 029 2071 0615. On the first Friday of each month. Mike Dennis + Berenice & Hann Gwdihw, Cardiff. 9pm, £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. EP launch for headiner. Open Night The Ivy Bush, Pontardawe. 8pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com. A Valley Folk Club night. Seven Sins Festival 2017 Showcase Crowleys Rock Bar, Swansea. 7-10.30pm, £4 adv. Info crowleysrockbar@ hotmail.com. Snakecharmer The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £16 adv. Info 07590 471888. Classic rockers featuring two lesser known members of Whitesnake. uTalking Bird Collective Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Fri 12 this month. The Fugitives Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. The New Jersey Boys Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £16. Info
01633 868239. Frankie Valli tribute. Also features, the venue add, a tribute to Showaddywaddy. By the same musicians? I don’t know pal. The One Hundred + Massmatiks Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. The Outfit Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Pollen Count The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 9pm, £2. Info 01685 387925. Tuk Tuk Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, £12. Info 029 2063 6464. Vicky Speedboat Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, £5 adv. Info 01633 221477. Punk-pop band from Philly featuring someone from Modern Baseball. Welsh Floyd Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 8pm, £18.50. Info 01633 868239. Pink Floyd tribute. In Neath on Sat 20.
SATURDAY 6
6foot7 + Paul Divers + Conners & The Con Men St Catherine’s Church Hall, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 5-11pm, £7 adv. Info www. thesafefoundation.co.uk. Fancy some ska, reggae and punk (also including a DJ set by The Reggiments) in a church hall which looks nicer on the inside than the outside (ie less like a giant garden
shed). Hosted by.in aid of The Safe Foundation. Aeddan The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 6.30pm, free. Info 01685 387925. Benn Willis The Red Dragon, Bridgend. 9pm, free. Info 01656 654753. Presented by Nailed It Events. Captain Accident The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £5. Info 01497 821762. Good Vibrations Hamptons, Penarth. 7.30pm, £39. Info 029 2070 5391. With a five-course meal plus a set of Beach Boys covers. Jazzabelles Mariners, Laugharne. 8.30pm, free. Info 01994 427688. uJon Crespo Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £2 after 11. Info 029 2038 7026. Also on Sat 20 and Sat 27 this month. Metal 2 The Masses Heat 2 Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 07970 063107. Annual battle of the bands series, the winner of which gets to play Bloodstock. Tonight’s bands: Scarsun, Incursion, Plague Father, Hyperion and Jenovese. Montgomery County Festival Choir Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £12/£6 kids. Info 01686 614555. New Roads Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319. Presented by Nailed It Events. Nick Harper Rudry Parish
ATMOSPHERES Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff, Wed 10 May Tickets: £7/£5 per event (foyer performance free). Info: 029 2039 1391 / www.rwcmd.ac.uk This all-day showcase of innovative modern composition links classical motifs with specifically 21st-century technology and multimedia presentation. Atmospheres features five performances, one of which takes place in the building’s foyer – Gawain Hewitt’s Wonderbox is an interactive installation where audience members can contribute to the creation of a piece, to be performed at 4pm. The Dora Stoutzker Hall will feature a song cycle/electroacoustic/poetry piece (Milad Khosravi Mardakheh, Agua); a wind quartet working with electronics (Joseph Shrimpling, Jigsaw); an extract from 2016 Dutch opera Martine & Martinu (Carlijn Metselaar, Scenes) and Daniel Soley’s The Subscribed, inspired by vlogging culture and partly performed live via the internet.
C AT F I S H & T H E B O T T L E M E N ( M o t o r p o i n t A r e n a , F r i 9 ) C A G E T H E E L E P H A N T ( Tr a m s h e d , W e d 2 8 ) J U S T A N N O U N C E D F O R J U L Y: G O G O L B O R D E L L O ( Tr a m s h e d , M o n 3 ) B U S T E D ( C a r d i f f U n i v e r s i t y, F r i 7 ) S P O O K Y M E N ’ S C H O R A L E ( S t D a v i d ’ s H a l l , C a r d i f f , W e d 1 2 ) BUZZ 71
* – recommended
live music Hall, nr Caerphilly. 7pm, £12 adv. Info 07740 192879. Folk. Papillon Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £12.50. Info 029 2089 0862. Violin and guitar duo. Revamps Slipping Jimmy’s, Newport. 9pm. Info 07745 059936. Rhys Sutcliffe + Rosey Cale The Parrot, Carmarthen. 8pm, £2 (suggested donation). Info 01267 231012. Fundraising gig for Time Of Monsters, which is a studentcreated web series. Shame + Fish Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Oiky London indie/punk band plus the singer from Marillion. Or maybe it’s a different Fish. Snarky Puppy Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm, £22 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. American jazz fusion type band. Sold out. Suspiciously Elvis – One Night In Vegas! The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Description here doesn’t say who’s playing Elvis, which I do indeed find suspicious. The Brocklebank The Muni, Pontypridd. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 01443 490390. The Genius Of David Bowie The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £5. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Obsequiously-named tribute act. The Kenny Driscoll Band Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Petty Thieves The Moon, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. The Somethings Hen Dderwen, Sketty, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 203631.
Presented by Nailed It Events. The Ultimate Classic Rock Show Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.30pm, £15. Info 0300 3656677. The Will Wilde Band Cwmbran RFC, Pontnewydd, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01633 483238. Borough Blues Club gig. Tom Chaplin St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.45pm, £18.50-£35. Info 029 2087 8444. Xian Yer lad out of Keane who doesn’t have a double-barrelled surname. This might be sold out, not sure. Upbeat Sneakers Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7pm, £8/£6 adv. Info 01685 384111. Local ska/2-tone band play hometown show uVoulez Vous Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £19.50/£18.50. Info 01646 695267. Abba tribute show. On tomorrow also. Wizards Of Oz Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 01443 682388. Ozzy Osbourne tribute.
SUNDAY 7
A Night At The Musicals 2017 Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £22.50/£19.50. Info 01633 868239. Classical Revolution Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 4-6pm, free. Info 07933 844234. Monthly session of classical music in an informal setting. If you’re interested in performing, email classicalrevolutioncardiff@ gmail.com. Lewis Leighton Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688. uSteve Tamer Hen &
live review KASABIAN
pic: Arabella Itani
Newport Centre, Sat 15 Apr
Chickens, Abergavenny. 9pm, free. Info 01873 853613. Presented by Nailed It Events. Every Sunday this month. Sarah Beth + Glenn Mitchell Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. American country artists on tour together. Save Fuel Rock Club Festival Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 12pm-2am, £10 early bird. Info 07970 063107. Here’s the deal: Fuel need to pay for soundproofing so they stop getting noise complaints. To help them with this they’re having an all-day festival. No music announced as I type but I assume it’ll be rock and metal in the main. Taffy Was A Thief The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767. uThe Bay Rum Hounds Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Mon 22 and Sun 28 this month. uThe Great Unknown The Windsor, Penarth. 9pm, free. Info 029 2070 8675. Every Sunday this month. The Mark Davies Band Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015. Detours + Pioneers + Headofthebear + Virtue In Vain + Manifest + From Once We Came The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 01495 213300. WNO Family Concert St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 3pm, £5-£15. Info 029 2087 8444. Featuring Wynne Evans and conductor James Southall. Yevgeny Sudbin Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama,
Cardiff. 2pm, £15-£19. Info 029 2039 1391. Piano recital.
MONDAY 8
AJJ + My Name Is Ian + Campfire Social Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Headliners are a kind of folky punk band from the States who used to be called Andrew Jackson Jihad but I guess that was problematic or something. Livarado Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Seafret + Louis Capaldi Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. The Skints Tramshed, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £17 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Tomorrow Calling Today Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 8pm, £5. Info 0845 2263510. Monthly showcase nights for new acoustic artists. Will Joseph Cook The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 07590 471888.
TUESDAY 9
C Duncan Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Folky indie bloke and former Mercury Prize nominee. As is often the case, I mention that because I know nothing else about him. Classic Rock USA Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20.50. Info 01792 475715. Tribute show. Coope, Boyes & Simpson St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £16/£15 adv. Info 029 2087 8444. Roots Unearthed concert.
u – repeated
uDraper & Rowe Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Mon 29 this month. Fairport Convention Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2089 0862. Legendary folk-rock band, or an approximation of it. Sold out though. Jack Mac & Friends + Tobias Robertson Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4. Info 029 2039 7933. Lower Machen Festival St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 1pm, pay by donation. Info 029 2087 8444. Lunchtime concert, featuring a performance of Vivaldi’s La Quattro Stagioni. Ocaso Bossa Nova Quartet Muse Arts Centre, Brecon. 8pm, £10/£8 members. Info 07791 654799. Presented by Brecon Jazz Club. The Panama Jazz Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.
WEDNESDAY 10
*Atmospheres Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.15pm, free-£7. Info 029 2039 1391. Soundscapes and installations, produced by composers from the RWCMD. Schedule: Milad Khosravi Mardakheh, AGUA (1.15pm); Gawain Hewitt Duo, Wonderbox (4pm, plus installation on all day); Joseph Shrimpling, Jigsaw (6pm); Carlijn Metselaar, SCENES (7.30pm); Daniel Soley, The Subscribed (9pm). uBella & Gareth Blues Duo Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2038 7026. Also on Wed 17 and Wed 31. Benji Kirkpatrick Burnett’s
Hill Chapel, Martletwy, Pembrokeshire. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 01646 651725. Staple of the UK folk scene. Caves + No Weather Talks + Airstream Futures + Deadlines + Fallow Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6/£5 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Stuffed, punky bill courtesy of DIY Cardiff. Colum Regan The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2048 3344. Folk in the cafe bar. Folk Night Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 7pm. Info 01443 491424. Second Wednesday of every month. Goodkatz Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands.plus. com. South Wales Big Band Society gig. Groucho Club Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30pm, £10. Info 07802 912789. Killer Queen St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £19.50. Info 029 2087 8444. Queen tribute band. Naomi Rae Duo Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Philip Henry & Hannah Martin Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £14. Info 029 2087 7959. Award-winning folk duo. Thomas Truax + Quiet Marauder The Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5.50 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Vera Van Heeringan The Angel, Llandeilo. 7.30pm. Info 01558 822765. A Llandeilo Acoustic folk night. Vox Fortura Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £22.50/£47.50 VIP. Info 01874
As their biggest hit suggests, Kasabian are on fire right now, and blazed a trail of glory through Newport with a storming set. Late March saw the Leicester band announced a hastily arranged UK tour of intimate venues in support of forthcoming album For Crying Out Loud, and tickets were snapped up in minutes. Their unapologetically anthemic sound may fill arenas the size of aircraft hangars, but there’s nothing like being able to see the whites of their eyes. Within the opening bars of new single You’re In Love With A Psycho, the tone is set and the electric atmosphere in the cauldron-like confines doesn’t let up an iota all night. If anything, the frenzy is cranked up a few more notches with Bumblebee’s breakdown leading to an orgy of strobe light and strewn pints. Underdog, Shoot The Runner and Eez-Eh (featuring a snippet of Daft Punk’s Around The World) all soon thunder by, and it becomes apparent that this isn’t just a mere warmup gig to roadtest the new material, but a triumphant celebration of Kasabian’s greatest hits. It seems like the mood can’t get any further fever pitch, but then the throbbing riffs of Club Foot cascade and the place goes nuts all over again. There is a much-needed respite with Serge Pizzorno’s French-flavoured acoustic tune La Fée Verte providing a momentary breather, but even then every word is bellowed back with clenched fists held aloft. The electric guitar is slung back on with a vengeance though for Re-Wired, and the Jeremy Deller-inspired Bless This Acid House is a No.1 in the making if they can knock a certain warbling ginger Furby off the top of the charts. Kasabian then officially claim Newport as their Empire before L.S.F (Lost Souls Forever) takes us back to that bygone summer of 2004 when they declared themselves as Britain’s hottest new band. New track Comeback Kid kicks off the encore at breakneck speed, and the relentless momentum is maintained with Vlad The Impaler. With such high-octane levels guaranteed, a Kasabian gig is never a disappointing experience and fittingly it’s Fire that finishes the set. Evidently, there’s still a lot of the hot stuff in their bellies and it’s showing no signs of burning out. words NEIL COLLINS photos ARABELLA ITANI
P U D D L E O F M U D D + T R A P T ( T h e S c e n e C l u b , S w a n s e a , S u n 2 3 ) JA K E M I T C H E L L ( Tr a m s h e d , We d 2 6 ) F R A N K I E C O S M O S ( T h e F u l l M o o n , C a r d i f f , M o n 3 1 ) J U S T A N N O U N C E D F O R A U G U S T: D E P O T I N T H E PA R K ( S S E S WA L E C , S a t 5 ) D E AT H A N G E L ( H o b o s , B r i d g e n d , T h u r s 1 0 ) BUZZ 72
live music 611622. Classical crossover group. Normal price tickets are sold out but there might be a few VIPs left.
THURSDAY 11
Beans On Toast The Friends Arms, Carmarthen. 8pm. Info 01267 234073. Jestery UK singer-songwriter plays here as part of a UK tour promoting independent pubs. While I’m much more likely to go in one if I’m certain that Beans On Toast isn’t playing there, I endorse the cause. Ben Huws The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042. Presented by Nailed It Events. Betsy Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Welsh solo artist, on the up it is claimed by some. In Newport (the one in Pembrokeshire) tomorrow. Erkan Sahin & Acapela House Band Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £8. Info 029 2089 0862. Traditional Turkish music. Let’s Hang On Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.45pm, £23.50/£22.50. Info 01686 614555. Libardo Cardozo Trio Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Mass Collective Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Qujaku + The Contact High + Totem Terrors + Charivari Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Headliners are a noisy psych band from Japan. Stuxx and All My Friends present. The Barron Knights Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £17.50. Info 01873 850805. The Carpenters Story Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20-£24. Info 01792 475715. Tribute show. *The Nightingales + Mwstard + Head Noise The Full Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£5. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. UK postpunks of an 80s vintage headline, with gig promoters Mwstard in support. This is kind of a reprise of a show they booked here last year, but that was a fun’un and I expect this to be as well. The Vera Lynn Story Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 1.30pm, £15/£13. Info 0845 2263510. With the war-hero centurion’s songs sung by Samantha, who isn’t given a surname so is presumably the same one from I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. Tom Walker Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Singersongwriter. Voodoo Room Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £14. Info 01633 868239. Dual tribute to Jimi Hendrix and Cream. Wildwood Jack The Unicorn, Pontypool. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01495 751304. Monthly folk session.
FRIDAY 12
Adam Ben Ezra Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £12. Info 029 2063 6464. Double bass-
ist who gets big numbers on YouTube apparently. Betsy Memorial Hall, Newport, Pembrokeshire. 7.30-10pm, £7 adv. Info 01239 821114. Bryony Sier + The Rearden Smith Lecture Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. A ChapterLive gig in the bar area. Calypso Beaufort Arms, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 01792 234447. Presented by Nailed It Events. Captain Accident The Moon, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Strictly speaking a solo set from the band’s singer. Chris Kelly The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592. Presented by Nailed It Events. Crawlback The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £5. Info 01497 821762. Blues-rock band. Dean Friedman Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01792 863722. In St Donats tomorrow; Narberth Sun 14. uDevauden Festival Devauden Village Hall, nr Chepstow. 4pm, £18 weekend/£12 kids. Info devaudenfestival@yahoo. com. Two-day family-friendly fest. Today features Afro Cluster, The Hixters, Monico Blonde, Crystal Balloon, Rock Choir, Tarion and Serenata; tomorrow has Rusty Shackle, Rogora Khart, Junior Bill, Fingertrap, Himalayas, Aeddan, Mark Abis, Swallow And The Wolf, The Hot Knife Club, Shimai, John Mouse, Tarsier, A Different Kind Of Smile, Maharaja Blues, The Pitchforks, The Clearing, Without Alex, Gwent Music Celtic Band, Lewis Leighton, Stewart Alexander, Del Blue, Cara Cullen, Aled Hughes and Sarah Morris. Day tickets: £12/£6 kids (Friday); £14/£8 kids (Saturday). On tomorrow also. Eden Roots Reggae Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £3. Info 029 2038 7026. Keith James Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 7.30pm, £14. Info 01982 552555. Performing his Leonard Cohen tribute set. Like A Lion Hen & Chickens, Abergavenny. 9pm, free. Info 01873 853613. Presented by Nailed It Events. Loathe + Death Remains Ebbw Vale Institute. 7.20pm, £6 adv. Info 01495 708022. Metal bands presented by Celtic Mosh. Maarja Nuut Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10-£12. Info 029 2039 1391. Fiddler/vocalist/experimental musician. See Music. Mike Dennis The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £2. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Monsters On A Leash Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30pm, £16. Info 07802 912789. Tower Of Power tribute. Otto & The Witch Club + Nuclear Lullaby Meze Lounge, Newport. 7.30pm, £4. Info 01633 259144. Paige Kenzie Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446
407767. Presented by Nailed It Events. Porter Nickerson Snails Deli, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. 7pm, £22.50 inc buffet. Info 029 2062 0415. Americana duo. Stevie Wonder Tribute & The Sounds Of Motown Hamptons, Penarth. 7.30pm, £39. Info 029 2070 5391. With a five-course meal plus a tribute set from Nat Augustin, as Stevie. The Hurricanes Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Modulators Black Lion, Llandaff, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2056 7312. Presented by Nailed It Events. The Searchers Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £19-£22. Info 01656 815995. In Maesteg tomorrow. The View Tramshed, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Scottish landfill indie band tour to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut album Hats Off To The Buskers. Can’t wait until 2019 when they do the same for their third album, Which Bitch?. uTredegar House Folk Festival Tredegar House, Newport. £30 weekend. Info 01633 246241. Folk dance, song and music over three days. Playing live on Sat 13: Jamie Smith’s Mabon, Allan Yn Y Fan, Cardboard Fox and Morfa. Playing live on Sun 14 (afternoon): Jez Lowe & Steve Tilston, The Hut People, The Foxglove Trio, The Mile Roses. Plus dance displays from Latvia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and other local and visiting teams. Day prices: Fri 12 ceilidh £6/£5/free under7s; Sat 13 ceilidh £8/£7/ free under-7s; Sat 13 concert £14/£12/free under-7s; Sun 14 concert £10/£9/free under-7s. (Until Sun 14) Welcome To My City Undertone, Cardiff. 6pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883. This is a multi-artist UK tour visiting each city of everyone playing. Cardiff is headlined by Kizzy Crawford and also features Nipah, Tobi Sunmola, Gambimi and Sub Blue.
SATURDAY 13
Andy & Gos Cockett Inn, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 588748. Presented by Nailed It Events. A Night Of Elvis Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 8pm, £12.50. Info 01600 772467. With Keith Davies as Elvis. Arcomis Ensemble St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 1pm, pay by donation. Info 029 2087 8444. Modern classical recital, featuring composers TBC. Bass 12 Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Cattle & Cane Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. City Of Cardiff Symphony Orchestra St John’s Church, Canton, Cardiff. 7.3010pm. Info 029 2022 9683. Performing works by Wagner, Schumann and Brahms. Corinne West And The Bandits West End Club, Barry. 7pm, £12 adv. Info 01446 735739. Singersongwriter from California. A
Roots N All gig. Cwmbran Baroque Singers St John The Baptist Church, Newport. 7.30pm, £15 adv/£5 NUS. Info 029 2075 6660. Performing works by Purcell, Handel and Monteverdi Dean Friedman St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 8-10pm, £22. Info 01446 799100. *Exit_International + Deathtraps Le Pub, Newport. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 01633 221477. See Music. Flux Collective: CSM Graduate Show Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 3-8pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Performance from a group studying Creative Sound And Music at University Of South Wales. A combo of live music, glitch installations and projection mapping is promised. Gear Exchange Cathays Community Centre, Cardiff. 1-5pm, £1.50. Info 029 2037 3144. Buy and sell unwanted amps, guitars and other gear here. Grant Sharkey The Moon, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Grimethorpe Colliery Band Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01686 614555. Ieuan The Lion Memorial Night The Neon, Newport. 6pm, £18 adv/£25 with a table. Info 01633 533666. Charity show featuring tributes to Elvis, Billy Fury, Tom Jones and Buddy Holly. Jai McDowall Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.30pm, £12.50. Info 0300 3656677. Someone from Britain’s Got Talent. Kathy Davies Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £2 after 11. Info 029 2038 7026. Limehouse Lizzy The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Lost Like Alice Park Lodge, Morfa Lane, Carmarthen. 2-4pm, free. Info 07468 528933. Hosted by Rewired Music and with more bands TBC. Mansel Davies The Red Dragon, Bridgend. 9pm, free. Info 01656 654753. Presented by Nailed It Events. Metal 2 The Masses Heat 3 Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 07970 063107. Tonight’s bands: Eleven, The Devolved, Black Of Night, Anal Floss Is Boss and Malum Sky. Nell Bryden Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £16.50. Info 029 2089 0862. Musician and Radio 2 presenter. Might be sold out by the time you read this. Off The Record Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319. Presented by Nailed It Events. Out Of The Black The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm. Info 01495 247178. Ragsy The Albany, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1075. Presented by Nailed It Events. Submarine Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. That Band The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £10. Info 01497 821762. Folk. The Crackers Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015.
The Heist Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 8pm, £4 adv. Info 01443 682388. Rock covers. The Oasis Experience The Scene Club, Swansea. 8pm, £11.50 adv. Info 07730 432166. Tribute band. The Searchers Maesteg Town Hall. 7.30pm, £21.50. Info 01656 733269. The Small Fakers Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7pm, £10. Info 01685 384111. Small Faces cover band playing here after the scooter rally that was on earlier (see Events listings).
SUNDAY 14
Al Stewart Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £38/£33. Info 01792 475715. This tour is called Back To The Bedsit, self-knowingly. uBella Collins Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Sun 21 this month. Bring Him Home Gala Concert Cardiff City Hall. 7pm, £22 adv. Info 01239 621200. Wesh Hearts charity event featuring songs from the shows. All of the main artists have starred as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables in the West End! What a stat. City Voices Cardiff – Vale For Africa Charity Concert St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 3-4.30pm, £17.50. Info 01446 799100. Dean Friedman Queens Hall, Narberth. 6.45pm, £22.50. Info 01834 869323. Drones + Frown Upon Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £3 adv. Info 07970 063107. Punk bands. Ensemble Cymru Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 3pm, £3-£10. Info 01970 623232. uFolk Music & Song Session Arvon Ale House, Llandrindod Wells. 4pm. Info 07477 627267. Every second and fourth Sunday of the month (also on Sun 28 in May), with an extra acoustic session now on the third Sunday (Sun 21) too. Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25-£65. Info 029 2022 4488. Featuring a full live orchestra plus the relevant characters on a big screen, doing stuff. See Upfront, where Buzz has kindly written a precis of the Harry Potter story arc and the success of the movie franchise, in case you’ve never heard of it. Hot Club Swing Café Jazz, Cardiff. 6-9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Local musicians are invited to join in for an acoustic ‘gypsy jazz’ jam from 6.30-7.30pm. Jane Pearl / Lyndon Webb / Thad Kelly The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767. Jazz. Jordan Mackampa The Big Top, Cardiff. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Presented by Swn. In Swansea tomorrow. Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 3.30pm, £8.50-£39.50. Info 029 2087 8444. Mostly Autumn The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Welsh proggers. Night By Night Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff.
6-8pm. Info 029 2062 6015. Pete Mathison Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688. Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama Students National Museum Cardiff. 1pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.
MONDAY 15
Elaina Hoss Quintet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Jordan Mackampa The Last Resort, Swansea. 7pm, £7 adv. Info www. thelastresortswansea.com. Jon Boden Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01239 621200. UK folk fave. In Pontardawe tomorrow. uSion Dafydd Dawson Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Wed 31 this month. Wheatus The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £17.50 adv. Info 07590 471888.
TUESDAY 16
Adriano Graziani & Sharon Richards St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan. 3-4pm, £6.50. Info 01446 799100. Tenor and pianist perform cafe concert. uJane Williams Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Also on Wed 24 this month. Jon Boden Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01792 863722. Donnie Joe’s American Swing Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. Maximo Park Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm, £20 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Postpunk band with a new album. They probably don’t want to read Buzz’s review of it this month. It’s quite dismissive, but they probably don’t want to read it anyway. Sharkmuffin + Masts + Van-illa Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5/£4. Info 029 2039 7933. Brooklyn indiepop band headline. The Lowest Pair The Art Shop & Chapel, Abergavenny. 7pm, £12. Info 01873 852690. Contemporary Americana/ folk duo. Vulgarians + Ffug + Strange Cages + Mellt The Full Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6/£4.50 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Indie and punky kinda bands.
WEDNESDAY 17
Andy Collins Open Mic Night Cockett Inn, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 588748. Presented by Nailed It Events. Capital City Jazz Orchestra: Ted Heat Concert Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands.plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig with Chris Dean and Angie Mills. Gnarwolves Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. UK punk band. May Lee Gibson Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30pm, £10. Info 07802 912789. Toby Hay + David Ian Roberts + Sky Barkers Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm,
MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELL AS (Aber ystwyth Arts Centre, Fri 11) BURNING L ANTERN FAYRE (National Histor y M u s e u m , S t Fa g a n s , S a t 1 2 ) O L LY M U R S ( S i n g l e t o n Pa r k , S w a n s e a , S a t 1 2 ) T H E S KATA L I T E S ( T h e G l o b e , We d 2 3 ) BUZZ 73
* – recommended
live music £4/£3 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Album launch for talented mid-Wales folkie Hay, although I think it’ll have been out for a good few weeks by now. Ward Thomas + Wildwood Kin Tramshed, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £17 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. See Music.
THURSDAY 18
Andrew Fawcett Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Calan + Gwilym Bowen Rhys Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £14/£12.50. Info 01792 602060. Welsh folkies with a new album, reviewed in this issue I believe/hope. In Brecon tomorrow; Cardigan on Sat 20. Clay Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 2199. Dead In The Water + Godbomber The Full Moon, Cardiff. 7pm. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Echobelly The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Britpop never-quiteweres roll the dice again. Their press shot only has the singer and one other bloke in, which is not an inherently good sign. James Kennedy The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042. Presented by Nailed It Events. Llyr Williams Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £18-£22. Info 029 2039 1391. Pianist performs as part of the Beethoven Sonata Series. Miranda Sykes Crindau Constitutional Club, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 858268. A Lyceum Folk Club night. These were previoously held at the Lyceum Tavern, however I'm not sure if they're keeping the name. Moody Will & The Roll Duo Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. NC Sessions Nolton Corner, Bridgend. 7.30pm, free. Info 01656 655015. Live acoustic acts, every third Thursday of the month. Pi & Hash The Moon, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Local music showcase, acts TBC. Pop Up Jazzland Jazz Jam Session Hyst, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 07802 912789. Presented by Jazzland. Ross Leadbeater & Sophie Evans Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01874 611622. In Blackwood tomorrow. Sam Bailey St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £24.50-£75. Info 029 2087 8444. X Factor sort. The £75 ticket gets you VIP stuff. The Billy Joel Songbook The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £23.50/£21. Info 01633 656757. Tribute show from Elio Pace. In Llanelli tomorrow; Aberdare Sat 20. Tia McGraff Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £13.50. Info 029 2089 0862. Canadian country artist.
FRIDAY 19
4th Street + Ortario + Tobias Robertson + Ollie Powell Meze Lounge, Newport. 7.30pm, £5. Info 01633 259144. Abba Mania Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01873 BUZZ 74
850805. Tribute show. Adele Tribute Hamptons, Penarth. 7.30pm, £39. Info 029 2070 5391. With Olivia Leigh as the Tottenham warbler, plus for you, a five-course meal. Brunch + Modern Rituals + Disjoy The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £4. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Punk, garage, stonerish rock and goth presented by Slush Puppy. Buzz Rodeo + This Is Wreckage Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477. Two noiserock kinda bands, one from Stuttgart and one from south Wales. Calan + Gwilym Bowen Rhys Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £14. Info 01874 611622. Dansette Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. Defenders Of Style + Joe Dirt + Culture Vultures + Teej & Ketchum + Cyanne Lavina + UCNT The Parrot, Carmarthen. 8pm, £7. Info 01267 231012. Hip-hop night. Dictaphone Devil Beaufort Arms, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 01792 234447. Presented by Nailed It Events. Digital Criminals + Jenovese + Scarsun + The Boom Sons Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £3 adv. Info 07970 063107. This night is called Women Of Rock Cardiff because all the bands have female vocalists. Dividers + Deadlines + The Low Blows + Rungus Mozarts, Swansea. 7.30pm, £4. Info 01792 649984. Punk bands play benefit show for Many Tears Animal Rescue. uFrom Now On Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. £25/£15 per day. Info 029 2030 4400. See Music for more on this fine small-scale experimental music festival. Schedule so far: today has Flamingods, Yama Warashi, Yeah You and Twinfield. Tomorrow brings Gruff Rhys & Roger Paez, Islet, Roshi feat. Pars Radio, Deej Dhariwal and Aftersun, with more TBC. Gimme Some Lovin’ Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01792 863722. Isolation + Democratus + Smithgrind The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £2. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Jason Cooper Vivian Arms, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 516194. Presented by Nailed It Events. Larger Than Life! Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 407767. Presented by Nailed It Events. Laura Evans Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2063 6464. Countryish Welsh singer-songwriter. Les Barker The Ivy Bush, Pontardawe. 8pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com. A Valley Folk Club night. Mavron Quartet St John’s Church, Canton, Cardiff. 7.3010pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 029 2022 9683. Russian-inspired programme, featuring Gliere’s Quartet No.1 and Borodin’s String Quartet No.2. Part of the Russia ‘17 Season in Wales. Music & Memories Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 2pm, £10. Info 01639 763214.
Nostalgia show spanning the 1940s-1970s. Rachel Tucker The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £20. Info 029 2048 3344. West End thesp sings songs from the musicals and so forth. Ross Leadbeater + Sophie Evans Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 2.30pm, £15/£13. Info 01495 227206. That’s Life! Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.30pm, £12.50. Info 0800 0147111. Swing, jazz, easy listening. The Acoustix The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592. Presented by Nailed It Events. The Alarm Y Plas, Cardiff University Students Union. 7pm, £22.50 adv. Info 029 2078 1458. Rescheduled from late last year. The Billy Joel Songbook Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £22.50/£20. Info 0845 2263510. The Bon Jovi Experience The Globe, Cardiff. 7pm, £11 adv. Info 07590 471888. The Dance Machine – Rory Jackson Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £15. Info 01633 868239. Michael Jackson tribute. The Firm Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Supersonic 70s Show Memorial Hall Theatre, Barry. 7.30pm, £16. Info 01446 738622.
Tramshed, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £22.50 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Scottish pipe band who cover popular rock songs. I will grudgingly accept that their album title Music For The Kilted Generation is an above average pun. Robin Green & Mei Yi Foo All Saints Church, Penarth. 2.30pm, £10/£3 NUS. Info 0333 6663366. Vale Of Glamorgan Festival concert, with the duo performing John Adams’ Complete Piano Works. The Billy Joel Songbook Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £22.50. Info 0800 0147111. The Eclectics Gellionnen Chapel, nr Pontardawe. 7pm. Info facebook.com/ gellionnen. The Lonesome Stampede The Globe At Hay, Hay-OnWye. 8pm, £7. Info 01497 821762. The New Amen Corner + Mike Pender + Mike D’abo
u – repeated
MONDAY 22
Dick Hamer Quartet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Gwd Mondays Open Mic Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. *High Functioning Flesh + Burl + Beauty Parlour Undertone, Cardiff. 7pm, £7. Info 029 2022 8883. This is a fine lineup of danceable indiutrial/EBM, noisy techno and creepy drone. Equializing Distort present. Khamira Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01873 850805. Misfires + Amber The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £6 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com.
TUESDAY 23
uAYDMS Annual May Concert The Met, Abertillery. 7pm, £6. Info 01495 355800. Featuring performances from the Primary Section, Junior
The Tredegar House festival is at said venue in Gwent from Fri 12-Sun 14. It'll featture three days of traditional folk, dance displays etc. Jamie Smith's Mabon top the bill.
SATURDAY 20
Bare Knuckle Parade + The Stangs + Tied & Wasted Queens Hall, Narberth. 8pm, £8-£12. Info 01834 869323. “If you like Mumford & Sons you’re going to love these guys!” Calan + Gwilym Bowen Rhys Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 8pm, £3-£14. Info 01239 621200. Cory Band Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7-£14. Info 029 2039 1391. Dizzy Lizzy Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £6 adv. Info 01443 682388. Thin Lizzy tribute. Fleetingwood Mac Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £15. Info 029 2089 0862. Tribute band. Grace Petrie & The PC Brigade + Cosmo Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477. Helen Louise Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319. Presented by Nailed It Events. Kill 66 The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm. Info 01495 247178. Lauren Shields Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £12. Info 029 2063 6464. Muical theatre songs. Leo Sayer Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £27.50£65.50. Info 01656 815995. Metal 2 The Masses Heat 4 Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 07970 063107. Tonight’s bands: Proscenium, Disrupt The Continuum, DoomCrow, Vile Inscription and Lacertilia. Mike Dennis The Moon, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. One For The Road The Red Dragon, Bridgend. 9pm, free. Info 01656 654753. Presented by Nailed It Events. Red Hot Chilli Pipers
Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £18.50. Info 01633 868239. A night titled ‘Bringing On Back The 60s’. Welsh Floyd Gwyn Hall, Neath. 7.30pm, £14. Info 0300 3656677.
SUNDAY 21
Acoustic Session Arvon Ale House, Llandrindod Wells. 4pm. Info 07477 627267. A Tribute To Edgar Biss Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 2pm, £6-£9. Info 029 2039 1391. Chapter Four Jazz Quartet Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Jazz in the bar. Gary Hall Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688. Junior Hacksaw The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767. Onyx Brass: A Day By The Sea Various venues, Penarth + Barry. 10.30am5pm, free. Info 0333 6663366. Vale Of Glamorgan Festival concerts outdoors. Informal performances: 10.30-10.50am, Penarth Pier Pavilion; 12-12.20pm, Victoria Park, Barry; 3.30-3.50pm, Barry Island Gardens. Concert: 4pm, Eastern Shelter, Barry Island. Stratus-Fear Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015. Rock covers. The Tuts + Shit Present + Van-illa The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £10/£7 adv/£5 under12s. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Various indie/ garage/punk sorta bands, seemingly deemed to be kidfriendly. Tom Jenkins Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933.
Section and Senior Section. On tomorrow also. Enemy Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £12. Info 029 2063 6464. UK jazz trio featuring pianist Kit Downes. Grand Band St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 10.30am + 8pm, £3 morning (teachers free)/£5£16.50 evening. Info 029 2087 8444. Vale Of Glamorgan Festival performance featuring six grand pianos. The morning set is for schools. Idle Frets Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5/£3. Info 029 2039 7933. Juniore + Ani Glass + Tarsiers + Gemma & The Owls The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6/£5 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. Khamira The Welfare, Ystradgynlais. 8pm, £11/£9. Info 01639 843163. Thomas Zwijsen Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 8pm, £5 adv. Info 07970 063107. Classical guitarist who does tasteful acoustic renditions of Iron Maiden songs. Trombones For Two Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. Wovoka Gentle Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.
WEDNESDAY 24
Apollon Musagète Quartet Penarth Pier Pavilion. 7.30pm, £15/£3 NUS. Info 0844 8700887. Performing work by Penderecki and John Adams. Vale Of Glamorgan Festival event. Cloudstreet Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club night.
Daniel Eagle + Home Run + Horizon Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5/£3 adv. Info 029 2039 7933. Acoustic artists presented by Zeus and Beers Over Tears. Hugh Cornwell Queens Hall, Narberth. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01834 869323. Former Stranglers singer, now solo only. Steve Albini recorded his latest album, it says here. Seem to recall he was a fan of sorts. Indigo Kid Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30pm, £10. Info 07802 912789. Iron Maiden + Shinedown Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 6.30pm, £48.50. Info 029 2022 4488. Sold out. Been for ages, pal. Khamira Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £12/£10. Info 029 2030 4400. Mishka Shulaby Nos Da Bar, Milford Haven. 7pm, £3 adv. Info facebook.com/ nosdabar. American singersongwriter and (it says here) best-selling author. Johnny Depp is a fan. In Cardiff tomorrow. Monmouth Big Band Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig, with MD Gareth Roberts. The Franklys + Palomino Party The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £6/£5 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com. The Simon & Garfunkel Story St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £20/£18.50. Info 029 2087 8444. Tribute show. In Port Talbot tomorrow. Whiskey Myers Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm, £15 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. US country rockers.
THURSDAY 25
Foy Vance + Ryan McMullan The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Presented by Clwb Ifor Bach. Grand Collapse + Regret + Pizzatramp + Wyllt + Kong Lives The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £5. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Hardcore, crust, metal etc presented by Divergence. Ian Poole Quartet The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042. Presented by Nailed It Events. Jack McDougall Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Kent Duchaine Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Khamira Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth. 8pm, £5-£10. Info 01834 869323. Spanjazz night. Marsyas Trio Ewenny Priory, nr Bridgend. 7.30pm, £15/£3 NUS. Info 0844 8700887. Vale Of Glamorgan Festival event. Mishka Shulaby Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info 029 2039 7933. Pop Up Jazzland Jazz Jam Session Brewstone, Uplands, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 07802 912789. Presented by Jazzland. That’ll Be The Day St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £20-£25. Info 029 2087 8444. The Simon & Garfunkel Story Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01639 763214. Tobias Robertson’s Jam
stage Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Viva Neil Diamond Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £16/£15. Info 01239 621200. Tribute act. In Blackwood tomorrow. Within Destruction + A Trust Unclean + Sodomised Cadaver + Plaguefather Meze Lounge, Newport. 7pm, £6. Info 01633 259144. Death metal.
FRIDAY 26
Alan Barnes, Clive Morton, Jim Barber & Martin Fisher The Open Hearth, Pontypool. 8.30pm. Info martin.fisher1944@hotmail. co.uk. A Jazz At The Open Hearth night. Boston Manor + Casey Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Classic.Co The Twelve Knights, Margam. 9pm, free. Info 01639 882381. Presented by Nailed It Events. Dire Streets Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £16. Info 01873 850805. Dire Straits tribute. Feelgood Experiment + Men On The Chessboard The Big Top, Cardiff. 9pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. Playing as part of a night that also features DJ sets from Don Leisure and Jam Stones, and goes on until 4am. Gallops Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £9 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Postrockish band from Wrexham who broke up at some point but are, obviously, back together. GBH + State Of Decay The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £12 adv. Info 07730 432166. Punk metal veterans. Helen Louise Fairwater Hotel, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2033 3049. Presented by Nailed It Events. Jason Cooper White Horse, Bridgend. 9pm, free. Info 01656 652583. Presented by Nailed It Events. Jazz Boys Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Joe Stilgoe Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £18. Info 029 2063 6464. Performing his Songs On Film set. Khamira Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01970 623232. Larger Than Life! The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592. Presented by Nailed It Events. Organ Recital National Museum Cardiff. 1pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Peter Jagger Hen & Chickens, Abergavenny. 9pm, free. Info 01873 853613. Presented by Nailed It Events. Punchline Beaufort Arms, Swansea. 8pm, free. Info 01792 234447. Presented by Nailed It Events. Richard Digance Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £17.50. Info 01646 695267. *Ryley Walker + Health & Beauty The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 07590 471888. Ryley plays Cardiff a lot, considering he’s American, but I think he’s great so it’s fine by me. Scuffed Up Boots Carnegie House, Bridgend. 8pm, £8. Info 01656 815757. Folk trio. Tendons Chapter Arts
Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. A ChapterLive gig in the bar area. The African Children’s Choir St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5-£12. Info 029 2087 8444. The Bella Collins Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£2. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues. The Gillettes Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. The Rin Tins Bootlegger, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 07495 657407. Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £14 adv. Info 07970 063107. Juds Priest’s former, non-Rob Halford vocalist returns to this venue. Valleys Folk Ceilidh Blaenavon Rugby Club. 7.3010.30pm, £3. Info 01495 790446. Viva Neil Diamond Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £15.50. Info 01495 227206.
SATURDAY 27
*Admiral Sir Cloudsley Shovell + Suns Of Thunder + Heavy Flames + Estuary Blacks The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £8. Info 07730 432166. Dirty fingernails hard rock a la the 70s. Andreas Tophøj & Rune Barslund + Elfen Theatr Gwaun, Fishguard. 3pm, £12 adv/£6 under-16s. Info judy. whitehouse@gmail.com. First event of this year’s Fishguard Folk Festival, which runs until Mon 29. The ticketed events are all in this venue, but lots of other free performances take place around town. Andy Fairweather-Low & The Low Riders Maesteg Town Hall. 7.30pm, £20.50. Info 01656 733269. In Llanelli tomorrow. Ayo Vincent Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 8pm, £6. Info 029 2063 6464. Young London pianist, also a cool thing to say when greeting someone called Vincent. Banjaxed Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319. Presented by Nailed It Events. Benn Willis Three Horse Shoes, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2069 4630. Presented by Nailed It Events. Bulletfest The Dolls House, Abertillery. Free. Info 01495 213300. Two-day charity hard rock and metal gig. Tomorrow is in Pontypool but today features Doomsday Outlaw, Witch Tripper, Pilgrim, Master Charger, Gods Of Hellfire, Lifer, Rustling, Woven Man, Fallen Temples and Kong Lives. Chris Jones Mariners, Laugharne. 8.30pm, free. Info 01994 427688. In Mariners’ sibling venue Browns tomorrow. Do Not Panic Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 01443 682388. Hawkwind tribute. ESP The Albany, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1075. Presented by Nailed It Events. Get Ready! Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 407767. Presented by Nailed It Events. Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith + Jon Loomes & Tom Kitching Theatr Gwaun, Fishguard. 7.30pm, £12 adv/£6 under-16s. Info
judy.whitehouse@gmail.com. Fishguard Folk Festival event. Jordan Marks Academy Espresso Bar, Barry. 7.30pm. Info admin@ academyespressobar.co.uk. Kanda Bongo Man Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7pm, £15. Info 0845 2263510. Congolese musician and inventor of the Kwasa Kwasa dance. Kelly’s Heroes Cockett Inn, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 588748. Presented by Nailed It Events. Modifi Slipping Jimmy’s, Newport. 9.30pm. Info 07745 059936. Britpop covers band. Paige Kenzie The Red Dragon, Bridgend. 9pm, free. Info 01656 654753. Presented by Nailed It Events. Pipe Dream The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm. Info 01495 247178. Richard Digance Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm, £13. Info 029 2089 0862. Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Sidewinder The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 9pm. Info 01685 387925. Soulsville Hen Dderwen, Sketty, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 203631. Presented by Nailed It Events. The Hold Up: Inner City Cypher Oner Signs, Cardiff. 1-5pm, free. Info 029 2037 1231. Monthly hip-hop session inviting MCs, beatboxers, DJs etc down to jam. The Masterplan The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £10/£7 adv. Info gigs@ thedragonffli.com. Oasis/Noel Gallagher tribute. The Phonics Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Stereophonics tribute band. The Sex Pistols Experience The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 07590 471888. Tribute band. The Spicey Girls Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly. 7.30pm, £12.50/£10 adv. Info 07512 237983. Spice Girls tribute. Wildside Kiwis, Cardiff. 10pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965.
SUNDAY 28
2Rude Slipping Jimmy’s, Newport. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 07745 059936. Ska and 2-tone covers band. Also featuring DJ Rob Santwris. Andy Fairweather-Low & The Low Riders Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £20. Info 0845 2263510. Bridget & The Big Girls Blues The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767. Bulletfest The Royal Oak, Pontypool. Free. Info 01495 758378. Today features Chaos Trigger, Ironbat, Redeemed, Sound Of Rain (might have that name wrong, can’t read their logo very well). Duskwood, Out Of The Black and Parallax. Chris Jones Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688. Cowbois + HMS Morris Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 6pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 2199. Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar + Quarto Theatr Gwaun, Fishguard. 7.30pm, £12 adv/£6 under-16s. Info judy.whitehouse@gmail.com.
Fishgurd Folk Festival event. Iain Eccleston & The Blue Horizon The Dolls House, Abertillery. 9pm. Info 01495 213300. Moya Brennan + Lowri Evans Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 8-10.30pm, £15 adv. Info 01239 841387. Founding member of Clannad.
VIP stuff. The Besnard Lakes + Oliver Wilde The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 07590 471888. Canadian indie band headline. First time in south Wales that I can recall. Young Promoters Network Showcase The Moon, Cardiff. 7-10pm. Info info@
The Devauden Village Hall near Chepstow hosts the Devauden Festival on Fri 12 and Sat 13. Afro Cluster, Rusty Shackle and Junior Bill are among the bands set to appear. Rachel B The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592. Presented by Nailed It Events. Snatch It Back West End Club, Barry. 5-7.30pm, free. Info 01446 735739. Covers.
MONDAY 29
Andy Johnson Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015. Acoustic session. Emma Blackery Tramshed, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. Groucho Club Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Lady Maisery + Jack Harris Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 7.30pm, £13/£12. Info 01982 552555. UK folkies. Malevolence + No Zodiac + Revulsion Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 6-10.30pm, £10 adv. Info 07970 063107. Metalcore madness hosted by DFL. Moore, Moss, Rutter + The Dovetail Trio Theatr Gwaun, Fishguard. 7.30pm, £12 adv/£6 under-16s. Info judy.whitehouse@gmail.com. Fishgurd Folk Festival event. Rocket Joe Joe & The Olsd Time Bangers The Twelve Knights, Margam. 2pm, free. Info 01639 882381. Presented by Nailed It Events.
TUESDAY 30
Heidi Browne + Dib Dobs Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £2.50. Info 01686 614555. Hot Strings Cafe Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. Lady Maisery + Jack Harris Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 8pm, £3-£13. Info 01239 621200. UK folkies. Live On Mars Grand Theatre, Swansea. 8pm, £25. Info 01792 475715. Bowie tribute show with purported big production values. *Nargaroth + Absu + Hate Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Three-strong black metal bill which I really hope people actually turn up to, so that similar ones might have a slim chance of occurring here in the future. Simple Minds + The Anchoress St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7pm, £35-£99. Info 029 2087 8444. A rare acoustic tour in slightly smaller venues than Kerr and co’s normal fare. Top price ets you
thefullmooncardiff.com.With acts TBC.
WEDNESDAY 31
Alun Gaffey + Castles + Tusk + Carcharorion + Cotton Wolf Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £9 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. A Twrw Trwy’r Nos night of Welsh language bands. David Newton Big Screen Trio Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30pm, £10. Info 07802 912789. Justin Crowe + Stay Voiceless + Knitwear Junkees The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 8.30-10.30pm, £3. Info 01685 387925. A U&I Radio night. Mark Porter Entertains Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig. Tom McConville Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club night. Twin Atlantic Sin City, Swansea. 7.30pm, £18.50 adv. Info 01792 468892. Popular Scotch rockers.
stage MONDAY 1
uEscape The Scaffold The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 029 2128 0189. New play by Titas Halder. On at 3pm on Sat 6. (Until Sat 6) Patrick Monahan + Prince + Abdi + Omar Hamdi + Hyde Panaser + Mickey Sharma Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 6.30pm, £15. Info 0871 4720400. This is a comedy show called Desi Central and as such features a bill of British-Asian comics. The Moscow State Circus Tredegar Park, Newport. 2 + 5pm, £8-£36. Info 0844 856 5555. This started in Newport on Wed 26 Apr and today is its last day. It’s in Swansea from Wed 3-Sun 7, though, and Cardiff from Wed 10-Sun 14.
TUESDAY 2
u9 To 5 The Musical Borough Theatre,
Abergavenny. 7pm, £12/£11. Info 01873 850805. Presented by AAODS and based on the music of Dolly Parton. £11 concession price today only. (Until Sat 6) Chris Chopping + Simon Cooper The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, pay by donation. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Standup comedy night featuring Edinburgh warm-up sets. Dan Mitchell + Calum Stewart + Tanya SpenceKelly + Wes Packer + James Dunn + Samuel Lloyd The Big Top, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Comedy night in aid of Ty Hafan. uDon’t Dress For Dinner Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £13.50-£21.50. Info 01792 475715. Jordan Productions and phil&ben present popular comedy. Also on at 2.30pm on Sat 6. (Until Sat 6) Encore Dance Company Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £12. Info 029 2063 6464. Showcase for 17 young dancers. Josh Pugh + Danny Clives + William-Rees Crockford + Sal Drummond + Jo Frank + Aled Richards + Dion Sheehan + Col Howarth The Cambrian Tap, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2064 4952. This month’s lineup of Crafty Laughs, free standup comedy every first Tuesday of the month. uMillion Dollar Quartet New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11-£33. Info 029 2087 8889. West End/Broadway/Las Vegas musical. Also at 2.30pm tomorrow, Thurs 4 and Sat 6; £10-£33 tomorrow and Thurs 4; £14-£35 on Fri 5 and Sat 6. (Until Sat 6) uMy Country; A Work In Progress Sherman Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8-£16. Info 029 2064 6900. Theatre based on interviews conducted with British people post-EU referendum, and pepped up with poetry from Carol Ann Duffy. Also on at 2pm on Thurs 4 and Sat 6. (Until Sat 6) uRomeo & Juliet Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £10. Info 029 2063 6464. Presented by Omidaze and Wales Millennium Centre. On at 11am and 7pm tomorrow and Wed 10; 2pm and 7pm on Sat 6 and Sat 13; 2pm only on Sun 7 and Sun 14; no show on Mon 8. (Until Sun 14) T42 Dolman Theatre, Newport. 2pm, £7. Info 01633 263670. Newport Variety entertainment with singer/ pianist Karl Daymond. The All-Star Stand-Up Tour 2017 St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £20. Info 029 2087 8444. Featuring Stewart Francis, Justin Moorhouse, Mike Gunn and compere Jarred Christmas. uThe Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £18.50-£44.50. Info 029 2063 6464. National Theatre production of dead popular kids’ book. £22.50-£47.50 on Fri 5 and Sat 6. Also on at 2.30pm tomorrow, Thurs 4 and Sat 6. (Until Sat 6) uTop Girls Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12. Info 029 2030 4400. Caryl Churchill’s influential play, BUZZ 75
* – recommended
stage mance featuring, in order: a video showreel, live concert performance and an art video about the Margo of the title. Pop Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 3pm, £7.50-£12.25. Info 0845 2263510. Magical comedy show for kids. Theatre In Focus: Oscar Wilde Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 12.30pm, £6/£4.50. Info 01792 475715. Scrip-in-hand performance preceded by an hour-long talk about OW. uThe Request Show Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £9-£12. Info 029 2063 6464. Dance House showcase. In tomorrow also, at 2pm.
SUNDAY 7
THE TRIALS OF OSCAR WILDE Various venues across south Wales, Wed 3-Sat 27 May Tickets: £8-£15.50. Info: www.mappa-mundi.org.uk South Wales independent theatre company Mappa Mundi has been in the game for around a quarter of a century now. For their latest opus, they’ve clubbed together with Cardigan’s Theatr Mwldan for a touring production of The Trials Of Oscar Wilde – initially written by John O’Connor and Wilde’s grandson Merlin Holland, and first performed in 2014. This version took its bow at Theatr Mwldan itself in late April, and will visit nine venues this month: Abersytwyth Wed 3, Swansea Thurs 5 and Sat 6, Brecon Tue 9, Cardiff Wed 10 and Thurs 11 (this one is notable for being performed in the City Hall council chambers), Milford Haven Tue 16, Abergavenny Wed 17, Llanelli Thurs 18, Porthcawl Wed 24, Aberdare Thurs 25 and Newbridge Sat 27. set in the early Thatcher years and presented here by Everyman. Also on at 2.30pm on Thurs 4 and Sat 6, where the price will be £10. (Until Sat 6)
WEDNESDAY 3
The Green House + Profundis Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £13.50/£11.50. Info 01646 695267. National Dance Company Wales double bill. uThe Moscow State Circus Recreation Ground Car Park, Mumbles Road, Swansea. 7.45pm, £8-£36. Info 0844 856 5555. On at 5 and 7.45pm tomorrow and Fri 5; 3 and 6pm on Sat 6; 2 and 5pm on Sun 7. (Until Sun 7) The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01970 623232. Presented by Mappa Mundi and Theatr Mwldan. In Swansea on Thurs 5 and Sat 6; Brecon on Tue 9; Cardiff on Wed 10 and Thurs 11, Milford Haven on Tue 16; Abergavenny on Wed 17; Llanelli on Thurs 18; Porthcawl on Wed 24; Aberdare on Thurs 25 and Newbridge on Sat 27.
THURSDAY 4
uBlackadder Goes Forth Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £7. Info 01239 621200. Presented by Cardigan Theatre. On tomorrow also. Caitlin Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 6 + 8pm, £12/£10. Info 01792 602060. Light Ladd & Emberton’s one-woman play BUZZ 76
about Dylan Thomas’ wife. Mike Bubbins Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £10.50. Info 01792 475715. Welsh comedian. In Brecon on Fri 12. Run Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.45pm, £9/£7. Info 01686 614555. Three dance pieces presented by the 2 Faced Dance Company. In Swansea on Thurs 11. The Magic Flute The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £17/£15. Info 01633 656757. Debut production by the new artistic team at Mid Wales Opera.
FRIDAY 5
uAll Shook Up Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £10-£14. Info 01656 815995. Elvis musical, presented by Porthcawl Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society. On tomorrow also, at 2.30 and 7.30pm. Craig Murray Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 0845 2263510. Comedy Club night, more acts TBC. uDrones Comedy Club Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £3.50. Info 029 2030 4400. Also on Fri 19. JoJo Smith + Gary Meikle + David Longley Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £16. Info 08700 111960. Katy Brand The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £14. Info 01633 656757. This standup show is called I Was A Teenage Christian, and appears to be literally titled. In Swansea tomorrow. See Upfront. uScott Capurro + Mark
Olver + Chris McCausland + John Lynn Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £15.95/£8 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also (£17.95/£8 NUS). ‘Stute Comedy Nights Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 8pm, £12/£11. Info 01495 227206. With standups TBC. uThe Trials Of Oscar Wilde Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01792 602060.
SATURDAY 6
Cadw’r Fflam Yn Fyw Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £12/£10. Info 01970 623232. Songs from the musicals plus original material. Golden Thread Playback Theatre Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 1pm, £3-£7/free under-5s. Info 029 2030 4400. Stories from the audience are brought to life by the cast. Hello Cabaret Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, £15. Info 029 2063 6464. Joe Longthorne Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.15pm, £22.50. Info 01874 611622. Longstanding light entertainment type and celeb impersonator. Curious as to whether Donald Trump is currently in his repertoire, seeing as he’s lucky enough to look like him as well. In Cardiff on Fri 19. Katy Brand Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 7.45pm, £13.50. Info 01792 475715. Life Of Margo Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7-9pm, £5. Info 029 2087 7959. A three-act live perfor-
John Robins + Tom Houghton Buffalo, Cardiff. 7pm, £6-£10. Info 029 2031 0312. Presented by Buffalo Comedy. uLive Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863. Every Sunday. Mark Olver + Lou Conran + Phil Jerrod Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 6.30pm, £8/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. New Sunday comedy show here, titled The Gathering and hosted by Olver.
MONDAY 8
Caterpillar Comedy Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. Open mic standup night hosted by James Dunn. Dark Corners Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7pm, £10/£6. Info 029 2030 4400. One-man play by Polarbear, aka Steve Camden, aimed at young people and concerning “the places in your brain where things hide”. In Newport tomorrow and Wed 10.
TUESDAY 9
uDark Corners The Riverfront, Newport. 10am + 7pm, £7. Info 01633 656757. On tomorrow also at 10am. uDial M For Murder Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £12.50/£8.50 NUS. Info 01633 263670. Performed by Newport Playgoers Society. Also on at 2.30pm on Sat 13 (tickets for this one will be £11). (Until Sat 13) uJoseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £14.50-£29.50. Info 029 2063 6464. Lloyd Webber and Rice’s blasphemous vision is helmed by Joe McElderry this time (apart from Thurs 11 May). £18.50£34.50 on Fri 12 and Sat 13. Also on at 2.30pm tomorrow and Thurs 11; 5pm and 8pm on Fri 12; 2pm, 5pm and 8pm on Sat 13. (Until Sat 13) uReduced Womanhood Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10. Info 029 2030 4400. Six women talk about their own lives in this theatre production by Voices Of Eve. Also at 2.30pm on Sat 13. (Until Sat 13) The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.15pm, £14/£12. Info 01874 611622.
WEDNESDAY 10
Alice In Wonderland Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth
Wells. 7.30pm, £15/£14. Info 01982 552555. Presented by Ballet Theatre UK. uDr Faustus Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 7pm, £8/£6.50. Info 01792 475715. Presented by Shoreline Theatre. On tomorrow also. Far From The Madding Crowd The Met, Abertillery. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01495 355800. Drama, presented by Hotbuckle. Footloose 2017 Dance Show Spectacular Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7pm, £6. Info 01686 614555. Meet Fred Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01873 850805. The latest performance of Hijinx’s popular puppet-based theatre production. Omid Djalili Grand Theatre, Swansea. 8pm, £24.50. Info 01792 475715. See Upfront for an interview. In Cardiff tomorrow. Richard Herring Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 8pm, £15. Info 01600 772467. This is a kind of greatest hits set featuring his favourite routines from all his shows to date. uIan Waite & Natalie Lowe Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £26/£24.50. Info 01970 623232. Featuring TV dancers Ian and Natalie. I think their publicity image (as seen on the venue website) has been stretched in Photoshop, but I don’t have time to verify this right now. On tomorrow also; in Swansea Fri 12; Newport Sat 13. uThe Moscow State Circus Car Park B, Cardiff City Stadium. 5 + 7.45pm, £8-£36. Info 0844 856 5555. On at 2, 5 and 8pm on Sat 13; 2 and 5pm on Sun 14. (Until Sun 14) uThe Producers Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.15pm, £12. Info 0800 0147111. Amateur production of Mel Brooks musical, by Selsig AOS. On at 5pm on Sat 13. (Until Sat 13) uThe Trials Of Oscar Wilde Council Chamber, Cardiff City Hall. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01239 621200. This sets the trial of the title in the fairly swish council chambers – so seats are quite limited as a result. On tomorrow also.
THURSDAY 11
Alice In Wonderland Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £15/£14. Info 01239 621200. Presented by Ballet Theatre UK. Comedy Smackdown The Big Top, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £2. Info 029 2022 8883. EDge Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £10. Info 029 2063 6464. See Stage. Leviathan Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £15/£13. Info 01874 611622. Moby Dick, as reimagined for the stage by James Wilton Dance Nolton Comedy Nolton Corner, Bridgend. 7.30pm, free. Info 01656 655015. With standups TBC, every second Thursday of the month. Omid Djalili St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £24. Info 029 2087 8444. Run Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £7-£14. Info 01792 602060. Stephen Bailey The Riverfront, Newport. 7.45pm,
u – repeated
£9. Info 01633 656757. Standup performs show entitled Nation’s Sweetheart. uThe Hollow Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 0845 2263510. Agatha Christie’s plays, presented by Phoenix Theatre Group.
FRIDAY 12
Cardiff Cabaret Club: Peep Show Night Cardiff Bus Transport Club. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2023 3658. Burlesque night in a new venue (or, at least, newly employed hosting evenings such as this), featuring Odelia Opium, Trixie Whipp, FooFooLaBelle, other Cardiff Cabaret Club starlets and MC Dis Charge, plus more TBC. Hysteria Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.45pm, £11/£9. Info 01686 614555. Comedy play about the imagined last days of Sigmund Freud. In Aberdare tomorrow. Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £22-£26. Info 01792 475715. Mike Bubbins Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.45pm, £10. Info 01874 611622. uMike Gunn + Andy Robinson + Ian Moore + Ron Vaudry Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £15.95/£8 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also (£17.95/£8 NUS). Remembering Fred Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 7.30pm, £19.50-£35. Info 01792 475715. Namely Astaire. This features singers, dancers and a live band. Spideriffic Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 6.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01633 868239. New comedy by Cwmbran Woodland Players. The Fat Lady Sings & Show Medleys The Met, Abertillery. 7.30pm, £8. Info 01495 355800. Comedy about an am-dram group, set in Abertillery apparently. Trixie Mattel Pulse, Cardiff. 8pm, £20-£45. Info 029 2064 1010. Sickening Events with a show from someone off Drag Race Season 7. The top priced ticket is the Meet & Greet option and that starts at 6.30pm.
SATURDAY 13
Hysteria Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 0800 0147111. Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £23.50-£27. Info 01633 656757. Jason Patterson + Tim Clark + Tom Wrigglesworth Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £16. Info 08700 111960. Jim Bayes + Jack Shank + Kevin Caswell-Jones + Stasia Buckle + Riordan DJ + Morgan Rees + Sarah Breese Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 7pm, £5/£3 adv. Info 01443 491424. Clwb Comedy night. Russell Kane Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 8pm, £17.50. Info 01639 763214. The Enormous Turnip Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 1.30 + 3.30pm, £6. Info 0845 2263510. Kids’ theatre presented by Stwdio Stepni. In Ammanford tomorrow. The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm,
stage £25.50/£20.50. Info 01792 475715. Ginsberg: Wales A Visitation The Last Resort, Swansea. 7pm, £5. Info www. thelastresortswansea.com. Dylan Day event where Ceri Murphy and Jeff Towns read Allen Ginsberg’s LSD-inspired poem Wales A Visitation, plus there are talks, spoken word and music. Mark Olver + Catherine Bohart + Sarah Keyworth Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 6.30pm, £8/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. The Enormous Turnip Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 1pm, £6. Info 0845 2263510.
of high falutin’ people have posited that the tiger is a metaphor for Nazi Germany, or sex. On the other hand, the Mail On Sunday have called this production “a grrreat achievement”. On tomorrow also at 10.30am and 1.30pm. The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01646 695267. uTidy St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 10.30am + 1.30pm, free. Info 029 2087 8444. Performed by Primary school children and performers from Music Theatre Wales, Sherman Theatre and players from the Orchestra of Welsh National Opera. On tomorrow also.
MONDAY 15
WEDNESDAY 17
SUNDAY 14
Al Murray The Pub Landlord Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £28. Info 01792 475715. This show is titled Let’s Go Backwards Together and you can probably guess what it’s about. uMusical Theatre Showcase Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6-£11. Info 029 2039 1391. On tomorrow also, at 1.15pm. The Ceri Dupree Show Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 8pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2062 6015. uThe Vicar Of Dibley Little Theatre, Neath. 7.30pm. Info 01639 643462. Stage adaption of aunt-friendly sitcom, directed by Jamie Rees. (Until Sat 20)
TUESDAY 16
Every Brilliant Thing Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £10/£8. Info 01970 623232. A play about depression and the lengths we will go to for those we love. uGolf Course War Machine Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £7.50-£9. Info 029 2039 1391. Chris Harris’ play, set amidst an anti-NATO protest. On tomorrow also. uHow My Light Is Spent Sherman Theatre, Cardiff. 7.45pm, £8-£16. Info 029 2064 6900. Welsh premiere of a play set in Newport and featuring a doughnut shop worker who lives at home with his mum, and a phone sex operator. No performance on Sun 21. (Until Sat 27) Ian Boldsworth Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510. Comedy Club night, more acts TBC. uOut Of Order New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£28. Info 029 2087 8889. Award-winning political comedy farce. Also at 2.30pm tomorrow, Thurs 18 and Sat 20. £11-£28 tomorrow and Thurs 18; £13-£32.50 on Fri 19 and Sat 20. (Until Sat 20) Scorched Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01874 611622. Physical theatre piece about a WWII veteran, presented by Turtle Key Arts. Stuart Goldsmith Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £8-£10. Info 029 2030 4400. Standup comedian. uThe Tiger Who Came To Tea Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 1.30 + 4.30pm, £13. Info 01495 227206. A lot
uKiss Of Death Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £9.50-£16. Info 01792 475715. Simon Williams’ play, here starring people from Hollyoaks, Keeping Up Appearances etc. Also on at 2pm on Sat 20. (Until Sat 20) uRomeo & Juliet Anti Suicide Mike Barlow Theatre YMCA, Cardiff. £10/£7.50 NUS or under-21s. Info 07547 797125. Lily Theatre present a modern take on Shakespeare with an anti-suicide theme. (Until Sat 20) Roy Chubby Brown Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01639 763214. In Narberth tomorrow. The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £13/£11. Info 01873 850805. William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play (Abridged) Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £13.50. Info 01656 815995. The Reduced Shakespeare Company’s latest thing.
THURSDAY 18
uAnd Then There Were None Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01970 623232. Agatha Christie whodunit presented by Aberystwyth Arts Centre Community Theatre. (Until Sat 20) Liz Aggiss Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 029 2030 4400. Performance artist, whose name hopefully rhymes with ‘giz a kiss’, presents a show called Slap & Tickle which is described as “dark and ribald”. In Swansea tomorrow. Roy Chubby Brown Queens Hall, Narberth. 7.15pm, £25. Info 01834 869323. The press bumph for this tour on the venue website is Royston talking about his career and giving all his fans a heartfelt shoutout. The big racist softy. uThe Witches Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £10/£7. Info 01686 614555. Amateur take on Dahl, courtesy of NPTC Performing Arts.
FRIDAY 19
Alice In Wonderland Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7pm, £18/£12. Info 0845 2263510. Presented by Ballet Theatre UK uAndy Askins + Mike Wilmot + Roger Monkhouse + Aaron Twitchen + Danny O’Brien Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm,
£15.95/£8 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also, without Aaron and Danny and with Inel Tomlinson. (£17.95/£8 NUS). Constellations Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm. Info 01239 621200. Nick Payne’s 2012 play, both award-winning and Broadwayfeaturing-on. Joe Longthorne St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £23/£21.50. Info 029 2087 8444. Liz Aggiss Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01792 602060. uMary Bijou Cabaret & Social Club The Talent Shack, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10/£8 adv. Info elliecoptor@hotmail.com. Fundraising cabaret night. On tomorrow also. Rob Hughes + James Dunn + Matthew Morris + Anita Shaw + Jethro Bradley + Jakey Boy Hughes The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £8. Info 01497 821762. Standup comedy and, in the case of Jakey who plays last, folk-rock. uThe Light Princess The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £7.50-£14.50. Info 01633 656757. New ballet by Ballet Cymru, with a score by Catrin Finch. On tomorrow also. uY Twr Sherman Theatre, Cardiff. 7.45pm, £8-£16. Info 029 2064 6900. Music Theatre Wales and Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru with a new opera, sung in Welsh with English surtitles. On tomorrow also; Aberystwyth on Tue 23.
SUNDAY 21
SATURDAY 20
u9 To 5 The Musical The Muni, Pontypridd. 7.15pm, £8.50-£10.50. Info 01443 490390. Dolly Parton-themed musical. (Until Fri 26) uA Broadway Rhapsody Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £8. Info 01633 263670. An Evening of entertainment with STC Musical Society. On tomorrow also. A Midsummer Night’s Dream Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £15/£13. Info 01495 227206. Presented by Ballet Cymru. Dr Jackal, I Presume! Maesteg Town Hall. 2pm, £6.50. Info 01656 733269. Farcical twist on a classic tale by Ray Williams. Jambori Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 10.15am + 1.15pm, £2. Info 01686 614555. Kids’ show with Martyn Geraint. Jon Richardson Grand Theatre, Swansea. 8pm, £21. Info 01792 475715. The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £13.50-£15.50. Info 01656 815995. uTwelfth Night Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.15pm, £8.50. Info 01792 475715. Presented by Gower College Swansea Performing and Production Arts Students. (Until Fri 26) You’ve Got Dragons Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 1pm, £5. Info 0800 0147111.
Andy Parsons Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £17/£15 adv. Info 01792 863722. In Aberystwyth on Sat 27. David Morgan + Alistair Barrie Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £16. Info 08700 111960. uD Festival 2017 Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 11am, £3 per day. Info 01646 695267. Youth dance show presented by Arts Care Gofal Celf and the Torch Theatre. On tomorrow also. Die Fledermaus Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £7-£43. Info 029 2063 6464. Welsh National Opera production. Also on in June, specifically Wed 7, Fri 9, Sun 11, Wed 16 and sat 24. Jeff Dunham St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 5pm, £35. Info 029 2087 8444. ‘Politically incorrect’ American comedian with lots of puppets. Sold out, astonishingly. I wonder if Chubby Brown could clean up in the same way on a US tour. uLui & Artemis Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £9-£12. Info 029 2063 6464. Prototype Status of Switzerland present a performance by two dancers of pensionable age. On tomorrow also, at 2pm. uMax Calaf Seve Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 6.30pm, £10/£8. Info 0845 2263510. One-man dance theatre. On tomorrow also, at 2.30pm. uOne Night Only Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £10. Info 01633 263670. A musical extravaganza performed by the Venture Player Groups.
Mark Olver + Lloyd Langford + Scott Gibson Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 6.30pm, £8/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Oskar’s Amazing Adventure Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 12 + 2pm, £8/£6. Info 0845 2263510. Kids’ show.
MONDAY 22
Jordan Brookes The Big Top, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2022 8883. Local standup comedian previews his 2017 Edinburgh show.
TUESDAY 23
Bennett Arron Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.15pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. A live recording of Welsh comedian’s Radio Wales series, Bennett Arron Worries About.... Also on Thurs 1 June. uThe Crucible New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14£30.50. Info 029 2087 8889. Arthur Miller’s famous Salemset play. Also at 2.30pm tomorrow and Thurs 25. £13£30.50 tomorrow and Thurs 25; £15-£35 on Fri 26 and Sat 27. (Until Sat 27) Verve Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £12. Info 029 2063 6464. Four dance works choreographed by James Cousins, Carlos Pons Guerra, Leila McMillan and Matthias Sperling. Y Twr Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01970 623232.
WEDNESDAY 24
THURSDAY 25
uAll Or Nothing Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15.50-£25.50. Info 01792 475715. A musical about the Small Faces and mods generally. Also on at 2.30pm on Sat 27. (Until Sat 27) uBreathe Redhouse,
Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 01685 384111. Anthony Bunko’s new play, directed by Neil Maidman and performed as part of the Merthyr Rising Festival. uImage Of An Unknown Young Woman Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.15pm, £6-£13. Info 029 2039 1391. (Until Fri 2 June) uLast Days Of Judas Iscariot Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.15pm, £6-£13. Info 029 2039 1391. Also on at 2pm on Thurs 1 June. (Until Fri 2 June) Lift Dance Company Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £7/£5. Info 01792 602060. Triple bill of work by Craig Coombs, Elise Addiscott and Stacey Panico. The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 1 + 7.30pm, £12/£8. Info 0800 0147111.
FRIDAY 26
uChris Kent + Sol Bernstein + Dan Nightingale + Eric Lampaert Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £15.95/£8 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also (£17.95/£8 NUS). Comedy Club Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 8pm, £10. Info 01874 611622. Presented by Little Wander. Ignite Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £8/£5. Info 0845 2263510. Dance showcase. Jane Eyre Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £10/£8. Info 01970 623232. Presented by Youth Theatre One. On tomorrow also. Joel Dommett Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 8pm, £15/£10 NUS. Info 01686 614555. Comedian. Katya Pulse, Cardiff. 7pm, £20-£50. Info 029 2064 1010. Sickening Events with another Drag Racer: Yekaterina Petrovna Zamolodchikova aka Katya, who was on seasons 2 and 7. The top priced ticket is the Meet & Greet option and that starts at 6.30pm. Lee Nelson Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01656 815995. uThree Days In The Country Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13/£11. Info 029 2030 4400. Play presented by the Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama’s Richard Burton Company. On tomorrow also, then Tue 30-Fri 2 June.
SATURDAY 27
Andy Parsons Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01970 623232. Dance Angels St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 3pm, £12/£11. Info 029 2087 8444. With the K-OSS Street Crew. Forms Of Enquiry Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 12.30pm, £6/£4.50 kids. Info 01792 475715. Lunchtime theatre presented by Fluellen. Ignacio Lopez Western Aberavon Beach Hotel, Swansea. 8pm, £16. Info 0844 3876086. Welsh comedian of Spanish heritage, with a show called EspañYOLO. A little pricey to see him I must say. Lakme Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £7-£19.50. Info 01646 695267. Presented by Swansea City Opera.
uMatilda & Friends Gwyn Hall, Neath. 3 + 6.30pm, £10. Info 0300 3656677. Disney musical compendium presentd by Class Act Theatre School. On tomorrow also, at 11am and 3pm Rory O’Hanlon + Dana Alexander Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £16. Info 08700 111960. The Trials Of Oscar Wilde Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7pm, £8. Info 01495 243252. You’ve Got Dragons Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 11am + 2pm. Info 01874 611622. Kids’ show.
SUNDAY 28
uThe Tap Dancing Mermaid Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 4pm, £12/£10. Info 01874 611622. Show for kids aged three and up. On tomorrow also, at 11am and 2pm.
MONDAY 29
Apollo 11 Campervan National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30 + 2.30pm, £3. Info 01792 463980. Music/ theatre/comedy show exploring what the third Apollo 11 astronaut got up to while his colleagues walked on the moon. The Sooty Show Grand Theatre, Swansea. 11am + 2.30pm, £12.50/£10.50. Info 01792 475715.
TUESDAY 30
The Pixie’s Scarf Queens Hall, Narberth. 2pm, £6/£5 adv. Info 01834 869323. Kids’ puppetry show presented by Soup Soup Theatre. The Sooty Show The Riverfront, Newport. 11am + 2.30pm, £13. Info 01633 656757.
WEDNESDAY 31
Boxfull Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Multi-tiered variety show. Chris & Pui Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 11am + 2pm, £12/£10. Info 01970 623232. Cbeebies double act. Comedy Club Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £11. Info 01792 475715. Steffan Alun Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, pay by donation. Info 01633 221477. Playing the monthly You Might Laugh comedy night. Lightning Path Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 4pm, £10/£7 for workshop/£16 for both. Info 029 2030 4400. A combo of puppetry, projections and music, aimed at kids. A workshop, on how to create puppets, precedes it at 1pm. uMadagascar New Theatre, Cardiff. 1pm, £10.50£21.50. Info 029 2087 8889. Orbit present the stage show of the animated movie. Also on at 6pm from Thurs 1-Sat 3 June. (Until Sun 4 June) Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine Memorial Hall Theatre, Barry. 2pm, £8.50/£7 kids. Info 01446 738622. Children’s show. Rough Diamonds Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 6pm, £5. Info 01792 602060. Swansea University Creative Writing MA student performance pieces. The Faaaabulous Ceri Dupree Show Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £18/£16. Info 01792 475715.
BUZZ 77
DID YOU KN W?
COMPETITIONS TWO TICKETS TO CHAKA KHAN AT THE MOTORPOINT ARENA CARDIFF
Every Hungarian schoolchild learns the Arany poem The Bards Of Wales. It tells the story of Edward I of England sending 500 Welsh bards to the stake after his conquest to stop them from telling people about Welsh history. US President Calvin Coolidge enjoyed buzzing for his bodyguards and then hiding under his desk as they searched for him. Edward II was the first English King to bear the title of Prince of Wales as Welsh Barons asked
The 10-time Grammy winner Chaka Khan is touring next month and will be coming to Cardiff with a bang. As an artist who climbed the ladder to success in the 1970s as the frontwoman of funk band Rufus, she’s still going strong and continues to put on a great show. On Wed 7 June she’ll be playing at the Motorpoint, presenting hits from her 22 albums, a number paralleled by her impressive 22 Grammy nominations. A DOG'S PURPOSE MERCHANDISE SET Who doesn't like treating their furry friend? Celebrating the cinema release of comedy-drama A Dog's Purpose on Fri 5 May, this merchandise set competition gives you the chance to give you something back to your beloved four-legged friend. With a ball-thrower, doggie bowl, themed blanket, poo-bag dispenser and a dog-treat jar, get your dog ready for those long summer walks.
his father Edward I for a prince who spoke neither English nor French. Instead he gave them his newborn son, who couldn’t speak at all. Johnny Cash's family refused to allow Ring Of Fire to be used in an advertisement for haemorrhoid relief. Since April 2014, the Welsh Government have donated a fruit tree to Ugandan families for every child born or adopted in Wales. A researcher in Antarctica got a Tinder date with a woman who was at a field camp 45 minutes away. In 1294, 37 men successfully defended Harlech castle against a besieging English army. Donetsk in Ukraine was founded by Welsh
TWO TICKETS TICKETS TO THE VIEW AT TRAMSHED Scottish indie rock band The View is coming to the Tramshed in Cardiff on Fri 12 May promoting the 10th anniversary of their debut album Hats Off To The Buskers. The band scaled the UK singles charts with Same Jeans in 2007, and still enjoy a large fanbase in Scotland and cult success abroad. Let’s hope they’re not still wearing the same jeans. TWO TICKETS TO THE CRUCIBLE AT NEW THEATRE A witch-hunt with questionable motivations in a small American town where everyone forgets their sense of community and instead drown in a sea of hysteria and accusation. Starring Charlie Condou and Victoria Yeates, Cardiff’s New Theatre presents a demonically good version of Arthur Miller's The Crucible from Tues 23-Sat 27 May. TWO TICKETS TO KATY BRAND AT THE SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE As part of her I Was A Teenage Christian tour, comedian and writer Katy Brand will be stopping off in Swansea on Sat 6 May talking about her teenage experiences in a Mortifiedesque show. With her trademark wit and shocking honesty, Brand talks about becoming a Christian fundamentalist at the age of 13 and her experiences thereafter.
businessman John Hughes in 1869 to build a
America's first female mayor was elected in 1887. A group of men nominated her as a joke, but she won over 60% of the vote.
Are you the friend everyone wants on their pub quiz team? If you’re a general knowledge general and want to be in with a chance of winning a book, film, or CD, then tweet us (@Buzz_Magazine) with your fact and #DidYouKnow. If your tweet is used in the magazine you win a prize!
BUZZ 78
TWO TICKETS TO IMELDA MAY AT ST DAVID'S HALL For the first time in three years, Imelda May is going on tour, this time promoting her new album Life Love Flesh and Blood, which was released at the beginning of this year. With her irresistible showmanship, she explores a wide range of genres from rockabilly, folk, soul and blues. The Irish artist will be stopping off at St David’s Hall on Fri 5 May, with support from special guests. Our competitions are shared on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. To enter a competition, keep an eye on our social media and click ‘share’ when it has been published. T&Cs: WE DO NOT GIVE PERMISSION FOR THESE COMPETITIONS TO BE REPLICATED ONLINE.
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