East Life Feb 2012

YOUR BIGGEST & BEST GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH £1.95 WHERE SOLD

www.eastlife.co.uk

Your new look EAST MAGAZINE

Get romantic for

VALENTINE’S DAY Meet ELLEN KENT queen of

OPERA

SUGGS

My MAD LIFE

crisis

Stowmarket Needham Market Olney Beccles Cambridge

Weddings 42 page special

FEBRUARY 2012

!""

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Mail order

On line

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www.jim-lawrence.co.uk Jim Lawrence Traditional Ironwork Ltd., The Ironworks, Lady Lane Industrial Estate, Hadleigh, Suffolk IP7 6BQ

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Showroom

InsideEastlife

make the most of where you live R February 2012

46

Hello and welcome to your new look magazine.

We’ve given it a new name, a new size, new paper and we’re thrilled with it - I hope you like it too. The good thing is, all your favourite features are still here, along with our What’s On section - the best there is.

We’ve also made big changes to our website, which is better than ever and packed with the things we haven’t been able to fit in here. I’d love to hear what you think of EastLife - please drop me a line. Enjoy! John Boston, Editor

LivingEast

07

89

11 13 17 21 25 30 35 41

Living East February Around the region House & Home Interiors - red for Valentines House & Home A recipe for kitchen success Health Winning the war on cancer Education School’s roundup Valentine’s Day Romantic gift ideas Food & Drink Find somewhere romantic to stay or eat with your Valentine, plus recipes and more 46 Weddings Your 42 page weddings special starts here, with fashion, accessories, beauty, venues and lots more

OutEast east magazine

@eastmagazines

TEAM EAST Publisher Sean Thompson (01954 267696) sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson (01954 268129) paul@eastmag.com Editor John Boston john@eastmag.com Area Manager (Arts/Norfolk) Charlie Roadley-Battin (07595 894578) charlie@eastmag.com Area Manager (Suffolk/Essex) Darren Marshall (07826 628680) darren@eastmag.com Area Manager (Beds/Herts) Stewart Hedges (07595 894557) stewart@eastmag.com Area Manager (Cambridgeshire) Jim Leishman (01954 267635) jim@eastmag.com CONTACT GENERAL ENQUIRIES Tel. 01954 267904 HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4HY ADVERTISING Production 01353 616000 ads@eastmag.com Fax 01353 616120 EDITORIAL editorial@eastmag.com Issue #81 February 2012 www.eastevents.co.uk EAST magazine is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher.All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out.

07 89 89 92 99 107 109 117 121 125 126 130 134 137 146

The Big Interview Suggs from Madness OutEast OutEast Meet opera impresario Ellen Kent Out Around the Region Events Norfolk What’s on in February Suffolk Beccles Suffolk What’s on in February Suffolk Stowmarket Suffolk Needham Market Herts Beds & Bucks Olney Herts Beds & Bucks What’s on in February Essex What’s on in February Cambs King’s Parade & Trinity Street, Cambridge Cambs What’s on in February Out & About eastlife.co.uk|5

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The BIG interview

Suggs’s

Mad-Life CRISIS

S

uggs – still best known as the legendary frontman of feelgood band Madness – was 50 in January. He was lying in the bath on his birthday, nursing an epic hangover from the celebrations the night before when there was the most almighty crash.

‘I jumped out of the water,’ he says, ‘and there, lying amid shards of broken glass, was our four-year-old cat, a British blue called Mamba. I’d put up the glass shelf myself and it must have given way.

I knew he was dead from the strange angle of his body. I couldn’t believe it.

I loved that cat.

‘I was 50. My kids had recently left home and now the cat was dead. I was really upset. It triggered a deluge of emotion, an event that somehow tipped me over the edge. I began to consider my own mortality and, out of that, the idea for exploring my own past somehow crystallised.’

The result, which you can see at venues across the region, is a new stage show. ‘It’s a memoir,’ says Suggs. ‘It’s not stand-up. It’s not An Evening With…

I toyed with calling it Mad-Life Crisis.

In the end, though, having gone all round the houses, I’ve called it My Life Story which won’t win any prizes for originality but does at least tell you what you can expect, the good bits and the darker moments.’

8

He is one of Britain’s best known musicians and personalities and is celebrating over three decades in the spotlight. Now Suggs is heading to Norwich Theatre Royal to star in a new show on charting the ups and downs of his career from pie and mash to pop music.

Richard Barber caught up with him to find out more about what’s in store.

It turns out there have been plenty of both. Born Graham McPherson in Hastings, he’s the only child of a jazz singer called Edith and a father, William – but everyone called him Mac – who worked for a photographic developers but whose life was increasingly overtaken by drugs.

‘Dad left home when I was about three. I have no recollection of him and he never featured in my life. My mum later told me she’d come home and found him with needles sticking out of his hands. Heroin was his drug of choice and it’s a one-way street that takes you further and further away from real life.

In the end, it did for the marriage.’

Mother and son then moved to Liverpool where Edith sang in the clubs, winning the accolade of Melody Maker’s Jazz Newcomer of the Year in the mid60s. She performed regularly at the Blue Angel to where The Beatles and Cilla Black would repair after sessions at The Cavern.

Moving south to London, Suggs’ life was unstructured, to say the least. Soho was his mother’s stomping ground where she both sang and worked in bars for extra money. They lived in a succession of rented rooms, the young lad trailing around after her when she went drinking in famous watering holes like the Colony.

‘I’ll never forget it,’ says Suggs. ‘You’d walk up this rickety green staircase and ® eastlife.co.uk|7

eastlife.co.uk|7

c My father started injecting himself with paraffin and was then sectioned under the Mental Health Act d enter a room full of artists and actors and various hangers-on, all drinking and smoking. But, amid all the booze, it was a creative hotbed. Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, George Melly, Jeffrey Bernard – they were all regulars.

‘Was it an unsuitable place for a young child? Absolutely. I clearly remember staring up through the thick fug of tobacco smoke, the occasional hand ruffling my hair or giving me a florin, sometimes even a ten bob note. I couldn’t really understand what was going on at an adult level which was probably all for the best. But there was a feeling of community and I was never in any danger.’

Even so, in time Edith decided that her son would do better living out of London in Pembrokeshire with her sister, Diana, and her three children. ‘It was nice to

Had he known it, this was the moment when his estranged father was on the point of bowing it. ‘I didn’t find this out until many years later when I was researching the new show. It’s a tragic story. My father started injecting himself with paraffin and was then sectioned under the Mental Health Act. ‘When he was eventually released, he moved to Birmingham where he married again. He died aged 40 from a whole variety of drug-related conditions, his wife following him, probably from a drug overdose, a year later. So just as I was getting together with the band that became Madness, my father’s time was up. I’ve always found that rather poignant.’

These revelations prompted him recently to ask his mother about his father.

‘She told me he was a very nice man.

Suggs with Madness

A professional singer who works under the name Bette Bright, the two are still together three decades later. They have two daughters – Scarlett, 29 and Viva, 25 – who now sing as a duo under their own names. ‘My mother, my wife, my daughters – I’m surrounded by women who sing,’ says Suggs.

Nor has he hung up his own microphone and the band have just

c I was 50. My kids had recently left home and the cat was dead. I was really upset.

It triggered a deluge of emotion, an event that somehow tipped me over the edge. d have other kids around but I missed Mum. She was doing what she thought was the right thing. She was finding it difficult to find the two of us somewhere stable to live so she thought I’d be better off in Haverfordwest.’

Three years later, Suggs was back in London, living with Edith, and about to go to secondary in Swiss Cottage. It’s where he acquired his nickname. ‘The other kids used to call me Gray or Mac and I wanted something a bit more distinctive.

I was looking through a book of my mum’s about jazz musicians.

‘I took a pin and, eyes closed, stuck it into the middle of a page. It went through the name Peter which didn’t seem especially memorable and then I noticed his second name was Suggs which somehow resonated with me. He was the drummer in an obscure jazz band in Kentucky.

Graffiti was becoming popular and people had these amazing names – or tags, as they were called. Now I had mine.’

“Just like you,” she said. That was the most shocking thing she could have said in many ways. I’d had him down in my mind as some sort of wayward old wastrel who’d just pushed off. The fact that he was really nice upset me. But then heroin is an unforgiving mistress.’

Given his colourful upbringing, it is perhaps not too surprising that Suggs married young. By 21, he had a wife, a baby daughter and a mews house in Camden bought with the money he’d made from Madness’s regular appearances in the Top 10. ‘To some extent, I think it’s true to say that I deliberately created Fortress Suggs to give my life a bit of structure. Having said that, I’d fallen in love with Anne.

I wanted to be married to her.’

finished recording their tenth album.

‘Madness have always been about accentuating the positive,’ says Suggs. ‘It’s no accident our songs are still played, still enjoyed 30 years down the line. They’re upbeat, timeless, a clear-eyed celebration of life as it’s lived. And we’re still together, still making music. For me, the band has always been a bit like a surrogate family.

We’re all a bit dysfunctional, all a bit stronger for being together.’

The only problem now for Suggs is shoehorning his less-than-conventional first half-century into his new show.

‘When we were rehearsing,’ he says, ‘my keyboard player would stop every so often and say: “Was that bit really true?”

And it was, all of it. Amazing, really.’

EL

Suggs is at NorwichTheatre Royal on Sat 11 Feb. For tickets call 01603 630000 or go to www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk For details of other venues in the region where you can see the show, go to our listings section or www.eastlife.co.uk/suggs eastlife.co.uk|9

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LivingEast Homes Beauty Gardens Interiors Food Cars Fashion Work People The wedding of Jeremy and Nina, photographed by James Davidson www.jamesdavidson.co.uk See pages 62-66

page 46 Weddings eastevents.co.uk|11

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LivingEast

February

What better way to serve breakfast to your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day than with some jam with the flavour of romance!

Essence Strawberry & Rose Jam is hand made in Norfolk with whole strawberries combined with wonderful rose aromas.www.essencefoods.co.uk For more Valentine’s delights see page 35 or go to www.eastlife.co.uk

Calvors Premium Lager brewed on a family farm in Suffolk, was recently voted one of the 10 Best Bottled Beers by The Independent newspaper.

“Most mainstream lagers are watered down from stronger brews, but expect none of this nonsense with Calvors”, the paper said.For a list of stockists in the region go to www.calvors.co.uk

The University Campus Suffolk waterfront building is a stunning landmark for Ipswich and was the first choice for TLC Events to host their Wedding Fair on Sunday 19th February.

The main foyer area will be full of exhibitors offering a great selection of products and services for the bride and groom’s special day. There will also be fashion shows and demonstrations in the Live Lounge with beauticians, make up artists and hair stylists offering glamour tips and even a dance instructor to showcase a ‘first dance’ routine. Town 102 will be covering the event on the day and there will also be a prize of a Spa Break kindly donated by Ufford Park for one lucky couple to win. This is a wedding fair with a difference and every member of the wedding party is sure to enjoy the experience. Entry is free and the doors open from 11am till 4pm.

Our Weddings Special starts on Page 46

Around the

REGION NSPCC charity fashion show Anglia Ruskin University is hosting an NSPCC charity fashion show and auction in Cambridge on Wednesday, 7 March to celebrate the 25th anniversary of ChildLine.

Organised by the NSPCC in conjunction with local fashion retailers Cuckoo and Le Reve, and students from Anglia Ruskin’s BA (Hons) Fashion Design course, all proceeds from the event will go to the charity.

The evening’s highlight, the catwalk show, will feature designs from Anglia Ruskin students, Cuckoo’s spring collection for women, lingerie and swimwear from Le Reve and bespoke hats by Abigail Crampton Millinery.

Tickets cost £20, which includes a free welcome drink and goodie bag, and there will be opportunities to buy before and after the catwalk show. The event will also feature a burlesque show, a special prize draw and a fashion auction overseen by Will Axon of Rowley Fine Art Auctioneers, who appears regularly on BBC TV’s Flog It! The evening also aims to highlight the invaluable work of the NSPCC and ChildLine.

“The past 25 years has been vital in terms of recognising that there is a need for children to access confidential support,” said Sue Minto, the Head of ChildLine, who will be speaking at the event. “Sadly, this is just as true today as it was 25 years ago – as we continue to take calls, emails and online counselling sessions from children in need of our help.”

For tickets call 0845 196 2320 or go to www.anglia.ac.uk/mumfordtheatre To make a donation to the NSPCC visit www.nspcc.org.uk eastlife.co.uk|13

LivingEast

February

Based in Halesworth, Suffolk, Lesley Pyke produces stunning engravings on crystal and glass. Lesley offers bespoke commissions and her own works for sale, and they make the perfect special occasion gift, or an ideal award or presentation. She has a showroom in Halesworth or you can see her work at the Cambridge Glass Fair at Chilford Hall, Linton Cambs on 26 February.

For details call 01986 874634 or go to www.lesleypyke.com For details about the fair visit www.cambridgeglassfair.com

These fabulous Indian Log Burners come all the way from Jaipur to Norfolk and are perfect for the garden or outdoor occasions. Rustic, attractive authentic bronzed Indian steel lightweight brazier, £200 (plus p&p) available from 0780 3200332. For more details go to www.indianlogburners.co.uk

Around the

Ipswich Town Football Club VIP Experience Day Auction St Nicholas Hospice Care has teamed up with Ipswich Town Football Club and other local hospices to bring you four money-can’t-buy experience packages. Packages include a pair of VIP tickets to Ipswich Town v Bristol City on Saturday 3 March as well as the chance to enjoy the match from the comfort of a corporate box, with a three course meal, tour of the ground and a pitchside photo. Winners will also be able to meet some Town legends so this really is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Town fans. Packages will be auctioned to the highest bidder via a silent email auction.

Bids for a pair of VIP tickets should be made by email to VIPday@stnh.org.uk by midnight on Sunday 19th February. You must be 16 or over to bid but there is no age restriction on attending the VIP day. For full terms and conditions go to www.itfc.co.uk under charity partners. www.stnicholashospice.org.uk

14|eastlife.co.uk

REGION This Little Darlings ‘Tinkerbell’ Fairytale Tulle dress, £89.50, with petty lace trim and matching headband is a dream outfit for any little girl. The bodice is made from 100% pure silk and sparkles with beautiful sequin detailing along the waistband and sleeves. One of range of fabulous designer children’s clothes and christening wear available at Coccolino, Upper Saint Giles Street, Norwich 01603 633 533 www.coccolinonorwich.co.uk These fantastic birth spoons make a unique christening gift and life long keepsake. They are made from antique Victorian flatware, using age old techniques and traditional hand tools by The Birth Spoon Company Cambridge www.thebirthspoon.co.uk

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LivingEast

Interiors

Love is in the air! Red is romantic, red is the colour of love and passion but it is also a fantastically vibrant and stimulating colour either as a stand alone highlight or as part of a more considered scheme. Be bold and try adding hot red elements and details to your home, you are sure to enjoy the results. Fenella Fairrie chooses a few red gems to tickle your fancy‌.

Romance is RED Roses are Red Overload with red and more red.

Velvety red roses will look fabulous in this jewel like rich red Odile Glass vase. The dimpled glass refracts light and abstracts water and stalks.

This statement vase could also be used simply as a decorative object on a bookcase, dresser or as an elaborate table centre piece.

Available along with lots of other red treasures from www.redcandy.co.uk

Chaise Longing

You and me This You and Me Cushion is too cute for words in one sense but at same time the chic herringbone, the quality red bobble trim and the craft cross stitch make up an interesting, non cutesy cushion. A fine and fun addition to any living space. Available from John Lewis in Cambridge, Norwich or online at www.johnlewis.com

Rich red velvet simply oozes decadence and will bring a theatrical touch to any room and of course a velvet chaise is the epitome of boudoir chic. Consider buying a sumptuous velvet by the metre to reupholster an old favourite or a thrift shop find, to create a bespoke statement piece. Equally, simple velvet cushions will add versatile texture and a splash of colour that can be moved around your home from chair to bed or even outside for al fresco decadence if you feel like a change

eastlife.co.uk|17

LivingEast

Interiors

Prints Charming For contemporary, style driven, durable products for the home and outdoors I recommend Anorak designs for inspiration. I am thrilled to include one of, in my opinion, their strongest designs on this month’s page. Anorak print designs are available from many stockists including Aldeburgh based www.burnettandcompany.com.

Cushions, placemats, tablecloths, bags and other home accessories are available in this (shown here) fab ‘Kissing Rabbits’ design. How fitting for the month of Valentines.

Brew for two The Brazil coffeemaker incorporates the Bodum motto beautifully - good design doesn't have to be expensive. www.glasswells.co.uk

Hanging on the telephone...

Expresso your love A divine aromatic expresso is sure to put a spring in your step. What better way to serve than in these jazzy Red La Cafetière Espresso Cup & Saucers. Small yet perfectly formed, the glossy red and white porcelain, available individually, would be a quality addition to any Kitchen. For more info and other items in the red range see www.lacafetiere.com

You light up my life This eye catching Lounge 5 modern floor lamp has a sturdy solid black marble base and polished chrome stem. It comes complete with coloured (not sprayed) glass shades which will add a touch of colour to your home. Perfect for any room. Available in 7 colour glass options. www.glasswells.co.uk

Combine flair and practicality with this classic 1930s phone design from Wild & Wolf.

Embrace the retro look which, with its classic lines will work in any home whether traditional, contemporary, urban or country cottage. This easy to use phone simply plugs into a standard socket to bring a classic edge to your decor. Available from many high street and online stores including John Lewis in Cambridge and www.redcandy.co.uk

Fenella Fairrie is an Interior Decorator living and working in Manningtree on the Essex/Suffolk border. www.ff-interiors.com Tel: 07768 051 829 Email: fenella@ff-interiors.com 18|eastlife.co.uk

Green & Fay Online SHAKER PAINTED KITCHEN UNITS Handmade in Wisbech since 1980

Green & Fay kitchens is the new enterprise of www.greenandfaykitchens.co.uk and the founder of Harvey Jones Kitchens new website – www.greenandfayonline.com Prices for single units from £280 10 units for a small kitchen circa £2800 an average medium sized kitchen of 15 units circa £4200 all prices ex-workshop plus vat There is a workshop showroom in Wisbech Ring David Cousins 01945 467163 or mobile 07746308352 Or ring Roy in West London 07930 338444 eastlife.co.uk|19

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LivingEast

Kitchens

A RECIPE for

kitchen sucess Our essential guide to restyling your kitchen...

Modern Avant Beige and Ebony kitchen, one of range available at Kitchen Sense, who offer a full design, planning and installation service. Based in Harleston, Norfolk, the company was set up in 1985 by Val and Sue Tolhurst. 01379 852592 www.kitchen-sense.co.uk

WHETHER you plan to really splash out and completely overhaul your kitchen, or just give it a 'budget' face-lift, there are plenty of products on the market to help you cook up a stylish new look for your kitchen.

If you plan to go the whole hog and start again, shop around and do your research - new kitchens are expensive, so make sure you choose one that is practical and very long lasting.

Always start by measuring the room's dimensions and drawing a layout, as this will help maximise space and ensure units are placed in the most practical spots.

When moving appliances or cupboards always check where power and water outlets are situated because re-plumbing and re-wiring is expensive and can be time consuming.

If you want to keep your existing units and appliances, start by giving everything a good clean - grime and di rt build up

quickly in kitchens, and often a little cheaper than buying new. elbow grease is all it takes to get Manufacturers have dreamed up a appliances looking shiny and variety of paint products specially new again. designed for use on kitchen units, Spotlights will as well as on tiles, and even for Whether you illuminate crucial areas re-vamping old lino. want a contemlike work surfaces, the sink Choosing light colours and porary or classic and cooker. During daylight reflective paints will help the finish, a lick of hours let light flood through room feel more spacious, paint is a simple the window by using a blind - and even the gloomiest of and cheap way of curtains take up too much kitchens can be transformed giving your space and can be into a bright, airy space with kitchen a new, hazardous if hung near good lighting. fresh look. hobs using gas.

Invest in an uplighter if your Always work out the kitchen doubles as a dining area, they best order to do jobs - painting diffuse light and will lend an walls before moving appliances around ambient feel to the room. could leave unsightly wall areas and Carpet tiles are a good choice for double your workload. flooring as they can be replaced if Paint walls before tackling flooring, a damaged, while linoleum comes in a new set of carpet tiles are easily ruined variety of colours and is easy to clean. if paint is splashed on them.

Transform outdated cupboards with Transform wooden floors by stripping them back and giving them a lick of paint, and by giving them a new set of varnish or paint. handles. Obviously, this is much, much eastlife.co.uk|21

LivingEast

Kitchens

TOPTIPS

Classic and clean Georgian Platinum White kitchen units by Chippendale, from a range available at Hadleigh Kitchen & Bedroom Studio in Suffolk. This family company specialises in quality kitchen design and installation throughout Suffolk covering Ipswich, Colchester, Sudbury and surrounding areas. Other ranges supplied include Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Crown Imperial Kitchens and Pyram. 01473 827666 www.hadleighkitchens.co.uk

Kitchens are often the heart of the home, and aren't somewhere simply for cooking or doing the laundry - a table can be used for food preparation, dining on and relaxing around with friends.

If your kitchen is small, invest in a table which can be folded away, or try a breakfast bar - remember stools take up less room than chairs and can be stacked away when not in use.

The clean, minimal of this design by Poggenpohl remain unspoilt while your storage needs are met by easy access to internal draws. One of a range of quality storage solutions supplied and fitted by top kitchen design specialists Nicholas Anthony. Visit their showrooms in Cambridge and Colchester. www.nicholas-anthony.co.uk

Storage is crucial for an uncluttered and safe kitchen, fit shelves, hooks and rails for extra space.

Putting items in the dishwasher to make Keep cleaning equipthe right location tidying away easier. ment out of reach will save walking from one If space is at a premium, of children - they end of the room to another fit your sink with an can't tell the differjust to get everyday items appropriately sized chopence between a like wooden spoons - think ping board, as these can bottle of lemonade about what things are be stowed away when not and a bottle of used for and position in use and will give you bleach. them well. extra preparation room.

If you want to store Microwaves may have revolucrockery, utensils or food tionised the way we cook, but they on open shelves, locate them do take up valuable counter space away from the cooker or risk them mount brackets on the wall to keep getting grimy from splashes or damp yours handy but out of the way. from steam.

Units can be fitted with plastic or metal Think sensible when storing items racks for just a few pounds - giving you baking trays should be near the oven, while glasses, plates, and other items like more room and making items easier to spot. knives and forks, are best stored near 22|eastlife.co.uk

• Good ventilation is crucial in the kitchen to eliminate cooking smells, install an extractor fan near the cooker.

• Mount brackets on the wall to hang chairs when not in use.

• Stools and chairs that can be stacked away will save on space.

• Tile areas behind the cooker hob and sink to make cleaning simple.

• For tiny kitchens fit sliding doors rather than the traditional hinged variety.

• Keep appliance leads out of sight, children grab at things they can see and kettles can easily be pulled from the work surface.

• Make sure dangerous items like knives are stored safely.

When you’ve finished any major work, plan where to put everyday items like utensils - this will make your kitchen not only practical, but a joy to work in.

When you’ve finished the major jobs like painting, spend a little time styling the room.

Just because the kitchen’s main function is food preparation doesn’t mean you have to work in a clinical environment.

Liven up walls with prints or photos, and spend a few pounds on some potted plants to bring warmth to the room.

Revamping your kitchen needn’t cost the earth, a little creativity and good planning is the recipe for the perfect EL room.

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eastlife.co.uk|23

1 in 8 women now develop breast cancer and this lifetime risk will rise to 1 in 7 by the year 2024.

The main risk factors for the development of breast cancer in women are age and family history. Risk increases with age but most women who develop breast cancer do not have a family history. If you do have a family history of breast cancer, a premenopausal first-degree relative (mother/sister/daughter) with breast cancer passes on an increased lifetime risk of 25% to you.

In addition, certain reproductive factors can also increase your risk including not having children, having your first child at an older age, not breastfeeding and possibly in vitro fertilisation (IVF), although the latter remains unproven at present. More recently research has confirmed that alcohol intake is directly related to breast cancer risk, as is obesity in post- menopausal women.

Despite the rising incidence of breast cancer, the number of deaths from the disease has continued to fall since the late 1980’s due to earlier diagnosis, better treatments and the introduction of screening mammography. Women with a family history of breast cancer often have yearly mammographic screening between age 40 - 50. The NHS Breast Screening Programme

24|eastlife.co.uk

Symptoms and signs that require urgent investigation at a breast clinic • a breast lump • altered breast shape • skin dimpling • nipple retraction • nipple eczema • blood-stained nipple discharge offers 3-yearly screening mammography for women aged 50-69, although the acceptance rate is only approximately 70% at present.

A number of symptoms require investigation to rule out breast cancer including a discrete breast lump, altered breast shape, skin dimpling, nipple retraction, nipple eczema and blood-stained nipple discharge (Table 1). If you have any of these symptoms or signs then check with your GP for referral to a one-stop diagnostic clinic for triple assessment (clinical breast examination, breast imaging +/-biopsy). Triple assessment has a diagnostic accuracy of up to 99.6% in a recent review of over 7000 women investigated in Cambridge.

Professor Gordon Wishart is a consultant breast & endocrine surgeon in Cambridge and Professor of Cancer Surgery at Anglia Ruskin University.

LivingEast

Health

4 Febraury is World Cancer Day when the disease comes into focus once again. Author Dr Lauren Pecorino tells us why major advances in treatment mean a cancer diagnosis is no longer an automatic death sentence.

I

f the very thought of cancer terrifies you, you’re not alone - the disease is the British public’s number one fear.

But although a recent Cancer Research UK survey found Britons were more frightened of cancer than anything else, the truth is there’s much less to fear about the Big C than there used to be.

New treatments and improvements to older methods of tackling the disease mean that although cancer rates have increased by more than a quarter since 1979, survival in the UK has doubled in the last 40 years, and deaths from the disease have fallen by a fifth over the last three decades.

Among the survivors is Kylie Minogue, who had surgery and chemotherapy after finding out she had breast cancer in 2005. She will celebrate seven years allclear of the disease this year. longer quite the demon it once was.

Not as far down the path are other “I think the perception of cancer as a stars including Michael Douglas, who a death sentence is changing,” she says. year ago announced he’d won his battle “We’re being more open about the disagainst throat cancer, and former England ease, celebrities are talking about having football captain Bryan Robson, who also it and living with it, and people are edudeclared he’d beaten throat cancer, just cating themselves about early cancer six months after his diagnosis was resymptoms.” vealed.

There are over 200 different types of The increasing numbers of people, both cancer, but they all have two things in being diagnosed with the disease and sur- common - abnormal growth, and the viving it, is one of the reasons cancer exability to spread throughout the body pert and molecular biologist Dr Lauren (metastasis).

Pecorino wrote the book Why Millions This spread is the biggest clinical obstaSurvive Cancer. cle in treating cancer, but imporPecorino says greater public tant advances in the three common treatment opawareness of the disease c I think the tions - surgery, radioand its causes, together therapy and with an increasing unperception of chemotherapy - mean derstanding of biology cancer as a death that even this hurdle and better treatments, sentence is changing d can be overcome. mean cancer is no

Winning the war on

CANCER Stereotactic radiotherapy - or cyberknife - can now be used to increase the precision of radiation therapy used to shrink tumours and kill cancer cells.

Doctors aim a number of low dose radiation beams at a tumour from different angles, thus giving a full dose of radiation when the beams meet at the tumour site.

The technique has fewer side-effects than standard radiotherapy, as surrounding healthy tissue is damaged less because the individual beams are low dose.

Advances in cancer surgery include robotic procedures, where the surgeon operates a robot unit to make tiny, accurate movements. Such procedures offer more precision and better patient recovery times.

There are now also ‘molecularly targeted drugs’ which are like missiles going directly to the tumour, as opposed to the eastlife.co.uk|25

LivingEast

Health

CANCER FACTS I There were around 309,500 new cases of cancer diagnosed in 2008 in the UK. I Up to half of all cancers could be prevented if people made changes to their lifestyle.

I Breast, lung, bowel and prostate cancers together account for more than half of all new cancers.

I At least three-quarters of children with cancer are now cured, compared to a quarter in the late 1960s.

I Almost two-thirds of women with breast cancer survive their disease beyond 20 years.

I More than three out of five cancers are diagnosed in people aged 65 and over.

I More than a quarter of deaths from cancer (including almost 90% of lung cancer deaths) are linked to smoking.

I Current levels of obesity and being overweight could lead to around 19,000 cases of cancer each year in the UK. I Alcohol consumption is estimated to cause at least 13,000 cancers in the UK each year.

I Why Millions Survive Cancer: The Successes Of Science by Lauren Pecorino is published by Oxford University Press, priced £16.99. Available now.

I For more information on cancer, visit www.cancerresearchuk.org www.worldcancerday.org that we can make lifestyle changes to deold-style “carpet bombing” chemotherapy, which Pecorino likens to a “brute at- crease cancer risk needs to be emphasised - it needs to be screamed from the tack” that killed healthy cells as well as highest mountain.” cancerous ones.

While it’s known that such changes can Pecorino, a cancer biology lecturer at help, in many cases the reasons behind Greenwich University, says personalised the effect aren’t yet fully understood. medicine - which has been used to treat “You need to stack the cards in your breast cancer for several decades - is favour,” says Pecorino. “But if you do get being used more routinely, but is still in cancer, remember that the statistics are its infancy. pointing out that it’s becoming a chronic It involves genetic testing to identify cancer-causing mutations, and then using disease - something you can live with.”

Dr Julie Sharp, senior science informatargeted drugs to tackle the specific tion manager at Cancer Research UK, problem. says much of the recent success in the “It’s using the right treatment for an fight against cancer has been with speindividual patient, rather than guessing,” cific cancers, with particularly good surexplains Pecorino. vival improvements for breast, testicular, But what’s just as vital as the treatbowel and children’s cancers. ments, she says, is avoiding carcinogens The progress is both because of better (cancer-causing substances) in the first treatments, she says, and international place.

In short, carcinogens stick to DNA and trials where doctors have pooled informask it so it can’t be read properly in mation to estabthe cell. This can lead to the creation of lish the best faulty proteins which contribute to abcombinations normal cell growth. of treatments.

It’s thought that an accumulation of “Our chalsuch mutations over time leads to cancer, and that’s one of the reasons that it’s lenge for the next 30 or 40 a disease of ageing. years is to All cancers are caused by carcinogens, which are in the environment and in our translate that success for the diet, and include radiation - such as that from the sun which can lead to skin can- cancers that are cer - and infections like the human papil- harder to treat, like brain and pancreatic canloma virus, which can lead to cervical cers,” explains Sharp. cancer.

She points out that But it’s not easy to avoid infections, screening proand the best way to reduce the overall risk of cancer is through a healthy lifestyle.

That means a diet packed with c Each cancer fruit and vegetables, maintaining a is different and has healthy weight, exercising, reits own challenges. But ducing alcohol intake and not there’s been huge smoking.

Pecorino stresses: “The fact progress... d 26|eastlife.co.uk

grammes for breast, cervical and bowel cancer are also improving the cancer landscape, particularly as the cervical and bowel screening programmes can prevent as well as detect cancer.

That’s something DJ Chris Evans can vouch for. The Radio 2 DJ, whose father died from colon cancer, had a routine colonoscopy last year and had two precancerous growths removed.

While Evans was clearly worried about his own health because of the link to his father, it’s estimated that inherited factors cause just 10% of all cancers.

But whatever the cause, they all need treating, and Sharp warns: “Sadly, there probably won’t ever be one magic bullet.

“There are so many different cancers, and so many different faults in the body that lead to the disease, we’re unlikely to have one thing that can target all of them.”

However, she says current work on the genetic mapping of cancers could mean more major treatment improvements in future, and she adds: “Each cancer is different and has its own challenges. But there’s been huge progress - and EL there’s much more to come.”

eastlife.co.uk|27

Our independent, award winning running & fitness stores just got even better An increased range of products & services, including: s Top running shoe brands with a free Gait Analysis to minimise the risk of injury s Full range of athletics spikes s In Store Sports Therapy (Peterborough Store) s Breathable clothing designed for runners s Sports Science/VO2 Max testing to obtain your optimum training shoes s Yoga & fitness clothing s Plentiful parking and late opening Our experienced staff are fully trained to offer good advice and exceptional customer service.

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LivingEast

Education

One of the oldest nursery and preparatory schools in the Epping Forest area is Oaklands School in Albion Hill, Loughton. Started by Miss Elizabeth Lord in 1937 and taken over by ex-pupil Nicholas Hagger with his wife Ann in 1982, it will be celebrating its 75th birthday this summer, by holding an Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, July 1st.

Situated at the start of Loughton and alongside Epping Forest in eight acres of gardens and fields it has a delightfully harmonious setting where children can work and play in a relaxed friendly, family atmosphere.

If you had children at Oaklands School, or were a pupil or member of staff yourself, do register on the Oaklands website www.oaklandsschool.co.uk. Please also tell any past acquaintances you still know who have connections with the school so that a really successful party can be enjoyed by as many people as possible.

Flatford Mill in South Suffolk is one of 17 Field Centres throughout the UK run by the Field Studies Council. Our Centre lies in the Dedham Vale on the banks of the River Stour on the Suffolk-Essex borders. The Centre buildings, particularly the Mill and Willy Lott’s House, are instantly recognisable since they feature in many paintings by the great landscape painter John Constable.

The rich mosaic of lowland landscapes, wildlife habitats and places of historic interest in this beautiful part of East Anglia are all reflected in the Centre's wide-ranging programme of environment and art-based courses for adult learners.

The Centre offers a much sought-after sense of tranquillity to complement a unique learning environment, so join us to improve a skill or learn a new one in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, surrounded by like-minded people.

Visit our website www.field-studies-council.org/flatfordmill.

You can also contact us by phone on 0845 330 7368 (local rate), or by email at enquiries.fm@field-studies-council.org, to ask for a copy of our brochures.

Bedford Girls’ School is a dynamic environment where innovation and creativity are nurtured, acclaimed and rewarded. Underpinned by academic excellence, the school is a highly successful community where everyone is respected, included and encouraged to grow.

True to our core values of Bold, Reflective, Imaginative, it is our belief that learning should be exciting and spark a life-long desire to engage in the wonder of the world around us.

We invite you to get to know us better. Explore our website www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk, or better still come and visit us - you can make an appointment by calling us on 01234 361918 - we hope your experience of Bedford Girls’ School will inspire you to join us.

30|eastlife.co.uk

Kingshott School Life at school is about Learning. But learning is more than simply an accumulation of information and facts. If that were so, school would be boring. Education at Kingshott is interesting. It is exciting, and it is varied. At Kingshott emphasis is placed on making the learning experience as enriching as possible. We want our children to be happy, achieve their potential and to be a success. We believe in the children being "The best me I can be".

At Kingshott we believe that, in growing up, children need nurturing in a secure environment which provides clear boundaries. In a world that is guilty at times of providing a moral vacuum, children crave direction, guidance, praise, correction and above all some hand holding.

All children enjoy a varied curriculum. Up until Year 5, most lessons are classroom based, after which subject teachers take over and guide senior children towards their Common Entrance examinations. Our Year 8 children’s success sees them entering outstanding senior schools across the counties. Many of them receive scholarships and go on to achieve GSCE and A Level results to be proud of.

Kingshott School is set on the outskirts of Hitchin, Hertfordshire, and provides an outstanding co-educational learning experience for children aged 3 to 13. Standing in 23 acres and surrounded by countryside, it is hard to believe that central London is only a 30 minute train journey away.

Contact us now via our brand new website www.kingshottschool.com or email us at PA2head@kingshott.herts.sch.uk or call us on 01462 432009 we look forward to hearing from you

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32|eastlife.co.uk

Open Saturday 3rd March 2012, 11am - 1pm Days: Monday 5th March 2012, 9am - 12pm

eastlife.co.uk|33

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Untitled-3 34

23/1/12 10:26:40

LivingEast

Valentine’s Day

Toni O’Connell goes looking for tokens of love around the region With its sweet distinctive shape and high quality finish, this handcrafted heart-shaped door knocker will make a perfect addition to your loved one’s dream cottage door. Available in four finishes from Suffolk-based ironworks company, Jim Lawrence. 01473 826685 www.jim-lawrence.co.uk Unique Silver Double Heart Pendant, £5.99, one of a range of handmade jewellery available at Norwich-based Prickly Paw www.pricklypaw.com

Love... don’t knock it!

Love

is in the air

Pour your HEART out!

Carters Teapots in Debenham, Suffolk have been making Collectable Teapots and Novelty Teapots at their pottery since 1978.

This handmade Heart-shaped teapot is available in large and small (one cup) sizes with three choices of wording: “With my love”, “Just for you” or “I love you”.

01728 860475 www.cartersteapots.com

Love chocolate She’ll love this gold gift ballotin with over half a kilo of handmade English luxury chocolates in 3 delicious layers. Aphrodite Handmade Chocolates, made in Essex. £35.95. 01277 890230 www.aphrodite-chocolates.co.uk

Hearts a Flutter

We love these pretty Sterling Silver/Rhodium satin heart drop earrings have been designed to look like butterfly wings, to portray the idea of a fluttering heart.

They have a satin finish with a polished edge, with the edging giving them further shape and definition. Azendi, Grand Arcade, Cambridge 01223 307584 www.azendi.com

Get in the mood Make sure she gets home safely with this Diamante Heart Shaped Bag Alarm, £10.99. From Chelmsfordbased Safe Girl Security www.safe-girl.co.uk

A Bed of Roses Romantic Seduction box with 100 Scented rose petals, 4 tealight candles and a special invitation card. £19.99 from Stevenage-based Wicked Tickles 0845 116 2138 www.wickedtickles.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk|35

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l e. lighten up with

LivingEast

Valentine’s Day

Sexy legs

Love is in the air

‘Heart-shaped Shackle’, linocut, 760 x 640mm, by Essex artist James Dodds, £220 unframed from Church Street Gallery, Saffron Walden 01799 522947 www.church-street-gallery.co.uk

The phenomenal popularity of Suspender Tights has taken the Globe by storm and this new style from Gipsy are gorgeous. Stunning Opaque Leg leading to sheer thigh with Hearts as the faux suspenders, £7.50. Available from Essexy Legs, based in Brentwood Essex. www.essexylegs.co.uk

Never forget A unique, rustic handcrafted heart shaped paper holder box, by Paper High, made from elephant dung and paddy paper pulped to perfection. It contains approximately 100 heart shaped individual sheets of multi-coloured elephant dung paper, supplied in a lovely box which has a collage-effect box lid design portraying a mother elephant and her calf walking into the tropical sunset. £9.99 from Norfolk Wildlife Trust www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk

Frilly Red Heart Umbrella, £21.45, from a range of heartshaped umbrellas available at Umbrella Heaven in Leighton Buzzard, Beds 01525 382938 www.umbrellaheaven.com

Send a Valentines Lantern and make someone’s night! These Valentines Heart Shape Flying Lanterns is ready to launch in about 40-60 seconds after lighting, and is capable of flying for around 4 miles and climbing to around 1 mile high.

Pack of 10, £14.99, available from Felixstowe-based Fly Away Lanterns 07717 872 229 www.flying-lanterns.co.uk

Gorgeous 18ct white and yellow gold engagement ring with 0.45ct heart shaped diamond, £2,162.00 + VAT, designed by Antoinette Corbishley for Harriot Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery, Green Street, Cambridge 01223 461333 www.hkjewellery.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk|37

LivingEast

Valentine’s Day

Every one of these fantastic silver plectrum pendants are recycled from old English sterling silver coins. Even if you don’t play the guitar, here is a unique pendant which you can customise with a personal message. One of a range of unique jewellery by Cambridge maker Hairy Growler. Find them at Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds 01284 762081 or the Henry Moore Foundation at Perry Green, Herts, or buy online at www.hairygrowler.co.uk

The lady in your life will adore this handmade designer pendant, in pink tourmaline, topaz, silver and gold-fill £125 from Nomads, King’s Parade, Cambridge 01223 324588 www.nomads.uk.com

No Pandora charm bracelet would be complete without this Silver & Gold Love You Cube Bead, a best seller at Steffans, Northampton www.steffans.co.uk Sexy handmade personalised Valentine’s Day card, £5.99, one of a range of beautiful greetings cards by Suffolk designer Jane Martin. www.pinkandposh.co.uk

Send her your love Why not send her a dozen red rose cupcakes. Gift box of 12 Standard Cupcakes, £22.00 from The Little Norfolk Cupcake Company 01603 716978 www.thelittlenorfolkcupcake company.co.uk

Dating TIP from Tempting Fate REMEMBER IT TAKES TIME to get to know people and the ones that grow on you slowly are usually the best and most successful. Instant chemistry can very often wear off instantly too.

Tempting Fate is a unique, leading Cambridge-based Introduction/Dating Agency, specialising in helping ‘quality’ singles find love, romance, friendship and companionship. Membership covers approximately a 50 mile radius from Cambridgeshire. Liza Moore has been running Tempting Fate for 7 years now. Being passionate about helping people to achieve their dream of finding someone special is the key to the way Liza operates her unique Introduction and Dating agency. With an extensive background in matching individuals and having also appeared on TV on Channel 5's ‘Matchmaking' programme, you can be sure of a first class service - you can even, as part of your membership, have a consultation with an Image Consultant and/or professional Relationship/Life Coach. 01223 370178 www.tempting-fate.com

38|eastlife.co.uk

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1st Floor Dagnall House, Stanley Court, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5NH (Opposite CO-OP) t.01234 712200 w.www.dusktdawn.co.uk issue filler_Quarter 24/01/2012 09:03 Page 1

Don’t miss our great advertising features in the March issue Mother’s Day, jewellery, spring gardens, bedrooms, golf, Easter attractions and events and more...

To advertise in the MARCH issue please contact: Charlie Roadley-Battin (Norfolk/Arts) 07595 894578 Darren Marshall (Suffolk/Essex) 07826 628680 Jim Leishman (Cambridgeshire) 01954 267635 Stewart Hedges (Beds/Herts) 07595 894557 Sarah Grosvenor (Cambridge/Interiors) 07813 381392

We are a cosy restaurant situated in the small, prosperous town of Woburn Sands, on the border of Buckinghamshire.

The restaurant was established in April 1992. Since then we have been serving tasty food and providing excellent service.

Our food remains of a high standard and our service and decor are outstanding. In addition our staff are very friendly and welcoming.

From time to time we have put new dishes on to our menu and kept our prices stable for the past five years. There is no requirement on a minimum amount for a single order. The major changes we have made over the past three years is to remove the artificial colouring from our dishes to conform with the Food Safety Standard Agency recommendations.

Today all our food is prepared with spices which produce natural colours in the dishes. Also we use pure vegetable cooking oil which results in lower cholesterol.

Our dishes are prepared using specially made gravy which contains no dairy products or nuts. These are added later.

Such dishes are explained on the menu. Our curries are prepared to a medium strength. Madras is slightly hotter and vindaloo very hot. Phal is not recommended as it can spoil the flavour of the curry. You will often see new dishes on our menu and, by experiencing them, you can compare our cooking expertise with other establishments.

33 High Street, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes MK17 8RB www.woburnfort.co.uk mail@woburnfort.co.uk Tel: 01908 282002/0808 108 2007/0845 0178 532

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LivingEast

Food & drink

Paul Curry’s pick of the region’s Valentine’s night dinners (oh, and his favourite romantic cocktail)...

which is situated behind glass panels in the restaurant.

There are three Special Valentine’s Dinner nights on 10, 11 and 14 February, in the Riverside Restaurant.

For £49.95pp, enjoy a four course meal, a glass of pink bubbly on arrival and a red rose for the lady. Walnut Tree Lane, Sudbury 01787 375544 www.themillhotelsudbury.co.uk Suffolk The Cock Inn The village of Polstead is known for the ‘Murder in the Red Barn’ a Victorian crime of passion that has been often dramitised down the years; and for having its own particular variety of cherry, the Polstead Black, which is made into a potent cherry brandy.

It’s also known for this great country pub that serves really good meals. Their Valentine’s night offering is an Italian

themed three course dinner with a free glass of Limoncella liquer for £19.95pp.

The Green, Polstead 01206 263150

Suffolk Suffolk Food Hall You’ll more than likely know this brilliant place for it’s farm shop and deli where you can shop for wonderful food from some of the top local suppliers and specialists, including its award-winning butcher’s shop and artisan baker.

But it’s also good a great mezzanine level restaurant with stunning views down the River Orwell. They are opening for a special Valentine’s dinner on 14 February where, for £29.95pp, you will receive a glass of Prosecco on arrival, followed by a fabulous three course dinner with coffee and Leonidas chocolates to finish. Wherstead, nr Ipswich 01473 786610 www.suffolkfoodhall.co.uk Cambs The Queens Head For what it lacks in size, this terrific riverside inn more than makes up for in quality.

Award-winning food, top notch accommodation, and a traditional pub bar. They are holding two Valentines dinner dances on 11th & 18th February, which include a meal and a disco dance, for £32.50pp, and a romanti ccandlelit dinner on 14th, for £27.50pp.

If you want to make a night of it, the b&b rate is £55 per room. Nassington, nr Peterborough 01780 784006 www.queensheadnassington.co.uk

Essex The White Hart Hotel This stunning half-timbered 15th century inn oozes historic charm throughout with an abundance of fine panelling, inglenook fireolaces, leaded windows, exposed beams and polished oak tables. In the striking informal restaurant you can enjoy modern British food produced using first class local produce.

Their five course A La Carte Valentine’s menu is £55pp. Choices available include Essex Wood Pigeon with Bubble and Squeak, Roasted Duck Breast, and Beef Wellington. Poole Street, Great Yeldham 01787 237250 www.whitehartweddingvenue.co.uk

Beds Bedford Swan Hotel This is a wonderful historic riverfront hotel that effortlessly blends the old with the new. Their Valentines package (10th-14th Feb) includes a 3 course meal in the 2 AA Rosette awarded

River Room restaurant with wine followed by coffee and petit fours, overnight accommodation, full English breakfast, full use of the Roman bath inspired pool and Jacuzzi and an extended check out at 1pm for lovers who like a lie in! On Sunday 12th they have a Valentine’s Burlesque night with dancing - bed & breakfast for this night starts from £69pp. The Embankment, Bedford 01234 346 565

Choco cherry cocktail – perfect for Valentine’s Day The Pinky Chocolate Covered Cherry is the quintessential romantic cocktail, perfect for Valentine’s Day. But, why take our word for it when you can try it yourself?

1 part Pinky Vodka 1/2 part maraschino liqueur 3/4 ounce creme de cacao 1 tablespoon chocolate sauce 1 chocolate covered cherry Swirl chocolate sauce around the inside of a martini glass and set aside. Pour Pinky, maraschino liqueur, creme de cacao into a cocktail shaker. Add ice, shake well and strain into chocolate swirled glass. Add a chocolate covered cherry, on a cocktail pick, for garnish.

www.theliquidmuse.com

Suffolk The Mill Hotel I often pop in to this delightful hotel for morning coffee or lunch, taking in the views across Sudbury’s meadows. The hotel is steeped in history - and you can even view the original mill

Table for two....

eastlife.co.uk|41

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Fine Fusion Breathing new life into what was once The Red Lion, Mr Khan offers the greater Royston area a sophisticated dining experience centred on its luscious and diverse menu.

Alvi Gomez, group executive chef and co-writer of ‘The Real Indian’ has won many prestigious accolades and awards.

He has carefully prepared the a la carte menu with many delights to tickle your tastebuds whilst ensuring great value for money.

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LivingEast

Food & drink Suffolk Best Western Ufford Park Hotel

This is always one of the most popular places for Valentines, and you’ll need to book early for both its Valentines Ball on 11th February or for Valentines night dinner. The Ball was fantastic last year, and once again it includes a three course meal, live music to Michael Buble tribute Kris K, and a disco - all for £35pp. For the same price enjoy a romantic four course meal with arrival drink in the Park Restaurant on 14th February. Why not book an overnight stay to make the night complete - bed and breakfast is from £65 per room. Melton,Woodbridge 01394 383555 www.uffordpark.co.uk Essex Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa This hotel’s Valentine’s Ball is an annual highlight where you romance away your Valentine to a free glass of Bucks Fizz, a delicious three course meal and dancing to the sounds of the Soul Collective live band.

Dress code is lounge suits or

black tie and tickets are £39.50pp. Leavenheath, Colchester 01206 262836 www.stokebynayland.com Essex Alec’s Alec Smith’s ultra stylish restaurant used to be The Green Man pub. You wouldn’t recognise it now - it’s smart

and cool, with fabulous spiral staircases, spacious rooms and gorgeous views over the village green and surrounding countryside. Pictures of Alec’s father - whom the restaurant is named after - and his grandfather, a fish porter at Billingsgate Market (fish is the restaurant’s speciality), adorn

the walls. On Valentine’s Night you receive a glass of champagne and canapés on arrival, a three course meal, coffee and chocolate truffles, while enjoying a three piece jazz band and cocktail pianist - all for £85pp. Navestock Side, nr Brentwood 01277 375696 www.alecsrestaurant.co.uk

Cambs Browns Hopefully it won’t just be the menu you fall in love with at this Cambridge bar/brasserie. Baked figs, smoked salmon, rack of lamb, lobster tagliatelle ... . It’s available from 10-14 February and is great value at £29.95.

Or you could get the weekend off to a romantic start with their special Valentine’s brunch, with complimentary tea/coffee and a glass of fizz. Trumpington Street, Cambridge 01223 461655 www.browns- restaurants.co.uk Norfolk Montague House This amazing boutique b&b on the north Norfolk coast os creating a pink experience for guests on Valentine’s Day. You can stay in the pink room with its pink chandelier and pink silk Indian bedspread.

Enjoy a bottle of pink fizz and pink raspberry truffles made especially for Montague House guests by the Norfolk Truffle Company, and rooms will also feature pink or red roses. Breakfast will also have a pink flavour with offerings such as pink berry compote and pink pancakes filled with blackberry and apple preserve. The pink package is £100 per night or £250 for three nights. Montague Road, Sheringham 01263 822510 Essex The County Hotel This large independently owned town centre hotel will take you back to the 60s on

11 February with its Swinging Sixties dinner and dance. With dinner, live entertainment and dancing, tickets cost £29.95. or you could make a night of it with bed and breakfast packages starting at £135 per couple. On Valentine’s night itself, you can have romantic three course meal in the hotel’s restaurant for £29.95.

Rainsford Road, Chelmsford 01245 455700 www.countyhotelchelmsford.co.uk Regionwide Loch Fyne Restaurants If it’s seafood you love (as well as the person sitting opposite you) then these smart restaurants are a must.

Choose from their Valentine’s Weekend Brunch (Bucks fizz, kippers and more) for £15, or their three course candlelit Valentine’s dinner which includes a glass of bubbly on arrival, and coffee ad chocolates

. Trumpington Street, Cambridge 01223 362433; Bond Street, Chelmsford 01245 293620; Fore Street, Hertford 01992 585440;Thehub:MK, Milton Keynes 01908 546570; Giles Street, Norwich 01603 723450; Verulam Road, St Albans 01727 799050; Market Place, Woburn 01525 290877. www.lochfyne-restaurants.com Norfolk The Waterside This fabulous cafe and tearoom overlooking Rollesby Broad usually only opens as a stylish restaurant on Friday and Saturdays. But as a treat for Valentines, you can enjoy their special menu with great romantic views over the water, from 14-18 February.

Main Road, Rollesby 01493 740531 www.thewatersiderollesby.co.uk For more great places to choose from go to www.eastlife.co.uk

Food of love Whether you’re eating out or cooking for two, an aphrodisiac will enhance the vibe of your romantic night....

Strawberries In mediaeval times strawberries were regarded as an aphrodisiac and a soup made of strawberries, borage and soured cream was traditionally served to newly-weds at their wedding breakfast.

Rocket The peppery flavoured leaf Rocket was always rumoured to be an aphrodisiac, and was banned from monasteries in twelfth century Italy.

Oyster contains very high levels of zinc – a known stimulant for the prostate and therefore an aphrodisiac for men in particular.

Ginger Spicy food has a long history of spicing up love affairs. In India ginger and cardamom are added to food to give couples more zest in the bedroom.

Asparagus Many foods thought to be aphrodisiacs were considered so because of their phallic shape. Asparagus however, has more than suggestive form. It is rich in vitamin E, a vitamin considered to stimulate production of our sex hormones and may be essential for a healthy sex life.

eastlife.co.uk|43

LivingEast

Food & drink

HEART-SHAPED BISCUITS perfect for Valentine’s Day Crisp, buttery almond biscuits sandwiched with a fresh raspberry filling look attractive cut in heart shapes (other fluted or plain round cutters would also work well). The dough is quickly and easily made in a food processor using unblanched almonds for a rich flavour.

Makes 12 200g Marriage’s Finest Plain flour 100g unblanched almonds 80g icing sugar 125g unsalted butter, chilled and diced 3 large free-range egg yolks For the Filling:

200g raspberries ½ tablespoon cornflour 3 tablespoons caster sugar Icing sugar for dusting 8cm shaped cutter plus a smaller one 2 baking trays, greased Heat the oven to 180°C, 350°F, Gas Mark 4.

This delicious recipe was supplied by and made with Marriages flour.

Marriages are a family company, based in Chelmsford, Essex, who have been producing their superior quality flour since 1824 when it was founded by William Marriage and his twin brother Henry. Now into its fifth generation, Marriage’s today produce a range of flours for bread, cake and pastry making.

Modern machinery is used to produce the majority of the flour; however they still mill stoneground wholemeal flour using traditional, horizontal French burr stones to give a delicious, nutty flavour and special texture. For more details call them on 01245 354455 or visit www.marriagesmillers.co.uk for a list of stockists or to buy online.

Put the flour and almonds into the bowl of a food processor and run the machine until the almonds are finely ground. Add the icing sugar and run the machine for a couple of seconds just to combine. Add the diced butter and run the machine until the mixture looks like coarse sand. Add the egg yolks and process again until the mixture comes together to make a ball of firm dough. In warm weather, wrap and chill the dough for 15 minutes to make it easier to roll out.

Turn out the pastry onto a lightly floured work surface and roll out about the thickness of a pound coin. Cut out shapes with the larger cutter, then use the smaller cutter to stamp out the centre from half of the shapes.

Gather up the trimmings into a ball then re-roll and cut out more shapes. Space the shapes slightly apart on the baking trays. Chill for 10 minutes then bake in the heated oven for about 12 minutes until lightly coloured. Leave to cool on the trays for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

Meanwhile make the filling: toss the raspberries with the cornflour and sugar then tip into a medium-sized pan and set over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently until the raspberries become soft and juicy then boil for 2 minutes, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.

Transfer to a heatproof bowl and leave until cold.

Sandwich the biscuits with the raspberry filling then dust with icing sugar. Once filled, the biscuits are best eaten the same day. The unfilled biscuits can be stored in an airtight container and used within 4 days.

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Letchworth's

ďŹ nest

GARDEN B A R & R E S TA U R A N T

A very special night at the Thai Garden

Valentines Day Live music from 7.30pm ÂŁ19.95 for a 3 course meal of your choice Book early to receive your free gift Open 7 days a week Lunch 12pm to 3pm and Evening 5.30pm to 11pm

Very high class Thai restaurant, recommended in guides For takeaway and restaurant bookings, please call on Tel:

01462 486213 or 01462 486212 10 Gernon Road, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DU

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Weddings

fashion

Top left ‘Egypt’ by Blue at Enzoani, strapless, soft organza sweetheart gown with natural waist A-line. Stockists include: Belissima Weddings, Chelmsford 01245 323585;Fleur De Lys, Saffron Walden 01799 526982; Bride-All, Exning, Newmarket 01638 577401; La Belle Angele, Norwich 01603 629950; The Wedding Shop, Colchester 01206 767359 www.bluebyenzoani.com Bottom left ‘Leading Lady’ ivory silk organza and french lace gown by Suzanne Neville from the Nostalgia collection. Stockists include The Bespoke Wardrobe, Ingatestone 01277 355787; Once in a Lifetime, Stony Stratford 01908 568377; Morgan Davies, Hitchin 01462 432889; The Wedding Shop, Colchester 01206 767359 www.suzanneneville.com Top right Trudy Lee, style 59611 in Flat Taffeta. Available in White or Ivory. Stockists include Beautiful Brides, Clacton-on-Sea 01255 430099; Amanda Julie Couture, Haverhill 01440 714334; Dreams of Norwich 01603 411418; Allure Bridal Wear, Maldon 01621 850553 www.trudylee.co.uk Bottom right ‘Ivon’ glamorous satin and tulle gown by Sophie Tolla. Stockists include Bride-All, Exning, Newmarket 01638 577401; Pure, Norwich 01603 625000; Serenity Bridal, Colchester 01206 577756; Karen Forte, Bassingbourn 01763 242790; Expressions Bridalwear, Hitchin 01462 431122 www.sophiatolli.co.uk

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Alfred Angelo ‘Sapphire’ cap sleeve floor length point d'Esprit and embroidered lace gown with sweetheart neckline. The gown is detailed with metallic accents, crystal beading, sequins, rhinestones, pearls and a chapel train. Stockists include: Bride-All, Exning, Newmarket 01638 577401; Abigail’s Collection, Colchester 01206 574575; Celebration Services, Bedford 01234 841898; Dreams Bridalwear, Norwich 01603 411418; The Wedding Shop, Bungay 01986 893929; Wedding World, King’s Lynn 01553 841526; Ann Bridal, Stevenage 01438 318216 www.alfredangelobridal.co.uk

Special occasion or simply because you’re worth it?

We help you look your very best every single day Celebrity beautician Nilam Patel is proud to introduce the Dermaspa clinic, A new two storey barn conversion offering a vast range of beauty, aesthetic and non-surgical treatments all under one roof. Whether you are looking for general beauty treatments or a soothing pamper, our philosophy is to offer all our clients an unforgettable and enjoyable experience in preparation for there big day.

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LOOK YOUR BEST ON YOUR WEDDING DAY And when the big day arrives you want to look fresh and youthful.The two things that everyone will notice on your wedding day is your outďŹ t and your beautiful smile.You will also be the most photographed person on your special day, recording memories that cannot be recaptured.

We understand that weddings are very expensive and therefore we offer 0% ďŹ nance for the majority of our dental treatments. So for instance a treatment costing ÂŁ500 could be spread over 5 months at a cost of ÂŁ100 per month making things a little easier.

Brooklands has been helping couples prepare for their big day for years, in fact we have given entire wedding parties fabulous new smiles ranging from simple and fast teeth whitening to veneers and more comprehensive cosmetic dentistry. We also offer line and wrinkle treatments, and skin peels for both younger and mature skin types to give you a more youthful and glowing appearance.

CALL TODAY 01908 235124

member

2 companies, 2 specialties, 1 great location at Brooklands Farm, Newport Road, Broughton, Milton Keynes MK16 0HU

Weddings

fashion

Tobi Hannah

Jesus Peiro

Alfred Angelo

Paloma Blanca

Pronuptia

Augusta Jones

Monsoon

Tobi Hannah‘Olga’ Stockists: Thistle Brides, Cambridge 01223 307545; Bridal Path, Sawbridgeworth 01279 722273 Jesus Peiro style 2017. Stockist: Lara B, Newmarket 01638 561770 www.jesuspeiro.com Alfred Angelo‘Sleeping Beauty’ from Disney Collection. Stockists include: Bride-All, Exning, Newmarket 01638 577401; Abigail’s Collection, Colchester 01206 574575; Celebration Services, Bedford 01234 841898; Dreams Bridalwear, Norwich 01603 411418; The Wedding Shop, Bungay 01986 893929; Wedding World, King’s Lynn 01553 841526; Ann Bridal, Stevenage 01438 318216 www.alfredangelobridal.co.uk Paloma Blanca style 4206 from the Classic Collection. Stockists include: Lara B, Newmarket 01638 561770; Morgan Davies, Hitchin 01462 432889; Confetti, Tring 01442 828653 www.palomablanca.com Pronuptia ‘Travelling’ from the Studio Collection. Pronuptia Cambridge 01223 213770, Ipswich 01473 211765, and Chelmsford 01245 265716 www.pronuptia.co.uk Augusta Jones‘Ashten’ Stockists: Lara B, Newmarket 01638 561770; Annie Laurie, Stamford 01780 444713; Martin Charles, Oundle 01832 273448; After Dark, Woburn Sands 01908 281080 www.augustajones.com Monsoon Kipp dress www.monsoon.co.uk Hollywood Dreams ‘Montana’ Stockists: Belissima Weddings, South Woodham Ferrers, Essex 01245 323 585; Crown Joolz, Bury St Edmunds 01284 700675; Fleur De Lys, Saffron Walden 01799 526 982; Jeneveve, Colchester 01206 562 100; Matchmaker, Brentwood 01277 263 500 www.hollywooddreams.co.uk

Hollywood Dreams eastlife.co.uk|49

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Weddings

fashion Kelsey Rose Satin and tulle flower girl dress style 14562. Stockists include: Fleur De Lys, Saffron Walden 01799 526982; Serenity, Colchester 01206 577756; A Formal Affair, Bretton, Cambs 01733 260930; Olivia Grace, St Neots 01480 477194; Dreams, Norwich 01603 411418; Bride-All, Exning, Newmarket 01638 577401; Bodice & Bustle, Bishop’s Stortford 01279 755507 www.kelseyrose.co.uk

FLOWER GIRLS

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

1 Your wedding day is important to you, but while you're planning, don't forget about your bridesmaids - they want to look fabulous on the big day too, and the bridesmaids dresses you may have in mind might not be the most flattering look on some of them.

Ispirato Dress and bolero IK907, hat IK101. Stockists include: Bride-All, Exning, Newmarket; 01638 577401; Cream, Royston 01763 244073; Coco Fashion Stores, Benfleet 01268 756 144; Pure, Norwich 01603 625000; Michael Bailey, Bedford 01234 347843; Ambiance, Colchester 01206 570433. www.ispirato.co.uk

2 Encouraging ideas early on from your bridesmaids will not only show them that you care about their opinions, but will also help prevent drama on shopping day.

3 While it's okay to want certain colours, at least provide some variety for different complexions by selecting various shades of your wedding colours.

Jacques Vert Myriad Devore Dress, £179.00.

Available in Debenhams, Townrow, Co-op, Jarrold Norwich, Palmers Bury St Edmunds, and Jacques Vert in Colchester. www.jacques-vert.co.uk

4 Make the dress reusable. Traditionally bridesmaids pay for their own dresses, but if you are sticking to this rule you should really find a dress that they can wear again.

Ebony Rose ‘Ayesha’. Stockists include: Grace & Lace, Ipswich 01473 236650, Colchester 01206 563000 & Chelmsford 01245 347347; Harvey’s, Ramsey, Cambs 01487 711002; Cinderella’s, Brandon 01842 811141; Classique Weddings, Norwich 01603 623111; Karen Forte, Bassingbourn 01763 242790 www.ebonyrosedesigns.com

BRIDESMAIDS

Alfred Angelo Satin bridesmaid dress, style 7198. www.alfredangelobridal.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk|51

Weddings

Accessories

‘Lydia’, £99.99. Glam handmade tiara by Essex designer Keily Brien. She has a fabulous range of tiaras, crowns and circlets, hairpins, crystal bouquets, jewellery and other wonderful accessories.

Pop into her shop, Bejeweled Tiaras in Basildon 07731 520922 or shop online at www.bejeweledwith-keily.co.uk

Finishing TOUCH

A winsome face veil in luxurious silk tulle, finished with an organza bow with a diamante and pearl brooch style trim, from a range of more than 100 exquisite veils by Joyce Jackson.

Stockists include Lavender & Jude, Stradbroke, Suffolk 01379 384 208 or go to www.rainbowclub.co.uk

‘Swan’ embellished short nightslip, £82

‘Hattie’ £110

All bridal shoes by Southwold’s Filippa Scott are made from the finest natural materials, from beautiful silks through to supple leathers, and are designed to enhance any wedding dress.

Most of the shoes come in both ivory and white duchesse satin and all have comfortable suede covered padded heels. For the full range and stockists see www.filippascott.com ‘Swan’ short thong, £30; camisole, £60

Beautiful Bottoms was launched in 2008 by Lauren Skerrit from Brancaster Staithe in north Norfolk with two friends, Isabel Bradshaw and Poppy SextonWainwright. Their mission was to create fun, flirty and sexy knickers and bras handmade in delicate silk prints. With some help from Anna Park who owns Anna Boutiques (Burnham Market, Bury St Edmunds, Saffron Walden, Holt and London), who launched the collection in all her shops, the range become a huge success, and is now available in stores such as Harvey Nichols and Selfridges.

Loungewear, beachwear and bridal lingerie has been added to their collection. Stockists include Nola, Norwich 01603 666677; Hoste Arms Beauty Spa, Burnham Market 01328 738777; and Anna boutiques through the region www.shopatanna.com. To see the full Beautiful Bottoms range go to www.beautifulbottoms.co.uk 52|eastlife.co.uk

moving to Elsworth Jan 12

• PALOMA BLANCA • AUGUSTA JONES • DONNA SPOSA • JESUS PEIRO • LOU LOU • ACCESSORIES

NEW FOR 2012

JO BARNES VINTAGE ACCESSORIES By appointment

01638 561770 5 Rous Road • Newmarket • Suffolk • CB8 8DH info@larab.co.uk • www.larab.co.uk

5 Boxworth Road, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4JQ, 01954 267773

www.thistlebrides.co.uk

info@thistlebrides.co.uk

Rachel Lamb Bridal Design – Handmade Gowns – bespoke or made to measure from my collection

By Appointment Only Please Shamer Cottage, Headleys Lane, Witcham, Nr. Ely, Cambs CB6 2LH

Telephone: 01353 778178 www.rachellambdesign.co.uk info@ rachellambdesign.co.uk please see my website for further information

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Elegance

ke Bespo ry Milline e Servic

Elegance offers a personal service in a friendly atmosphere and includes a “Top to Toe” selection of up to the minute clothing and accessories to suit all budgets and occasions.

Our extensive range includes collections from: John Charles • Michaela Louisa • Olsen • Pomodoro Plus new Spanish designs from Pifer & Mayka

6 Bene’t Street, Cambridge 01223 328 111 www.lereve-lingerie.com

Tel: 01525 850 522 21 Bridge Street, Leighton Buzzard

Mini Solutions Arrive in style on your big day…

Hillside Farm, Welbeck Road, Burgh, Apton, Norfolk NR15 1AU Tel: 01508 558661 Mob: 07719 241022 Email: mini@ajsminis.co.uk Web: www.ajsminis.co.uk

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23/1/12 10:51:02

BRIDE-ALL

The Wedding Shop

East Anglia’s Premier Bridal Store

Bride-all, The Wedding Shop is

Their beautifully decorated bridal

as Alfred Angelo, Dessy, Sophia Tolli,

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street parking and over 1600sq ft of air conditioned loveliness houses some of the top designers of bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses,

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BRIDE-ALL The Wedding Shop. 75 Chapel St, Exning, Newmarket, Suffolk. CB8 7HB. Tel: 01638 577401 eastlife.co.uk|55

Sensational outfits for ALL those special occasions For all your Bridal Wear, Occasion Wear, Mother of the Bride & Accessories 13 -14 Market Place, Woburn, Beds MK17 9PZ. Telephone: 01525 290658 www.woburn-bridal.co.uk Opening Times: Tuesday - Friday: 10.00am - 5.30pm Saturday: 9.30am - 5.00pm Sunday: 11.00am - 4.00pm

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01263 714040 56|eastlife.co.uk

Weddings

Planning

The big plan How to get the professional touch, with wedding planner Bernadette Chapman of Dream Occasions in Essex Congratulations you’re engaged and have started planning one of the happiest events of your life. You’re on cloud nine and excitedly talk about the future and your wedding day. But, then the panic sets in; you have set a date but very little else, you start to compile a list of names and try to work out a budget, but in all honesty you don’t know where to begin.

After all, for most of you this is your first time. As a wedding planner with nine years experience, a director for the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners and regular columnist for a variety of magazines, I hope to pass on some of my expertise to local brides planning their weddings. So put the kettle on and let’s start organising your wedding like a ‘professional’! have a look round the grounds and ask what will be exclusively available for you and your guests on the day. If you anticipate a lot of children then be aware of nearby roads or ponds.

Preliminaries The key is to be organised from the start, set aside an evening with your fiancée to talk about the type of wedding you both desire. By the end of your evening you should be clear on what you both want from a wedding and most importantly, what you can afford. Have a folder with all wedding documentation within it, for example supplier contracts, budget and photos.

Booking professionals availability of a registrar until 12 months.

The celebration

Action • Set a date for the wedding • Discuss what you both want from your wedding • Compile a rough guest list • Discuss type of ceremony • Set a realistic budget and ask family if they can contribute • Talk about possible reception venues

Ceremony type One of your first major decisions will be what type of ceremony to have. Will you want a religious or civil ceremony?

If you wish to marry in your local church then arrange a meeting with your vicar, most require you to attend church on a regular basis but some

are flexible so do check. The banns will be read out in church on three consecutive Sundays after which you must marry within three months.

If you wish to have a civil ceremony then contact the registrar in the town in which you plan to marry. They will then send you a list of licensed venues in that area along with details of local register offices.

The earliest you can confirm a date with a registrar is 12 months, so even if you book a venue 18 months in advance, there is no guarantee on the ceremony time or even

If you wish to have a civil ceremony, does the venue have a license and if so which room?

What is the maximum number of guests they can accommodate in a ceremony? If no Saturdays are free then are there reductions for mid week weddings? Do guests need accommodation on site or will nearby suffice?

Will your venue co-ordinator work on your wedding day? Do you have a good rapport with them and can they answer all your questions about how the day will run?

Or if your venue is a marquee then seriously consider hiring a planner even if just for the day, you need someone on the day to implement all your ideas and plans.

When viewing your venue

Ok you have the date set, booked the ceremony and reception venue, now’s the time to get all those fabulous suppliers on board. Of course one of the best ways to select a supplier is via personal recommendation but still ask for references and relevant insurance documents; also don’t underestimate your instincts.

If you just don’t feel comfortable with a certain supplier despite glowing references, then don’t book them.

Photographer Do you want an album of modern images or would you prefer to buy your own high street or online version? Is it vital to have a CD of images to print at home? Will you want traditional posed photos or mainly reportage?

Videographer Ask to see actual wedding demos and not a show reel which of course has been ®

eastlife.co.uk|57

Weddings

Planning

TOP TIPS Be strong remember every guest has a price to their head and I don’t mean just the wedding breakfast, but drink, table flowers, favours and stationery. If Mother wants Aunty Edith who you have never met, then say No!

Venue décor look carefully at the venue décor and general maintenance. A well maintained venue means the owners care about their venue and as such you their client.

Save money by having a late ceremony it means a late wedding breakfast and reduces the need for evening

Money worries if family are contributing towards to wedding, put it towards something like a photographer or

tional, cup cakes, modern or chocolate.

Stationery

edited superbly as a sales tool. What effects have they included, does it add to the DVD or detract from the footage itself?

Caterers If you need to hire an outside caterer then ask the venue or marquee company for a list of recommended companies.

Check they have experience of weddings and ask for their relevant insurance and food and safety certificates. Check whether the quotation includes equipment, staff and linen. How many staff will they have on the day, any less then one per table of ten then start to worry.

Local fairs are a good place to see designs in the flesh and quality check them. Try to combine stationery, for example why not have individual menus with the guest names?

When samples have been sent to you, give it a good shake whilst in an envelope – ok so I sound crazy, but does that diamante stay in place?!

Entertainment You will want guests to remember your forever. To begin will you want any professional singers or musicians for the ceremony? As with everything else check references and demos. In the evening a band or disco is the most popular choice but additional options are: Harpist • String quartet Opera singers • Guitarist Gospel singers • Pianist Silhouette artist • Magician Comedian • Life statues Casino • Look-alikes Professional dancers

Cake maker

Transportation

Ask your venue for recommendations on local cake makers and search the internet. Talk about the fillings and style of cake you like ie: tradi-

If you need to hire some transport to the church and reception then what style do you prefer? A vintage RollsRoyce, converted Beetle,

58|eastlife.co.uk

food. A cheese table with bread and fruit is more then sufficient.

horse and carriage, or helicopter? There are also companies that hire out sports cars perfect for the groom and best man.

Wedding design Now you are ready to start thinking seriously about your design and what you want the day to be like. Collect pictures you like of previous weddings to build up a picture of your style, show these to the cake maker and florist.

Florist The flowers will make a big impact on your wedding style so choose a florist carefully, view their portfolio of previous weddings and ask how long they have been doing it.

Discuss your initial ideas and colours and ask for suggestions on what flowers are in season and what would work well for your wedding.

Getting ready The final few weeks will be spent re-confirming all suppliers (in writing), buying attendant gifts and running through duties with the ushers. Print out extra copies of directions from the church to the reception and hand to the ushers and chief bridesmaid. Oh and do wear in your wedding shoes as well!

Seating chart The easiest way to do this is on the computer enabling you to move guests around from table to table with relative

transport. Once you use that money for the reception, you open yourself up to conflicts in terms of who ‘should be invited’.

The cake don’t forget about the stand and knife!

Design take a picture of how you want the table to look, this ensures the venue or coordinator sets it out to your instructions. Put all place

ease. Otherwise put guests names on small pieces of paper and pin to a foam board (available from art shops) round each table, you can see what tables are near to each other and whether children have easy access to toilets or gardens.

Guest numbers Confirm final numbers about eight weeks before the wedding. Don’t forget to let the venue/caterer know about children, allergies and dietary requirements.

The big day Now is the time to relax, little things may well go wrong but it doesn’t matter. The most important thing now is becoming husband and wife. Ensure you are not bothered with problems on the day, your co-ordinator or chief bridesmaid should act in your best interests at heart now.

Remember to smile, relax and enjoy the day. Try to take 10 minutes with your husband away from all other guests, just to enjoy the moment without interruptions.

Based in Coggeshall, Essex, Dream Occasions organises stylish weddings or a parties and are specialists in East Anglia with an unrivalled knowledge of suppliers and venues in the area. The also offer Marriage Proposal packages. 01376 561544 go to www.dream-occasions.co.uk UK Alliance of Wedding Planners www.ukawp.com

M AC Studio Hair Hairdressers

weddings filler_Quarter 24/01/2012 09:04 Page 1

Bridal & Prom Hair Styling 2012

Mac Hair Studio specialises in bridal and prom hair styling with a personal touch for you and your party.

We offer you the opportunity to visit us to discuss your ideas and practice your chosen styles. With our experienced colour advise, we can enhance your look.

We even have a selection of tiaras and headdresses for you to try out so you’ll feel completely confident on your day.

To ensure your business is included in EAST WEDDINGS please contact: Charlie Roadley-Battin (Norfolk) 07595 894578 Darren Marshall (Suffolk/Essex) 07826 628680 Jim Leishman (Cambridgeshire) 01954 267635 Stewart Hedges (Beds/Herts) 07595 894557 Sarah Grosvenor (Cambridge) 07813 381392

Coming soon - your essential Wedding Guide for all brides and grooms planning a wedding

Your day is hectic enough so, if you’d rather, we can visit you at home.

We are also specialists in hair colouring, cutting and perming in our friendly salon.

Cambridge Regional College Employer of the Year Award 1st Place

first for training & skills

Cambridge Regional College Aimee Low Student of the Year Award

01954 260224 38 Church Street, Willingham Cambridge CB24 5HT www.machairstudio.co.uk machairstudiowillingham eastlife.co.uk|59

Untitled-5 59

24/1/12 09:25:20

Children’s Designwear

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Stockists of Sarah Louise, Little Darlings, Little Linens, Green Baby and now Petit Bateau for boys and girls 0-10 years

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At Bradley’s we try harder! Our a al carte restaurant and wine bar offer diverse menus with locally grown seasonal produce and we host a popular wine society and themed evenings.

Our secluded courtyard and quayside tables are perfect for summer relaxation and the restaurant is available for private hire including birthday parties, society dinners, wedding receptions and other celebrations.

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Wedding Open Days Above and Beyond, the wedding fayre specialists will be hosting wedding fayres on...

The Riverside, Luton 20 Gipsy Lane, Luton, Beds, LU1 3JH Sunday 29th January 2012 11am - 3pm

The Mall, Luton Town Shopping Centre Saturday 3rd March 9am - 6pm Sunday 4th March 10am - 5pm

Moore Place Hotel, Aspley Guise The Square, Milton Keynes, Bedforshire, MK17 8DW Sunday 19th February 2012 11am - 3pm

The Conservatory at the Luton Hoo Walled Garden Luton Hoo Estate, Luton, Beds, LU1 4LF Sunday 25th March 2012 11am - 4pm

Menzies Flitwick Manor Hotel Church Road, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1AE Sunday 26th February 2012 11am - 3pm FREE admission & parking. All brides who register on the day will receive a FREE goody bag.

We will be showcasing prestigious local suppliers of bridal and menswear, DJs, videographers and photographers, hair and beauty, stationery, decorations & balloons, wedding planners, toastmasters, entertainment, florists, transport and much more.

Further information available from - Above and Beyond Event Management Ltd Basepoint Business & Innovation Centre, 110 Butterfield, Great Marling, Luton, LU2 8DL

Tel: 01582 524788 www.aabevents.co.uk

60|eastlife.co.uk

Email: sales@aabevents.co.uk

S Make your scrapbook dreams come true A personal service

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‌original and creative eastlife.co.uk|61

Weddings

Jeremy and Nina Date 6 August 2011 Venue St Magaret’s Church, Ipswich & Columbine Hall, Stowmarket

How did you meet?

We met in February 2007 on a night out. Nina was celebrating a friends birthday and was dressed as a cave girl at the time!

Jeremy, when and how did you propose?

I proposed to Nina on the 7th May 2010, her 30th Birthday. The six months preceding this had been particularly emotional, and were one of the many reasons I decided to propose to Nina. After a furtive trip to London with

Nina’s sister, I purchased a solitare platinum ring and proposed to Nina on her birthday. [ Jeremy and Nina’s daughter, Jessica Rose, was born in October 2009 weighing just 3lbs 90z. By the time she was five months old, she was diagnosed with an Atrial Septal Defect (a hole in the heart), central hypertonia (low muscle tone) and global developmental delay - “Jessica, who turned two in October, has yet to speak her first word, laugh, crawl and is only able to stand with support,

although she has, within the past two weeks, started to bum shuffle across the room!”]

Did you always have a clear idea of the sort of wedding you wanted?

Partly, yes. Jeremy and I have some traditional values, we knew we wanted a church wedding for example.

We also wanted to ensure the day reflected our personalities and, more importantly, that our guests could relax, enjoy the day and have fun.

STAG AND HEN Nina had three hen do’s – the first being afternoon tea at the Ritz Hotel in London, the second a night out at Newmarket Races (unfortunately for Nina dressed as a jockey!) and finally afternoon tea at Hintlesham Hall.

Jeremy had two stag do’s – a weekend away in Nottingham which included a day trip to Alton Towers, with a twist – he was dressed as a 1970’s rock star. His best men made him sit on various rides alone. The looks Jeremy got from some will be forever etched on his mind! The second was a night out in Ipswich.

62|eastlife.co.uk

Ipswich couple Jeremy, 32, a legal services case manager, and Nina, 31, a medical secretary, met in 2007. Jeremy proposed in May 2010 and they married thirteen months later. Their wedding day had lots of wonderful vintage touches.

Real life wedding

A good vintage

All photograph’s of Jeremy and Nina’s are by Suffolk-based James Davidson 01473 829993 www.jamesdavidson.co.uk Who helped you plan the wedding?

We undertook all of the planning ourselves, which we found to be no easy task! Having found the perfect wedding venue Jeremy embarked on many hours of research to put our dreams into reality.

The West Barn at Columbine Hall was just a

shell, we had the task of turning our vision into a reality and bringing alive our vintage inspiration. We had to source, select and coordinate all our suppliers – from the caterers right down to the luxury toilets!

With Jeremy’s creative flare and business acumen, together with Nina’s love of craftwork we were able to

plan every part of the day with our own individual ideas.

Nina’s dress was from Heartbrides

What accessories did you have?

I wore a very sparkly beaded tiara with matching necklace of the same beads, and studded earrings.

Where did Jeremy and the guys get their attire?

My best men and groomsmen were scattered around the UK so I chose to go with the formal hire company Cameron Ross who have a UK network of retailers.

“ My strapless duchess satin gown was oyster in colour. It was a very elegant A line dress with a sweetheart neckline and a long train. It was embellished with lace, Swarovski crystals and had embroidered pearls, with a corset fastening at the back. My long veil had tiny gems embroidered throughout.

My many hours browsing in bridal shops were rewarded - I knew in an instant this gown was perfect! ”

Who were your bridesmaids and best man?

Jeremy: I had two best men – Rob Russen and Rob Jay. ®

eastlife.co.uk|63

Tattersalls

GRAHAM BUTTON

Newmarket

ROLLS ROYCE HIRE

I do, I do, I do....

Photo courtesy Trudy Matthews

A truly unique location to say I do.

Tattersalls unique venue provides a bespoke service for your special day.

Our elegant rooms, immaculate grounds and terraced area offer the perfect setting to make your day memorable.

Let us make the wedding of your dreams become a reality

Tel: 01638 665931 Email: corporate@tattersalls.com www.tattersalls-events.com

64|eastlife.co.uk

Fully Licensed for Weddings and Event Hire Tel: 01603 860771 Mobile: 07772886900 www.grahambuttonrollsroycehire.co.uk

Weddings

Real life wedding

I met both of them when studying carpentry at Suffolk College at 16. Both are great friends, trustworthy, honorable and a great laugh too. I also had two groomsmen – my brother Oliver Watt and longstanding friend Tim Byham.

Nina: I also had two bridesmaids - my sister Miranda Pears and my best friend Alison Price. Both are godmother to Jessica.

Who did Nina’s hair and make-up?

Although now a Qualified Accountant my sister, Miranda Pears, trained as a hairdresser with John Oliver after leaving school and did my hair. As a trained beautician I felt quite confident in applying my own makeup.

What made you choose Columbine Hall?

Columbine Hall was recommended by a friend. He kindly provided us with contact details for Huw Stevenson, the proprietor, who we proceeded to contact and arrange a visit.

The overriding factor in our decision was the setting and the stunning grounds on which sits a 14th century moated manor house complete with the most stunning gardens. To the north of the main hall is the West Barn, which is shown on Columbine Hall’s 1741 estate map and restored in 2000, this is where our reception was held. We erected a traditional canvas pole marquee just outside the barn. Adjoined the barn was the ‘Gig House’ a cottage where family and friends were able to stay. Hugh informed us we and our guests would have access to the

whole estate including the spectacular gardens and walkway around the moat.

Columbine Hall allowed us to develop our dream wedding.

Please describe your wedding rings…

Jeremy and I both have plain platinum wedding bands.

Who did the flowers?

Kate West is a friend of ours and a talented florist. We worked closely with Kate to select flowers fitting with our theme, informal arrangements in different shades of blue with cream.

Did any family or friends make anything for the wedding?

We were overwhelmed by the help and support of our family and friends, this included: Oliver Watt: designed the invitations and order of service.

Rob Russen + Rob Jay: from Jeremy’s designs they made the wooden boxes for the floral table arrangements, made the cake stand and also helped build the vintage photo wall.

Joy Gascoigne: made the ring cushion, crochets flowers for the table plan cards and made chocolate crunch cake.

Emily Reeve: made the padded hearts as part of the table centre pieces.

Tell us about any other little touches you made?

Nina chose navy blue dresses from Coast for the bridesmaids. We built on this colour theme purchasing a navy floral patterned fabric to make the bunting, padded hearts used in the table centre pieces, the cake topper and table confetti.

The same pattern was also integrated into the confetti cones in which the confetti was also handmade by us. We also made beaded hearts and heart bunting to decorate the marquee.

Nina made the wedding favours - button hearts for the ladies and little bottles of Sailor Jerry’s whisky for the gentleman.

Jeremy designed and built (with the help of friends!) a vintage photo wall, this was decorated with pictures of every member of our family.

This provided hours of fun as we made ‘props on sticks’ eg bowler hats, moustaches and glasses etc. and caption boards ‘I love my wife’ ‘more tea vicar’ for our guests to pose with and have their photo taken

with a retro Polaroid camera.

Each Polaroid image was ‘pegged’ to a line of heart tape adjacent to the Photo Wall.

We scoured many antiques fairs, car boot fairs and vintage fairs to build our collection of props. We then came across Bygones Corner in Polstead, Suffolk. The owners Mel & Paul were really helpful, we managed to tick a lot of collectables off the list following a visit to their shop. Jeremy would have cleared the whole ®

“ We displayed our wedding breakfast table plan in a vintage suitcase turned on its side.

Using Columbine Hall’s steep history we named each table using the coats of arms. A history of Columbine Hall was displayed in the marquee and on the table place cards. We also used a vintage suitcase for cards and gifts so at the end of the night we could just close it and take it away with us! ”

eastlife.co.uk|65

Weddings

Real life wedding

The most memorable moments of the day?

Nina for me the most memorable moments were nervously walking into the church and then the knot in my stomach disappearing as I saw Jeremy. I also always remember posing for my photo with Jeremy behind the vintage photo wall and also drinking Prosecco out of a teacup (naughty girl)!

Jeremy Rather cliché but Nina walking down the isle (followed

by Jessica) was one of them, my anxieties disappearing as she was 20 minutes late! The other was the arrival of the 1960 Austin Commer ice cream van – stunning!

shop if it wasn’t for Nina, he really was like a kid in a sweetshop!

Our cake was highly original.

Jeremy and friends designed a cake stand to hold around 200 bakery cakes! It was topped with a small iced fruit cake and adorned with Nina’s stylish bunting.

An 11am wedding gave the opportunity for afternoon tea following the wedding breakfast. The marquee was decked with beautiful vintage china together with vintage collectables. Afternoon tea wouldn’t be complete without cakes and summer cupcakes were just right! We also created a vintage themed sweet table using vintage sweet jars together with classic British manufactured tins such as Bassatts and Cadburys.

The highlight of the day for our guests was the arrival of the 1960 Austin Commer ice cream van (the last remaining one in the UK, complete with its polished chrome wheels – it really was a sight to behold!)

Who was your photographer?

James Davidson. We felt the photographer was the most

important decision of all the suppliers as the photographs are our lasting memories. The number of hours we spent researching photographers was unbelievable. James was brilliant in capturing our special day. His unobtrusive, informal and relaxed style of photography has provided us with over 600 memorable images that we will treasure for the rest of our lives.

Who provided the catering for the reception?

Anglia Hog Roasts. We had decided early on that we wanted to have a hog roast in the evening. We worked closely with them to create a bespoke menu for our wedding breakfast, with canapés on arrival followed by a two course wedding breakfast. Our hog roast in the evening was accompanied by a BBQ. What entertainment did you provide in the evening?

We chose Flame Entertainments as we had been impressed with them at a friends wedding reception. They were very professional and also supplied an exploding confetti shot for our first dance!

If you were to get married again tomorrow would you do anything differently?

Nina: If I were to get married again I wouldn’t change a single thing, it was the most special day of my life and one I will remember forever.

Jeremy: Absolutely nothing!

Where did you go for your honeymoon?

We would have liked to have visited Venice. However, much depended on Jessica’s progress and a week after our wedding Jessica had a gastrostomy (a tube into her stomach) operation. This was essential due to Jessica’s severe food aversion she had not put on any weight for a year. We are happy to say that Jessica is now is beginning to thrive. We did get to have a delightful luxury two night stay at the Nobleo Apartments in Cambridge. We are hoping to go away sometime in the future.

What plans do you have for your future together?

In the short term Jeremy and I are hoping to launch our new business ‘Vintage Occasions’.

We also hope to move house and it would be lovely to have more children.

‘Vintage Occasions’ – what’s that about?

Vintage Occasions has been launched to provide a bespoke service for anyone who would like their dream of a special vintage event to become a reality.

It brings together a team of experienced and talented individuals to organize events and create the vintage ambience you would like on your special day – not just weddings but birthdays, anniversaries, garden or tea parties, christenings, whatever your celebration!

For the full interview with Jeremy and Nina go to www.eastlife.co.uk /jeremyandnina

St Margarets Church Ipswich 01473 715891 www.stmargaretsipswich.org.uk Columbine Hall Stowupland, Stowmarket, Suffolk 01449 612219 www.columbinehall.co.uk Vicky Chappell (Event Co-coordinator) 07752 549755 Cameron Ross Formal Hire www.hirewear.co.uk Gary Sutton (1960’s ice cream van) 01379 898300 Anglia Hog Roasts Diss, Norfolk 01379 783477 www.angliahogroasts.co.uk Milsoms 01206 323150 www.milsomhotels.com James Davidson Photography 01473 829 993 www.jamesdavidson.co.uk Flame Entertainments Ipswich 07951 671515 www.flameentertainments.co.uk Coast Westaget Street, Ipswich 01473 232 957 www.coast-stores.com Nobleo Apartments www.nobleo.co.uk Heartbrides www.heartbrides.co.uk Vintage Occasions wwww.vintage-occasions.co.uk

66|eastlife.co.uk

London Bus Hire Looking for something special to transport your guests at your wedding? Why not hire an ExLondon Transport Routemaster for your special day.

Complete with personalised signs and decorations, something your guests will never forget!

For Hires in Suffolk & South Norfolk V> Êä£n{ÓÊnÓ£xä ÊUÊi > ÊÜi`` }ÃJ V >V ÃiÀÛ Vià Ì`°V °Õ Ê UÊÜÜÜ°V >V ÃiÀÛ Vià Ì`°V For Hires in North & West Norfolk call ä£ÓÈÎÊxnÇääxÊUÊ`>Û `J>Ü>Þ>`>ÞðV Ê UÊÜÜÜ°>Ü>Þ>`>ÞðV For Hires in Essex call 01206 252472 UÊÃ> iÃJÌ> à > V >V iðV °Õ UÊÜÜÜ°Ì> à > V >V iðV °Õ

eastlife.co.uk|67

The Comet Ramada HatďŹ eld Hotel

Great for weddings & events Book our Comet Suite for weddings & events of up to 120.

Licensed for Civil Wedding Ceremonies.

We are offering a complete Wedding Package for ÂŁ1,936 to celebrate the year the hotel was built. ÂŁ3k Silver Wedding Package & ÂŁ4k Gold Wedding Package also available Large gardens for photos!

Call 01707 252400 or e-mail meetings@ramadahatďŹ eldhotel.co.uk for details.

St Albans Road West, Hatfield, Her tfordshire AL10 9RH meetings@ramadahatfieldhotel.co.uk | www.ramadahatfieldhotel.co.uk

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* Historic or contemporary surroundings * A choice of licensed rooms for civil ceremonies * Realistic, competitive pricing * Riverside setting * Beautiful and unique surroundings * A range of stylish rooms from 20 to 200 capacity.

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8 Sun Lane, Newmarket, CB8 8EW Telephone: 01638 667778 www.thedressingroomnewmarket.co.uk

68|eastlife.co.uk

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Quality pre-owned ladies fashion and designer labels at an affordable price. Visit us at 8 Sun Lane, Newmarket to see our wide selection of clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories.

HEN PARTIES Create an event that suits your personal taste and budget. A truly unique and memorable hen party awaits you at Inspired Gourmet!

Canape and Cocktail Evening Join our chefs and learn the art of creating beautiful cocktails and delicious canapés. £35.00 per person

Chocolate Hen Parties Spend the day with our experienced chefs making your own chocolate creations. £45.00 per person

Gourmet Cookery Party Have a fabulous time learning to cook a gourmet three-course menu from our wide range of menus and then dine on your culinary creations. £50.00 per person

The Inspired Gourmet Cookery School 01908 692918 www.inspiredgourmet.co.uk 4HE /LD 'RANARY s "ROOKLANDS &ARM "ROUGHTON s "UCKINGHAMSHIRE s -K (5

Exclusivity Guaranteed The Priory Barn in Little Wymondley is a stunning wedding venue licenced for civil ceremonies and partnerships. It offers a stylish, contemporary wedding in a beautiful, secluded, rural setting conveniently located just two minutes from Junction 8 of the A1 (M).

Absolute privacy and exclusivity is guaranteed.The venue was voted 21st in the Brides Magazine top 100 wedding venues in the UK this year. Attention to detail in all respects and the highest level of personal service are The Priory's commitment to all couples who book here. We are now booking dates right through 2013 and into 2014. For those couples planning a wedding in 2012 we have some very special offers for all our remaining dates, so do contact us by phone or email to obtain more details .

The Priory

Contact Karen or John on 01438 748647 or email info@thepriory.net

eastlife.co.uk|69

Weddings

Beauty

Robert Jones founder of simple beauté and author of Makeup Makeovers, gives some great makeup tips to make you look and feel absolutely beautiful and confident for your wedding photographs

Picture perfect In my opinion, the most important thing to think about when preparing for your wedding is how you will photograph. many, many years from now, when the wedding dress no longer fits, the only tangble thing you will have to really remember your special day are the photographs. So when considering your make up look for your wedding photos or your bridal portrait, remember that it’s all about making your best features stand out in the photo. You want to define your features better – not cover everything up with heavier makeup.

D

epending on the lighting and the camera’s flash, professional photography can wash you out and make you appear pale.

But we can prevent that from happening. The best way to make your skin appear warm and radiant is to sculpt the face using highlighting and contouring techniques. This will give your face more dimension in your bridal portrait and help you photograph more beautifully.

You will need three shades of foundation to achieve this "face-sculpting" effect.

The diagram on the left will help you understand the purpose and placement of the three shades. Be sure to blend the three shades really well, because it is the blending that makes the sculpting method work and look natural. Here’s how it works: 1 The first color should match your skin exactly. It is your true foundation color.

Apply this shade all over your face.

2 The second color - your highlight color - should be one level lighter than the first. Apply this shade to the high points of your face, including your forehead, under the eyes on top of the cheekbones, and on the tip of your chin.

This helps to give your face more dimension by bringing these areas of the face forward.

3 The third shade - your contour color should be one level darker than your first (natural) shade. Apply this shade to

match your contour shade. This will give you a perfectly sculpted face that will photograph beautifully.

the outer areas of your face, including the temples, along your hairline, and along the sides of your cheeks. This will deepen your skin tone and help you appear healthier and warmer so you don’t look washed out. It also adds dimension and depth to your face while still looking very natural. To complete your look, you can simply finish with the shade of powder that matches your natural foundation shade. This will still let your sculpting efforts shine through. But if you want to really enhance your sculpted look, follow what you have done with three shades of powder: one that matches your first foundation shade, one that matches your highlighter shade, and a darker or bronzing powder to

Powder is the most important makeup step when doing photography makeup, because it eliminates shine and helps the skin appear smooth and matte - the perfect canvas for beautiful pictures.

Matte skin always looks more perfect and flawless than shiny skin.

Here’s an easy trick if you want to narrow the width of your nose: Create a strip of highlight shade down the center of your nose the width that you want your nose to appear. Then place the contour shade on the sides of your nose.

This will make your nose look narrower, because the eye will be drawn to the highlighted area. If your nose is a little crooked, bring a straight line down on the top of your nose with the highlighter shade, then contour along the sides. People will naturally focus on the line that is highlighted, making the nose appear straight.

Blending is also key when it comes to professional photography makeup. The softer the light, the more perfect your makeup and skin need to be. The brighter the light, the less perfect your skin and makeup have to be. Bright light tends to “blow out the skin” and diminish the fine details. In softer light, the camera can pick up a makeup line along the jaw, neck, or eye area, so be sure to blend in your foundation, cheek, lip, and eye colors extremely well. ® eastlife.co.uk|71

Weddings

Beauty

Here are a few tips that can help you create beautiful wedding photos and bridal portraits.

G If you’re posing for a bridal portrait in a studio, you can wear more makeup than you could if you were taking your photographs outside, because you don’t have the different lighting factors to consider.

will make the lid look too shiny. It is okay, however, to use three matte shades. For me, the one shade I almost always choose to be matte is my midtone, because it is supposed to look the most natural.

G Make sure to warm up your skin and give it dimension by sculpting and bronzing your face.

G Don’t choose shades that are too bold. This is not the time for bright fuchsia lipstick or charcoal eyeshadow.

Instead, you should choose lip shades that are just a few shades darker than your natural lip tone. Select eyeshadow shades that are deep enough to create definition and enhance your eye color, but not dark enough to demand all the attention.Your goal is to define your features with enough color to see the definition in the photographs, but not so much that you overwhelm and distort your features.

G If you want to wear foundation and powder with a bit of sheen to it, you may do so if your portrait is taken in a studio (but remember that matte skin always photographs more flawlessly).

But stick with a matte look for your wedding day or if your portrait is being taken outside (due to the different lighting situations).

G Blush adds life to the face.You may choose to wear a shade that’s a bit more colorful for your portrait than you choose to wear on your wedding day. Even if you do not normally wear blush every day, you will want to wear at least a little color for photographs to give your face a bit of life.

G Warmer cheek colors photograph more beautifully than cool colors, because they make the skin look fresh and glowing. But don’t forget that applying a little bronzing powder first will give you a fresh glow that will make you look unforgettable.

G You can wear matte or shimmer eyeshadows for your portrait and your wedding day but never frosted shadows.

They always look too shiny and artificial in photographs. Remember, this picture is forever!

G When choosing eyeshadows for photography, shades with warm undertones (including brown) enhance every eye color and will photograph beautifully.

G Make sure at least one of your eyeshadows has a matte finish. Generally, you never want to use three shades of shadow with a shimmer because they

G Nothing will bring out your eyes better in a photograph than defining really well at the lashline. There are two ways to achieve this. First, you could layer your mascara to help thicken and lengthen your lashes. The second technique - and my favorite for the absolute best definition - is to apply false eyelashes.

G Make sure your lips are well defined for your portrait. Erasing your natural lip line with foundation or concealer before you apply your color will give you a fresh, perfect canvas, so that when you apply your lip liner it will give your lips perfect definition in photographs.

G Brows should be well groomed and defined with brow color. Even if you do not normally wear eyebrow color, in a photograph, the light could possibly wash your brows out, so a little color for definition might be necessary.

G I know I have already mentioned it, but I want to end by reminding you again that powder is your friend when you’re being photographed. Matte skin always photographs more flawlessly than shiny skin!

Makeup Makeovers: Weddings - stunning looks for the entire bridal party - by Robert Jones is published by Fair Winds Press, £12.99 ISBN: 9781592332311 and is available to buy at www.qbookshopuk.co.uk For more details see www.eastlife.co.uk 72|eastlife.co.uk

Redcoats Stylish accessories including a large collection of Hats, Fascinators, Designer Handbags and Costume Jewellery.

Redcoats is a beautiful, family-run, 15th century farmhouse restaurant and hotel with 13 bedrooms and suites - perfect for any special occasion Our award winning restaurant offers a seasonal a la carte menu Monday to Saturday Prix-fixed lunch menu Sunday to Friday from £17.50 (for 2 courses) Dine in our conservatory with views over beautiful gardens or in one of our period feature dining rooms (private dining available) Choose from our extensive wine list, which includes a selection of over thirty fantastic wines for £25 or less We morning coffee with biscuits or, alternatively, reserve a table beside one of our open fires for afternoon tea with sandwiches and scones Bed & breakfast from £37.50 per person or dinner, bed and breakfast from £65.00 per person Breakfast is served until 9am Monday to Friday and is available to nonresidents - perhaps for your early-morning meeting?

6/7 Churchyard, Hitchin, Herts SG5 1HR 01462 451200 www.frocksandfrippery.co.uk

For information on Weddings visit www.redcoats.co.uk or telephone 01438 729500 Redcoats Green, Near Hitchin, Herts SG4 7JR Email: sales@redcoats.co.uk

A magical setting for your special day With its beautiful gardens, chapel and timberframed barn set in the grounds of a celebrated Elizabethan house, Childerley offers a unique and romantic setting for your special day.

LOCATION : 15 minutes west of Cambridge off the old A428 between Dry Drayton and Caxton ADDRESS: Events Office, 3 Mill Yard, Childerley, Dry Drayton, Cambridge, CB23 8BA CONTACT: 01954 211433 | events@childerley-estates.co.uk | www.childerley.org eastlife.co.uk|73

ANYWHERE YOU WANT HOLD YOUR WEDDING

HOMES • GARDENS • BEACHES LICENSED OR UNLICENSED VENUES THIS COUNTRY OR ABROAD

Mulberry Days can design and conducts bespoke wedding and renewal of vows ceremonies anywhere.

Special Occasion Wear & Accessories from baby to teens

sea n no son ew w coa in ts

• For Weddings, Proms, Christenings & Communion • Handmade dress service available (including alterations and repairs, from baby to adult sizes) • Casual wear to Party wear

Mulberry Days Celebrant

Tina Park, Shawls Drive,&Hethersett • Baby wear,Bowden, Baby gifts,22 Blankets Cosytoes Norwich NR9 3EL 01603 811756 • tina@mulberrydays.co.uk www.mulberrydays.co.uk

• Stockists of Sarah Louise, Emile et Rose, Abella, Little Darlings, Couche Tot and Mayoral

Tel: 01493 330083 www.c-twinkles.com

Special Occasion Wear & Accessories Special Occasion from baby to teens Wear 2 Fullers Hill, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 1PR

sea n no son ew w coa in ts

• For Weddings, Proms, &Christenings Accessories & Communion from baby to teens • Handmade dress service available • For(including Weddings, Proms, alterations and repairs, Christenings & Communion from baby to adult sizes) • Handmade availablewear • Casualdress wearservice to Party (including alterations and repairs, from baby to adult • Baby wear, Baby gifts, Blankets, Shawls sizes) & Cosytoes • Casual wear to Party wear • Stockists of Sarah Louise, Emile et • Baby wear, Baby gifts, Blankets , Shawls & Cosytoes Rose, Abella, Little Darlings, Couche Totetand Mayoral • Stockists of Sarah Louise, Emile Rose, Abella,

Sassa s bespoke cakes & cupcakes

Tel: 01603 661216 sassascakes@googlemail.com facebook filler_Layout 1 24/01/2012 09:02 Page 1 www.sassascakes.co.uk

Are you liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter?

Find us here...

Little Darlings, Couche Tot and Mayoral

Tel: 01493 330083 www.c-twinkles.com

east magazine

@eastmagazines

2 Fullers Hill, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 1PR

74|eastlife.co.uk

p74.indd 74

24/1/12 09:17:38

W edding S how Sunday, 11th March 2012 11am - 3pm FREE Admission Fashion Show Our 2012 Wedding Show is set to be our most spectacular and exciting yet!

In addition to the diverse collection of Exhibitors, NEW for 2012 is our much anticipated Fashion Show where you will be graced with the most stunning bridal gowns, quality men’s formal attire and beautifully coordinated outfits for the Mother of the Bride.

Everybody through the door will be entered into our prize draw for the chance of winning some amazing prizes. .

Let the planning begin...

For further information call 01638 663175 Bury Road Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7BX T: 01638 663175 www.bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk Eastlife Wedding Untitled-66 75 Fayre Feb 2012.indd 1

eastlife.co.uk|75 NEWMARKET, SUFFOLK 16/01/2012 23/1/12 11:50:20 11:46:12

SUSSEX FARM

Licensed for Civil Ceremonies, our stunning wood-panelled Walnut Suite with its magnificent chandelier makes a perfect setting for any wedding.

HOLIDAY COTTAGES & SUSSEX BARN #63/)". ."3,&5 t /03'0-,

stgileshousehotel.com/events

41 - 45 St. Giles Street, Norwich TEL: 01603 275180

Sussex Barn - an ideal location for Wedding Receptions, Civil Weddings,Dances, Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions

Hotel

Contact: Jane Thompson

01485 210000 e-mail: info@tbfholidayhomes.co.uk

www.sussexbarn.co.uk

Hintlesham Hall Hotel s -AGNIl CENT TH #ENTURY (OTEL NESTLED IN A BEAUTIFUL ESTATE APPROACHED BY AN IMPRESSIVE TREE LINED DRIVE s ,ICENSED FOR #IVIL #EREMONY IN STUNNING AND ELEGANT SURROUNDINGS s 0ERSONAL ATTENTION TO DETAIL FROM OUR FRIENDLY WEDDING PLANNERS s %XCLUSIVE USE AVAILABLE \ (ELIPAD (EALTH "EAUTY !SSOCIATED 'OLF #OURSE

Exclusive Use dates in 2012 From £10,500 to include 32 bedrooms, Wedding Breakfast and VAT Weekday Weddings from £4,950 Wedding Fayre on Sunday 13th May – 1.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.

0LEASE TELEPHONE 01473 652334 FOR MORE DETAILS AND A SHOWAROUND www.hintleshamhall.com AA 4 Red Stars

76|eastlife.co.uk

Award Winning Cuisine

Venues

30

Weddings

great places to get married and celebrate

YOUR COMPLETE WEDDING VENUE GUIDE Beds Woburn Estate 4 great venues - The Sculpture Gallery at Woburn Abbey and The Inn at Woburn, The Safari Lodge at Woburn Safari Park and The Deer Park for an open air wedding. 01525 292172 www.woburn.co.uk

Cambs Hotel Felix 4 star hotel with luxurious accommodation and top restaurant. Marquee for 200; Victorian style pagoda; three first floor rooms for sixty guests. Cambridge.

01223 277977 www.hotelfelix.co.uk.

Norfolk Assembly House Grade 1 Georgian House in the centre of Norwich offering spectacular interiors and ornate architecture. Wide choice of rooms available. Norwich 01603 626402 www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk

Cambs Chilford Hall Grade II listed hall and vineyard. Four spaces available: small 18th century barn, beamed Gallery Hall, ornate Great Hall and a large contemporary Pavilion. Linton.

01223 895600 www.chilfordhall.co.uk

Norfolk Wolterton Hall 18th century hall. The Salon Room has views over the lake, the adjacent grand Marble Hall has views over parkland.

Erpingham, nr Aylsham 01263 584175 www.manningtongardens.co.uk

Suffolk Glemham Hall Elegant Elizabethan mansion set in 300 acres of parkland. It’s licensed for civil weddings, and a there’s a marquee in the picturesque gardens. Little Glemham 01728 746704 www.glemhamhall.co.uk

Norfolk Barnham Broom Hotel Elegant venue, set amid beautiful countryside with a choice of three stylish, selfcontained reception suites with private bars. Barnham Broom, Norwich 01603 759393 www.barnham-broom.co.uk

Cambs Thorpeness Hotel & Golf Situated near Thorpeness Meare, five minutes’ walk from the beach. Two rooms at the Country Club are licensed to hold wedding ceremonies. Thorpeness www.thorpeness.co.uk 01728 452176

Cambs Swynford Hotel 17th century house hotel, restaurant and bar set in five acres of grounds overlooking a stud farm. Six Mile Bottom, nr Newmarket 01638 570234 www.swynfordhotel.com

Suffolk Seckford Hall Beautiful Tudor hotel set amongst 34 acres of Suffolk countryside. 120 can be accomodated guests in the Lakeside Suite, 140 in the marquee. Woodbridge 01394 385678 www.seckford.co.uk

Cambs Peterborough United FC Peterborough FC’s pitch side facilities are available for wedding ceremonies and receptions. London Road Stadium, Peterborough. www.theposh.com 01733 341050

Norfolk Briarfields Hidden gem of a hotel with stunning views of Titchwell salt marshes. Perfect location for your wedding reception.

Titchwell www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk 01485 210742

Herts The Priory Barn 100ft 16th century barn licensed for civil ceremonies, making a unique venue.

Gazebo available for summer weddings.

Little Wymondley, nr Hitchin 01438 748647 www.thepriory.net

Suffolk Best Western Ufford Park Excellent modern venue set in 120 acres of historic parkland. Intimate gatherings and large parties can be catered for.

Melton,Woodbridge 01394 383555 www.uffordpark.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|77

All Bar 1 mobile bar specialists weddings conferences functions

weddings

We offer a colourful and exciting location providing an unforgettable experience whatever the occasion be it business or pleasure.

Experienced for a day but remembered for a lifetime.

Jon & Suzanne Goodyear www.allbar1.co.uk e: allbar1@btinternet.com Telephone: (01603) 873061

www.wantisden.co.uk Wantisden Valley Wantisden Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 3PG t 01394 459995 f 01394 459129 email valley@wantisden.co.uk

The George Hotel George Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3AB.Tel: 01480 432444 E mail: 6457@greeneking.co.uk

We know that every wedding is different and that’s why our team of experienced Wedding Coordinators will always be on hand to help make your big day a memorable one.

You will find unique surroundings to impress your guests and picturesque backgrounds for your wedding photographs. Complement this with Old

English Inns’ charming venues, great food and attentive service and you have the ultimate venue for your wedding.

At Old English Inns many of our hotels are licensed to conduct civil ceremonies, giving you a wide choice of venues and styles for your big day!

Old English Inns are a collection of 58 historic inns

and hotels, all brimming with character and charm.

Choose from historic coaching inns, elegant country houses and unique timbered buildings, all offering modern-day facilities, matched with attentive and unassuming service. Our hotels and venues are perfect for your wedding: charming hotels in beautiful English country locations! mentary Compli arking P r a C Fi and Wi- . le availab

everything you need – delivered with character and charm 78|eastlife.co.uk

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Courtesy of Anna Wiskin

Kimbolton Castle Licensed for civil marriage ceremonies Exclusive use of Castle State Rooms guaranteed Seating capacity up to 120 for dining Reception facilities for up to 250 Professional caterers with extensive choice of menus Considerable experience in hosting weddings and other events Some available dates for 2012 Bookings now being taken for 2013 www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk/functions enterprises@kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk

Telephone: 01480 860505 Courtesy of Joanna Hudson

PROVIDING A FIRST CLASS service for all your wedding needs, the Timothy Green Flowers wedding service includes wedding bouquets, table displays, church decoration, button holes, and all your other requirements, to make your wedding ďŹ&#x201A;owers as memorable as the day itself!

Timothy Green, the proprietor, has a great passion for gardening and ďŹ&#x201A;owers, which began in his childhood. A keen love of ďŹ&#x201A;owers and foliage led him to work as a ďŹ&#x201A;orist - his appreciation of nature giving him a natural style and ďŹ&#x201A;air for ďŹ&#x201A;ower arranging.

Timothy trained as a ďŹ&#x201A;orist, but prefers to think of himself as self-taught (he breaks the conventional rules of arranging whenever possible)!

Timothy is the recommended ďŹ&#x201A;orist for Dunstan Hall and Maids Head Hotel in Norwich but has prepared displays in many high-proďŹ le venues from London to North Norfolk including The Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, The Landmark Hotel, The Waldorf). His creative work and â&#x20AC;&#x153;hands-on-approachâ&#x20AC;? combined with dedication and attention to detail has quickly earned him an excellent reputation in all aspects of wedding ďŹ&#x201A;owers, bouquets, and garden designs.

Timothy Green Flowers is based in Norwich, Norfolk but work throughout East Anglia and the South East of England.

Courtesy of Andy Fountain

Contact them now for more information and prices.

Tel: 01366 501441 www.timothygreenďŹ&#x201A;owers.com Email: timothygreen@btinternet.com eastlife.co.uk|79

Weddings

Venues

YOUR COMPLETE WEDDING VENUE GUIDE

80|eastlife.co.uk

Cambs Kimbolton Castle Spectacular historic building in 120 acres of parkland. Ceremonies and receptions held in State Apartments with their Pellegrini murals. Kimbolton 01480 862227 www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk

Herts Redcoats Farmhouse Hotel Magnificent building dating back to 1480, delightful gardens, licensed for civil ceremonies, marquee available, and great food. Redcoat’s Green 01438 729500 www.redcoats.co.uk

Norfolk Dragon Hall Grade 1 listed medieval timber-framed hall, with a contemporary glass gallery and enclosed courtyard garden, in the heart of Norwich. Norwich www.dragonhall.org 01603 663922

Essex Leez Priory Stunning 450 year old Tudor mansion, the first country house to be licensed in England to conduct civil marriage ceremonies. Great Leighs 01245 362555 www.brideshead.co.uk

Cambs The Secret Garden The pretty walled garden has an elegant 1600 marquee available to hire from February to September. New Road, Barton, Cambridge www.burwashweddings.com 01223 260040

Suffolk Tattersalls The headquarters of Europe’s largest bloodstock auctioneers, a unique venue with elegant rooms, immaculate grounds and terraced area. Newmarket 01638 665931 www.tattersalls-events.com

Suffolk Hintlesham Hall 16thC Grade I listed country house hotel surrounded by 175 acres of countryside.

3 sumptuous rooms licensed to accommodate civil ceremonies. Hintlesham www.hintleshamhall.co.uk 01473 652334

Essex Hedingham Castle Norman keep and nearby Georgian country house. Ceremonies take place within the castle Keep, with receptions in the Banqueting Hall. Castle Hedingham www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk 01787 460261

Norfolk St Peter’s Hall 13thC hall in delightful moated grounds, licensed for civil ceremonies. Cuisine is supplied by award winning chefs at Wickedly Good Food. South Elmham www.stpetershallsuffolk.co.uk 01986 782288

Essex Spains Hall Elizabethan manor house licensed for civil weddings, which can take place in the Elizabethan Hall or The Stables next to the house. Finchingfield 01371 811596 www.spainshall.co.uk

Beds Whipsnade Zoo The wedding day can include animal feedings or a vintage steam train tour around the park. A range of suites to choose from. Dunstable 01582 873831 www.zsl.org

Essex Layer Marney Tower Splendid Tudor palace set in parkland.

Ceremonies can be held in the Corsellis Room or in the hall of the gatehouse. Nr Colchester www.layermarneytower.co.uk 01206 330784

Norfolk Stoke Mill Stunning old mill, the original home of Colman’s mustard, and now a wonderful venue for your wedding breakfast. Stoke Holy Cross, nr Norwich 01508 493337 www.stokemill.co.uk

Cambs Childerley Hall A magical setting: beautiful gardens, chapel and timberframed barn set in the grounds of a celebrated Elizabethan house. Dry Drayton 01954 211433 www.childerley.org

Suffolk Ickworth West Wing Grade 1 listed building with a striking Rotunda and curved corridors.The Gallery and The Court are available for ceremonies and receptions. Horringer www.ickworthwestwing.com 01284 735957

Suffolk Bedford Lodge Hotel Licensed for civil weddings. 3 self-contained banqueting suites can accommodate from 10-150 guests and space for a marquee in the grounds Newmarket 01638 663175 www.bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk

A fairytale wedding needs a magical venue…

Licensed for civil ceremonies and full of character, Thorpeness Country Club is set in an idyllic and romantic location overlooking the sea. We pride ourselves on our impeccable reputation, our warm and friendly atmosphere, the exquisite food which is cooked with passion by our brigade of talented chefs, and of course on our service … always delivered with a smile.

To make an enquiry or to book your wedding, please call Lisa or Bruno on 01728 452176 or email weddings@thorpeness.co.uk Thorpeness Hotel & Country Club, Lakeside Avenue, Thorpeness, IP16 4NH www.thorpenesscountryclub.co.uk Follow us here:

Wedding Open Day • Sunday 15th April 2012 • 11am-4pm • FREE ADMISSION

EM H East Mersea Hall To have a wedding day unlike any other, East Mersea Hall is the place to visit.

H to Discover EM special make your day to day truly a remember.

East Mersea Hall is steeped in Elizabethan elegance and history with stunning mature gardens and woodland offset against the breathtaking lake.

The quintessential charm and tranquility makes EMH the perfect place to celebrate your wondrous day.

EMH is also available to host ALL types of Civil Ceremonies; weddings, partnerships, naming ceremonies and renewal of vows, as well as receptions following wedding services.

East Mersea Hall, Church Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex CO5 8TJ Phone: (01206) 383499 • Mobile: (07842) 195221 • Email: eastmerseahall@aol.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|81

Licensed for Civil Ceremonies

INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex, CM4 9NR

(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history.

gs Fabulous Wheloddgdein .co.uk in Suffolk visit hig

We are ideally placed for the complete Wedding Package, offering:

A PERFECT SETTING for your wedding or family celebrations.

OPEN to the public onWednesday, Sunday and Bank Holiday afternoons from Easter until the end of September (NOT Wednesdays in June).

GUIDED TOURS are also available for groups at other times by prior arrangement.

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REGULAR PROGRAMME OF SPECIAL EVENTS 9th March â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Play â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ANNA KARENINA 1st April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wedding Fair

01986 784347

highlodge.co.uk

Find us just off the A12 between Blythburgh and Darsham

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Wedding speech?

No idea what to say?

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to disappoint? /Â&#x2026;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x152;>Â?Â&#x17D;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x2022;Â&#x17D;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x2022;Â?Ă&#x152;>Â&#x2DC;VĂ&#x17E;Ă&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;`iÂ?Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x17E;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x192;ÂŤiiVÂ&#x2026;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Ă&#x160;VÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;wĂ&#x160;`iÂ&#x2DC;Vit Teresa Dukes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 07545 850674 teresa@dukesconsultancy.co.uk www.dukesconsultancy.co.uk

Tel. 01277 353010 For more information, see our website: www.ingatestonehall.com

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Weddings at the Woburn Brasserie STARTERS SEAFOOD BISQUE WITH AIOLI MAIN COURSE TRADITIONAL BEEF WELLINGTON SERVED ON CHIVE MASHED POTATOES AND A BURGUNDY JUS DESSERTS DARK CHOCOLATE PARFAIT WITH A RASPBERRY COMPOTE, FRESH STRAWBERRIES AND CHANTILLY CREAM FAIRTRADE FILTER COFFEE AND CHOCOLATES CROQUEMBOUCHE

The Woburn Brasserie, situated in the centre of the beautiful georgian village of Woburn, offers a stylish setting for small and intimate weddings. (up to 50 persons).

We will help organize your perfect day with our wedding planner, from the flowers and wedding breakfast to the backgraound music, be it a personal collection or a jazz trio.

The sample menu opposite shows the quality of fayre available, but it can be adapted to suit any requirements, be it religious, allergies or simply down to personal taste.

Woburn Brasserie, 13 Bedford Street, Woburn MK17 9QB Tel: 01525 290260 www.woburnbrasserie.co.uk Mon to Fri 10am - 3pm, 6pm - 9.30pm Saturday 10am - 10pm Sunday 10am - 3pm Car park to rear of restaurant

all you need to do is enjoy your most memorable day!

eastlife.co.uk|83

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Indian Log Burners

Genuine Indian Log Burners from Jaipur via Norfolk.

Bringing your guests the warmest of welcomes to any outdoor occasions - Alfresco dining, parties or quiet evenings under the stars.

Romantic, rustic, aroma and heat in an attractive bronzed Indian steel lightweight brazier.

Prices from ÂŁ200 Ideal Wedding Gift Tel: 07803 200332 www.indianlogburners.co.uk

84|eastlife.co.uk

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23/1/12 12:04:11

Weddings

Kimberley Stubbs picks some favourite wedding things...

Cupcakes are becoming more and more popular for weddings – they can look fantastic like this, as a tiered display, or they make great favours. This display is by Lottie’s Cupcakes, based in Boxworth, Cambs. They will deliver and set up your display free of charge. Standard cupcakes are £1.60 each and cane be made in a range of flavours and designs to your requirements. 07917 842 748 www.lottiescupcakes.net I just adore these wedding invitations in the style of a flight boarding pass. They’re handmade by Here Comes The Bride who are based in Sheringham, Norfolk. They have a highly original range of wedding stationery, including table plans, place cards, luggage tags, posting boxes, thank you cards, guest books and more.

01263 820066 www.hctbweddinginvitations.co.uk We love this wedding cake teapot from Carters Teapot Pottery in Debenham, Suffolk. The large three tier teapot is very popular as a wedding gift (and there is a small one-cup version of it, too) – or use it on your wedding day to serve tea to your guests!

The large pot costs £59.99, while the one-cup version costs £29.99. 01728 860475 www.cartersteapots.com

Sean Goodman is a brilliant magician and will be a hit at any wedding reception with his close up and psychological tricks. www.simplymagic.co.uk

For wedding favours with a difference, look no further than these personalised miniatures from Just Miniatures in Hadleigh, Suffolk. There’s a choice of spirits, liquers and wine and the label is created by a top caricature artist from a photograph you supply.

The caricature costs £35.99, while the bottles cost from £2.34 each. www.justminiatures.co.uk

Ladies, for your bridal hair and make-up, husband and wife team, Louise Walsh and Michael Adcock, are hard to beat.

They will work with you to create the look you are after, and will do a trial run anytime up to one week before the big day. Based In Norwich, prices for Norfolk and Suffolk weddings start at £250. 07780 600 576 www.louisewalsh.net It was hard to choose just three wedding rings from the stunning collection at Riley & Riley in Ipswich, but here I go…

Top Ladies 4mm Diamond set 'Garland' Wedding Ring in 18ct White gold £938.00 (£625.00 in Palladium).

Middle Ladies 4mm 'Fingerprint' Wedding Ring in Platinum; £1109.00, Gents 5mm Palladium version £498.00.

Bottom Ladies 4mm Scroll Wave Wedding Ring in Palladium; £382.00, Gents 5mm version £498.00 (e.g.

Gents in silver £87.00, in Platinum £1444.00) All of these rings are available in 9ct yellow gold, 18ct yellow gold, 18ct white gold, Platinum, Palladium and even silver.

Riley & Riley’s platinum wedding rings start at under £350.00 and they also hand-make and customise wedding rings to order. 01473 231212 www.rileyandriley.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk|85

Weddings Based in Witham, Essex, A Vintage Wedding can help you create the most beautiful vintage theme for your wedding day. They have a huge range of vintage crockery for hire, and can also provide vintage style wedding flowers, wedding stationery, wedding table decorations and wedding styling, all in a beautifully fashionable vintage retro style. 01376 511727 www.avintagewedding.co.uk

Make sure the men at your wedding don’t forget their roles! These luxury black cotton socks are available for the groom, brides father, best man, pageboy, grooms father, brother and son, usher and ring bearer.

You can get them from Norwich’s unique one-stop wedding shop, The Wedding Party, in St Benedict’s Street, 01603 611177. You can buy online too at www.theweddingparty.co.uk

Arrive at your wedding in vintage style in the rhubarb and custard 1972 VW Dormobile named Delia (after Delia Smith). Delia will get dressed up in her wedding refinery, and will be driven in style, with a bottle of champagne, to the venue and on to the reception. All for £285 from Chelmsfordbased Custard Campers 07799 213533 www.custardcampers.co.uk

The Vintage Jewellery Company in King’s Lynn specialises in jewellery with a romantic twist and a whimsical past. Handmade by designer Danielle Butler, every piece is an original and features vintage treasures sourced from around the world. www.vintagejewelleryco.co.uk

From gift boxed cupcakes delivered to your door to wonky wedding cakes, everything they do at Sassa’s is wonderfully original and baked and hand decorated in their own kitchen in Norwich.

01603 661216 www.sassascakes.co.uk

Based in Sawston, Vintage Wedding Cars Cambridge have four beautiful and immaculate vintage cars, including this blue Burham, a Harley and a Tourer. They cover Cambridgeshire, and many parts of North Essex and Herts. 01223 836133 Diamonds are forever vintage bracelet, £79.

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This stunningly simple ivory satin court shoe by Rachel Simpson is to die for.

Adorned with an intricate beaded detail on the toe, it is the perfect shoe to add a subtle touch of sparkle underneath the dress. Available from Clare Bridal Studio, Clare, Suffolk 01787 279059 and Bellissima Weddings, South Woodham Ferrers, Essex 01245 323585 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

S TO K E M I LL Stoke Mill, a beautiful old Watermill set in the countryside just outside Norwich, is only a short distance from the Southern Bypass off Ipswich Road.

Bridal, Evening and Occasionwear

The Wedding Breakfast Menu offers an individual choice of dishes for your selection, enabling you to tailor a Menu to suit all tastes.

Prices start from £26.95pp for the 3 course meal, plus a Drinks Package starting at £9.95pp.

For your evening guests Buffet Menus are from £9.95pp.

We make no charge for the use of the venue, and minimum numbers apply only on Saturdays.

linda@stokemill.co.uk | 01508 493337

www.stokemill.co.uk

UÊÊ"«i ÊÃiÛi Ê`>ÞÃÊ >ÊÜii UÊÊ ÌiÀ>Ì ÊÃiÀÛ ViÊ >Û> >L i UÊÊ ÝÌi à ÛiÊ LÀ `ià > `Ê V iVÌ Ã UÊÊ Ì iÀ v Ì i À `iÉ À Ê ÕÌwÊÌà UÊÊ i>ÕÌ vÕ Ê>ViÃà À ià Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire's only premier stockist for Pronovias.

01763 242790 | www.karenforte.com Verona House, 36 Old North Road, Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 5JL

eastlife.co.uk|87

Bedfordshire Business Women event

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY Thursday 16th February 2012

Shuttleworth College (part of Bedford College), Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire

Ruth Badger from “The Apprentice” Networking U Lunch U Business Stands Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm Ruth Badger has a fantastic reputation as a speaker and has delivered hundreds of motivational & keynote speeches. Since launching her consultancy in January 2006 she’s enjoyed the success in helping businesses launch, improve & achieve sustainable growth. She’s entertained and inspired a varied audience including – Interflora, International Conference, Lloyds Bank PLC, Tesco, Unilever, Crowne Plaza, Barclays and many others.

Ticket Prices: Member £25.00 / Non Member £30.00

For more information please see our website or contact Kerry Cash: 07850 617578 sponsored by

Book Your Place Today: www.beds-businesswomen.org 88|eastlife.co.uk

OutEast Arts Going Out Entertainment Cinema Restaurants Events Dancing

Billy Connolly What can you say about the ‘Big Yin’ that hasn’t already been said? Larger-than-life manic Glaswegian with a purple beard (optional), an honorary doctorate from University of Glasgow and a career which grew from the joker in the Clyde shipyards, via the folk clubs of Scotland, to one of the country's best loved stand-up comedians and bona fide TV and movie star.

Ipswich Regent 13-14 February Cliffs Pavilion, Southend 15-16 February.

What’s on...

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Norfolk Suffolk Herts Beds Bucks Essex Cambs

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OutEast

What’s on

What happens in a museum after dark?

Find out on 15 February when museums across the city of Cambridge open up between 4.40 and 7.30pm for a whole host of fun, family activities and trails. Twilight At The Museums 2012 will feature storytelling, puppets, dinosaurs, skeletons, secret codes and much more.

For details go to www.cam.ac.uk/twilight

Around the OUT AND ABOUT

Carp & Angling Show competition winners Congratulations! We had a huge number of entries for this competition and here are the 15 lucky people who won a pair of tickets to the show at the Norfolk Showground last month. We hope you all enjoyed your day out. David Dibley, Lowestoft; Liam Sewter, Gt Yarmouth; Bruce Travers, Haslingfield; Michelle Payne, Beccles; Mervyn Groom, Norwich; Aaron Bunn, Norwich; Shaun Caley, King’s Lynn; Matt Hopkins, Hinckey; Colin Tuttle, Lowestoft; Claire Will, Diss; Liam Slee, Borehamwood; Lee Rowand, Hemsby; Michael Strivens, Norwich; Joe Saliba, North Walahsm; Alan Points, Bury St Edmunds.

REGION Over the next six months, Felsted School in Essex will be hosting the The Felsted Olympiad, a unique programme of professional and school events to celebrate the Olympic year. There’s a terrific line-up of music, theatre and art that includes Neil Hannon of The Divine Comedy, cellist Julian Lloyd Webber, and the stand-out hit act from last year’s Royal Variety Show, The Boy With Tape On His Face (right).

The school will even be holding its own ‘Olympics’ on Saturday 23 June.

To find out more about the festival, call 01371 822619 or go to www.felsted.org/olympiad

Framlingham’s Ed Sheeran - relatively unknown a year ago - is the undisputed breakout star of the 2012 Brit Awards with four nominations. It’s a remarkable achievement for the 20-year-old Suffolk lad who will also be performing live at the ceremony on 21 February. Good luck too to Essex singers Jessie J and Olly Murs, who both have nominations. This years Brit trophy was designed by legendary pop arts, Sir Peter Blake.

eastlife.co.uk|91

What’s on

| the sky at night The RSPB have teamed up with the Bedford Astronomical Society to search for the planets and stars of the night sky on 18 February at RSPB The Lodge, Sandy, Beds. For details call 01767 680541.

There’s a free monthly stargazing event with North Essex Astronomy Group at the Discovery Centre at Great Notley Country Park, near Braintree in Essex on 25 February. For details call 0845 603 7624.

Astronomers from Norwich Astronomical Society based at Seething Observatory will be at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, South Walsham on 18 Feb 01603 270449

Around the OUT AND ABOUT

An innovative “Moss Table” has won the People’s Choice poll to be included in the Design Icons: Cambridge Innovation Festival exhibition at Anglia Ruskin University (8-23 February). The interactive exhibition will showcase 20 of the most important products designed in Cambridgeshire over the last 40 years. A panel selected 19 of the 20 products with the Moss Table capturing the public’s imagination. Designed by Alex Driver and Carlos Peralta of the University of Cambridge in collaboration with scientists, the table is a concept for a potential future application of biophotovoltaic technology.

The moss produces energy through photosynthesis, which would be stored in a battery. Although it is currently unable to power the built-in lamp, scientists have been able to demonstrate that moss can be used to drive low energy devices such as a digital clock. Because the table is a “living exhibit”, it will only be on display from 8-10 February. East Road, Cambridge www.anglia.ac.uk

92|eastlife.co.uk

REGION

Author of 2 historic books, Roger Powell will be giving an insight into the world of Royal Mistresses and in particular those who had a connection with Ickworth House in Suffolk on 12 February.

With lunch and a tour of the historic property near Bury St Edmunds, the day will be rounded of with a signed copy of Roger's book, Royal Sex: Mistress & Lovers if the British Royal Family. To book call 01284 735 957.

Peterborough will be turning Dickensian this month as part of Dickens 2012, an international celebration of the life and work of Charles Dickens to mark the bicentenary of his birth. Dickens visited Peterborough on a number of occasions, to hold his famed ‘public readings’ in the city. The main event is on Dickens’ birthday on 7 February. Local Historian Richard Jones will be speaking on Dickens, in full costume, re-enacting the man himself, talking about his life and performing readings from some of his best known works. He will be joined by Stuart Orme from Peterborough Museum revealing Dickens’ many links to the city, and much more. Peterborough Central Library 01733 864280.

OutEast

| film FIVE great new films in cinemas...

The Muppets Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal and the rest of the Muppet gang are back, as they reunite to save their old theatre from a greedy tycoon, with the help of three fans.With Jason Segel, Amy Adams and Chris Cooper. Fri 10th

Jack and Jill Comedy starring Adam Sandler as a family man who prepares for the annual event he dreads: the Thanksgiving visit of his twin sister (also played by Sandler), the needy and passive-aggressive Jill, who then refuses to leave. Also starring Katie Holmes and Al Pacino. Fri 3rd

The Woman in Black New adaptation of the classic horror thriller about a young lawyer who travels to a remote village where he discovers the vengeful ghost of a scorned woman is terrorizing the locals. Starring Daniel Radcliffe. Fri 10th

Children will love getting their hands (and faces) mucky learning how to make pasta and decorating their own pizzas at Snape Maltings in Suffolk on 16 Feb. Mike Keen from the Brewery Tap in Ipswich, will be taking this creative workshop for ages 8 and over. ÂŁ10.

To book call 01728 688303

Ever wondered how those intricate and tasty Sushi dishes are made? Yuka Poulten will be demonstrating this Japanese art at a new Food Frenzy workshop at Hylands House, Chelmsford on 17 February. With a slight Valentines theme and some heart shaped titbits to make, the workshop is ideal for partners and friends to take part in. All cooking materials are included - just take along a container to take your sushi home in. ÂŁ45 each, 85 per couple.

To book call 01245 605523.

Jack and Jill Romantic comedy about two top CIA operatives who wage an epic battle against one another after they discover they are dating the same woman. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Tom Hardy and Chris Pine. Fri 17th

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close A nine-year-old amateur inventor, Francophile, and pacifist searches New York City for the lock that matches a mysterious key left behind by his father, who died in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Starring Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock. Fri 17th

A series of monthly English Ceilidh and Barn Dances for all ages and abilities, with music by the best local and national bands start this month in the Ipswich area.

The first one is on 18 February at Bealings Village Hall, with Itchy Feet and caller Elaine Barker. For tickets and details of future dates call 01394 383329

Ceilidhs on the move

For more great February movies go to www.eastlife.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk|93

Ellen Kent opera maestro

OutEast

“ My operas have to be emotional and beautiful. Mine isn’t minimalist – it’s traditional opera with a sexy feel ”

D

ynamic, passionate and creative. These are just three of the adjectives to describe Ellen Kent as she starts work on another UK tour.

A consummate show-woman, she is unashamedly incredibly proud about her work sourcing some of the globe’s best singers for touring opera productions which continue to attract large audiences around the country. Ellen admits: “I have developed an Ellen Kent brand. It’s a bit over-the-top, it’s colourful, it’s grand.”

For her return to Norwich, she is presenting two fantastic productions with the Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv featuring a host of hand-picked performers who have strong reputations in Europe.

Sumptuous sets and costumes are promised in La Traviata,Verdi’s outstanding story of the passionate Violetta.

The production combines emotional performances, stunning sets and sumptuous costumes with highlights including Bridisi which arguably the best-known drinking song in opera, the duet Un Di Felice, and Violetta’s haunting aria Addio Del Passato.

Meanwhile one of the globe’s most popular opera Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heartbreaking story of the beautiful Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results – and featuring the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

International Korean sopranos Rosa Lee Thomas and Elena Dee will be singing the roles of Cio Cio San and Violetta, while ‘ladies favourite’ Andriy Perfilov is Pinkerton and Alfredo. They

94|eastlife.co.uk

She is the opera impresario who took large-scale productions featuring the cream of worldwide talent around the country. Around two years ago, Ellen decided to take a step back to concentrate on large arena shows in country-house-style locations but now she is back doing what she does best – taking lavish productions around the country.

John Bultitude caught up with Ellen just before she headed to Eastern Europe to start work on her 2012 tour which will take in Norwich Theatre Royal.

are joined by a 70-strong company including Ruslan Zinevych, who has sung with Pavarotti and performed Ellen’s operas at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

It is also going to be a feast for the senses. As well as the stunning singing, the set will also be inspired by an exquisite Japanese garden and feature some spectacular costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

The sets and costumes, designed by renowned Russian designer Nadezhda Shvets, have taken 18 months to complete and Ellen is convinced the hard work will be worth it.

She said: “When the curtains open I want people to say “Wow!”. I want to do opera that people actually want to see.

I think these are my best operas ever – and I’ve done both of them dozens of times. They are very real performances that I think people will identify with and feel moved.

“My operas have to be emotional and beautiful. Mine isn’t minimalist – it’s traditional opera with a sexy feel.”

Ellen’s return to touring after some time out working on shows at country houses and historic venues will see her joining forces with theatrical promoter Derek Block who will taking on the more commercial arm of touring while Ellen focuses on the creative.

She said: “It feels so good to be returning with two of my favourite productions and even more so in light of the many letters I’ve received asking me why I stopped touring. It’s also very exciting to be working with a promoter I’ve always admired since he brought the Bolshoi Ballet to the Royal Albert Hall 20 years ago.” ®

Photograph taken by Indira Flack

Spotlight

OutEast

Spotlight

c I was a boarding school pupil at Sutherland House in West Runton and spend a lot of time in Norfolk.

It is such a beautiful county and off the beaten track d

Unashamedly larger than life, Ellen exudes an air of enthusiasm and excitement particularly about her Norwich dates as it will mean the company will head to an area which she has great affection for.

She said: “I was a boarding school pupil at Sutherland House in West Runton and spend a lot of time in Norfolk. It is such a beautiful county and off the beaten track.

“I have so many memories of my time there. I can remember visiting places like Sheringham and Holt, swimming in the sea off Cromer and of course, the famous Cromer crabs.

“I do remember Sutherland House particularly Mrs Gledhill who was a real trooper. She used to drink gin and tonic and wear stilletoes. We all thought she was great. I can remember her inviting Stevie Smith to be the guest at one of our speech days and she read her poem Not Waving But Drowning.”

She started her performing career as an actress before co-founding Dual Control International Theatre Company in 1985 appearing in two major productions before concentrating on her production work.

As her base was close to the Channel Tunnel, she then decided to work closely with European companies bringing French work to the UK and vice versa before working with the Strasbourgbased children’s company Theatre Jeune Public on a UK tour.

96|eastlife.co.uk

But it was Rochester City Council that fired up her opera interest challenging her to find something spectacular for its annual arts festival. Ellen raised the sponsorship to bring the Romanian National Opera over to perform Nabucco against the backdrop of Rochester Castle.

Since then, she has worked on dozens of opera productions with companies across Europe – often from the Eastern half of the continent – including the Latvian National Opera, Chisinau National Opera and the Ukraine National Opera of Odessa.

“I really encourage the companies to be innovative and work hard on market-

ing and promoting their productions,” said Ellen. “One company calls me The White Wolf – the one who gets things done.”

As we chat, she is preparing to head out to the Ukraine working with the opera company preparing for the tour with a month of intensive rehearsals and she says the tour is very important to the Eastern European country as well.

She explained: “The city, which is the second biggest in the country, is doing a lot of work to increase its visibility.

“As well as this tour, it has also been chosen to host a major European football tournament, a new airport is being built and there is a lot of money coming in which will help to boost the area’s profile globally.”

But there’s no doubt that while it may be hard work, she is enjoying the demands of organizing another major tour.

She said: “I’ve filled theatres in Scotland, England, Ireland, and I really have filled them. That must be some measure of what I’ve achieved. I had an obsession, not a mission. An obsession to entertain, not only the public but myself.

I have given a lot of entertainment to the EL world of opera and ballet.”

La Traviata is at Norwich Theatre Royal Sunday 5-Monday 6 February; Madama Butterfly is on Tuesday February 7. £6.50£36.50. For tickets: 01603 630000 or www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk For details of other venues go to www.eastlife.co.uk/ellenkent

in the frame

• Illustration • Painting • Print • Sculpture • Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Find us on Facebook, Twitter, blog.i2artgallery.com and at www.i2artgallery.com 26-28 Church Street Saffron Walden Essex CB10 1JQ Tel: 01799 668211

i2

ART

MODERN CONTEMPORARY ART

If you are interested in advertising in this section, please contact Charlie Roadley-Battin on 07595 894578

i2 ART GALLERY

Artists! Advertise for FREE on w w w . i 2 p o p u p g a l l e r y . c o m

Are you an ex pupil or staff member of

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helmsford TEXTILE MUSEUM

WORKSHOPS

4 Feb 1.30-4.30 15 Feb am or pm 3 March 1.30-4.30 24 March 1.30-4.30

Fabric printing & over-sewing for adults – £10.00 as above for children – £5.00 Learn to knit for adults – £10.00 Creative stitching for adults – £10.00

More in April! Go to www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Phone 01245 605700

FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

helmsford BOROUGH

COUNCIL

CHELMSFORD MUSEUM & THE ESSEX REGIMENT MUSEUM Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street, CM2 9AQ

If so, you are cordially invited to attend our reunion on Saturday 17th March.

Come along and meet up with old friends, exchange memories and chat about the best (or worst!) days of your lives. You will also have the opportunity of looking around the exhibition.

These will run from 1pm to 3.30pm in the Learning for Life Centre (the old infants building) and light refreshments will be served.

Please telephone the Museum on 01376 325266 to book a place.

Presents a series of exhibitions of contemporary arts off Elizabeth Way Harlow Essex CM20 2HP Tel: 01279 426042 www.parndonmill.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk|97

eastlifepromotion

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98|eastlife.co.uk

In 2012 the social care situation is hard to understand.

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What’s on in February THEATRE & SHOWS 1 Feb Chris Addison Super-smart stand up from the star of The Thick of It. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 1 Feb Snapshots A two part bill with Nutmeg Theatre Company and TIP Connection. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 1 - 4 Feb The Mikado Presented by West Norfolk Gilbert & Sullivan Society.

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 1 - 4 Feb Romeo & Juliet Classical ballet presented by Moscow City Ballet, one of Russia’s most successful ballet companies.

Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 2 Feb - 4 Jan Hansel & Gretel Family panto presented by Cley Amateur Dramatic Society. Cley Village Hall, Cley Next The Sea, 01263 740134 2 Feb Penumbra Indefinite Articles present a wry discourse on the effects of desire and decay… using shadows, puppets and the human body. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 2 - 4 Feb She Stoops To Conquer Norwich School Senior Play. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 3 Feb Brett Goldstein: Grew Up in a Strip Club A funny, surprising and oddly emotional tale of a boy who grew up in a strip club. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 3 Feb Polaris A story about loneliness and a wait for help that never arrives. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 3 Feb Stand Up Poetry Club Featuring Elvis McGonagall. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241 4 Feb Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus One thing is certain, men and women live on two different planets. Everyone has been confronted with, or irritated by incomprehensible behaviour on the part of the opposite sex. Why is this? The answer lies in this witty one man show based on John Gray’s educational bestselling book ‘Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus’. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 4 Feb Plucked Drawing on images and themes from life and myth, and using live video-feed painting, object theatre, puppetry and animation Plucked follows a journey of love and betrayal, from beauty to beast and beyond. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 5 - 6 Feb La Traviata A tragic tale of searing passion and memorable music, La Traviata is Verdi’s outstanding interpretation of one of the most popular love stories of the 19th century, La dame aux Camelias. Featuring the Internationally Acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv, with international soloists, a highly-praised chorus, and full orchestra, and starring the International sopranos Rosa Lee Thomas and Elena De. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 7 Feb Madama Butterfly One of the world’s most popular operas, Madama But-

Norfolk terfly tells the heart-breaking story of a beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results. Featuring the Internationally Acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv, with international soloists, a highly-praised chorus, and full orchestra, and starring the International sopranos Rosa Lee Thomas and Elena De. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 8 Feb Omid Djalili One of Britain’s freshest and most original comics, this British-born Iranian hams the accent and underlines the cliches before pulling the Persian rug from under the audience. With a career in comedy spanning across three decades, Omid Djalili’s legendary performances on stage and screen have won him fans and plaudits the world over. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 9 Feb The Goldman Ensemble: Piano Recital (Piano Not Included) Inspired by a true story, Piano Recital (Piano Not Included) explores the backstage disasters as well as the daily joys and struggles of professional musicians. It is packed full of comedy, theatre, music and a contagious joie de vivre that is impossible to resist. Assembly House, Norwich, 01603 626402 9 Feb The Science Museum Fast, furious and frenetically fun, this show will propel you on an exploratory theatrical adventure into the wonderful world of science Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 9 Feb Mods vs Rockers 60s music show. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 9 - 11 Feb The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark A funny, gentle and reassuring tale is written especially for small people aged 3 - 7. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 9 - 11 Feb Cinderella Family pantomime presented by Wherry Entertainers.

Broadland High School, Hoveton 01692 580339 10 Feb Suggs: My Life Story in Words & Music An access-all-areas backstage pass to the Madness frontman’s mind as he attempts the dare-devil stunt of single-handedly unravelling the mysteries of his own life. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 10 Feb An Evening With The Man in Black The Man in Black and his ghostly friends return to present a varied evening on the theme of hauntings and the supernatural. Not only will there be plenty of spectral tales but also magic and fun with the team that have been providing ghoulish entertainment around the streets of Norwich since 1997. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 10 - 21 Feb I, Bertolt Brecht Powerful but funny drama about Brecht’s career in the decadent days of 1930’s Berlin, the Nazis and World War II. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 11 Feb Chris Ramsey Stand-up comedy. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598

19 FEBRUARY SIMON CALLOW Reading excerpts from his soon to be published biography, Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World, Simon Callow discusses his love for the work of one of Britian’s most prolific authors.

Norwich Playhouse.

11 Feb Hullaba Lulu Entertaining, hilarious and poignant, the show features exquisite puppetry, live music and songs.

Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 11 Feb Suggs: My Life Story in Words & Music An access-all-areas backstage pass to the Madness frontman’s mind as he attempts the dare-devil stunt of single-handedly unravelling the mysteries of his own life. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 12 Feb Reginald D Hunter Top stand-up comedy. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 14 Feb Fireman Sam With great new songs, daring new rescues, and more adventure than ever before, you won’t want to miss this brand new live show! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 14 - 15 Feb Richard Alston Dance Company Music and dance come together in exquisite harmony in the choreography of Richard Alston. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 16 Feb John Peel’s Shed In 2002, John Osborne won a competition on John Peel’s Radio One show. His prize was a box of records that took eight years to listen to. This is an ode to radio, those records and anyone who’s ever sought solace in wireless. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 16 Feb Celtic Dream Embodying the true spirit of the Emerald Isle, and with a selection of the finest dancers, vocalists and musicians from around Ireland, Celtic Dream takes audiences along a breathtaking journey of music, song and dance with a kaleidoscope of colour against a backdrop of highly infectious, powerful and spirit-invoking music.

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 16 Feb Rapunzel Narrated by a wonderful frog, this fun adaptation has all the elements of a traditional tale...the witch, the beautiful girl locked in a tower and, of course, the handsome Prince who attempts to save Rapunzel. Ages 3+. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 16 - 17 Feb Henning When Germany’s self-appointed Comedy Ambassador.

Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598

16 - 18 Feb Shakespeare Sandwich An evening of Shakespeare-inspired performance mixing new media techniques with traditional theatre. Shakespeare Sandwich is complemented by an art exhibition in the Old Stables. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241 17 Feb The Chuckle Brothers Paul and Barry with their new show, Return of the Pirates of the River Rother 2 - in Stranger Tights. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 17 Feb Remember the Umbrella A delightful, original combination of storytelling and visual theatre using shadow puppetry, as well as live music and song and gentle audience participation, and is a onewoman show for children by artist and musician Su Eaton. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 18 Feb Henry VIII & The Royal Wedding Planner The hilarious, dramatic and touching story of several marriages and one exceptional wedding planner. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 18 Feb Gingerbread A solo-show with puppets, fruit and biscuits presented by Martin Bridle. Ages 4+. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 18 - 19 Feb Jethro The world’s funniest Cornishman. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 18 - 19 Feb Jethro The world’s funniest Cornishman. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 19 Feb Simon Callow See panel. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 19 Feb Rockin; On Heaven’s Door Rock ‘n’ Roll Music Show. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 20 - 24 Feb Horrible Histories Using actors and ground-breaking 3D special effects, these two astounding shows – The Terrible Tudors and The Vile Victorians – are guaranteed to thrill you and your children.

Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 21 Feb Bridget Christie Stand-up comedy. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 23 Feb Comedy Club Top stand-up.

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864

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6 FEBRUARY THE WEBB SISTERS The Webb Sisters singing and playing (harp, guitar, mandolin and more) draw from the folk and pop traditions of Britain and the United States. Among their multitude of achievements, The Webb Sisters represented the UK at America’s 400th Anniversary celebrations, contributed songs to several major TV shows, recorded alongside the likes of Dolly Parton and Rufus Wainwright for a Judy Collins tribute album and have performed on major concert tours with artists such as Leonard Cohen, Jamie Cullum, James Morrison and Jason Mraz. Norwich Arts Centre.

23 Feb - 3 Mar We Happy Few Imogen Stubbs’ play follows a group of female actors touring Shakespeare plays round the United Kingdom during World War II Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 23 Feb - 3 Mar Sons and Lovers Stage adaptation of D.H.Lawrence’s powerful semi-autobiographical novel. Sewell Barn Theatre, Norwich, 01603 697248 24 Feb Steve Hughes Witty, intelligent and straight talking stand-up comedy.

Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 24 Feb Paul Daniels In the world of television magic, no one has enjoyed more success than Paul Daniels. From the moment he burst onto our screens, his magic shows have topped the ratings. He is undoubtedly the most successful TV magician of the 20th century, and an international sex symbol! He promises not to dance! And he will be joined by the lovely Debbie McGee and Martin Daniels in a show full of magic, comedy and amazement. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 25 Feb Fascinating Aida Britain’s best comedy cabaret trio. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 25 Feb Bellylicious the Sequel Confessions of a Belly Dance Diva With her new repertoire of dance, song and hilarious observations on life, relationships and the off-the-wall experiences of a belly dancer, Galit Mersand is an all singing all dancing one woman Extravaganza. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 28 Feb Private Resistance Eastern Angles present Private Resistance, the ultimate ‘what-if’ scenario. How would the British have coped with a German invasion?

Set in 1940 it’s a thrilling tale of the so-called Auxiliary Units, Churchill’s secret guerrilla army primed to go underground to fight behind the lines - a story of the bonds created and destroyed by wartime. This fascinating play is researched and written by Eastern Angles’ Artistic Director, Ivan Cutting and directed by Naomi Jones. Downham Market Town Hall, Downham Market, 01473 211498 28 - 29 Feb The Boy With The Tape On His Face Astounding and hi-

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lariously funny, this silent show will leave you lost for words. One of the highlights of the 2011 Royal Variety Show. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 28 Feb - 3 Mar Roots Norwich’s acclaimed Crude Apache theatre company present a new version of Arnold Wesker’s gripping play, first performed in 1958 and revived many times since then. Set in Norfolk and written in the appropriate dialect it tells the tale of Beatie Bryant, a farm labourers daughter, determined to better herself. The ending was described by the great critic Bernard Levin as ‘The most heart-lifting moment I have ever seen on a stage’. Dragon Hall, Norwich, 01603 663922 28 Feb - 10 Mar Legally Blonde Based on the hit movie starring Reese Witherspoon, this critically acclaimed new musical is created by a top-of-their-class creative team. An all singing, all dancing, feel-good musical comedy. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000

MUSIC 1 Feb King Creosote & Jon Hopkins Featuring lyrics and vocals from King Creosote sung over musical backdrops arranged and recorded by Jon Hopkins, the album Diamond Mine is a ‘soundtrack to a romanticised version of a life lived in a Scottish coastal village’, The record weaves in slices of Fife life, bike wheels, spring tides, tea cups and café chatter to produce a beautiful, unique and timeless album. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 1 Feb Roots Manuva One of the most distinctive and respected MCs the British hop hop scene has seen. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 1 Feb Lester Clayton Part political songwriter, part love-poet, Tottenham born Lester Clayton’s reggae-infused brand of “Street Folk” with fiddle hooks and groove bass is fresh, poignant and totally infectious.

The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 2 Feb Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns They are taking the American roots music circuit by storm, and superstars of the rapidly-growing Lindy Hop swing dance revival, being called upon to provide the back beat – and style – at huge conventions as far afield as Canada and Sweden.

Right now, in New Orleans, New York and

Chicago, Meschiya Lake is hotter than a Mink in Malta and, alongside her band, the reigning kingpins of the French Quarter scene, they kick up a footstompin’ storm, attracting dance enthusiasts from all over the world to shake and shimmy the night away. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 2 Feb Limehouse Lizzy Thin Lizzy tribute. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241 2 Feb Chantel McGregor One of the most of exciting rock and blues musicians that the UK has ever produced. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 5 Feb Kina Grannis Rising Californian singer songwriter Kina Grannis shot to fame in the U.S when her video for ’Message From Your Heart’ aired during the Superbowl and she walked away with a record deal. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 6 Feb The Webb Sisters See panel.

Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 6 Feb Kaiser Chiefs Five indie pop kids from Leeds who in less than two years went from self-financing their first single to getting signed by Universal and becoming the darlings of the British music press. The infectious enthusiasm of their music and the unique viewpoint of their lyrics has seen them compared to Franz Ferdinand, Blur, The Clash, and Madness, but their passionately dedicated fans know that this band are true originals. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 7 Feb The Locrian Ensemble The Blue Danube - A Musical Journey, with narrator, Roger Ringrose. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 7 Feb My Ruin LA metallers. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 8 Feb Kerrang! Tour Co-headlined by New Found Glory and Sum 41, with letlive and While She Sleeps. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 9 Feb Mastodon The Atlanta-based band formulated their own brand of highlyskilled hard rock over a decade ago when others were rehashing 80s metal, and went on to mastermind a string of complex concept albums. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 10 Feb The Vibrators Seventies classic punk legends best known for their hit ‘Automatic Lover’. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352

10 Feb Paul Carrack Legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics returns to the road. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 11 Feb Speedometer The UK’s most authentic early 70s Hammond-based deep funk outfit. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 11 Feb Queen Rocks Gospel A spectacular night of Queen with The Bohemians and The ACM Gospel Choir from BBC’s Last Choir Standing. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 11 Feb Ben Weston Up-and-coming jazz singer/pianist Ben Weston is playing this intimate gig before the launch of his debut album The Forum, Norwich, 01603 508050 11 Feb An acoustic evening for sparks4hearts In Support of the Sparks 4 Hearts Appeal which is being run by the Norfolk Hearts Trust. With: Brother Pit, The Thinking Men, Laura Harston and Culverkidd.

Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 11 Feb One Night With Elvis Tribute

by Lee ‘Memphis’ King. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 11 Feb Clara Sanabras with Harvey Brough Teaming up with guitarist and producer Harvey Brough (Harvey and the Wallbangers), singer-songwriter Clara Sanabras creates music that is a fusion of haunting melody and brilliant storytelling, delivered with an unforgettable voice. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241 11 Feb Alesana + We Came As Romans Metalcore. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 12 Feb Escher Quartet Haydn, Bartok, Beethoven. Holkham Hall, Holkham, 01328 710227 12 Feb The Kings of Swing A live concert featuring the Kings of Swing Orchestra and presenting some of the best swing vocalists currently performing throughout Europe today. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 12 Feb Sonic Boom Six A hefty shot of ska-punk, hip-hop, reggae and jungle. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 13 Feb James Vincent McMorrow Indie-folk songwriter from Dublin. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 13 Feb Big Country The band exploded onto the scene in 1983 with anthemic songs such as ‘Fields of Fire’ & ‘In A Big Country’ which were culled from their classic debut album ‘The Crossing’, which sold several million worldwide. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 14 Feb The Big Chris Barber Band Live jazz and blues from the master trombonist. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 14 Feb Mary Hampton Cotillion Bewildering Brighton based singer playing traditional yet modern folk with a clear wispy voice. Support from Cambridge band Sunday Driver. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352

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What’s on in February 14 Feb Ghostpoet The softly spoken 24 year-old started out winning over BBC Radio 1’s foremost tastemaker Gilles Peterson with a handful of off-kilter, loopy electronic ditties blessed with his delightfully rambling musings on modern life. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 15 Feb Leisure Society Indie-folkchamberpop maestros The Leisure Society is essentially the brainchild of songwriter and film score composer Nick Hemming. Coming from the same canon as The Divine Comedy and the Mull Historical Society, Nick’s gentle indie anthems revel in acoustic guitars, pianos, harps and infectious melodies. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 16 Feb Elkie Brooks One of the most successful and popular singers the UK has ever produced. Performing some of her classic hits, blues, jazz and songs from her new album Powerless. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 16 Feb Hyro Da Hero Hyro loads rock ‘n’ roll attitude into explosive, engaging and enthralling rap music. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 17 Feb Django Django Devo-inpsired catchy hooks from this London 4-piece. Think an up tempo Beta Band. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 17 Feb Showaddywaddy Europe’s most successful ever exponents of retroinspired rock & roll. The band had 23 Top 40 hit singles, including 10 Top 5 hits, Under The Moon of Love, When, You Got What It Takes, 3 Steps To Heaven, Hey Rock & Roll and 15 massive selling albums. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 17 Feb NME Awards Tour The infamous NME Awards Tour is back for 2012 and ready to showcase the year’s most exciting emerging music talent. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 17 Feb The Tilden Smiths Folk, country and blues. Auden Theatre at Gresham’s School, Holt, 01263 822161 18 Feb Dog Is Dead Up-and-coming Nottingham quintet who have a knack for making bright, breezy and infectious indie pop. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 18 Feb Dressed To Kill Kiss tribute band. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 19 Feb Rizzle Kicks Bringing the fun back into UK hip-hop, Brighton duo Rizzle Kicks made their ascent on the pop charts with the old-school flavoured ’Down with the Trumpets’. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 19 Feb Alestorm Alestorm hail from eastern Scotland and describe their sound as “true Scottish pirate metal”, playing an infextious blend of folk and power metal. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 20 Feb Skrillex Electro house/dubstep producer from Los Angeles. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 21 Feb Pulled Apart By Horses Alternative rock Leeds quartet. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050

Norfolk 22 Feb Ben Howard Devon based singer-songwriter Ben Howard has managed to accrue a hardcore fanbase by sheer wordof-mouth. His acoustic/folk sound has seen comparisons drawn with Nick Drake, John Martyn and Iron and Wine. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 23 Feb Cash Johnny Cash tribute. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 24 Feb Moishe’s Bagel Rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241 24 Feb The Kabeedies Pop four-piece from Norwich. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 25 Feb Keswick Hall Choir Worjs by Brahms, perfroemd with Nettle & Markham piano duo. St Peter Mancroft Church, Norwich, 01603 626414 25 Feb Ruby Turner An amazing, shining night with one of UK’s most unforgettable soul voices. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 25 Feb This Is The Kit his Is The Kit – is Kate Stables playing banjo, guitar and a voice of unaffected clarity accompanied by her psychedelic band creating primal and electric textures onto songs of unpretentious beauty. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 25 Feb Britten Sinfonia & Thomas Ades Ades, Stravinksy, Couperin. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 25 Feb Depth orwich based Rock/Post Hardcore band. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 26 Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Tribute. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 27 Feb Steve Hackett Steve Hackett is renowned as an immensely talented and innovative rock musician. He was lead guitarist with Genesis as part of their classic line up with Gabriel, Collins, Banks and Rutherford, that produced acclaimed albums such as Selling England by the Pound. UEA LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 29 Feb Paul Carrack Legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics returns to the road. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 29 Feb Band Of Skulls Indie garage rock trio from Southampton. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 25 Feb Ernst Nicol: Through the Labyrinth Exhibition of fine prints from this well respected Norwich printmaker.. Anteros Arts Foundation, Fye Bridge Street, Norwich 01603 766129 1 - 26 Feb Mary Webb: Journeys in Colour Discover the work of Mary Webb, an artist with a passion for colour and the landscape. Journeys in Colour features Webb’s art from 1967 to the present day and is the largest ever exhibition of work by this Suffolk-based artist. On display you will find

Elkie Brooks Theatre Royal 16 February

striking abstract paintings, screen prints, drawings and collages. You will also be able to see a new series of work, inspired by a trip to Utah, USA, which has never been seen before. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 1 Feb - 4 Mar Sea View: Great Yarmouth Masterpieces Discover Great Yarmouth through the eyes of the celebrated Norwich School of Artists. This evocative exhibition of paintings and drawings from Norfolk Museums and Archaeology Service collections includes atmospheric views of local landmarks; the beach, jetty and quayside, by artists such as John Sell Cotman, John Crome and Joseph Stannard. In the 19th century, Norfolk was home to this close-knit group of painters, who formed the first regional group of artists in England. They were inspired by Great Yarmouth with its bustling quayside and growing popularity as a holiday destination. And as many potential patrons and benefactos lived by the quay, some of the artists chose to make Yarmouth their home. Time and Tide Museum, Great Yarmouth, 01493 743930 1 Feb - 12 Apr World War Two: Local Secrets and Stories Find out about everyday life in Norfolk during World War Two as told by local people. From tanks passing through Thetford and bombing in Lynn, to the arrival of the evacuees and American convoys – all these events are vividly recalled by the people who witnessed them. Ancient House, Thetford, 01842 752599 I - 25 Feb Caithness Glass: Loch, Heather & Peat “The only opportunity in the South East of England to

catch a major travelling exhibition of glass from the Graham Cooley Collection, with an accompanying book by King’s Lynn Arts Centre Trust’s Patron Mark Hill, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of Caithness Glass in 2011.” King’s Lynn Arts Centre, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 1 Feb - 31 Mar Henry Bell: The Man Who Built King’s Lynn The life and architecture of Henry Bell 1647 - 1711.

He built the iconic Custom House, Dukes Head and part of Clifton House. Models, paintings, prints and exhibition boards about his life form part of the exhibition. King’s Lynn Tourist Information Centre, King’s Lynn, 01553 763044 1 - 4 Feb Austerity Measures An open submission photography exhibition on the theme: ‘Austerity Measures’. What single image reflects the compromises you have had to make due to the economic downturn?

The photographs in this exhibition were submitted by artists in all stages of their careers, and represent either professional or personal compromises, or in some cases wider social issues. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 1 Feb - 12 Mar Re-Home A fascinating trio of exhibitions across 3 distinctive sites in King’s Lynn, looking at mundane and precious household objects taken out of their usual domestic or historical context, rehomed in museums, galleries or new settings. Venues: Shakespeare Barn Gallery, King’s Lynn Museum & 149 Hillington Square.

King’s Lynn Arts Centre, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 13 Jan - 25 Feb Ernst Nicol: Through the Labyrinth This exhibition features a collection of new work by the

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4 FEBRUARY - 24 JUNE JAPAN: KINGDOM OF CHARACTERS This vibrant exhibition celebrating the growing interest in Japanese subcultures such as manga and anime. It offers the chance to encounter characters from television, computer games and comics. Many have become much loved household names around the world. Kingdom of Characters comes to the Sainsbury Centre following displays in Manila and Sydney. Providing an overview of manga and anime through the second half of the 20th century, the exhibition provides a unique insight into this cultural phenomenon. It will also give fans the chance to come face-to-face with some of their favourite characters, including human-sized Ultraman, Pikachu and a Hello Kitty ‘skipping’ through the gallery. As well as 3D characters, the exhibition includes graphic illustrations and even a room-set of a teenager’s Hello Kitty bedroom. The set has also been specially designed by the Sainsbury Centre to allow younger visitors the chance to peep into the room, which is decorated with merchandise featuring Kitty in her many manifestations, from duvetcover to alarm clock. Anime screenings and graphic illustrations are included in the exhibition and create a context for the visiting characters.

Sainsbury Centre For Visual Arts, Norwich. highly respected local printmaker Ernst Nicol.

Ruined landscapes and crumbling architecture show signs of new life as they are colonised by plants and animals in these surreal finely detailed images. Ernst has worked with etching and engraving for over 30 years, was tutored by Norman Ackroyd and Leonard Marchant, and has passed on his expert knowledge to new generations of students through his work at the print workshops at Norwich University College of the Arts. Anteros Arts Foundation, Norwich, 01603 766 129 2 - 28 Feb Laura Garrow Fresh from London, Laura Garrow’s incredible solo show sees her return to The Assembly House. Laura has developed an unusual way of creating stunning artworks by piercing paper with a pin. The show features her epic abstract illu-

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minated panels with thousands of carefully placed pinholes and state-of-the-art LED technology, as well as a special preview of new works. This elegant collection is intriguing, unusual and a must-see if you are new to this award-winning artist. Assembly House, Norwich, 01603 626402 2 - 28 Feb Rory McShane & David Woods Rory and David’s work shares a sense of flow, containment and visual rhythm. Rory often works with woodcuts and has recently produced images of the patterns of flowing clouds in the weather satellite and of the flow of water in Norfolk’s river Tiffey.

Meanwhile David’s paintings often suggest a contained internal world, reflecting a dreamlike recollection of objects. Assembly House, Norwich, 01603 626402

2 - 28 Feb Pippa King: Some Literary Heroes and A Few Villains An exhibition by North Norfolk painter and poet, Pippa King. Assembly House, Norwich, 01603 626402 4 Feb - 24 Jun JAPAN: Kingdom of Characters See panel. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 4 Feb - 1 Jul There Is Here: Photographs by Avi Gupta The first UK exhibition by American artist Avi Gupta, specially commissioned for the Sainsbury Centre.

The exhibition presents a series of photographs of domestic interiors taken in private homes in Washington DC and in Kolkata, India. These poetic images are devoid of people yet filled with human presence, leaving the viewer with the sensation that something has just happened or is about to happen. The photographs show found situations, untouched by the artist yet framed by him to highlight subtle details and unexpected juxtapositions. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 4 Feb - 2 Dec The First Moderns: Art Nouveau, from Nature to Abstraction The First Moderns is the first in a series of displays of spectacular displays of works from the Sainsbury Centre’s permanent collections that will explore the importance of design, particularly in the European context in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 10 Feb - 10 Mar Neither Land nor Water Photographs by Richard Denyer. The relationship between water and land, the wild and the man-made, is particularly evident in the wetlands of the Norfolk & Suffolk Broads and the lowlands of northern Holland.

Sensitivity to the delicate nature of wetland terrain is reflected in some vernacular architecture and ignored by other idiosyncratic structures that illustrate real or imagined relationships with water, land and sky. Some watery scenes could be in either country but most images illustrate decisions which are more or less culturally specific and relate to social and political attitudes towards inhabitants, visitors and the wider environment.

Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 26 Feb - 2 Mar Print Fair Elements VI Affordable, original art by selected exhibitors from the Norwich Print Fair.

The exhibition will show a diverse range of original prints, and there will also be unframed prints and greetings cards on sale.

10am-5pm. The Forum, Norwich.

SPECIAL EVENTS Every Wednesday The Cloisters Fair: Antiques. Collectables.

Vintage Established 1972, the oldest in Norwich. Set in the beautiful C14th Cloisters and loved by dealers and the public there is

always a wide ranging fresh stock of antiques, collectables and vintage. 8am-3pm.

St Andrews & Blackfriars Halls, Norwich, 01603 630763 4 Feb Diss 20th Century & Modern Design Collectors Fair With dealers specialising in all areas of 20th Century curios and retro collectables from Art Nouveau & Art Deco through to the Psychedelic 60s and the Funky 70s to include art, ceramics, stoneware, glassware, furniture, clothes, books, prints, music & film memorabilia and so much more. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01638 603518 4 Feb Flea Market Inside and outside stalls of vintage, antique, collectibles, shabby chic & unique items. 9am-1pm. Swan Hotel, Harleston, 01379 855486 4 - 5 Feb Norfolk Antique & Collectors Fair From professional antique sellers offering exquisite pieces from ages past to collectors selling their off their prized collections, this excellent fair attracts large crowds. 10am-5pm Sat, 9am-4pm Sun. Norfolk Showground, Norwich, 01702 54623 11 Feb A Most Curious Vintage Wedding Fair For the not-so-blushing bride, helping you connect with suppliers who are creative, expressive and love a bit of vintage. 11am-4.30pm. St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, 07852 150285 11 - 19 Feb Signs of Spring Week I spy your way round the garden looking for signs of Spring to win a prize. Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, South Walsham, 01603 270449 11 - 19 Feb Teddy Bear Express The Railway Bear will take charge again at Aylsham Station to ensure nine days of fun for all the family! Bure Valley Railway at Aylsham Station, Aylsham, 01263 733858 11 - 24 Feb Blakeney Book Fair Second-hand and antiquarian books, maps and postcards for the collector, dealer or casual reader. 10am-5pm. Blakeney Church Rooms, Blakeney, 01263 741690 14 - 28 Feb King’s Lynn Mart The King’s Lynn mart started as a trade fair and has run for over 800 years. As importance of the trade fair died the Mart’s nature changed to become a funfair. The Mayor of King’s Lynn will open the Mart at Noon on 14th February.

Children’s day is 15th February when rides are half price. Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, 01553 763044 17 - 19 Feb City of Norwich Antiques Fair 11am-5pm. City of Norwich School, Norwich, 01379 586134 18 Feb Star Night Astronomers from Norwich Astronomical Society based at Seething Observatory will be bringing their telescopes. Talk by Chairman Dave Balcombe at 7.30pm. Please take a torch, infra-red if you have one. Wrap up warm. Hot soup, teas and coffees will be available in the tearoom.

7pm. Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, South Walsham, 01603 270449

A great place to play, explore, picnic, relax.

Enjoy some fantastic walks in the forest ranging from one to three miles and cycle trails for all abilities. Good quality home made refreshments are available in the cafĂŠ.

High Lodge is also the home of Bike Art cycle hire and Go Ape, the high wire forest adventure course. For more information please visit: www.bike-art.com or www.goape.co.uk Opening hours change seasonally.

For current info please call 01842 815434 or visit: www.forestry.gov.uk/highlodge

Norfolk Logs The home of traditional Norfolk firewood delivered direct to your door in bulk loads or bagged Contact Norfolk Logs today to book your winter fuel and spend this winter in front of a nice log fire

01842 751408 / 07799 660074

eastlife.co.uk|105

Hats for weddings and occassions

Crossways of Ellingham have been suppliers of high quality animal feed, country clothing and equestrian supplies to Bungay, Beccles and in fact all of Norfolk and Suffolk for over ten years and in that time have built up a reputation for first class service and very competitive prices.

We really are an Aladdinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cave for the dog walker, shooter, equestrian, fisherman or just for an unusual gift idea. For the gardeners amongst you we also have an extensive range of Rose arches, Gazebos, Gates, Ornamental ironwork and decorative items on display or hand crafted to your requirements.

Coriander

37 New Market Beccles NR34 9HE Tel: 07747 796 796

the swan house

The Upstairs Gallery WINNER OF 10 AWARDS

Paddy Dean, Imogen Statham, Mark Ward, Bill Titcombe, Michelle Payne and 89 artists per month on display

Lifecasting Services in-house Swan House, Beccles info@swan-house.com 01502 713474

www.swan-house.com

106|eastlife.co.uk

15 rooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Not for profit artwork at its truest value

www.theupstairsgallery.co.uk Exchange Square, BECCLES, Suffolk NR34 9HH

01502 717191

Suffolk

Beccles Beccles lies in North West Suffolk on the banks of the Waveney river on the Norfolk-Suffolk border.

Its name, which means ‘meadow by the stream’, still makes sense today, with the town backing onto the southern edge of The Broads. The pretty riverfront and quay make Beccles a popular stop for pleasure craft, and the river offers a splendid view of the Georgian gardens sloping down to the water’s edge.

The Bell Tower next to St Michael’s Church dominates the skyline and climbing its hundred or so steps offers the reward of some commanding views.

Beccles’ streetplan dates back to medieval times. Devastating fires in the 16th and 17th centuries led to the arrival of the town’s many fine Georgian houses.

The narrow streets are home to an eclectic mix of boutiques and antiques shops. Among them too are quality food shops, including Bailey’s Delicatessen on Hungate.

There’s plenty to tempt the palates of visitors; Twyford’s café in Exchange Square serves a fine tea, for dining there’s Bells in The Old Market, Indiagate in Newgate and The Swan House wine bar and restaurant near the bell tower comes recommended by the Broads Quality Charter.

Beccles has its fair share of festivities too with an annual carnival and regatta in July, with live music, a parade, fun fair and fireworks; a fiercelycontested charity rubber duck race in September and the “Straw Race”, a pub crawl for people encumbered with a straw bail.

Swan House is a special restaurant on a historic building, serving wonderful cuisine. Friendly, atmospheric, intimate, it has regular music evenings, art exhibitions, and fabulous boutique accomodation. Courtyard dining in summer. 01502 713474 www.swan-house.com The Upstairs Gallery A large 15-roomed arts and crafts venue, that sells original handcrafted and unique

The town is best known for its ‘Gates’; nine of the roads in the town are named with a gate, such as Ballygate, top right. Even those that live in the town find it difficult to remember which gate is which when asked for directions.

New Resident in Beccles Stan Still, a regular on the bench in Exchange Square Beccles, raises awareness to community projects, societies and members of organisations in the Beccles area. He also supports new businesses and regularly 'tweets' and uses applications to share messages locally, regionally and internationally. Stan Still is on facebook and Twitter, and will be at Beccles Music Festival in September alongside the international artists.

works created by a variety of craftsmakers and artists from across the UK. Exchange Square 01502 717191 www.bigartgallery.co.uk Parish Lantern For gifts and home, toys, games, jewellery, clothes, access ories and more. Exchange Square 01502 711700 Coriander Beautiful handbags and gorgeous bags, along with a range of accessories.

Newmarket 07747 796796

Beccles Lido originally opened in 1959 and is a 33-metre outdoor heated swimming pool. It was threatened with closure until a gtoup of local volunteers galvanised the people of Beccles and set about the ambitious task of revamping, re-opening and running the pool themselves. Their efforts, which raised over £300,000 and saw them acquire the freehold, won them the Prime Minister’s Big Society Award towards the end of last year.

Congratulating the group, the Prime Minister said: “Beccles Lido shows the great things that can happen when the power of a community is unleashed.

“Congratulations to Beccles Lido Limited and all the many volunteers and local businesses who decided to take action and play a part in the pool’s future. Through your passion, determination and great community spirit, you have shown what the Big Society is all about and created not just a wonderful new lido that the town can come together and enjoy, but a stronger community too.”

In summer enjoy an ice cream from the shop or a snack at the cafe. The pool will re-open for the half-term holiday in May until September. www.beccleslido.com

Sweet Memories Lovely old fashioned sweet shop. Newmarket 01502 711761 Beccles Farmers Market is held every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. Beccles Heliport, Ellough Airfield 01502 476240 The Waveney House Hotel Set on the stunning River Waveney, this top hotel features the popular Riverside Bar, two large function rooms and luxury, but affordable, en-

suite hotel accommodation.

Puddingmoor 01502 712270 Beccles Wine Vault is a unique restaurant and bar set over three floors, including the remarkable cellars. Great modern cuisine, plus live music every other Sunday. Blyburgate 01502 713381 Beccles Sewing & Handicrafts Fabrics, craft supplies, sewing machines, overlockers and much more. Blyburgate 01502 714234

eastlife.co.uk|107

BECCLES SEWING & HANDICRAFTS 15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB Telephone 01502 714234

DRESSMAKING & CRAFT FABRICS HABERDASERY & CRAFT REQUIREMENTS SEWING MACHINES REPAIRS & SALES Authorised dealer for: JANOME, BROTHER, BABYLOCK, PFAFF, ELNA, SINGER, JUKI & FRISTER+ROSSMANN

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For gifts and home, toys, games, jewellery, clothes, accessories and much more...

Exchange Square, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9HH 01502 711700

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What’s on in February

Suffolk

You can find even more events on our website - and include your own too! www.eastevents.co.uk

THEATRE & SHOWS 1 Feb Ipswich Comedy Club Top stand-up. Degero, Ipswich, 0845 459 5656 1 - 4 Feb Top Girls An unparalleled story of success and, chillingly, what happens to those left behind. One of the seminal plays of the twentieth century, Top Girls flashes with razor-sharp wit and ingenious theatricality. Thatcher’s England: hard-nosed, gogetting businesswoman Marlene is hosting a dinner party to celebrate her promotion to MD of the Top Girl’s Employment Agency. Her guests, all powerful women from myth and history, make for an extraordinary gathering.

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 1 - 5 Feb Wind in the Willows : A Musical A delightful dramatization, with enchanting songs of Kenneth Grahame’s classic tale of river-bank animals – Wise Old Badger, Kindly Ratty, Gentle Mole and conceited, boastful and bossy Toad whose crazes for firstly caravanning and then motorcars land him in all sorts of trouble. Walberswick Village Hall, Walberswick, 07889 452822 2 - 3 Feb Beating Berlusconi If you missed this sold out show last year, you and the football fan in your life will be thrilled that Paul Duckworth and his forty characters take to the road again in this hilarious, lumpin-your-throat tale of life, love and football.

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 3 Feb The Magic Flute Co-Opera Co present Mozart’s fantasy quest opera. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 4 Feb Chinese New Year An annual celebration of the Chinese New Year (now in its 9th year at the New Wolsey Theatre) with a diverse range of Chinese traditional and Chinese/Western fusion performances including dance, singing, music and a fashion show, provided by local members of the community and a professional headline act. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 4 Feb The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis in a totally live show successful worldwide. Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, 01394 282126 7 Feb Omid Djalili Multi Award winning stand-up television and movie star, Omid Djalili with his brand new comedy show. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 8 Feb La Traviata A tragic tale of searing passion and memorable music, La Traviata is Verdi’s outstanding interpretation of one of the most popular love stories of the 19th century, La dame aux Camelias.

Featuring the Internationally Acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv, with international soloists, a highly-praised chorus, and full orchestra, and starring the International sopranos Rosa Lee Thomas and Elena De. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 8 Feb Celtic Dream Embodying the true spirit of the Emerald Isle, and with a se-

lection of the finest dancers, vocalists and musicians from around Ireland, Celtic Dream takes audiences along a breathtaking journey of music, song and dance with a kaleidoscope of colour against a backdrop of highly infectious, powerful and spirit-invoking music.

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 8 - 10 Feb Guys and Dolls Guys and Dolls is a musical fable of Broadway based on a story and characters of Damon Runyon.

Presented by St Joseph’s College. Jerwood DanceHouse, Ipswich, 01473 295230 9 - 18 Feb Reasons To Be Cheerful Part gig, part play, Reasons to be Cheerful raised the roof in 2010 with its red-hot band and gritty coming of age tale, leaving audiences shouting for more. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 9 - 25 Feb Stagefright It is 1894 and something is stirring at London’s Lyceum Theatre- something terrifying, something breathtaking, something... supernatural.

Colin Blumenau directs the world premiere of Michael Punter’s new play. Ben Hart, the award winning magician and illusionist, joins the team to create a truly chilling and thrilling spectacle. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 10 Feb Honor Blackman.. As Herself Honor Blackman - one of Britain’s most loved performers - in her latest one person show: it is truly Honor as herself, as she tells the story of her life interspersed with songs, sketches and scenes. This astonishing career lasting over sixty years makes for a fascinating spoken autobiography - the one she has never written, but is happy to perform. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 10 Feb On the Edge! “This wonderful comedy show explores all those moments in life when we are On the Edge!

Falling in love, leaving home, getting a job, bungee jumping, you name it, this show explores it! With Kevin Tomlinson and guests. “ The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 11 Feb The Owl and the Pussycat Follow Owl and Pussycat as they set out on the high seas with only some honey, money and a runcible spoon to help them find their way through a topsy turvey world! Ages 3-7.

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900

11 Feb The Little Big Club With Thomas The Tank Engine A fabulous stage show experience for the whole family packed with the songs the characters are famous for. Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, 01394 282126 12 Feb Fat Cat Comedy Club Top stand-up. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 13 - 14 Feb A Bed Full of Foreigners This hilarious comedy play is set in a French village near the German border on the eve of a local festival. A classic farce by Dave Freeman starring Damian Williams. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 13 - 14 Feb Billy Connolly What can you say about the ‘Big Yin’ that hasn’t already been said? Larger-than-life manic Glaswegian with a purple beard (optional), an honorary doctorate from University of Glasgow and a career which grew from the joker in the Clyde shipyards, via the folk clubs of Scotland, to one of the country’s best loved stand-up comedians and bona fide TV and movie star. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 14 Feb Woodland Using puppetry, original music and striking visuals, acclaimed theatre company Gomito Productions present an interactive story in an extraordinary world, suitable for ages 3-5. Debenham Community Centre, Debenham, 01284 769505 15 Feb The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark Based on the classic children’s book by Jill Tomlinson, this funny, gentle and reassuring tale is writ-

ten especially for small people aged 3 - 7and features an irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 15 Feb Woodland Using puppetry, original music and striking visuals, acclaimed theatre company Gomito Productions present an interactive story in an extraordinary world, suitable for ages 3-5. Stansfield Village Hall, Stansfield, 01284 769505 15 - 16 Feb Private Resistance Eastern Angles present Private Resistance, the ultimate ‘what-if’ scenario. How would the British have coped with a German invasion? Set in 1940 it’s a thrilling tale of the socalled Auxiliary Units, Churchill’s secret guerrilla army primed to go underground to fight behind the lines - a story of the bonds created and destroyed by wartime. This fascinating play is researched and written by Eastern Angles’ Artistic Director, Ivan Cutting and directed by Naomi Jones. Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh, 01473 211498 16 Feb Jimmy Carr A chance to see the popular comedian and television presenter as he tries out new material for his forthcoming nationwide tour. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 16 Feb Circus Hilarious - Rockin’ With Laughter Slapstick stars Clive Webb and Danny Adams once again create madness and mayhem with their zany humour and slapstick comedy, together with the country’s craziest musician Michael Potts and rock band Clownforce. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 16 Feb Woodland Using puppetry, original music and striking visuals, acclaimed theatre company Gomito Productions present an interactive story in an extraordinary world, suitable for ages 3-5. Brandon Leisure Centre, Brandon, 01284 769505 17 Feb Sesame Street Your family’s favourite Sesame Street friends are taking to the stage to share their love of music. Big Bird “tweets”, Oscar the Grouch’s stomping trash can lids, Cookie Monster’s crumbling cookie jars and more become instruments of beautiful music and

Omid Djalili Ipswich Regent 7 February

eastlife.co.uk|109

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110|eastlife.co.uk

The Lady Florence Cruises the calm waters of the rivers Alde and Ore from Orford in Suffolk.

We sail all year round including Christmas Day, with a cosy coal ďŹ re in winter. regardless of weather & tides.

Why not give a Lady Florence Gift Voucher?

For a leaďŹ&#x201A;et, information or bookings contact us Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2C6;Â?\Ă&#x160;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;vÂ&#x153;JÂ?>`Ă&#x17E;Â&#x2021;yĂ&#x160;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;iÂ&#x2DC;Vi°VÂ&#x153;°Ă&#x2022;Â&#x17D;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;°Â?>`Ă&#x17E;Â&#x2021;yĂ&#x160;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;iÂ&#x2DC;Vi°VÂ&#x153;°Ă&#x2022;Â&#x17D;

Tel:07831 698298

What’s on in February

Suffolk

24 - 25 FEBRUARY BALLETBOYZ: THE TALENT Adam, Anthony, Ed, Leon, Luke, Matt, Miguel and Taylor are the remarkable dancers who were handpicked from open auditions by BalletBoyz to star in this explosive feast of live dance. the TALENT is a mixed programme of three works, which originally premiered to rave reviews in 2011. The evening features Paul Roberts’ Alpha and one of BalletBoyz’ signature pieces, Russell Maliphant’s Torsion, re-worked as a thrilling sextet. Completing the line-up is Void, an adrenaline-fuelled ensemble piece choreographed by Jarek Cemerek, who won the honour of adding this piece to the BalletBoyz repertoire after beating over 160 choreographers from around the world. Snape Maltings Concert Hall. noisy fun! See Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Bert, Ernie and all of your children’s favourite friends! Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 17 Feb Woodland Using puppetry, original music and striking visuals, acclaimed theatre company Gomito Productions present an interactive story in an extraordinary world, suitable for ages 3-5. Stanton Village Hall, Stanton, 01284 769505 17 Feb The Three Singing Pigs Obelon Arts, one of the UK’s leading puppet companies, present a fun and interactive 50minute show for children and families using a mixture of beautiful puppets, music, masks and raps. A must-see for 3 – 9 year olds and grown ups too! John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, Stowmarket, 07766 466 073 17 - 18 Feb Aladdin Family pantomime. Needham Market Community Centre, Needham Market, 07702 339971 18 Feb Aesop’s Fables A mouse, a lion and a tortoise are thrown together and tell some of the most famous moral tales in history with their own rather quirky spin. The

animals take us through a multitude of fables involving wily wolves, dopey dogs, haring hares, flattering foxes and even silly humans.

Ages 4-8. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 18 Feb Lights, Music, Action! An evening of musical theatre presented by the senior students of the LMA stage school.

Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 18 Feb Sumaya Flamenco A fusion of modern and traditional influences in flamenco. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 18 Feb Woodland Using puppetry, original music and striking visuals, acclaimed theatre company Gomito Productions present an interactive story in an extraordinary world, suitable for ages 3-5. The Guildhall, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 18 Feb Steve Hewlett - Voices Of Variety Comedy Ventriloquist Steve Hewlett with his own show following his highly entertaining headline performance in Cromer Pier’s Summer Seaside Special. Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, 01394 282126

19 Feb Comedy Night Top stand-up.

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 19 Feb Silent Echo Four friends, two couples, a picnic and unveiled secrets that threaten to shatter their friendships, all conspire to propel this new play from its laid back, humorous opening to its heart-pounding and unexpected climax. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 20 - 25 Feb Dreamboats and Petticoats Written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart, Birds of a Feather, The New Statesmen and Shine On Harvey Moon, this feel-good musical production will give you ‘the greatest time of your life’, taking you back to a time when each passing week brought another classic track. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 21 - 22 Feb Science Museum Live Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments as the Science Museum takes to the stage with a fantastic live show to blow your mind and challenge your brain! Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 21 - 25 Feb Top Girls One of the seminal plays of the twentieth century, Top Girls flashes with razor-sharp wit and ingenious theatricality. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 22 Feb Private Resistance Eastern Angles present Private Resistance, the ultimate ‘what-if’ scenario. How would the British have coped with a German invasion?

Set in 1940 it’s a thrilling tale of the so-called Auxiliary Units, Churchill’s secret guerrilla army primed to go underground to fight behind the lines - a story of the bonds created and destroyed by wartime. This fascinating play is researched and written by Eastern Angles’ Artistic Director, Ivan Cutting and directed by Naomi Jones. Freckenham Village Hall, Freckenham, 01473 211498 23 Feb Private Resistance See 15-16 Feb. Brandeston Village Hall, Brandeston, 01473 211498 23 Feb Giselle The most poignant of all classical ballets combines powerful emotions and visual splendour in a chilling and heartrending tale of love, treachery and forgiveness from beyond the grave. Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 24 Feb Private Resistance See 1516 Feb. Canopy Theatre Hungate Church, Beccles, 01473 211498 24 Feb Physic & Science From TV’s Most Haunted, paranormal historian Richard Felix and medium Chris Conway are joined on stage by the UK’s most prolific ghost hunter Denise Mott, as the audience are invited on stage to take part in live experiments including a Ouija Board, Human Pendulum, Table Tipping, a Séance and for one poor volunteer, a Lone Vigil in the darkest depths of the theatre! Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, 01394 282126 24 Feb Swan Lake The greatest romantic ballet of all! This is an immortal love

story filled with magic, emotion and beauty.

From the opulence and splendour of the magnificent court room to the exhilarating lake scenes where swans play in perfect formation, Tchaikovsky’s hauntingly beautiful music creates a truly unforgettable experience. Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 24 - 25 Feb BalletBoyz: the TALENT See panel. Snape Maltings Concert Hall 01728 687110 24 - 25 Feb The Forest The Forest is a thrilling performance for everyone five and over! A thrilling, surprising and enchanting performance that explores the landscape of the forest through music, dance, light and sound. Jerwood DanceHouse, Ipswich, 01473 295230 25 Feb Zhe This humorous, thought provoking and haunting drama explores the lives of two British Africans living at the crossroads of culture, nationality, gender and sexuality.

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 25 Feb An Instinct for Kindness Through a candid, personal, poignant and sometimes comic performance, Chris explores both the profound personal implications and the wider ethical issues that surround the contentious topic of euthanasia.

Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 25 Feb Private Resistance See 15-16 Feb. Monks Eleigh Village Hall, Monks Eleigh, 01473 211498 25 Feb Let The Good Times Roll Direct from London’s West End Lee Mason stars in this fabulous and wonderfully unique live 10 piece production that pays a memorable tribute to some of the greatest and deeply adored music of the 50’s & 60’s. Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, 01394 282126 25 Feb Phil Cool Phil Cool is one of the country’s finest and most original comedians and impressionists. Holding a degree in ‘Faceology’, he is legendary for his facial contortion expertise. A stand-up chameleon, he punctuates his show with a wealth of hilarious anecdotes, observations and routines that make him as funny and unique today as he was during the ‘80s. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 25 Feb The Nutcracker In a magical production, this most famous of fantasy ballets begins as night falls on a traditional fireside scene on Christmas Eve. On the stroke of midnight we are transported to an enchanting world where nothing is as it seems, as toy dolls come to life and an army of soldiers does battle with a gang of mice and a Nutcracker is transformed into a handsome prince. Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 26 Feb A Fun Selection of the Best of Gilbert & Sullivan Presente by former Stars of the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 26 Feb Private Resistance See 1516 Feb. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123

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What’s on in February

Suffolk 26 Feb Concert for Hugo’s 90th Artists include Ian Bostridge; Brindisi Quartet; Solstice Quartet; and members of the Aronowitz Ensemble. Hugo Herbert-Jones has become an Aldeburgh legend, with his house and hospitality being a focal point for visiting young artists for over a generation.

Britten Studio, Snape Maltings Concert Hall, 01728 687110 28 Feb Joe Brown Joe started his musical career as a guitarist, working with the likes of Johnny Cash, Gene Vincent and Eddie Cochran. In 1960, he formed his own group Joe Brown & The Bruvvers and had numerous top ten hits including the number 1 hit ‘Picture Of You’. Joe has also starred in six major motion pictures, and appeared many times on the West End stage. Unlike many other stars from the ‘60s who have reformed their bands now that there is such interest in their music again, Joe has never stopped working, he performs nearly 200 shows a year and has kept his music current throughout. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 28 - 29 Feb DNA A group of teenagers do something bad, really bad, then panic and cover the whole thing up. But when they find that the cover-up unites them and brings harmony to their otherwise fractious lives, where’s the incentive to put things right?

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 29 Feb Fascinating Aida Three times Olivier Award nominated and now a global internet sensation, Fascinating Aida are still Britain’s best comedy cabaret

trio.This brand new show will include several numbers hot off the press, plus a few old favourites including their infamous anthem to budget travel, Cheap Flights, and a fond homage to the joys of alfresco sex. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 29 Feb Private Resistance See 1516 Feb. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 29 Feb Dombey & Son A dramatised reading by students of Woodbridge School.

Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge, 01394 615015

MUSIC 3 Feb Saiichi Sugiyama Band + Back Porch Probably best known for his collaborations with Cream lyricist Pete Brown, renowned Tokyo-born guitarist Saiichi Sugiyama returns to Suffolk following his triumphant appearance at StowBlues 2010.

Opening the show will be East Anglia’s kings of good-time acoustic(ish) blues, Back Porch.

John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, Stowmarket, 07766 466 073 3 Feb Who’s Who Rock tribute. The Malt House, Ipswich, 01473 221025 4 Feb Geno Washington Geno Washington is a genuine full-on cult hero ... a legend on the 60s Soul scene. He is electrifying on stage and his love of performance (and of life!) makes him an inspiration, a joy to witness and one of the greatest frontmen from the latter half of the 20th century.

Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745

Buddy Greco & Lezlie Andres The Apex 18 February

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4 Feb Liane Carroll Top jazz blues singer. The Devil’s Kitchen Collective at Greene King Social Club, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 764667 5 Feb Julian Siegel Award-winning jazz saxophonist. The Cherry Tree, Belchamp St Paul, 01787 237263 5 Feb Gilby Clarke Former Guns ‘N Roses guitarist taking his own band of the road. Reflections, Ipswich, 01473 413992 5 Feb The Voice Squad A vibrant display of versatility across a range of musical genres. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 6 Feb John Hogan Country music.

Regal Theatre, Stowmarket, 01449 612825 9 Feb Fairport Convention Folk rock legends. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 10 Feb T Rextasy Excellent tribute to Marc Bolan an T Rex. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 10 Feb The Mersey Makers Celebrate the sound of the 60s with songs by The Beatles , The Searchers , Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Merseybeats and many more.

Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 10 Feb Front Porch Blues/folk. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 10 Feb The Thin Lizzy Experience Rock tribute. The Malt House, Ipswich, 01473 221025 11 Feb Matt White & The Emulsions Local rock band. The George, Hadleigh, 01473 822151 11 Feb The Colourblind Hedgehogs Good time rock. The Spread Eagle, Ipswich, 01473 256093 11 Feb Opera and More A recently formed group of seven experienced local singers, offering a varied repertoire. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 11 Feb Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Rossini, Tchaikovsky, Dvorak. Featuring soloist Mark Bebbington, piano.

Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 11 Feb Kaiser Killer Monkeys Tribute to top indie bands. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 11 Feb Faster Than Sound: I Burn for You An atmospheric new music theatre work inspired by Bram Stoker’s legendary vampire novel Dracula, created by composer Ian Wilson and stage director Tom Creed.

Britten Studio at Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, 01728 687110 11 Feb Mark Flanagan Mark lived locally before moving to London in 1988 where a chance meeting with Jools Holland resulted in 22 years of playing guitar all over the world with Jools’ Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 11 Feb Jake Morley Jake Morley is a remarkable guitar player and singer-songwriter. He plays guitar across his lap and slaps, taps, plucks and picks the instrument to produce a sound like no-one else. John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, Stowmarket, 07766 466 073

11 Feb Wolsey Orchestra Ipswichbased Wolsey Orchestra, conductor Anthony Weeden, launches its 40th Birthday Year at The Apex. Shostakovich, Stravinsky, RimskyKorsakov. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 11 Feb Mike Wilson and Damien Barber Two of the finest exponents of traditional song in the United Kingdom, with support from Chris King. Sproughton Folk at the Church Hall, Sproughton, 01473 742334 16 Feb Alexei Knupffer Lunchtime classical concert. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 16 Feb Smetana Piano Trio Mozart, Smertana, Beethoven. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 17 Feb The Pistols Punk rock tribute.

The Malt House, Ipswich, 01473 221025 18 Feb Ipswich Chamber Music Society Dante String Quartet (with Raphael Wallfisch). Haydn, Britten & Schubert (quintet). Ipswich School, Ipswich, 01473 258218 18 Feb Anti-Nowhere League An infamous group of hardcore punk rock anarchists, Anti Nowhere League have been living the punk lifestyle for over two decades. PJ McGintys, Ipswich , 01473 251515 18 Feb Anti-Nowhere League An infamous group of hardcore punk rock anarchists, Anti Nowhere League have been living the punk lifestyle for over two decades. PJ McGintys, Ipswich , 01473 251515 18 Feb Buddy Greco Big Band & Lezlie Anders Internationally recognized as one of the top jazz pianists and singers of our time, Buddy Greco brings us his big band for an evening of music, stories and anecdotes from his days in Las Vegas. He is joined by Lezlie Anders with her portrayal of Peggy Lee. Buddy has just released his 70th album now “Live at the Sands” Las Vegas, which includes a version of his famous 1960 hit recording “The lady is a tramp” and recently he appeared on Uk TV “Later with Jools Holland. The legendary Rat Pack star now lives in Westcliffon-Sea, Essex. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 19 Feb Rebop Jazz band who feature performances of the classic tracks from the Be-bop era of Parker and Gillespie through to the Blue Note time of Wayne Shorter and Donald Byrd. The Cherry Tree, Belchamp St Paul, 01787 237263 19 Feb Haverhill Silver Band with Tube Brass concert. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 19 Feb Gilad Atzmon Ensemble Jazz. Ipswich Jazz Club at the California Club, Ipswich, 01473 231552 20 Feb Frank McCaffrey Country music. Regal Theatre, Stowmarket, 01449 612825 22 Feb Nathan Carter & Band The brightest young singing star to hit Ireland for many years. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 24 Feb Sticks and Stones SoapBox presents the very best musicians, poets and comedians from East Anglia on this innovative regional tour. The launch night features indie folk stars Crumbs For Comfort, famed for their intricate harmonies and driving original songs embedded in the local landscape. Also featur-

t Wood and Multi fuel burning stoves t Woodburning Stoves t Range Cookers t HETAS approved installers t Free Installation Quotations

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What’s on in February ing emotionally charged acoustic anthems from Stewart Harrington, with literary linguistics from comedian Adam Warne and Axis Of Evil’s Andy Bennett. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 24 Feb Toral Stone Roses + Oaysis Tribute bands. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 24 Feb Gerry Read + Lapalux + Ramp Dj’s Local lad Gerry Read has had a stellar 2011, debuting his first releases and DJing all over the planet, mixing up profound IDM and Chicago House. Essex resident Lapalux has recently been signed to Flying Lotus’ Brainfeeder label - expect an action packed live set of bass heavy winsome hip hop. DJ support comes from RAMP DJ’s. John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, Stowmarket, 07766 466 073 24 Feb Higher-On Maiden Iron Maiden tribute. The Malt House, Ipswich, 01473 221025 24 Feb 3 Daft Monkeys Cornish nufolk band, who mix up Celtic, Gypsy and Spanish influences to create an infectious carnival sound. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 25 Feb The Galaxy Big Band The Galaxy Big Band has established an enviable reputation for swing music, jive and mainstream jazz. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 25 Feb Kingfisher Sinfonietta Haydn, Beethoven, Mendelssohn. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 25 Feb South Suffolk Youth Jazz + West Suffolk Youth Jazz Orchestras Big band jazz. Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge, 01394 615015 25 Feb Songs From Around the World With the Singing Safari choir and acappella group Way Beyond the Blue. St Peter’s By The Waterfront, Ipswich, 01394 610486 26 Feb Travelling By Tuba A Fascinating Voyage through the weird and wonderful world of tuba. Discover instuments ancient and modern, and music from classical to jazz. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 26 Feb Biblical Scenes Music by Byrd, Gibbons, Schütz, Locke, and Purcell, inspired by the Bible and performed by Psalmody, Suffolk Villages Festival Viol Consort and soprano Claire Tomlin. St Mary’s Curch, Boxford, 01206 366603 26 Feb Piatti String Quartet Classical music. Regal Theatre, Stowmarket, 01449 612825

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 16 Feb Alison & Carol Mayston: The Therapy of Art Alison and Carol are a mother and daughter

Suffolk artistic team, working in arts therapies, the body and natural materials. Alison’s work features very much on the figurative from and the human body, and as Alison herself is finding the boundaries on the human body a struggle as she battles her own on-going severe illness. Carol’s work is created using different materials often on triptych and polyptychs. Silk wire and texture are all incorporated. Carol works as an arts therapist and is has also assisted in the curation of Suffolk Open Studios. The Upstairs Gallery, Beccles 1 - 20 Feb Lilly Hill Paintings by Ipswich-based artist. The collection is made up of contemporary modern boxed canvas's with inspiration taken from Suffolk scenery with the addition of the valentines day collection. Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead, Ipswich, 01473 786610 1 Feb - 24 Mar Inspired by Gainsborough: Landscape Prints from the Gainsborough's House Collection This exhibition provides a unique opportunity to see a number of prints and rare books from the Gainsborough's House permanent collection. In the decades following his death Thomas Gainsborough’s landscape drawings and prints provided inspiration for the progressive work of artists and printmakers in England and the publication of various books of prints.

Produced for private study, such books helped to shape Gainsborough’s reputation as an exemplar of a particular idea of English landscape. The prints and books on display in this exhibition, which are seldom on public view, demonstrate Gainsborough’s influence on printmaking. The oldest of the books is a rare edition of Imitations of Modern Drawings 1784-1788 put together by a contemporary of Gainsborough, Thomas Rowlandson (1756 –1827). It contains prints taken from the drawings of Gainsborough and other artists. It is the only one of the books to have been produced in Gainsborough’s lifetime. The exhibition focuses on the prints of William Wells, John Laporte and Thomas Rowlandson produced between the years 1788 and the early years of the nineteenth-century. Original drawings and prints

by Gainsborough are also on display. Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, 01787 372958 1 Feb - 10 Mar Block Party Curated by visual artist Lucy Orta in partnership with the Crafts Council, Block Party reveals the contemporary applications and creative possibilities of pattern cutting. It is timely to unearth the techniques of pattern cutting as we witness a renewed interest in, and perception of the bespoke. Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 762081 1 Feb - 4 Mar Behind the Mask See panel. Ipswich Art School, Ipswich, 01473 433681

1 Feb - 4 Mar Return to Ipswich Art School In the upstairs galleries, former Ipswich Art School student Gareth Bayliss shows retrospective and new work.

Bayliss is a compulsive graphic artist with a broad interest in ritual display in contemporary youth culture, entertainment and social activity. He presents workings and ephemera from his commercial publication and packaging design for musical artists and record labels (including Mo’Wax, Dizzee Rascal, Honest Jon’s), alongside his prolific personal outputs – drawings, print and zines.

Ipswich Art School, Ipswich, 01473 433681.

SPECIAL EVENTS 4 Feb Snape Maltings Farmers’ Market One of Suffolk’s finest food markets, a wonderful array of fresh produce and delicious artisan products all under one roof.

9.30am-1pm. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303 9 Feb The Prom Show Everything you need for your Prom! 6.30-8.30pm, includes student fashion show at 7.30pm. Trinity Park, Ipswich, 01787 269030 10 Feb Classic Race Night Fun evening of horse racing on a big screen, with 2 course supper. Woolpit Village Hall, Woolpit, 01359 241553 10 Feb Super Slam Wrestling 2 hours of nonstop action from the best of British & American wrestling stars. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100 11 Feb Potato Day Event This annual event has run for 15 years and centres around a facility of gardeners to source varieties of seed potatoes - scottish or irish tubers. There is tastings and a number of side attractions including secondhand tools, fresh produce sales, seed retailer, cake stall, etc. as well as all the retail attractions on the Stonham barns site.

Three groups are involved and bring this show together - Norfolk Organic Group, Ipswich Organic Gardeners and the Suffolk Organic Gardeners. Stonham Barns, Stonham Aspall, 01473 265067 11 - 19 Feb Ring Quest! A family adventure trail This ever-popular family challenge event with a Lord of the Rings theme returns to West Stow, with new clues to follow and runes to collect before you can solve the puzzle and save Middle Earth! Your family could win the big prize at the end of the week! West Stow Country Park, West Stow, 01284 728718 11 - 19 Feb Ring Quest Continue your journey onward from West Stow’s Ring Quest and hunt for the rings on an exciting trail throughout Moyse’s Hall. Moyse’s Hall Museum, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 757160 15 Feb The Rainbow Serpent Activities based on Aboriginal tales, for ages 8-12.

10.30am-2.30pm. Carlton Marshes, Lowest-

UNTIL 4 MARCH BEHIND THE MASK This exhibition of artworks by Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy MBE, is inspired by and a direct response to the Charles Partridge Collection, on show in Ipswich Museum. Charles Partridge was an Edwardian Suffolk Colonial Officer in Nigeria and his collection of the Ibibio is close to her own traditional cultural heritage as an Igbo. Chinwe has taken particular inspiration from one of the Ekpo masks Partidge collected from the Ibibio people to explore the theme of masks and ‘masking’.

Through her new paintings, drawings and 3D work Chinwe invites the audience to contemplate the notions of disguise and façade.

Ipswich Art School oft, 01502 564250 18 Feb Winter Warmer Family Bushcraft Day Join expert Rob Bevington for a day of bush craft; fire making, shelter building, tracking, wild foods, and much more. 10am-4pm. West Stow Country Park, West Stow, 01284 728718 18 Feb Race Night Horseracing on the big screen with dinner. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 19 Feb The Suffolk Art Deco and Retro Fair Quality Art Deco Fair plus Art Nouveau - Arts & Crafts and retro datelined to 1970. 10am-4pm. Culford School, Culford, 01284 729655 19 Feb Suffolk Holiday and Cruise Show See what all the top cruise companies, including Fred Olsen, have to offer. Free event. 10am-3pm. Trinity Park, Ipswich, 25 Feb Italian Market From 9am.

Town Centre, Clare.

eastlife.co.uk|115

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01449

612664

25 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1AH

Suffolk

Stowmarket

Think you know Stowmarket? Think again!

Whatever your perceptions of Stowmarket, it's well worth visiting and exploring to discover some of our hidden secrets.

The newly established Town Centre Partnership is a group led by local business people, supported by the Town, District and County Councils, working together to promote Stowmarket as a great place to visit, work and live.

As well as a wide range of high street names, the Town Centre also has many traditional independent shops that are becoming increasingly rare in town centres of today. Many of these offer specialised and hard-to-find product ranges along with a friendly and knowledgeable service.

There is also a popular street market held every Thursday and Saturday and a Farmers’ Market on the first Friday of every month.

In addition to the retail offer, there are other key attractions around the Town Centre, including the Museum of East Anglian Life, the recently-refurbished Regal Cinema (probably one of the only cinemas that allows customers to take drinks from the bar into the auditorium!) and a number of cafes and pubs.

The Town Centre is also home to the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, a new arts centre which is currently being developed having been awarded a grant of around £500,000.

There are several supermarkets, a top quality leisure centre with a swimming pool and children's soft play area and several attractive open spaces such as the Recreation Ground - which has recently seen the installation of a new skatepark and play area - and Chilton Fields, home of Stowmarket Rugby Club.

All this with easy access by road or rail, ample and cheap parking, and everything within walking distance. www.stowmarket.org

© Andrew Hill

Sharon Brown of Wardrobe Ladieswear in Stowmarket introduces us to the Suffolk town...

Don’t miss...

Stowmarket Festival the town’s big event of the year, will run from Friday 1st June to Sunday 10th June. A few things to whet your appetite: the free blues festival, StowBlues, will take place at the Museum of East Anglian Life on Saturday 2nd June. A night of stand-up comedy at The Regal is scheduled for Sunday 3rd June. A big celebration event at the Recreation Ground organised by Stowmarket residents and featuring all sorts of entertainment and attractions will take place on Monday 4th June to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. And on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th June it's StowFest 2012 at Chilton Fields with a superb lineup of live bands. You can expect lots more including an art exhibition, entertainment in the Town Centre, a sports day for children, drum workshops, events at the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts and loads more. www.stowfest.co.uk The town also comes alive for Stowmarket Carnival held this year 13th - 15th July. www.stowmarketcarnival.co.uk

Look out for... The Mix will be a state-of-theart £5m youth facility in Ipswich Street, opposite the Regal Cinema, opening later this year, and providing young people with a space to explore their talents, develop new skills and meet friends.

Famous faces...

Celebrity chef Delia Smith lives in the nearby village of Gt Finborough, where the late great John Peel also lived. Actor Bill Treacher - best known as Arthur Fowler in Eastenders - also lives in the area. eastlife.co.uk|117

Discounts to rekindle the home fires Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing quite like a wood burning or multifuel stove to make you feel warm in winter, so with continued uncertainty about future gas, oil and electricity prices many households are looking at solid fuel to provide heating for their main rooms.

We stock a wide range of high quality European made traditional and contemporary style stoves, which therefore have a good warranty period, and for which we can ensure a good after sales service.

To encourage you to think ahead and ensure that your heating needs are covered before it starts to become colder in the autumn we are offering increased discounts in February and March on stoves which we can supply or you arrange to have ďŹ tted later in the summer months.

Why not call in at our showroom or phone us to arrange a full survey?

Surveys are free of charge, so we can advise you on the best solution for your heating needs and provide a detailed estimate of the cost.

We also offer full maintenance/servicing of your existing stoves, which is best carried out in the spring/summer months.

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Suffolk

Stowmarket

The average price of property in Stowmarket is £169,259, very slightly above the national average of £160,780, (01449 711361) www.theshepherdanddog.com and properties are on the market for Chinese Chequers Excellent fam- an average of 159 days. Source: www.home.co.uk

Favourite places to eat, drink and stay over The Cedars Hotel

Privately owned, family run 3 Star Hotel on the edge of town. Eat in the Restaurant or in the more relaxed atmosphere of the Bar Lounge. Needham Road (01449 612668) www.cedarshotel.co.uk Infuse Stylish restaurant overlooking the picturesque River Gipping, serving contemporary Italian cuisine with a Modern European flair. Prentice Road (01449 770401) The Old Counting House Great restaurant in the neighbouring village of Haughley with a menu that comprised of modern, traditional and international dishes.

Old Street, Haughley (01449 673617) www.theoldcountinghouse.co.uk The Shepherd & Dog Wonderful pub/restaurant in a quiet village.

Choose from ‘Posh Nosh’, set menus or bar food. Famed recently for its Wagyu Beef Burgers, made from Wagyo cattle from nearby Earl Stonham Farms, and described by the Daily Mail and possibly ‘the best beef in Britain’. Call first to check availability. Forward Green

ily friendly Chinese restaurant. Ipswich Road (01449 676788) Verandah House Wonderful guest house in an historic grade II listed building, a fine example of a Georgian gentleman's residence. 7 rooms in total; great Full Suffolk Breakfast.

29 Ipswich Road (01449 676104) www.verandahhouse.co.uk The Gardeners Arms Great pub off the beaten track. Combs, Moats Tye (01449 673963) Riverside Bar Large and popular trendy bar with sports screens, pool, bar food, drinks promotions. Stowupland Street (01449 675571) The Buxhall Crown Great gastro pub just outside Stowmarket. Cosy 17th century building in a great location with beamed features and a lovely open fire, Highly rated for its food. Buxhall (01449 736521) www.thebuxhallcrown.co.uk Radhuni

Popular Indian restaurant with a good range of authentic and imaginative fusion dishes. Tavern Street (01449 615143) www.radhunistowmarket.co.uk

Here’s what you can get for your money... £107,500 Brand new luxury one bedroom apartment on popular development close to the station.

£175,000 Three bed, three storey end of terrace family house located on the Cedars Development

£249,950 Individual detached four bed family house in the village of Great Finborough.

To view these and many more properties in the area contact Parkyns, Market Place, Stowmarket 01449 674941 www.parkyns.com

The John Peel Centre for Creative Arts is a brand new multipurpose arts centre created to provide a lasting tribute to the life and career of the muchloved broadcaster. Run entirely by volunteers, the centre plays host to music concerts, visual arts, theatre productions and films. www.johnpeelcentreforcreativearts.co.uk

Photographer Steve Tarling of A Little Box of Memories, who have their studios in Stowmarket, is one of the region’s top wedding and portrait photographers and works throughout the UK and internationally. A Little Box of Memories is a running a Dog Photography competition where you can win £500 worth of photography plus many other prizes, all in aid of Guide Dogs, the charity that trains and provides seeing dogs for blind and partially sighted people.

Just book your dog in to have its photo taken the studio (booking fee, £15), then choose your favourite image to be entered into the competition, The image chosen will appear on www.facebook.com/alittleboxofmemories where all ‘likes’ and ‘comments’ made by the public will totalled after 7 days. The top 8 from each category at the end of the competition will enter into final judging to choose the Grand Champion.

The competition runs from 10 Feb - 9 March. To book your dog’s photo session call 01449 771119 or go to www.albom.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|119

W&M SMITH * Smithers Oasis® * Glassware of all shapes and sizes * Large selection of silk, latex, parchment and dried flowers * Bridal accessories * Ribbons * Baskets and much much more NO ACCESS FOR CHILDREN All major credit cards accepted Come along and wander at your leisure in the Pightle Barn, Blacksmiths Lane, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket, IP14 5EU Monday & Thursday 10.00 am - 7.00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Open 10.00 am - 4.00 pm selected Saturday & Sunday (ring to check)

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www.woodburningsolutions.co.uk 120|eastlife.co.uk

Suffolk

Needham Market

A walk around Needham Market This easy walk might be described as out by the riverside and home by the lake. Ideal for families with youngsters, the walk starts from Needham Lake, a popular focal point in the largely rural Gipping Valley. Tables are available here for picnics with a children’s play area nearby. A hard surface, suitable for wheelchair users, encircles the lake. A small visitors’ centre, with toilets, gives information on what to see and do. The walk partially follows the Gipping Valley towpath in the direction of Stowmarket, with the option of returning via Needham High Street.

The wooden sculpture beside the lake at Needham Maket

THE WALK 1 With the lake on the left, go past a wooden sculpture and cross an arched bridge in front. Turn sharp left onto the Gipping Valley Footpath, take the tarmac path and continue ahead with the lake over to the left. Ignore a path forking right that takes you to a small wild wood area.

Hereabouts, there’s usually a small noticeboard listing up-todate details of birds that have been caught and released within the local area.

2 Continue beside the river, passing as you go some pretty houses and gardens that almost back onto the river.

It’s difficult to imagine nowadays but this narrow stretch of river once had horse-drawn barges passing by, plying their trade on a 17-mile route between Ipswich and Stowmarket. Some 200 navvies with their picks and shovels built 15 locks to turn the river into a navigable canal. Open for traffic in 1793, cargoes that were carried upstream included timber, stone, coal and slates, with malt and grain going in the opposite direction. As a result, inland trade, which hitherto suffered from badly-maintained turnpike roads, was given a huge boost; the cost of transportation is said to have been reduced by a half. With the coming of the railway, by 1900 waterborne trade had almost ceased and the navigation finally closed in 1934.

3 Bear right through a kissing gate to proceed along a narrow surfaced path. Shortly bear left across some grass and head towards a road bridge in front. Pass under the bridge, still on the towpath. A nearby water sluice enables the normally slow-moving river to speed up.

As you head your way upstream towards Stowmarket, the Gipping now resembles something like a mini 19th-century industrial highway, although it was probably much wider and deeper at the time. Soon it progresses through a pastoral scene of lowland meadows and open countryside.

However, in late summer the river surface is often covered in stretches of algae and choked with reeds and rushes.

The tower of St Mary’s church at Creeting St Mary can be seen away to the right. Other paths take you up to the church where there are attractive views over the Gipping Valley.

4 At Raven’s Farm turn left over a bridge with metal railings and head up a path with a railway crossing at the far end.

Before reaching the crossing, turn left through a kissing gate and continue on a broad grassy path with a tree plantation on the right. Later pass some stables and arrive at a T-junction.

Turn right here into Hawks Mill Street if you wish to return by the High Street. Otherwise turn left to walk back to the lake.

The large brick building of Hawks Mill in front, now converted into

The imposing Hawks Mill is now flats

flats, was built in 1884. A mill was recorded here in the Domesday Book.

In later centuries it became a fulling mill, connected perhaps with local cloth manufacture.

Distance 2 miles.

5 Go past the mill, continue to the bridge ahead and bear right down some steps. If you wish to visit Alder Carr Farm, follow the driveway as signposted. Otherwise, carry on along the surfaced path previously walked, pass through a kissing gate and swing right and left over a bridge to enter Crown Street.

Maintain direction to enter a grassy area known locally as the Camping Land. Stay on the left edge to reach King’s Field Nature Reserve.

According to a local information leaflet, the meadow was once used by knights for jousting practice. Nowadays you’ll find a quiet area planted with native trees and plants. Over to the right across station field is the railway station opened in 1846.

Nowadays, intercity express trains running between Norwich and

Map Explorer 211 Bury St Edmunds & Stowmarket (GR 094547) How to get there Leave the A14 Bury St Edmunds to Ipswich road at the A140 Beacon Hill interchange and follow the B1078 to Needham Market. Buses (High Street) and trains (BR Station) stop about 10 minutes’ walk from the start. Parking: Pay and display car park at Needham Lake.

London thunder through here every day.

5 When you eventually arrive at a gate on the left, fork right a few paces to reach a surfaced path that encircles the lake.

Turn left or right, either will return you back to your start point.

This walk is just one of twenty walks featured in Drive and Stroll in Suffolk by Cyril Francis.

Published by Countryside Books. Order online at www.countrysidebooks.co.uk Price £7.99 ISBN 978 1 84674 029 9 Get your copy of Pocket Pub Walks Suffolk at www.eastevents.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|121

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Suffolk

Needham Market Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses is a family-run business established in July 2004 by Jason and Katharine Salisbury. The milk from their herd of pedigree Guernseys is pasteurised on-farm, then carefully handmade by Katharine into cheese, using traditional methods, to recipes tried and tested over many years. They produce two main cheeses: Suffolk Gold, a creamy semi-hard farmhouse cheese, delicious flavour with a rich golden colour; and Suffolk Blue, a soft and luxurious creamy lightly blue-veined cheese. The cheeses can be purchased at the Shop at Whitegate Farm, Norwich Road, Creeting St Mary, or at regular farmers’ markets at Snape Maltings, Woodbridge Community Centre, Beccles Heliport and South Lopham Village Hall. (01449 710458) www.suffolkcheese.co.uk Maroque is a fabulous warehouse shop full of Moroccan lanterns, lamps, furniture and gifts, along with an extensive collection of home decorating ideas, travel and cookery information, together with tips and advice, from wiring a Moroccan lantern to painting your living room. The company, established in 2001, works with a Moroccan family who have been exporting for generations. Online shop and catalogue also available. Lion Barn Industrial Estate (01449 723133) www.maroque.co.uk

There is a Town Trail which starts and ends at the very attractive Needham Lake, so be sure to visit the lake and nature reserve. There are large picnic areas either side of the River Gipping, which flow s through the site. One of the many interesting buildings to see along the trail is the 15th century Church of St. John the Baptist, which possesses one of the most superb hammer beam roofs in England.

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The town boasts many unusual, independent and specialist shops, and fine Georgian and Tudor architectire. Nearby is Alder Carr Farm with a farm shop, pottery, tearoom, gift shop and monthly farmers´ market. From here cycling breaks and holidays can be arranged into the beautiful surrounding countryside.

The Garden Room is a unique shop specialising in Vintage French & English Architectural salvage and reclamation, Norfolk & Suffolk Gardenia, French Shabby Chic Furniture, and Danish Candles & Jewellery. High Street (01449 723 412) www.the-gardenroom.co.uk

Actress June Brown, who plays Dot Cotton in BBC TV’s Eastenders, was born in Needham Market in 1927

Herts Beds Bucks

Olney The small, bustling and beautiful market town of Olney nestles on the border of Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, alongside the Great River Ouse.

The town is famous for its annual pancake race and its historical association with the poet William Cowper, who lived in Olney between 1767-86 and the ex-slaver John Newton, who became the town's curate in 1764.

Together they wrote the 'Olney Hymns', including Amazing Grace, and are commemorated in the excellent Cowper Museum in the Market Place.

The Olney Pancake Race, dating back more than five hundred years, is held on Shrove Tuesday and features a 415-yard course from the Market Place to the church. Participants â&#x20AC;&#x201C; housewives or young ladies of the town â&#x20AC;&#x201C; must have lived in Olney for at least three months and be at least

Olney Pancake Race is held on Shrove Tuesday, 21 February

18 years old. They must also wear the traditional costume of a housewife, including a skirt, apron and head covering. They must of course carry a frying pan containing a pancake. The winner, on crossing the line, must toss her pancake and she is then greeted by the verger with the traditional Kiss of Peace. The race is immediately followed by a Shriving Service in the Parish Church. Since 1950, this race has also been run against a race in Liberal. Kansas. USA. At the end of June each year, the Olney Cherry Fair (so named after the days when the town produced a large commercial cherry crop) is a popular event that takes place in the Glebe Field in Church Street.

The Olney Newton Link's aim is to advance education and relieve poverty in Newton, Sierra Leone by the provision of charitable assistance. They started by helping the villagers rebuild their houses after the end of the civil war, and are now forging links with the schools, churches and other groups. The group are raising funds to help the committee in Newton to build a skills centre, where people will be trainned in skills so that they can earn money and work their way out of poverty.

If you would like to know more about this cause or would like to help in any way, please go to www.olneynewtonlink.org.uk for more information.

eastlife.co.uk|125

What’s on in February THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 4 Feb No Direction In this dark comedy by new writer Ben Kaspar the audience is taken on a switchback ride that pays homage to the art of theatre itself. The Place, Bedford, 01234 269519 2 Feb American Anthems Spectacular Rock Musical based around the search for a legendary rock star who disappeared in the early 90’s at the height of his fame. Route 66 FM leads the search for the rock star, Rocky Rhodes, tracking him across America to bring him back for one last concert. Appearing as a guest star is the legendary John Parr, who had a worldwide No.1 hit with “St Elmo’s Fire.” Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 2 Feb Magners Funhouse Comedy Top stand-up. Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 2 Feb Macbeth The vicious, barbaric undercurrent in Shakespeare’s epic tragedy surfaces in this kinetic, blood-thirsty production.

Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 2 Feb Sally Morgan TV’s psychic medium. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 3 Feb Flanders & Swann Drop Another Hat Michael Bernstein and Colin Stevens’ two-man musical show commemorating the brilliance of Michael Flanders and Donald Swann. Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788 3 Feb My Darling Clemmie This is the remarkable and highly entertaining story of Clementine Churchill. Performed by Rohan McCullough, a previous winner of The Scotsman Drama Award, and written by Hugh Whitemore whose film about Churchill, ‘Gathering Storm’ won an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 3 - 4 Feb Annie Jr Musical presented

by Leighton Buzzard Children’s Theatre.

Leighton Buzzard Theatre, Leighton Buzzard, 0300 300 8125 3 - 4 Feb Saucy Sinders Adult panto presented by TADS. Tads Theatre, Toddington, 07952 633234 3 - 4 Feb Sing a Song of Sixpence Family pantomime. Henlow Theatre, Henlow Camp, 01462 700785 4 Feb Beyond the Barricade Recreating original West End/Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, ‘Beyond the Barricade’ features a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables, and the recent 25th Anniversary Concert at the 02 Arena. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 4 Feb Carnival Du Vampires Rock Steve Steinman plays the supremely evil Baron Von Rockula owner of the Live and Let Die club, in search of a new bride. Along with Steve, a full cast of superb singers, dancers and a formidable band blast their way through some of the greatest ever rock anthems. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080

126|eastlife.co.uk

18 FEBRUARY BARRY CRYER Barry Cryer OBE is back with the fabulous new show Butterfly Brain – a stream of unconsciousness and sit down comedy. Join old Baz on an alphabetical, hypothetical journey from A to Z. One of Britain's truly great comedy writers and performers, Barry Cryer has contributed to this country's entertainment industry for over 50 years. He has written for some of our highest rated shows and for many of our most popular comedians.

Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford.

4 Feb Comedy Club Top stand-up.

Ellen Terry Suite at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 4 Feb Jethro The world’s funniest Cornishman. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652 4 Feb The Magic of Motown Music show that celebrates the sound of Motown.

Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 6 Feb Macbeth Highly acclaimed Icarus Theatre Collective presents a bold and exciting performance of Shakespeare’s most bloody and fear-filled tragedy. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 7 - 11 Feb All the Fun of the Fair David Essex stars in the hit musical featuring a mix of his hits alongside brand new songs.

Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652 8 Feb Nick Baker - Weird Creatures Spend an evening with naturalist Nick Baker presenter of Channel Five’s ‘Wierd Creatures’ as he tells you his favourite stories about meeting some very strange beasts !

Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 8 Feb Withering Looks Cult Bronte spoof by Lipservice. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 9 Feb Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus One thing is certain, men and women live on two different planets. Everyone has been confronted with, or irritated by incomprehensible behaviour on the part of the opposite sex. Why is this? The answer lies in this witty one man show based on John Gray’s educational bestselling book. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 9 Feb Jimmy Carr A chance to see the popular comedian and television presenter as he tries out new material for his forthcoming nationwide tour. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 9 Feb House Drama Original or published work performed by students representing each of the six boarding houses at Bedford School. Bedford Theatre, Bedford, 01234 269519 9 Feb Delusions of Time A fusion of dance, magic and grand illusion featuring

dance artist Paula Templeman and illusionist Doctor Bondini. Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 07807 521436 10 Feb Simon Callow The acclaimed actor reads excerpts from his new book Charles Dickens and The great Theatre of the World. Hawthorne Theatre at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 10 Feb Brett Goldstein Stand-up comedy. Harpur Suite, Bedford, 01234 269519 10 Feb Back To Broadway - The Musical Back to Broadway is the musical of musicals that tells the story of a small town girl’s dream to become a Broadway star, mixed with all your favourite songs from the West End and Broadway. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 11 Feb The Merry Widow Opera della Luna present a new production of Lehár’s classic operetta. In a sparkling new English translation, this imaginative staging captures the glamour and decadence of turn of the century Paris while infusing the production with Opera della Luna’s trademark wit. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 11 Feb John Hegley: Beyond Our Kennel The poet and storyteller in a new show that Includes much singing and a little dancing. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 11 Feb Showstopper! The Improvised Musical A writer has just one hour to create a show to impress his producer.

Stuck for ideas, it’s up to you, the audience, to suggest titles, storylines and musical styles as the all-singing, all-dancing cast improvises with unpredictable and frequently hilarious results. Hawthorne Theatre at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 11 Feb Comedy Night Top stand-up.

Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788 11 Feb Charlie & Lola Don’t miss everyone’s favourite brother and sister, Charlie and Lola, in their extremely ever so wonderful stage show! The stars of the hit BBC TV series and books by Lauren Child are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets, live action and music. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500

11 - 12 Feb Fusion Dance Centres: 2 Decades Of Dance An explosive, exciting dance show involving dancers from age 3 to 18. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 12 Feb Magical Musical Moments The Harlow branch of youth theatre company Theatretrain present their 20th anniversary showcase. Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 13 Feb The Billy Fury Show An exciting 2 hour show filled with Billy Fury’s greatest hits and more delivered live in true Fury style. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 14 Feb An Evening With Chris Packham Compelling and charismatic, wildlife TV presenter Chris Packham will captivate audiences with his latest exquisite collection of images from the wild and wilderness. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 14 Feb The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark With live music and puppetry, join Plop the baby Barn Owl as he journeys into the night – time world of campfires, fireworks, starry nights and moonlit adventures. Leighton Buzzard Theatre, Leighton Buzzard, 0300 300 8125 14 Feb Buried Moon Join the Babbling Vagabonds as they bring to life a story older than their Gran! Shadows, puppets, music and magic mix together to spin a spooky yarn to tingle your spine! Ages 4-11. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 14 - 15 Feb Jezo Loses his Magic Show for ages 7-12. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 14 - 17 Feb Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker! One of the most popular dance productions ever staged in the UK. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652 15 Feb The Phoenix & The Carpet Adapted from the classic children’s book by E. Nesbit, Forest Forge’s magical winter production features beautiful live music, incredible puppets and a wonderful winter atmosphere.

Ages 5+ Hawthorne Theatre at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117

Herts Beds Bucks You can find even more events on our website - and include your own too! www.eastevents.co.uk 15 - 18 Feb A Bedfull Of Foreigners Starring the ever-popular and always hilariously funny Damian Williams, A Bedfull Of Foreigners has all the ingredients of a fastmoving farce, including mistaken identities, double-booked rooms, hasty cover-ups and hilarious situations that you would expect in a classic farce. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 15 - 18 Feb Shushan An eclectic mix of multi genre musical theatre, Shushan satisfies most popular musical tastes, from rock through to jazz and everything in between.

The Court Theatre @ Pendley, Tring, Tring, 07543 560478 16 Feb Four Poofs and a Piano In this fabulous new show the famous foursome from BBC TV’s Friday Night With Jonathan Ross show, are back with another helping of frisky footwork and musical madness. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 16 Feb The Virginia Monologues When an agony aunt reaches sixty, she can lie like a trooper, jump off a bridge - or take to the stage. Virginia Ironside explains that unlimited free drugs, fun funerals, grandchildren and sex – or, even better, no sex – make the sixties the best and funniest time of your life. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 16 Feb Barnstormer Stand Up Comedy Top stand-up. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 16 - 17 Feb Spring Awakening Musical that celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with a power, poignancy, and passion that you will never forget. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 16 - 17 Feb Little Princess Join in the celebration with Little Princess in the theatrical Premiere of the hit children’s book and favourite TV character. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 17 Feb Chris and Pui Live on Stage CBeebies fans will have the chance to sing, dance and join in with their favourite double act fresh from ‘Show Me Show Me’.

Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 17 Feb Alan in Wonderland and the Three Goats plus... The three goats come for tea in Wonderland, in this

comical show that is ideal for all children and their families. Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788 17 Feb Search for the Lost Tomb Show for ages 7-11. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 17 Feb Simon Callow See 10 Feb. The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 01908 280800 17 - 25 Feb King Lear Love, duty, power, loss, good and evil are all called into question as one man descends into madness.

Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 324300 18 Feb The Navarra String Quartet The Navarra Quartet was formed in 2002 at the Royal Northern College of Music and as postgraduates were students of the Alban Berg Quartet in Cologne. Hawthorne Theatre at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 18 Feb Barry Cryer Barry Cryer is back with a new show - a stream of unconsciousness and sit down comedy! Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 18 Feb Gag Club Stand-up comedy.

Hertford Corn Exchange, Hertford, 01992 442992 18 Feb The Merry Widow Opera della Luna present Lehár’s classic operetta. In a sparkling new English translation, this imaginative staging captures the glamour and decadence of turn of the century Paris while infusing the production with Opera della Luna’s trademark wit. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 18 Feb Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus One thing is certain, men and women live on two different planets. Everyone has been confronted with, or irritated by incomprehensible behaviour on the part of the opposite sex. Why is this? The answer lies in this witty one man show based on John Gray’s educational bestselling book. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 18 Feb The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Sammy Davis Junior in a fabulous production that continues to be successful all over the world. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 18 Feb Bellylicious the Sequel Confessions of a Belly Dance Diva

Enter the delightfully delirious, deliciously deranged, deep and at times dark domain of the Belly Dance Diva. Laugh and cry as she recounts her journey and tells you her innermost secrets, dreams and nightmares. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 18 - 19 Feb Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt Peppa is back with a brand new show featuring true to life puppets, perfect singalong songs and a new story that will charm and delight all her fans. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 18 - 19 Feb Fame The Musical Fame the musical is based on the hit movie and television show Fame and will be performed by 40 young singers, actors and dancers of the Sharpe Academy. Watersmeet Theatre, Rickmansworth, 01923 711063 19 Feb Benidorm ‘Live’ See panel.

Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 19 Feb Red The award winning Phoenix Youth Theatre Company presents a brand new epic production, Red. In this remolding of the classic tale Little Red Riding Hood - a medieval village is tormented by an ancient wolf. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 19 Feb Reginald D Hunter Stand-up comedy. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 20 - 21 Feb Moscow State Circus Inspired by the legend of ‘The 12 chairs’, this new show takes us on an incredible journey in the company of, without a doubt the greatest circus performers on earth. A Mammoth cast of Russia’s greatest and most talented circus artistes, many of which have never performed in Britian, transform the most famous circus in the world, combining contemporary and classical circus in way never before witnessed. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 21 Feb Lord of the Flies Sell a Door Theatre Company present William Golding’s most celebrated novel. Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 21 - 25 Feb Terra Nova Drawn from the journals and letters of Captain Scott the play blends scenes of the explorer and his men at various stages of their endeavour to be the first men to reach the South Pole. With flashbacks of Scott and his wife and with

19 FEBRUARY BENIDORM LIVE The atmosphere of ‘The Neptune’ Bar will be experienced by all, as two of the NTA award winning show’s stars Crissy Rock & Shaun Foster Conley, present an evening of Comedy & Music that will have you waving your sombreros and longing for those hot summer nights in Sunny Spain!

Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage.

glimpses of his Norwegian rival Roald Amundsen, this is a study of duty, heroism and British pride. This production commemorates the centenary of Scotts expedition. The Place, Bedford, 01234 269519 22 Feb The Good Old Days Matinee music hall show. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 22 - 25 Feb A Masked Ball Evil conspirators, a clandestine love affair, an assassination and even a sorceress – Aylesbury Opera Group’s production has all the ingredients we expect from grand opera and, in addition, its score contains some of Verdi’s most dramatic and lyrical music. The Court Theatre @ Pendley, Tring, Tring, 07543 560478 23 Feb Tony Stockwell TV’s psychic medium. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 23 Feb The Comedy Club Top standup. City Limits at Xscape, Milton Keynes, 01908 295200 23 Feb Big Pants and Botox Barbara has just survived an eventful ‘significant’ birthday which has got her thinking about many things, not least the merits of ‘Big Pants and Botox’. Come and join her as she takes us on a hilarious, emotional, intriguing and ultimately uplifting journey. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 23 - 25 Feb Frozen Bryony Lavery’s play begins with the disappearance of a ten year old girl, Rhona, and follows the consequences of her disappearance on three people over the course of 20 years. Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 07807 521436 23 - 25 Feb Cluedunnit Hilarious comedy thriller based on well-known board game, presented by Turvey Amateur Dramatics Society. Turvey Village Hall, Turvey, 01234 711811 24 Feb Rockin’ On Heavens Door Rock ‘n’ roll music show. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 24 Feb The Merry Widow Opera della Luna is delighted to visit Rhodes with a new production of Lehár’s classic operetta.

Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 24 Feb Chris Addison Top class standup from one of the classiest, toppiest standups around. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 24 Feb Bedford Comedy Club Top stand-up. Harpur Suite, Bedford, 01234 269519 24 Feb Macbeth Blending traditional and inventive physical theatre techniques, original music, evocative design, and using the original verse, this slick production by Icarus Theatre is perfect for audiences new to Macbeth and those already well acquainted with Shakespeare’s tragedies. Bedford Theatre, Bedford, 01234 269519

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What’s on in February 5 FEBRUARY LONDON GYPSY ORCHESTRA A breath-taking gala of Gypsy music and dance from Eastern Europe and the Balkans – London Gypsy Orchestra’s musicians and dancers bring to life songs and dances that echo hundreds of years of journeys, adventures and passion. Bedford Corn Exchange.

25 Feb Gerry Cross The Mersey A musical journey through the life and times of one of our greatest 60’s icons – Gerry Marsden. Gerry and the pacemakers topped the UK and US charts for much of the 60’s. Gerry talks about his early beginnings in Liverpool, those heady days of the 60’s and the present.

Hear all Gerry’s greatest hits mixed up with stories, jokes and anecdotes from his years at the top. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 7 - 11 Feb Hormonal Housewives Starring Margi Clarke. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652 25 Feb Beloved Clara The story of the intense relationships between Robert Schumann, his wife Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms has always fascinated music lovers. This programme of music and readings brings their history to life. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 25 Feb Russell Kane Join Fosters Comedy Award Winner and star of loads of stuff on telly, Russell Kane as he mercilessly explores the ridiculous state of masculinity in the modern world. He shaves his chest fur; you watch and laugh. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 26 Feb The Little Big Club The Little Big Club Live in Concert brings together kid’s favourite properties live on stage in a 90minute stage show. The line up of characters in this all new show includes Barney, Bob the Builder, Angelina Ballerina, Pingu, Thomas the Tank Engine and Fireman Sam. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 26 Feb The Great Gatsby An exciting new stage adaptation filled with evocative live jazz music to recreate the glitz and decadence of the twenties Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 07807 521436 27 Feb - 3 Mar Of Mice and Men First performed in 1937 this is John Steinbeck’s own version of his classic novel and tells the story of George and Lenny, the fasttalking farm hand and the simple giant who accompanies him on a life of casual labour in the California Agricultural Belt of the 1930s.

Presented by Bancroft Players. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 27 Feb - 3 Mar Derren Brown: Svengali New show from the 'psychologi-

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cal illusionist'. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652 28 Feb Celtic Dream Embodying the true spirit of Ireland, this production is a breathtaking myriad of brilliant dance, phenomenal vocals, astounding musicianship and glittering costumes. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 29 Feb Sean Collins and Mike Gunn Following spectacular performances on BBC One’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, here’s a rare chance to see two top-billing circuit stars sharing the same bill in a double-headline show. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839

MUSIC 1 Feb Joe Topping A singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist (guitar, mandolin, bouzouki, harmonica, dobro & banjo);who plays anything from traditional British folk music to delta blues slide guitar. Baldock & Letchworth Folk Club at The Orange Tree, Baldock, 01767 683583 2 Feb Syd Lawrence Orchestra Top big band swing. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 3 Feb Coull String Quartet Haydn, Shostakovich, Beethoven. Benslow Music Trust, Hitchin, 01462 459446 3 Feb Katy Setterfield Winner of BBC TV’s prime-time show The One And Only, star of the West End musical Repect la Diva and and former star of the stage production That’ll be The Day, Katy continues to perform her much loved Dusty Springfield solo show across the world. Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 3 Feb The Most Romantic Songs in the World Soprano Bella and Singers in Disguise present an evening of wonderful romantic music. Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 3 Feb Lee “Scratch” Perry & His Upsetter Band The godfather of dub and the high priest of reggae. The Forum at the University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, 08444 771 000 3 Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Tribute. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488

3 Feb The Springfields The Springfields had phenomenal success in the early sixties with hits such as Island Of Dreams, Say I Won‘t Be There and Silver Threads and Golden Needles which reached the top twenty in the USA charts.” Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 4 Feb The Johnny Cash Story Tribute by Roger Dean & The Lazy Boys. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 4 Feb Hertfordshire Chorus Kodály, Allegri, and Duruflé. The Cathedral and Abbey Church of Saint Alban , St Albans, 0870 4580445 4 Feb One Night of Queen Top tribute act. Stevenage Concert Hall at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 4 Feb Magic - A Tribute to Queen Tribute band. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 5 Feb Steve Knightley Steve Knightley is the songwriting force behind the phenomenally successful acoustic roots duo Show of Hands as well as a fine singer and musician. From a rock background, Knightley is known for his strong narrative songs (many inspired by people and places in his native West Country) and cogent, inventive lyrics.

Also on the bill are Phil Henry & Hannah Martin. Hitchin Folk Club at The Sun Hotel, Hitchin, 01462 812391 5 Feb Frank Harrison Trio Jazz.

Herts Jazz at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 5 Feb London Gypsy Orchestra See panel. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 5 Feb The Virtuosi GUS Band Songs from theatre and film. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 602080 6 Feb Galeazzi Ensemble Haydn, Mozart. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 7 Feb Colin Blunstone Band The mild mannered man from St.Albans, the voice behind the hits of The Zombies and a number of solo hits. The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 01908 280800 8 Feb Dan Walsh Touted as the finest banjo player in the UK, Dan is described as ‘taking the banjo into the stratosphere’ (Froots) with a unique and eclectic style taking in folk, bluegrass, jazz, rock and even Ara-

bic. Baldock & Letchworth Folk Club at The Orange Tree, Baldock, 01767 683583 10 Feb The Barron Knights An evening of rockin’ and rollin’ as well as lots of laughs with the legendary Barron Knights.

Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 10 Feb From The Jam From the Jam features Bruce Foxton from the original Jam line up who also spent 15 years playing bass with Stiff Little Fingers. Bruce is joined by Russell Hastings on lead vocal & guitar and completing the powerful trio is Mark Brzezicki, former Big Country and Cult drummer.

Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 10 Feb Hats Off To Led Zeppelin Tribute. Esquires, Bedford, 01234 340120 10 Feb Juliet Lawson: Songs From a Suitcase Songwriter and singer Juliet Lawson reveals the secrets of her suitcase....

A vast catalogue of original songs composed over the past three decades. Ranging through jazz, blues, ballads and the downright quirky, she sings of life with all it’s highs, it’s lows, with candour, humour and insight. The Place, Bedford, 01234 269519 11 Feb The Drifters Soul legends whose hits include Save The Last Dance For Me and Kissin’ in the Back Row Of The Movies.

Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 11 Feb Carducci Quartet Brahms, Hayden, Dvorack, With Libor Novacek (piano).

Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 01442 862798 12 Feb The Lightning Seeds Hits include Lucky You, Change, Perfect and Marvellous. The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 01908 280800 12 Feb Tim Edey & Brendan Power Tim was nominated for Best Musician and both for Best Duo at the 2012 BBC Folk Awards. Hitchin Folk Club at The Sun Hotel, Hitchin, 01462 812391 12 Feb Jim Mullen Quartet Reunion Tour A multi-award winning guitarist with a unique jazz style and sound, who is regarded as the high priest of the instrument by most young jazz guitarists. His quartet was in existence for six years from 1996 and is one of the most powerful ever to appear on the British jazz scene. Herts Jazz at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 12 Feb Miles Hunt Lead singer and songwriter from Stourbridge indie-rockers The Wonder Stuff, Miles started his solo career after the band split in 1994. Hertford Corn Exchange, Hertford, 01992 442992 12 Feb A Spectacular Night Of Queen Tribute. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 12 Feb A Spectacular Night Of Queen Tribute. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 13 Feb East London Clarinet Choir Benslow Music Trust, Hitchin, 01462 459446 13 Feb Alan Thomas and Eleanor Turner Guitar and harp duo. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474

Herts Beds Bucks 14 Feb Fairport Convention Folk rock legends. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 15 Feb Anna Massie & Mairearad Green Anna Massie is one of Scotland’s foremost guitarists. A skilled multi-instrumentalist, she also excels on the fiddle, mandolin and banjo and is a member of Blazin’ Fiddles and The Unusual Suspects. Mairearad is one of Scotland’s finest musical exports.

Baldock & Letchworth Folk Club at The Orange Tree, Baldock, 01767 683583 17 Feb Straight No Chaser Originally formed over a dozen years ago while students together at Indiana University, the group has reassembled and re-emerged as a phenomenon – with a massive fanbase, over 20 million views on YouTube, and numerous national TV appearances. The captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music. Stevenage Concert Hall at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Stevenage, 01438 894839 17 Feb Philharmonia Orchestra Britten, Mozart, Tchaikovsky. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 17 Feb Nine Below Zero One of Britain’s most respected R&B bands, famous for their no-frills, punchy and direct approach. Esquires, Bedford, 01234 340120 18 Feb Spikedrivers’ - Blues Roots Revue A collaboration between three of Britain’s best live acts in the blues tradition; The Spikedrivers, Fran & Mike McGillivray and Sam Hare. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 18 Feb Moishe’s Bagel Rip-roaring, toe-tapping jazz-influenced Klezmer and Balkan music. With Stuart O’Conner. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 18 Feb Fairport Convention Folk rock legends. The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 01908 280800 19 Feb Nancy Kerr & James Fagan A young and exciting folk duo, performing a wide variety of traditional and modern songs and tunes, many of them self-penned, and playing fiddle and bouzouki. Hitchin Folk Club at The Sun Hotel, Hitchin, 01462 812391 19 Feb Asaf Sirkis Trio Jazz trio with a compelling intensity. Herts Jazz at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 19 Feb Katy Setterfield Winner of BBC TV’s prime-time show The One And Only, star of the West End musical Repect la Diva and and former star of the stage production That’ll be The Day, Katy continues to perform her much loved Dusty Springfield solo show across the world. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 20 Feb Gould Piano Trio Beethoven, Dvorak, Shostakovich. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 22 Feb Port Issac’s Fisherman’s Friends English folk music has enjoyed a renaissance in the last decade, especially in the West Country. Now, after their success at the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, these

Shanty men of Port Isaac are out on the road to delight and enthral audiences with their voices in an incredibly rousing and joyful set of Shanties and Cornish folk songs. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 22 Feb Steve Knightley See 5 Feb. The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 01908 280800 23 Feb Fontanella Fontanella is formed of five of the UK’s finest recorder players.

Their programme explores the golden age of English consort music in pieces by Byrd, Dowland, Holborne and others. The Bunyan Meeting, Bedford, 01234 261811 23 Feb Simon Townshend The son of England’s top big-band reed man and baby brother of The Who legend Pete Townshend, Simon has been recording and performing since the age of nine. Esquires, Bedford, 01234 340120 24 Feb Stefan Cush Founder member, singer and guitarist with indie chart toppers and festival favourites The Men They Couldn’t Hang. Esquires, Bedford, 01234 340120 24 Feb Sticky Wicket & His Swing Orchestra An all-star swing show and drum ’n’ dance spectacular hosted by Mr John Bly from BBC TV’s Antiques Roadshow. The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 01908 280800 25 Feb Bedford Sinfonia: Celebrating America Copland, Ives, Gershwin. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 25 Feb Purcell School The amazingly talented students from this world-famous specialist music school return with a varied programme of music for piano, strings and wind instruments. Leighton Buzzard Theatre, Leighton Buzzard, 0300 300 8125 25 Feb Pearl Handled Revover Blues. Esquires, Bedford, 01234 340120 25 Feb The Bohemians Queen tribute band. Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 26 Feb Fay Hield An unaccompanied singer of English folk songs from Haworth in Yorkshire. With Sam Sweeney & Rob Harbron.

Hitchin Folk Club at The Sun Hotel, Hitchin, 01462 812391 26 Feb Jazzin’ Around Jazz. Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788 26 Feb Joe Brown Joe started his musical career as a guitarist, working with the likes of Johnny Cash, Gene Vincent and Eddie Cochran. In 1960, he formed his own group Joe Brown & The Bruvvers and had numerous top ten hits including the number 1 hit ‘Picture Of You’. Joe has never stopped working and performs nearly 200 shows a year, keeping his music current throughout. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 27 Feb Andrew Zolinsky Piano concert. Luton Library Theatre, Luton, 01582 547474 29 Feb Hobbs, Smith and Hewson Folk and blues. Baldock & Letchworth Folk Club at The Orange Tree, Baldock, 01767 683583

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 4 Feb New Material: A Student Collaboration This is a group exhibition which brings together four emerging artists currently studying Fine Art at the University of Hertfordshire. The exhibition, entitled New Material aims to showcase new artworks in a range of different mediums from photography to installation. Courtyard Arts, Hertford, 01992 509596 1 - 8 Feb Roy Freer Since becoming a full time artist over twenty years ago Roy Freer’s work has shown a single minded focus in using overlays of rich colour to depict still life, figure and landscape as a way of presenting a visual understanding of his subject.

Working from a familiar selection of either studio based still life objects, or outdoor features he continues to explore the tension held both within and between objects to a degree whereby they are held by the fulcrum of the painting. Throughout his career Roy Freer has gained a number of prestigious awards and his work is held in many public and private collections. Foyer Gallery at Bedford School, Bedford, 01234 362200 1 - 29 Feb Nigel Markham: Out of the Woods Work by well-known local artist and teacher Nigel Markham, lecturer in fine arts at North Herts College. Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788 1 Feb - 11 Mar Icara, Icara A reworking of the Icarus myth from the point of view of a suburban woman. The stages of imprisonment, flight and fall are seen as a cyclical metaphor for the mechanism of her increasing self-awareness. The darkened gallery space, housing a double-screen video projection and a mirror, will immerse the visitor.

The disorientated visitor will not only watch but participate at the same time. This dual viewpoint is echoed in the partly autobiographical video of Icara, subject and object, who sees and is seen. Museum of St Albans, St Albans, 01707 281127 2 - 24 Feb Schools Exhibition Annual exhibition of work by A Level students from the Fearnhill and Highfield schools.

Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788 4 - 5 Feb Nigel Lomas An exhibition of High Dynamic Range photography by a local photographer Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 6 Feb - 3 Mar Barbara Weeks: Trapping Colour, Catching Light Barbara Weeks is a Textile Artist and lives in Kimpton. Trapping Colour, Catching Light’ explores imagery from the Great Barrier Reef, ‘Where the rainforest meets the Sea’, in Northern Queensland, Australia. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 6 Feb - 8 Jul Animal RecordBreakers This year, the Olympic Games come to London and we will witness some incredible record-breaking spectacles. But if you think our human skills are amazing, check out the rest of the animal kingdom.

Natural History Museum at Tring, Tring, 020 7942 6171 7 - 18 Feb Chinese Whispers Drawing on the children’s game of Chinese Whis-

pers, this exhibition shows what happened when six artists each created a textile ‘whisper’, passing it to the next member of the group to use as inspiration for another textile, which the recipient, in turn passed to the next member. Six beginnings, a journey through thirty six textiles, six surprising endings. Jenny Alderson, Judith Coxell, Marian Hall, Sue Hickman, Debbie Lewis Brindley and Jan Simpson. Courtyard Arts, Hertford, 01992 509596 10 Feb - 31 Mar Photography4All Finalists Exhibition The competition was open to allphotographers, studios, photography clubs, students, photography enthusiasts and artists working with the medium of photography aged 16 years or over. Categories varied from classical black and white photos, to digital, infrared, photographic collages, photomontages and other photo manipulations. Rhodes Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 27 Feb - 9 Mar Recylced Fashion Fun, funky, and sometimes even practical — it’s the annual recycled fashion show by the talented youngsters of St Christopher School.

Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth, 01462 670788

SPECIAL EVENTS 11 Feb Bishop’s Stortford Stamp Fair Stamps, Postcards, Cigarette Cards, Coins. 10am-4pm. Water Lane United Reformed Church Hall, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 305100 12 Feb Bedford Eights & Fours Head of the River Race Over 200 eights, fours and quads from across the region race against the clock over a 2km course from Queens Park to Longholme. Best viewing from Sovereign Quay, along the Embankment and the Butterfly Bridge. The Embankment, Bedford, 01234 353183 12 Feb La Plume Hats for Heroes Burlesque Blitz Meet the heroes and enjoy an evening of great entertainment and fabulous food. Raising funds and awareness for our Afghanistan heroes this night aims to be extra special. Dress to please but no jeans!

Starring: Kiki Lovechild and Domino Burlesk as our headliners and a whole host of other entertainers. Tickets on sale at Lady K’s Burlesque Boutique, 9 Ram Yard, Bedford or from the Swan Hotel Bedford. The Bedford Swan Hotel, Bedford, 01234 346565 12 Feb Wedding Fayre 12-4pm.

Woodland Manor Hotel, Clapham, 01234 363281 18 Feb Stunt Fest Stunts, monster truck, funfair and fireworks for all the family at half term. 2-5pm. Santa Pod Raceway, Podington, 01234 782828 25 Feb Model Railway Exhibition 10am-4pm. St Mary’s Church, Maulden, 01908 567374 26 Feb Woburn’s Wedding Open Day An opportunity to see The Sculpture Gallery at Woburn Abbey, The Inn at Woburn and The Safari Lodge at Woburn Safari Park.

10am-4pm. Woburn Abbey, Woburn, 01525 290333

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What’s on in February You can find even more events on our website - and include your own too! www.eastevents.co.uk

THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 4 Feb Oklahoma! Rodgers & Hammerstein musical. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 1 Feb A Bedfull Of Foreigners Classic farce starring Damian Williams. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 1 - 5 Feb Lord of the Dance The most successful touring show in entertainment history has to-date played in over 65 different countries and territories, to over 7 million people on every single continent. With more than 150,000 taps per performance, the Irish dance spectacular promises to wow audiences yet again with its breath-taking footwork and dazzling music. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 1 - 4 Feb Entertaining Mr Sloane Hilarious black comedy. Dixon Studio at the Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 1 Feb That’ll Be The Day Exhilarating rock ‘n’ roll music show. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 1 - 2 Feb Teechers John Godber’s comedy vigorously evokes life at a modern comprehensive school. Hunt Theatre at Felsted School, Felsted, 01371 822619 1 - 4 Feb One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest Thought-provoking production questioning authority, and basic right and wrong. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 2 Feb The Comedy Club Top standup. Colchester United Football Club, Colchester, 01206 752443 2 Feb Phoenix Rising: D. H. Lawrence - Son & Lover A colourful portrait of an extraordinary artist at full throttle! Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 2 Feb Comedy Club in the Foyer Top stand-up. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 2 Feb Comedy Gong Show Essex’s first gong show, with over 20 comedy acts all battling it out for the top prize. Bocking Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01279 815464 2 - 4 Feb Camp Rock: The Musical Rare Youth Musical Theatre Group present this brand new musical based on the two original Disney Channel films. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945

16 FEBRUARY ALL THE SINGLE LADIES The course of true love never did run smooth. Three women, three stories, three lives … and one problem, All the Single Ladies is a hilarious, feel-good evening starring Leslie Ash, Brooke Kinsella and Tara Flynn.

Harlow Playhouse.

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3 Feb Maldon Comedy Club Top stand up. Crowne Plaza Colchester - Five Lakes, Tolleshunt Knights, 01621 868 888 3 Feb The Laughter Zone Top standup. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 3 Feb Jesterlarf Comedy Club Top stand-up. Saffron Walden Town Hall, Saffron Walden, 01223 511511 3 Feb An Audience with Steven Berkoff Iconic film, TV, stage actor and director, as well as author and photographer, Steven will take to the stage to talk about his professional life and answer questions. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354 3 - 4 Feb Mother Goose Family pantomime presented by Pantomime Orpen Players. Orpen Memorial Hall, West Bergholt, 01206 241048 3 - 25 Feb Satin ‘n’ Steel Tina White is content with singing in the bath until she meets club singer Vince Steel at a karaoke competition. Leaving her dead-end job behind, Tina agrees to join Vince on the road to fame and fortune. Bittersweet comedy from the writer of Ladies’ Day and Ladies Down Under. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 4 Feb Braintree Comedy Club Top stand-up. Celebrations Party Venue, Braintree, 0845 459 5656 4 Feb Witham Comedy Club Top stand-up. Witham Public Hall, Witham, 0845 459 5656 4 Feb The Twist Show Set in an American Diner, The Twist takes you back in time.

Milkshakes, laughter, dancing waitresses and a lot of fun. “Happy Days” meets “Buddy” A 50’s & 60’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Epic! Princes Theatre, Clacton-on-Sea, 01255 686633 4 Feb Ali Cardabra Fun-filled magic show for ages 3-7. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 4 Feb Comedy Central Live! Standup with Matt Forde and Joe Wells. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 5 Feb The Curious World of The Grymoire Music, nonsense, cake, jiggerypokery and the secrets of the occult combine to ensure a capital evening for all. Headgate Theatre, Colchester, 01206 366000

6 Feb Thirsty Fusing live music, brilliant text and physical theatre, The Paper Birds examine the binge drinking culture in the UK and asks in a highly provocative manner why, as a Nation, we are so thirsty. Hunt Theatre at Felsted School, Felsted, 01371 822619 6 - 11 Feb Haunted A psychological, supernatural, erotic thriller… with comedy!

Featuring a star cast including Peter Amory, who played Emmerdale bad boy Chris Tate and Paul David-Gough best known as JD from Coronation Street. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 7 - 11 Feb On The Twentieth Century Musical presented by Billericay Operatic Society. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 7 - 11 Feb Man and Boy Terrence Rattigan’s study of a ruthless, sociopathic businessman: his inability to love and the impact of this on others. The Old Court Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 7 - 11 Feb As If By Magic Magic show featuring the talented members of Southend Sorcerers Society. Dixon Studio at the Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 8 Feb Johann Strauss Gala The acclaimed Johann Strauss Dancers and Orchestra with their magical Viennese Ball. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 9 Feb An Evening of Clairvoyance With Ronnie Buckingham. Headgate Theatre, Colchester, 01206 366000 9 Feb Scenes From Communal Living Performed by an ensemble of the UK’s hottest improvisers. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 9 Feb La Traviata Stunning production of Verdi’s opera featuring the Internationally acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv, with international soloists, a highlypraised chorus and full orchestra. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 9 - 11 Feb Fur Coat and No Knickers Presented by Thurrock Courts Players.

Thameside Theatre, Grays, 0845 300 5264 10 Feb Patrick Monahan Loveable comedian who blends a high energy style with hilarious and engaging stories of his Irish / Iranian / Teeside heritage. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900

10 Feb American Anthems Spectacular Rock Musical based around the search for a legendary rock star who disappeared in the early 90s at the height of his fame. Route 66 FM leads the search for the rock star, Rocky Rhodes, tracking him across America to bring him back for one last concert. Appearing as a guest star is the legendary John Parr, who had a worldwide No.1 hit with St Elmo’s Fire. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 10 Feb C’mon Everybody Rock ‘n’ roll music show. Palace Theatre, Southend-onSea, 01702 351135 10 Feb Brendan Cole ‘Live & Unjudged’ Dance and music show with the popular Strictly Come Dancing star. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 10 - 12 Feb The Hound of the Baskervilles This timeless Sherlock Holmes adventure, adapted by Tim Kelly, is brought to life by the award-winning Global Productions. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 11 Feb Ian Saville’s Magic Show Suitable for kids aged 4 to 10. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 11 Feb 4 Poofs & A Piano The famous foursome with another helping of frisky footwork and musical madness. High Barn, Great Bardfield, 01371 811291 11 Feb Simon Munnery A rising star in the comedy world, Simon has starred in Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle and Attention Scum on BBC2 and Radio 4’s Where Did It All Go Wrong? Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 11 Feb The Owl Who’s Afraid of the Dark An irresistible mix of live music, puppetry and storytelling. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354 12 Feb Chelmsford Comedy Club Top stand-up. Bay Horse, Chelmsford, 0845 459 5656 13 Feb The Secret Garden Angel Exit’s brand new production is presented in their own rich visual style, blending ensemble storytelling with striking physicality, beautiful puppets, haunting songs and an original soundtrack. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 13 - 18 Feb Footloose Musical based on the 1980s movie of the same name.

Witham Public Hall, Witham, 01376 512902 13 - 18 Feb Star Quality Stars of TV and Stage Liza Goddard (Take Three Girls) and Daniel Casey (MidSomer Murders) lead a superb cast of 12 that features Ambridge favourite Michael Lumsden (Alistair Lloyd in The Archers) and West End legend Gay Soper, in Noel Coward’s wickedly observant satire of talent and treachery and a gallery of unforgettable characters. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 14 Feb Putting It Together A revue performed by five people thrown together at a party. Headgate Theatre, Colchester, 01206 366000

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Essex 14 Feb Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus The answer to the diffences in the sexes lies in this witty one man show based on John Gray’s educational best-selling book. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 14 - 18 Feb George’s Marvellous Medicine The Birmingham Stage Company present a brand new adaptation of one of Roald Dahl’s funniest and most exciting stories. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 15 Feb Celtic Dream A breathtaking journey of music, song and dance with a kaleidoscope of colour against a backdrop of highly infectious, powerful and spirit invoking music. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 15 - 16 Feb Hip Hop Pop Dance showcase by students. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 15 - 16 Feb Billy Connolly What can you say about the ‘Big Yin’ that hasn’t already been said? Larger-than-life manic Glaswegian with a purple beard (optional), an honorary doctorate from University of Glasgow and a career which grew from the joker in the Clyde shipyards, via the folk clubs of Scotland, to one of the country’s best loved stand-up comedians and bona fide TV and movie star.

Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 15 - 18 Feb Oliver! Lionel Bart’s musical presented by Brantham Amateur Theatrical Society. Brantham Village Hall, Brantham, 01206 397475 16 Feb All the Single Ladies See panel. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 16 Feb Magners Funhouse Comedy Comedy with The Raymond & Mr Timpkins Revue. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354 16 - 18 Feb Fiddler on the Roof The West Cliff Youth Group present this everpopular musical. West Cliff Theatre , Clacton-on-Sea, 01255 433344 17 Feb John Peel’s Shed In 2002, John Osborne won a competition on John Peel’s Radio One show. His prize was a box of records that took eight years to listen to. This is an ode to radio, those records and anyone who’s ever sought solace in wireless. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 17 Feb Aesops Fables A mouse, a lion and a tortoise tell some of the most famous fables involving wily wolves, dopey dogs, haring hares, flattering foxes and silly humans.

Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 17 Feb Jimmy Carr A chance to see the popular comedian and television presenter as he tries out new material for his forthcoming nationwide tour. Princes Theatre, Clactonon-Sea, 01255 686633 17 Feb Philadelphia & Motown On Tour Multi-award-winning Roy G Hemmings and his 15-strong on-stage show delivers memories of a twin era of music that lives on and on. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-onSea, 01702 351135

24 FEBRUARY ALL THE SINGLE LADIES Performance by the sing and songwriter from the band The Divine Comedy, whose hits include National Express and Something For The Weekend. The band have released ten studio albums since the 1980s, including the recent album, Bang Goes The Knighthood. Neil has written the music for a new musical theatre production of Swallows and .Amazons.

Grgnon Hall, Felsted School.

17 Feb Derek Acorah TV’s psychic medium. Bocking Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01279 815464 17 - 18 Feb Private Resistance Eastern Angles present Private Resistance, the ultimate ‘what-if’ scenario. How would the British have coped with a German invasion?

Set in 1940 it’s a thrilling tale of the so-called Auxiliary Units, Churchill’s secret guerrilla army primed to go underground to fight behind the lines - a story of the bonds created and destroyed by wartime. This fascinating play is researched and written by Eastern Angles’ Artistic Director, Ivan Cutting and directed by Naomi Jones. William Loveless Hall, Wivenhoe, 01473 211498 17 - 18 Feb Bob the Builder Live!

The world’s favourite builder live on stage.

Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 18 Feb Simon Munnery The comedian’s new show is an extravagant mess of foaming bubble hats, superlative jokes, bad guitar riffs, delightful monologues, handmade engineering feats and an overly ambitious one-man punk musical about the R101 airship of the 1930s. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 18 Feb Derek Acorah TV’s psychic medium. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on-Sea, 01255 686633 18 Feb Andy and Mike’s Big Box of Bananas Fast-paced fun and laughter for children aged 3 and over. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 18 Feb Comedy Central Live!

Stand-up with Paddy Lennox and Andrew Stanley. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 18 Feb Roy Chubby Brown Top adult comedian. Circus Tavern, Purfleet, 01708 863838 19 Feb Gordon Smith Top psychic medium. Palace Theatre, Southend-onSea, 01702 351135 19 - 20 Feb Godspell Rock musical presented by Havering Music Makers. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 20 - 25 Feb Murder on the Nile The Agatha Christie Theatre Company presents a stylish new production of the queen of crime’s classic thriller. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 21 Feb Private Resistance See 17-18 Feb. Margaretting Village Hall, Margaretting, 01473 211498

21 Feb Private Peaceful An awardwinning production that relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. Hunt Theatre at Felsted School, Felsted, 01371 822619 22 Feb Mike Gunn & Sean Collins Following spectacular performances on BBC One’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, here’s a rare chance to see two top comics sharing the same bill in a double-headline show. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 22 - 23 Feb Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt A brand new show featuring true to life puppets, singalong songs and a new story that will delight kids. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 22 - 25 Feb Ordinary Days ‘Ordinary Days’ is a refreshingly honest and funny musical about making real connections in the city that never sleeps. Headgate Theatre, Colchester, 01206 366000 23 Feb Kin Solo performance by Donna Rutherford, a powerful meditation on the shifting dynamics that seep into the relationship between middle-aged children and elderly parents. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 23 Feb Comedy Showcase Top standup. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 23 Feb An Evening With TJ Higgs TV’s psychic medium. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 23 Feb - 10 Mar Absent Friends Tea and sympathy turns into trauma for a recently bereaved man as his friends reveal themselves to be shopaholics, hypochondriacs and serial adulterers in this brilliantly cutting comedy of embarrassment. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 24 Feb An Evening with Jack The Ripper Since 2002 retired Murder Squad Detective Trevor Marriott has been investigating the infamous Whitechapel Murders of 1888. The identity of the killer known as Jack the Ripper has long remained a mystery, but now Trevor’s 21st Century Investigation has uncovered new evidence pointing to a little known suspect, all of which has challenged our understanding of the case and cast major doubt on accepted but outdated theories.

Princes Theatre, Clacton-on-Sea, 01255 686633

24 Feb 1 Beach Road A tale of friendship, defiance, a shrinking island, synchronized swimming and trying to turn back the tide. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 24 Feb Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise Rock ‘n’ roll music show. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 24 - 25 Feb Science Museum Live Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments as the Science Museum takes to the stage with a fantastic live show to blow your mind and challenge your brain! Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 25 Feb Steve Hughes One of the most exciting and distinctive comedians on the UK circuit. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 25 Feb Hellfire Comedy Club Standup comedy. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-onSea, 01702 351135 26 Feb Chelmsford Comedy Club Top stand-up. Bay Horse, Chelmsford, 0845 459 5656 26 Feb The Variety Show With Steve Hays and guests. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 26 Feb Richard Digance Music and funny stories. Palace Theatre, Southend-onSea, 01702 351135 27 Feb The Boy With The Tape On His Face Astounding and hilariously funny, this silent show will leave you lost for words.

One of the highlights of the 2011 Royal Variety Show. Hunt Theatre at Felsted School, Felsted, 01371 822619 27 Feb - 3 Mar Chicago Created by the musical talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and choreographer Bob Fosse, Chicago’s sexy, sassy score includes All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle.

Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 28 - 29 Feb Copacabana Music presented by Chelmsford Amateur Operatic And Dramatic Society. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 28 Feb - 3 Mar Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Musical presented by Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 29 Feb My Favourite Summer Funny, heart warming play by Nick Lane.

Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505

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What’s on in February MUSIC 2 Feb My Ruin Los Angeles based underground metal veterans. Chinnery’s, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 467305 3 Feb The Soldiers The Soldiers created history by being the first group of serving soldiers to hit the British pop charts. Towngate Theatre, Basildon, 01268 465465 3 Feb Simon James Michael Buble tribute. Castaways, Pitsea, 01268 557493 3 Feb Joe Stilgoe Trio Joe Stilgoe is a remarkable singer /songwriter and a sparkling pianist who has been favourably compared to Oscar Peterson. Fleece Jazz at Stoke By Nayland Hotel, Leavenheath, 01787 211865 4 Feb Classic Clapton Eric Clapton tribute. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 4 Feb Uttlesforde Orchestra Concert. St Mary’s Church, Saffron Walden, 01799 524002 4 Feb Jim Devereaux: This Is Elvis Top Elvis tribute. Castaways, Pitsea, 01268 557493 5 Feb Ola Onabule Nigerian in origin, Ola’s music is influenced by the soul, jazz and .

Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 5 Feb Tenors Unlimited This trio will treat you to the perfect mix of Rat Pack hits and classical favourites. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 5 Feb Lucinda Belle Orchestra See panel. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 5 Feb Max Collie Ryhthm Aces Jazz. Colchester Jazz Club at Stanway Rovers Football Club, Colchester, 01206 540354 5 Feb Colne Valley Youth Orchestra Teddy Bears Concert Concert and fun for kids. Town Hall, Colchester, 01206 282206

Lee Mead Cliffs Pavilion 14 February

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6 Feb Clive Carroll A joyful fairground ride of instrumental styles spanning the fields of traditional, classical and jazz. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 6 Feb English Chamber Orchestra A mixed concert of Elgar and Schubert, ending with a performance of Haydn’s Symphony No.44. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 7 Feb Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer One of the best duos on the folk circuit today The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club at The Ship Hotel, Leigh-on-Sea, 01702 715111 7 Feb Fairport Convention Folk rock legends. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 8 Feb My Ruin Los Angeles based underground metal veterans. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 9 Feb Colchester Sixth Form College Battle of the Bands Annual band comp. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 10 Feb Shake 101 Sixites beat band. The Independent, Braintree, 10 Feb Spikedrivers Blues. Marigold Blues Club at Harlow Cricket Club, Harlow, 01279 414174 10 Feb Mark Butcher & Matt Taylor New acoustic duo show with a mix of material from each of their albums. High Barn, Great Bardfield, 01371 811291 10 Feb The Lowriders Colchester based rock band. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 10 Feb Baddies Southend indie band.

Chinnery’s, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 467305 10 Feb Frank Harrison Trio Talented young jazz pianist. Fleece Jazz at Stoke

By Nayland Hotel, Leavenheath, 01787 211865 10 Feb The Beat One of the most popular and influential bands of the British ska movement. Bocking Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01279 815464 11 Feb The Rose Trio Classical ensemble. Saffron Walden Baptist Church, Saffron Walden, 01799 524002 11 Feb John Otway The legendary English Comedic Punk Rock Poet Cabaret Performer!

Headgate Theatre, Colchester, 01206 366000 11 Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Tribute.

Cliffs Pavilion, Southendon-Sea, 01702 351135 11 Feb Slash UK Guns ‘n’ Roses tribute. Chinnery’s, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 467305 11 Feb The Pink Floyd Dimension Tribute. Saffron Walden Town Hall, Saffron Walden, 01799 524002 12 Feb Beabach One of the most celebrated and successful Scottish folk bands of recent times.

Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900

12 Feb Some Enchanted Evening Concert featuring many familiar local faces plus several West End performers. Headgate Theatre, Colchester, 01206 366000 12 Feb Downhome Jazzband Jazz.

Colchester Jazz Club at Stanway Rovers Football Club, Colchester, 01206 540354 13 Feb Ewan Mclennan Folk music.

Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 14 Feb The Devil Wears Prada American metalcore band from Dayton, Ohio.

Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 14 Feb Bryony Griffith & Will Hampson Folk The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club at The Ship Hotel, Leigh-on-Sea, 01702 715111 14 Feb Lee Mead The star of TV’s ‘Any Dream Will Do’, with his band perform a collection of love songs and fabulous hits from his new album. Cliffs Pavilion, Southendon-Sea, 01702 351135 15 Feb Sounds Serene Lunchtime recital by voice and harp duo. Brentwood Cathedral, Brentwood, 01277 265288 16 Feb DM Bob & Country Jem Two-piece lo-fi punk dragged through the Louisiana swamps! Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 16 Feb Casablanca Sunshine Indie band. The Square, Harlow, 01279 305000 17 Feb Letz Zep Led Zeppelin tribute.

Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 17 Feb Michael Messer Regarded as one of the greatest slide guitarists ever, alongside Duane Allman & Ry Cooder. High Barn, Great Bardfield, 01371 811291 17 Feb The John Law Trio Breathtaking original and popular jazz. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 17 Feb Limehouse Lizzy Thin Lizzy tribute. Thameside Theatre, Grays, 0845 300 5264 17 Feb Robin Jones Sextet One of the finest exponents of the Afro-Cuban jazz idiom. Fleece Jazz at Stoke By Nayland Hotel, Leavenheath, 01787 211865 18 Feb Voodoo Child Rock. The Independent, Braintree, 18 Feb Ola Onabule See 5 Feb. High Barn, Great Bardfield, 01371 811291 19 Feb An Evening of Country Music With Dog Gone Honkabilly Band, Cheryl Holliwell and Cliff Hayden. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 19 Feb Docklands Sinfonia An exciting new symphony orchestra that celebrates the very best of British orchestral music. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 19 Feb Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra Khachaturian, Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 19 Feb The East Coast Wanderers Jazz. Colchester Jazz Club at Stanway Rovers Football Club, Colchester, 01206 540354

20 Feb Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker & John Doyle A rare chance to see three of the world’s finest musicians share a stage together. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 21 Feb InMe Alternative rock band based in Brentwood. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 23 Feb Big Boy Bloater British R&B and Blues guitarist. High Barn, Great Bardfield, 01371 811291 24 Feb Neil Hannon See panel.

Grignon Hall at Felsted School, Felsted, 01371 822619 24 Feb Martin Jarvis Tom Jones tribute. Weston Homes Community Stadium, Colchester, 01621 890153 24 Feb Preston Reed One of the greatest guitarists in the world. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 24 Feb The Quentin Ciollins/Brandon Allen Quartet Jazz. Marigold Blues Club at Harlow Cricket Club, Harlow, 01279 414174 24 Feb The ELO Experience Rock tribute. Thameside Theatre, Grays, 0845 300 5264 24 Feb Mark Crooks Quartet Jazz.

Fleece Jazz at Stoke By Nayland Hotel, Leavenheath, 01787 211865 25 Feb Redbridge Brass and Organ In Concert Works by Bach, Gabrielli, Saint-Saens and Widor. Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Epping, 01268 781268 25 Feb Mad Dog Blues Band Blues.

The Onley Arms, Braintree, 25 Feb The Small Fakers Small Faces tribute band. The Square, Harlow, 01279 305000 25 Feb The ZZ Tops Rock tribute. High Barn, Great Bardfield, 01371 811291 25 Feb The Indians Irish country band.

West Cliff Theatre , Clacton-on-Sea, 01255 433344 25 Feb Polar Bear London-based avant-garde jazz combo. Lakeside Theatre at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 25 Feb And Finally ... Phil Collins Tribute. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 25 Feb YolanDa Brown MOBO Award winning saxophonist regarded as the emerging ‘voice’ of mainstream Jazz in the UK. Thameside Theatre, Grays, 0845 300 5264 25 Feb Paul Lillie and the Memphis Orchestra Elvis Las Vegas concert tribute. Bocking Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01279 815464 26 - 16 Feb Happy and Glorious To celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee, former Royal Correspondent and broadcaster Jennie Bond will host an evening of much loved music from across Britain and favourite themes from TV and Radio. With the London Concert Orchestra, conducted by Gavin Sutherland. Guest Singers Rosemary Squires & James Graeme and Piper Finlay MacDonald.

Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

Essex

5 FEBRUARY LUCINDA BELLE ORCHESTRA Singer, songwriter and jazz harpist Lucinda Belle is a rising star of the British music scene. Belle’s soft toned melodies ring out over the cafe jazz of her versatile orchestra whose tunes effortlessly reference 1920’s Parisian gypsy cool and pop icons such as Lady Gaga and Amy Winehouse. Lakeside Theatre, University of Essex, Colchester.

26 Feb Robert Wolfe Organ concert.

Empire Theatre, Halstead, 01621 890153 26 Feb Bob Dwyer’s Bix and Pieces Jazz. Colchester Jazz Club at Stanway Rovers Football Club, Colchester, 01206 540354 26 Feb Rich Clifford and the Young Once Cliff Richard & The Shadows tribute. Waldegraves Holiday & Leisure Park, Mersea Island, 01206 382898 27 Feb The Fay Hield Trio An outstanding singer and former member of The Witches of Elswick. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 28 Feb Seth Lakeman Celebrated folk singer-songwriter and virtuoso fiddler. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 28 Feb Lynne Heraud & Pat Turner Folk. The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club at The Ship Hotel, Leigh-on-Sea, 01702 715111 29 Feb Chas NO Dave Chas Hodges performs solo all the Chas & Dave hits and more. The Ivory Rooms, Billericay, 01277 632378 4 Mar Larry and the Streamers Sounds of the 60s. Towngate Theatre, Basildon, 01268 465465

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 8 Feb Heritage Silks The exhibition provides a chance to get close to some of the glorious silk furnishing fabrics created by Warner & Sons and appreciate their intricate design and vibrant colours. Weds 10am-4pm.

Warner Textile Archive at Warners Mill, Braintree, 01376 557741 1 - 26 Feb Colchester 24 This exhibition will take you on a nostalgic trip looking at Colchester as a town. See a selection of photographs taken in Colchester on one day in 1986. Hollytrees Museum, Colchester, 01206 282940 1 - 26 Feb Those Summer Places Paintings by Norfolk-based artist Anthony Cleyndert. The Gallery at Parndon Mill, Harlow, 01279 426042 1 Feb - 15 Apr Embroideries from the East Textiles and costumes from India and Asia. Saffron Walden Museum, Saffron Walden, 01799 510333

1 - 23 Feb Laure Prouvost: The Wanderer (Betty Drunk) A newly commissioned film and installation. Based on a script by artist Rory Macbeth, who without knowledge of German translated Kafka’s The Metamorphosis into English, Betty Drunk follows characters as they undergo a series of increasingly bizarre experiences, navigating a path through situations in which reality becomes increasingly uncertain. Art Exchange at University of Essex, Colchester, 01206 873333 1 - 25 Feb Dan Beecroft Inspirational photography with a contemporary twist and a sense of humour. Beecroft Art Gallery, Westcliff-on-Sea, 01702 347418 1 Feb - 25 Apr Festival of Britain 1951 Cabinet display which shows Warner & Sons wove and printed fabrics for the Festival of Britain in 1951. They were proud to be chosen to design and produce the fabrics for the Regatta restaurant next to the Royal Festival Hall. 60 years on, this temporary display celebrates the company’s role in that vibrant cultural event. Warner Textile Archive at Warners Mill, Braintree, 01376 557741 1 Feb - 2 Apr Anti Photography An exhibition of photographic works which explores the importance of a strand of conceptual practice that risks not being seen as photography at all. It explores these concepts over the two sites and is guest curated by Duncan Wooldridge. Beecroft Art Gallery, Westcliff-on-Sea, 01702 347418 3 Feb - 31 Mar Journey to the Podium This exhibition is a culmination of a three year project and provides, through art, a remarkable insight into the world of dedication, focus and sacrifice demanded of an aspiring Olympic and Paralympic athlete. In the build up to the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, Essex County Council established the Team Essex Ambassadors Award, which aims to support and nurture local athletes who have been identified as having the potential to compete in the London 2012 games. To celebrate and capture talented athletes, Essex County Council’s Team annually commissioned artists to ‘Adopt an Athlete’ and create artworks that mark their journey to the podium, or at least the 2012 Games. Beecroft Art Gallery, Westcliff-onSea, 01702 347418

4 Feb - 7 May Steven Claydon: Culpable Earth The first major exhibition of Steven Claydon’s work, for which the artist is developing a new body of work comprising sculpture, video and print. firstsite, Colchester, 01206 577067 13 Feb - 24 Mar Marc Camille Chaimowicz: Jean Genet… The Courtesy of Objects, Chapter Three, featuring Dan Fox Photographic exhibition. Focal Point Gallery, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 534108 13 Feb - 20 Apr Harlow Get Set! Harlow’s primary and secondary schools, Harlow College and the academies will be exhibiting art work centred around the London Olympics 2012. Gibberd Gallery at the Civic Centre, Harlow, 01279 446041

SPECIAL EVENTS 4 Feb Dunmow Book Fair 10am4pm. Foakes Hall, Great Dunmow, 01245 361609 6 Feb Snowdrop Sunday Wander around the valley walk in awe of all the different varieties of snowdrops. 11am-4pm. Hedingham Castle, Castle Hedingham, 01787 460261 11 - 12 Feb Everything but the Squeak Week! Watch Mrs Crocombe Audley End’s resident cook - prepare a whole host of traditional Victorian pork recipes. Audley End House & Gardens, Saffron Walden, 01223 582700 11 - 12 Feb Southend Spring Craft & Gift Show A show packed full of amazing items for you to purchase - over 150 stands under one roof. Southend Tennis & Leisure Centre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 54623 11 - 19 Feb Woo at the Zoo Lots of special events and activities for Valentines!

Colchester Zoo, Colchester, 01206 331292 12 Feb Wedding Fair 11am-4pm. Civic Centre, Southend-on-Sea, 01474 815 463 12 Feb Wedding Exhibition 11am4pm. Civic Centre, Southend-on-Sea, 13 Feb Pirates and Mermaids Can pirates and mermaids work together to solve the clues and complete the challenges to find Birdnest Beard’s buried treasure? Go along in costume! Booking essential. Thorndon Country Park, Brentwood, 0845 603 7624 13 Feb Snowdrop Sunday See 6 Feb. Hedingham Castle, Castle Hedingham, 01787 460261

13 - 17 Feb Medieval Medicine and Surgery Find out what it was like to visit a doctor in medieval times. Colchester Castle Museum, Colchester, 01206 282939 14 - 15 Feb Tudors: Live Interact with family characters who will let you in on the secrets of Cressing Temple in the late 1500s, and share their pastimes. Booking essential.

Cressing Temple Barns, Witham, 0845 603 7624 15 - 19 Feb Everything but the Squeak Week! See 11-12 Feb. Audley End House & Gardens, Saffron Walden, 01223 582700 16 Feb LDN Wrestling Cage Match Princes Theatre, Clacton-on-Sea, 01255 686633 16 - 18 Feb Creative Crafts Show Stands, workshops and displays including the Braintree Wool Gatherers Knitting Group, Essex WI and the Essex Silk Painters plus new displays form the Warner Textile Archive.

10am-5pm. Crowne Plaza Colchester - Five Lakes, Tolleshunt Knights, 17 Feb Knights, Princesses and Dragons Quest Pick up a secret map and solve the riddles through the woods.

10.30am. Thorndon Country Park, Brentwood, 0845 603 7624 18 Feb Stamp Fair & Exhibition From 10.30am. British Legion Meorial Hall, Witham, 01376 561843 18 - 19 Feb Heart FM Wedding Fayre Large wedding show. Brentwood Centre, Brentwood, 01277 215151 19 Feb Wrestle Force - Ultimate Fury! Wrestling showtime. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 19 Feb Dream 100 Kids Trust Wedding Fayre 11am-3pm. The Cliff Hotel, Harwich, 20 Feb Snowdrop Sunday See 6 Feb. Hedingham Castle, Castle Hedingham, 01787 460261 21 Feb Saffron Walden Emporium Antiques & Collectables. Saffron Walden Town Hall, Saffron Walden, 01763 837171 23 Feb Essex Tourism and Leisure Show The show provides visitors with inspiration for great days out and short breaks in the East and South East of England, London & beyond. Over 90 Exhibitors. 10am-3.30pm.

Crowne Plaza Colchester - Five Lakes, Tolleshunt Knights, 01621 868888 25 Feb Colchester’s Cruel Past Journey through time and meet characters from the past that we don’t normally talk about. 10am-4pm. Colchester Castle Museum, Colchester, 25 - 26 Feb Brentwood Spring Craft & Gift Show A show packed full of amazing items for you to purchase - over 150 stands under one roof. Brentwood Centre, Brentwood, 01702 54623 26 Feb Wedding Open Day 11am3pm. Essex Golf & Country Club, Earls Colne, 01787 221101 26 Feb Wedding Fair 11am-4pm.

Thurrock Civic Hall, Grays, 01474 815 463 26 Feb Record Fair From 10am. Bocking Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01279 815464

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Cambridgeshire

King’s Parade & Trinity Street, Cambridge

Ian Howard www.ianhoward.smugmug.com

King’s Parade

Trinity Street

King’s College is located on the west side of this charming historic street, hence the name, and dominates the scene with the east end of its large Chapel on view. Also on the street is the University of Cambridge Senate House and Great St Mary's, the historic University Church, not to mention lots of wonderful independent shops.

One of the city’s prettiest thoroughfares (and formerly the High Street), with all sorts of shopping opportunities. Of course, there’s also Trinity College itself, Cambridge’s largest and richest college founded by none other than Henry VIII back in 1546. It boasts a long list of alumni including Sir Isaac Newton and Prince Charles.

Byard Art Wonderful art gallery oppposite King’s College Chapel with an innovative exhibition programme of solo and mixed shows by contemporary artists. 01223 464646 Cambridge Wine Merchants There’s four of these award winning wine shops n the city, including King’s Parade.

01223 309309 Cambridge University Press Bookshop This is no ordinary bookshop. Its two floors house around 25,000 different titles, both academic and educational, all of them from Cambridge University Press.

01223 333333

Page Fine Jewellery Beautiful jewellery, including bespoke wedding rings, engagement rings, master cut diamonds, Bespoke Jewellery and platinum jewellery.

01223 313443 Cambridge Wine Merchants There’s four of these award winning wine shops n the city, including King’s Parade.

01223 309309 The Little Gift Shop on the Corner Gift store with a large range of Moorcroft giftware and enamels, Deans bears, Sarah's Bears of Cambridge and more. The building is the home of the famous statue of William Harvey who discovered the flow of blood.

01223 315214 Primavera Art gallery and shop bringing together some of the finest art and crafts in Britain today. 01223 357708 Rainbow Cafe Cafe serving only totally vegetarian food and specialising in Vegan and Gluten Free food, with everything made fresh on the premises every day. 01223 321551

Basket tea light with white painted heart 10cm x 10cm, £12, from Breeze, a wonderful gift and home accessories shop on Trinity Street. 01223 354403 134|eastevents.co.uk

Cambridge Chop House The restaurant, specialising in the finest steaks and chops, has a wonderful cellar area, spacious, with white washed walls. The ground floor area has views of the Chapel and Kings Parade.

01223 359506 Cambridge Chop House The restaurant, specialising in the finest steaks and chops, has a wonderful cellar area, spacious, with white washed walls. The ground floor area has views of the Chapel and Kings Parade.

01223 359506 Cambridge Contemporary Art Gallery Gallery specialising in in handmade prints, paintings, sculptures and crafts. 01223 324222 The Vaults The Vaults combines fine dining and sophisticated drinking, so that you can start and end your night under one roof. The restaurant offers a variety of rooms and tables, while the stylish bar is a great setting for any occasion with atmospheric lighting and an eclectic mix of smooth tunes.

Great cocktails, great wine list and an extensive range of draught and bottled beers.

01223 506090

Nomads has a wonderful selection of unusual jewellery, textiles and artifacts from around the world. Down the stairs, in this Alladin’s cave of vibrant colour, you will find individually sourced, hand crafted, lovingly made, authentic, high quality goods. As an independent shop, importing direct from the source for the past 3 decades, Nomads is proud of the quality of the goods and the reasonable prices they can offer. A visit to Nomads is like a mini tour around the world; award winning embroideries from India, didgeridoo's from Australia, soapstone carvings from Zimbabwe, recycled goods from Nepal, Tibetan singing bowls, textiles and jewellery from 5 continents. 5 King’s Parade 01223 324588

Felted wool waistcoat from £50, Handwoven wool scarf £25, felted wool hat £20 all from the Kullu Valley in Northern India

s iles air ext nst wt w n e p do ing ho cit n s Ex mai the in

The Little Gift Shop on the Corner We stock an exclusive range of Lila Jewellery for that perfect Valentine’s gift.

Silver Earrings, Bangles, Necklaces & Rings, Contemporary & Tribal Jewellery, Kelims, Rugs, Bags, Textiles, Scarves & Shawls, Throws, Soft Furnishings, Cushions, Boxes, Mirrors, Lanterns, Tibetan Artifacts, including Singing Bowls...

Lila Jewellery is made with Swarovski crystal elements and comes in many different shapes and sizes.

18 Rose Crescent (off Trinity Street), Cambridge CB2 3LL

01223 315214

5 Kings Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ open daily 10am - 6.30pm (Sun 12pm - 5.00pm) www.nomads.uk.com www.facebook.com/nomadskingsparade Tel: 01223 324588

Unique independent restaurant in the heart of historic Cambridge city centre Established 1998 97 High Street, Newmarket, CB8 8JH Tel: 01638 667000 18 King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SP Tel: 01223 313443

Perfect for a romantic meal, private party or legendary cocktail.

Live music every friday night – check our web site for details

18 Market Street, Ely, CB7 4LS Tel: 01353 663439 Email: sales@page-finejewellery.co.uk www. page-finejewellery.co.uk

14a Trinity Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TB • 01223 506090 w w w.t h e v a u l t s . b i z

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We are Number O ne Trinity Street, and are proud to be the public face of the University Pr ess in Cambridge.

2012 sees us celebr ate the Bookshopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 20th anniversary, so why not pop in to browse across a w ide range of subjec ts, and check our Face book and Twitter sites for regular prom otions.

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1 Trinity Street, Cambridge CB2 1SZ Phone 01223 333333 www.cambridge.org/bookshop

What’s on in February

Cambridgeshire

2 - 5 FEBRUARY HOLIDAY ON ICE

THEATRE & SHOWS 1 Feb American Anthems Spectacular Rock Musical based around the search for a legendary rock star who disappeared in the early 90’s at the height of his fame. Route 66 FM leads the search for the rock star, Rocky Rhodes, tracking him across America to bring him back for one last concert. Appearing as a guest star is the legendary John Parr, who had a worldwide No.1 hit with “St Elmo’s Fire.” Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 1 - 4 Feb Neighbourhood Watch Alan Ayckbourn’s 75th play, an hilarious cautionary tale of the dangers of taking the law into your own hands, received huge critical acclaim when it premiered in 2011. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 1 - 4 Feb Thyestes Blurring the boundaries between theatre and reality, this production of Seneca’s classic tragedy brings its raw brutality full circle, right round to the dark comedy and intricate meta-theatre inherent in the text. ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 2 - 5 Feb Holiday On Ice: Tropicana See panel. The Exec at The East of England Showground, Peterborough, 0844 581 1315 3 Feb Opera Dudes: Licensed To Trill With their unique blend of style, swing and slapstick humour, this is one of the funniest and most original double acts you will have seen. Thriplow Village Hall, Thriplow, 01763 208654 3 Feb Jesterlarf Comedy Club Top stand-up. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 4 Feb Opera Dudes: Licensed To Trill See 3 Feb. Ickleton Village Hall, Ickleton, 01799 531916 4 - 5 Feb Peter Pan The junior cast of Eden Dance perform a dynamic interpretation of this popular tale. Mumford Theatre at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 0845 196 2320 4 - 5 Feb Olympia Original choreography and inspiring music from The Beatles, Gershwin and Vangelis are brought together to create a show full of elegance, style, rhythm and a bit of ancient history. Mumford Theatre at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 0845 196 2320 4 - 5 Feb Dance Sensations Show

by Encore Dance Academy. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 5 Feb Jethro The world’s funniest Cornishman. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 5 Feb Honor Blackman Honor tells the story of her life interspersed with songs, sketches and scenes. A fascinating and entertaining evening of anecdotes from one of Britain’s best-loved Bond girls. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333

Sensuous from start to finish this production of sheer extravagance and highly charged entertainment looks set to melt the ice. With a cast of over 40 world class skaters seamlessly gliding through smouldering boleros, sultry Latin rhythms, Big Band and high-octane Rock ‘n’ Roll, this show simply exudes passion.

Created and choreographed by Robin Cousins and featuring the music of Barry Manilow, it’s a show not to be missed.

East of England Showground.

5 Feb Snow Play Interactive show where you can play with all types of snow, snowmen, ice and snowballs and help to try to keep winter where he belongs – in the garden! The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 7 Feb Where did it all go right?

The ever-industrious ponydance, champions of comedy dance-theatre and all things brilliantly average, serve up their latest and tastiest. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 7 - 11 Feb Canterbury Tales Chaucer’s ‘Canterbury Tales’ may be familiar to a few English students ... But have you ever considered them expressed through a variety of genres including puppetry, physical theatre and operetta style? You may be surprised (and delighted) to discover that people in the 14th century were not all that different from us! ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 7 - 11 Feb Mogadishu “One of the most critically acclaimed debuts of 2011, Mogadishu is a bold, powerful drama which explores the clash of youth, class, race and justice. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 7 - 11 Feb Oleanna Oleanna is a chilling dissection of power and gender in academia.

Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 7 - 11 Feb Machine of Death Sid loathes Norma’s endless party games, but how far will he go to sabotage them when a machine of death gets involved? Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 8 Feb Devious Minds Deviously funny and fiendishly clever mind-tricks from Dean Maudsley and Tim Shoesmith, professional members of The Magic Circle. Bythorn Village Hall, Bythorn, 01832 710153 8 Feb Sally Morgan TV’s psychic medium. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 8 - 11 Feb Bereavement: The Musical In this brand-new comedy musical, the big secret about bereavement is revealed: no-one really knows what they should be

doing. Curtain up and spotlight on six characters as they blunder through bereavement’s funny little cabaret, trying to make sense of grief and the unexpected extras it throws up ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 9 Feb Devious Minds Deviously funny and fiendishly clever mind-tricks from Dean Maudsley and Tim Shoesmith, professional members of The Magic Circle. Cottenham Village Hall, Cottenham, 01954 288748 10 Feb Derek Acorah TV’s psychic medium. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 10 Feb Vertigo A suprising tale of two young people struggling to keep their balance as their lives spin out of control. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 10 Feb Richard Herring Stand-up comedy. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 11 Feb Brendan Cole ‘Live & Unjudged’ Dance and music show with the popular Strictly Come Dancing star. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 12 Feb Simon Callow Reading excerpts from his soon to be published biography, Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World, Simon Callow discusses his love for the work of one of Britian’s most prolific authors. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 12 Feb Back To Broadway Musical theatre show. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 13 Feb Giselle The story of Giselle and her aristocratic but duplicitous lover Albrecht is set to a glorious score and brought to life by the magnificent costumes and virtuoso performances of the Russian State Ballet of Siberia. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 14 Feb Swan Lake The greatest romantic ballet of all performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 14 - 18 Feb The Boys in the Band With an all-male cast, Mart Crowley’s hard-

hitting drama about homosexuality in the 1960s comes to the ADC stage for the very first time. ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 14 - 18 Feb All The Fun Of The Fair David Essex and Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway invite you to a roller coaster ride of a musical, underscored by a helter-skelter of David Essex hits and album favourites.

Broadway Theatre, Peterborough, 0844 850 0 850 14 - 18 Feb Weekend Breaks A black comedy about culture clashes, wine, wit and Whitby, John Godber’s hilarious dark comedy sees the playwright at his perceptive best. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 14 - 18 Feb Cambridge Gang Show he Scouts and Guides present Cambridge Gang Show, a variety show for all the family with singing, dancing and sketches. Mumford Theatre at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 0845 196 2320 14 - 18 Feb A View from the Bridge Arthur Miller’s tale of twisted knives, paper dolls and what it means to be a man. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 14 - 18 Feb Uneasy Dreams An adaptation of the short stories and sketches of Franz Kafka. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 15 Feb Sleeping Beauty Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse. Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 15 Feb Devious Minds Deviously funny and fiendishly clever mind-tricks from Dean Maudsley and Tim Shoesmith, professional members of The Magic Circle. Robert Arkenstall County Primary School, Haddenham, 01353 749188 15 Feb There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly This magical new show has been written especially for

eastlife.co.uk|137

What’s on in February

Cambridgeshire

17 FEBRUARY PETE FIRMAN Following a fantastic run at this year’s Edinburgh Festival everyone’s favourite comedic conjuror is taking his hilarious new 5-star show Jiggery Pokery on a national tour.

Expect amazing feats that defy logic, a fast and furious delivery of gags and astounding tricks that will leave you dumbfounded for days! The Junction, Cambridge

parents to enjoy with their children. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 15 Feb Patrick Monahan Lovable comedian Patrick Monahan blends a high energy style with hilarious and engaging stories of his Irish/Iranian/Teeside heritage. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 15 - 18 Feb G.G.T.H. The Outside Joke presents a brand new, multimedia sketch comedy. ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 16 Feb Bob the Builder Live!

Everyone’s favourite builder live on stage.

Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 16 Feb Devious Minds Deviously funny and fiendishly clever mind-tricks from Dean Maudsley and Tim Shoesmith, professional members of The Magic Circle. Upwood Village Hall, Upwood, 01487 814114 16 Feb American Anthems See 1 Feb. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 17 Feb Johann Strauss Gala The acclaimed Johann Strauss Dancers and Orchestra return with an enchanting new show for 2012, as the stage is set for the magic of their Viennese Ball. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851

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17 Feb Molly Naylor: My Robot Heart - Pay What You Like A charming and gently interactive storytelling show exploring love, fear and the relationship between the two. With ‘wedding band’ The Middle Ones. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 17 Feb Pete Firman See panel. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 17 - 18 Feb Charlie and Lola The phenomenally popular children’s television show comes to the stage, using live puppetry to tell the story of Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 20 Feb What I Heard About The World A theatre piece with songs: one original, one karaoke. Join Third Angel and mala voadora as they attempt to descirbe the whole world. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 21 - 25 Feb The Priory Laughter, tears, dancing, dressing up, cake, cocaine...a farcical recipe for a tragicomic masterpiece.

ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 21 - 25 Feb A Midsummer Night’s Dream Cambridge University Marlowe Society return to the Arts Theatre using a blend of movement, mask-work and new music to tell the story of Shakespeare’s best-love play.

Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 21 - 25 Feb Les Justes Les Justes asks us questions that are as important now as they ever were. Questions about morality, right and wrong and whether violence is ever justified. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 21 - 25 Feb Pilot A three-man, onescene farce set entirely in the cockpit of a plane. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 22 - 25 Feb The Seventh Seal This theatrical re-working of Ingmar Bergman’s influential film dangles between dream and reality, life and death, and tragedy and comedy. ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 23 - 25 Feb Cinderella Cambridge University Ballet Club brings this wonderful story to life in its own way. Set to Prokofiev’s beautiful score and complete with props and costumes that will amaze and delight, this is a production enjoyable for the whole family.

Mumford Theatre at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 0845 196 2320 24 Feb Terry Alderton Comedian, as Seen on BBC3’s Edinburgh Gala, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Dave’s One Night Stand and Comedy Central. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 24 Feb John Peel’s Shed In 2002, John Osborne won a competition on John Peel’s Radio One show. His prize was a box of records that took eight years to listen to. This is an ode to radio, those records and anyone

who’s ever sought solace in wireless. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 24 Feb James Sherwood One of the UK’s foremost musical comedians. Angles Theatre, Wisbech, 01945 474447 25 Feb Silent Echo A new thriller that begins with laid back humour but races to a heartpounding and unexpected climax. Angles Theatre, Wisbech, 01945 474447 25 - 26 Feb Polish Dance Spectacular 12 nationally & internationally acclaimed dance companies, come together for the eighth time to present an atmospheric and enchanting song & dance spectacular, featuring over 300 talented performers.

Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 26 Feb Footlights A night of sublime comedy sketches, songs and stand-up. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 27 Feb Bryony Kimmings & Friends: Art Crush A rip-roaring, sparkletastic ‘love in’ of a performance evening, topped off with silly chat, fun tunes and dancing about! The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 28 - 3 Feb Footlights Spring Revue 2012: Donors Comedy sketch show. ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 28 - 3 Feb The Collector Psychological thriller. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 28 - 3 Feb The Country A stark and darkly comic dissection of a couple’s fidelity, this intriguing play is part domestic thriller, part word battle, and part game of rock / paper / scissors. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 29 Feb Jimeoin Hilarious show of world-class stand-up comedy from Irish/Australian superstar. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 29 Feb The Table Fresh from an award winning sell out run at the Pleasance, Edinburgh, puppet innovators Blind Summit Theatre present their brand new show about a puppet stuck on a table. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 29 Feb - 3 Mar The Mikado Arguably the most popular and well loved opera ever written, The Mikado is Gilbert & Sullivan at the height of their powers. Presented by Cambridge University Gilbert & Sullivan Society. Mumford Theatre at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 0845 196 2320 31 Jan - 1 Feb Mother Courage and Her Children Brecht’s play comes to life in a vibrant, visceral production, in which the text’s simultaneous capacity for humour and poignancy is brought to vital climax, a retelling that asks audiences for once to engage with the epic without losing sight of the question of human sufferance.

ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085

31 Jan - 4 Feb Elektra Ezra Pound and Rudd Fleming’s visionary translation relocates the Greek tragedy to the deep south of America in a startling new take on this gripping tale of family feud and retribution. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 31 Jan - 4 Feb Rookie Ballsy new sketch show brimming with contradictions and those bloody women you love to hate.

Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085

MUSIC 2 Feb Sitkovesky Trio and Friends Ravel, Brahms, Framck. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 2 Feb Nick Mulvey + Ana Silvera + Gil Karpas Three singer-songwriters.

The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 3 Feb James Morrison The Rugby boy-done-good, whose emergence on the UK music scene at the age of just 21, left the music critics speechless. Hits so far have included the blues-soaked Wonderful World and the spine-tingling You Give Me Something Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 3 Feb Big Ten Cambridge ska favourites with special guests The Skanx and The Binewski Murder. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 4 Feb City of London Sinfonia Scott of the Antarctic This landmark concert tour retraces the steps of Captain Scott’s ill-fated expedition to the South Pole in music, images and words. Excerpts from Vaughan Williams’ film score Scott of the Antarctic are interwoven with moving readings from Scott’s diary, along with the world premiere of Cecilia McDowell’s new piece setting music to words by poet Seán Street, who uses as his inspiration entries in the Scott journals. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 4 Feb Ely Cathedral Choir A concert specially devised for Ely Cathedral Choir´s forth coming tour to Norway. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01353 660349 4 Feb St Mary’s Concert Orchestral and choral music performed by local players and singers, directed by Matthew Rudd. Includes Handel´s Messiah Pt II; Vivaldi´s Concerto for Two Trumpets, and music to celebrate the Queen´s Diamond Jubilee.

7.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Swaffham Bulbeck 7 Feb Cambridge University Jazz Orchestra CUJO have won gold awards in UK-wide big band competitions and have collaborated with world-famous musicians, composers and arrangers such as Mark Nightingale, Gareth Lockrane, Steve Waterman, Issie Barratt and Mike Gibbs. ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085

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What’s on in February 7 Feb Anthony John Clarke Folk singer-songwriter. St Neots Folk Club at The Priory Centre, St Neots, 01234 376278 10 Feb Delta Ladies Aka Vicky and Diana of acclaimed band Elephant Shelf with some swampy Cajun fiddle based roots magic. Cambridge Folk Club at The Golden Hind, Cambridge, 01638 603986 10 Feb Federal Black Forty Five piece rock band from Cambridge known for their high voltage, passion-filled hard rock.Plus As We Climb + The Famous Class.

The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 10 Feb Robert Wolfe Organ concert.

Angles Theatre, Wisbech, 01945 474447 10 Feb Rockin’ Revival Featuring tribute to Connie Francis and Billy Fury. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 11 Feb Pete Atkin Singer-songwriter and radio producer notable for his 1970s musical collaborations with Clive James.

Acoustic Routes at CB2 Basement, Cambridge, 11 Feb Champagne Valentine’s Concert: Rhapsody in Blue A range of romantic classics performed by Warren Mailley Smith. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01353 660349 11 Feb Let’s Hang On Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons tribute. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 11 Feb City of Cambridge Symphony Orchestra Wagner, Tchaikovsky,

Marina & The Diamonds The Junction 24 February

Cambridgeshire Britten, Schumann. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 300085 12 Feb Spaghetti Western Orchestra Armed with over 100 instruments and excellent comic timing, the Spaghetti Western Orchestra is to stage a musical standoff performing a fistful of Ennio Morricone classics from the movies that made Clint Eastwood a star. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 12 Feb Concert in Aid of Cam Sight Programme of Mozart. Featuring pianist Mateusz Borowiak. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 357851 13 Feb Ghostpoet Ghostpoet, the softly spoken 24 year-old started out winning over BBC Radio 1’s foremost tastemaker Gilles Peterson with a handful of off-kilter, loopy electronic ditties blessed with his delightfully rambling musings on modern life. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 14 Feb Tattie Jam Cutting-edge Scottish prog folk band with harmonised vocals, cello, guitar and other instruments. St Neots Folk Club at The Priory Centre, St Neots, 01234 376278 15 Feb Dave Burland Folk. Ely Folk Club at The Lamb Hotel, Ely, 01353 740999 15 Feb Tom Poster Piano concert. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 503333 16 Feb Rizzle Kicks At 19 years old, Harley Alexander-Sule and Jordan Stephens are two of the most exciting teenage talents to emerge in 2011. Friends since they were five, the duo combines an old skool hip-hop sound with a forward thinking pop mentality. Littering their lyrics with wry pop culture references and a sharp sense of humour. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 16 Feb SambaSunda Quintet Groundbreaking gamelan innovators SambaSunda have a flair for experimentation both forwards and backwards in tradition. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 17 Feb Clive Carroll Expect “a joyful fairground ride of instrumental styles spanning the fields of traditional, classical and jazz with inspirations running from newgrass and fusion jazz to Irish stylings. Suppor from Cambridge band Sunday Driver. Cambridge Folk Club at The Golden Hind, Cambridge, 01638 603986 17 Feb Shawn Cuddy & His Band Country. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 18 Feb The Filaments Punk/rock/ska.

Man on the Moon, Cambridge, 01223 474144 18 Feb Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra The programme features Khachaturian’s delightful Masquerade Suite, with its famous lilting waltz theme.

Plus, Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2 and Rimsky Korsakov’s exotic Scheherazade.

Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851

18 Feb Perry Dennis and the Twylight Shadows Cliff Richard & The Shadows tribute. Angles Theatre, Wisbech, 01945 474447 18 Feb Showaddywaddy Retro rock n roll band who had massive hits in this 70s and 80s. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 19 Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Tribute Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 20 Feb Britten Sinfonia Couperin, Ades, Ravel, Stravinsky. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 357851 21 Feb George Norris Folk. St Neots Folk Club at The Priory Centre, St Neots, 01234 376278 21 Feb The Willows With a sound that has been described as both beautiful and contemporary, The Willows intricately weave traditional and modern roots music within well crafted songs. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 23 Feb Ronald Brautigam Beethoven, piano concert. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 23 Feb Steve Knightley Steve Knightley is the songwriting force behind Show of Hands, widely acclaimed as the finest acoustic roots duo in England. He is renowned for his strong, trademark narrative songs which reflect the escapades, hopes and fears not only of people in his native West Country but beyond and he pulls no punches when writing highly literate songs about bigger, global issues. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 24 Feb Alec Dankworth’s ‘Spanish Accents’ Alec Dankworth’s longstanding love of all things Spanish provided the inspiration for this exciting project. Gillespie, Metheny, Corea, even Rodrigo are reinvented in flamenco rhythms alongside traditional folk songs and originals creating a wonderful and genuinely Spanish world Cambridge Jazz Club at Hidden Rooms, Cambridge, 01223 362550 24 Feb Joan Baez The most accomplished interpretive folksinger of the 1960s, Joan Baez has influenced nearly every aspect of popular music in a career still going strong.

Baez is possessed of a once-in-a-lifetime soprano, which, since the late ‘50s, she has put in the service of folk and pop music as well as a variety of political causes. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 24 Feb Syrinx Popular classics on flute and harp. Trinity Methodist Church, Wisbech, 01945 463230 24 Feb Graham Robins and Emma Black Folk. Cambridge Folk Club at The Golden Hind, Cambridge, 01638 603986 24 Feb Marina and The Diamonds The new-wave pop work of Marina Lambrini Diamandis, an Abergavenny-born songstress whose work has drawn comparisons with Kate Bush and Florence and the Machine. The

Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 24 Feb John McNicholl Award winning country singer from Foreglen. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 25 Feb Anna Elias and the Forlorn Hope Plus David Gibb & Elly Lucas and Cole Stacey. Acoustic Routes at CB2 Basement, Cambridge, 25 Feb UK Pink Floyd Experience Tribute band. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 25 Feb The Leisure Society Indiefolk maestros The Leisure Society is essentially the brainchild of songwriter and film score composer Nick Hemming. Coming from the same canon as The Divine Comedy and the Mull Historical Society, Nick’s gentle indie anthems revel in acoustic guitars, pianos, harps and infectious melodies. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 26 Feb Purcell School Symphony Orchestra Couperin, Ades, Ravel, Stravinsky. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 457562 27 Feb Academy of Ancient Music JS Bach, Biber, Vivaldi. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 503333

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 2 Feb Fenland Photographer of the Year Awards Exhibition All the best pictures of Fenland in one place. Octavia View, Wisbech.

1 - 4 Feb Frozen Volcano: Mount Erebus in the Antarctic Cambridge volcanologist and author of `Eruptions that shook the world´, Clive Oppenheimer has been visiting Antarctica annually since 2003.

He works there as part of a team carrying out research on the magnificent Erebus Volcano, nearly 3800 metres high and the world´s southernmost active volcano. It featured prominently in the `Frozen Planet´ series and the awesome ice caves depicted there are just a kilometre or so from Erebus.The images chosen for the exhibition are breathtaking. There will be a talk by Clive on 2 Feb. Michaelhouse Centre, Cambridge, 01223 309147 1- 11 Feb Braided Together: Hair in the work of contemporary women artists The exhibition brings together ten international contemporary women artists who each investigate the symbolic meaning of hair in their artwork. The exhibition is the first of its kind to consider hair and women artists, and will investigate concerns such as fragility, power and loss.

Murray Edwards College, Cambridge, 01223 762789 1 - 12 Feb Land and Horse New oil paintings by Tory Lawrence. National Horseracing Museum, Newmarket, 01638 667333 1 - 15 Feb Warm Your Soul A group exhibition of fabulous paintings, prints and sculpture by Lyn Berwick from Ely, Sarah

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What’s on in February

Cambridgeshire

26 FEBRUARY CAMBRIDGE GLASS FAIR The Cambridge Glass Fair is one of the major specialist fairs in the U.K. with around 100 exhibitors selling fine antique and collectable glass from all periods. Exhibitors will also include many contemporary artists showing their own work. Held in the prestigious surroundings of Chilford Hall Vineyard in Cambridgeshire, which is also home to the Curwen Studio, this twice-yearly event features exhibitions, demonstrations and book signings. As usual there will be a special exhibition in the foyer highlighting a particular glass collecting area. This exhibition will feature 18th and 19th century engraved glass and is being curated by Tim Mills and Robert Marris.

Renowned glass Rowan van der Holt will be showing her highly regarded lamp worked jewellery in the Contemporary Hall. Refreshments and free parking are available and there will be live music at lunchtime from our regular guitarist Jerry Harrison. Chilford Hall Vineyard, Linton, Cambs. CB21 4LE. Open from 10.30am – 4.00pm, admission is £5 with free entry for accompanied children under 16. 07887 762 872 www.cambridgeglassfair.com

You can find even more events on our website - and include your own too!

www.eastevents.co.uk Dodkin Rush from Ely, René Viner from Peterborough. Frameworks, Cottenham, 01954 250138 1 - 29 Feb Quaker Tapestry Exhibition A captivating and colourful stitched tale of 350 years of social history is on display for the first time at Ely Cathedral. The world famous Quaker Tapestry tells the story of the Quaker movement and of its huge contribution to the political, economic & social development of this & other nations. Conceived by a brilliant embroiderer Anne Wynn-Wilson over 30 years ago, the 77 embroidered panels were made by 4,000 men, women and children from all over the world. The free exhibition includes a film, audio guides, children´s activities, gift shop and embroidery demonstrations. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01539 722975 1 Feb - 11 Mar Grey matters: Graphite The mineral graphite derives its name from the Ancient Greek ‘to draw/write’.

It is one of the most common materials used for drawing, and also one of the most versatile, allowing the artist to exploit a vast range of effects, from a needle-sharp contour line to the velvety depths of soft pencil shading, sometimes worked into a gleaming, almost metallic, sheen. This exhibition highlights the extraordinary expressive potential of the medium through four centuries of graphite drawings from the Museum’s holdings.

Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900 1 Feb - 18 Mar Mike Glad A Collection of Photographs by the Oscar nominated short film maker. Haddenham Galleries, Haddenham, 01353 749188 1 Feb - 1 Apr England and the Dutch Republic in the age of Vermeer: Coins and medals from the 17th-cenutry See fine examples of 17th-century English and Dutch coins and medals illustrating the great historic figures and naval wars of the period. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900

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1 Feb - 5 May These Rough Notes: Captain Scott’s last expedition This exhibition brings together the last volume of Scott´s diary, on loan from the British Library, with many of the other journals, letters, notebooks and maps from the expedition - reuniting these materials for the first time in a century. The manuscripts, many of which are on public view for the first time, tell the story of the voyage south, the Antarctic winter, the science, sledging journeys and daily life of the expedition, illustrated by stunning photographs. Scott Polar Museum, Cambridge, 01223 336540 1 Feb - 16 Jun Shelf Lives: Four Centuries of Collectors and their Books With more than 8 million items on its shelves, Cambridge University Library is one of the largest accumulations of books and manuscripts in Europe. But its holdings are not a single, uniform entity: instead they consist of a great variety of different collections. This exhibition presents ten such collectors, whose lives span the 16th to the 20th centuries. As well as placing on display some of the most splendid, distinctive and - in a few cases - unexpected items held in the Library, it allows us to observe the changing motives, fashions and tastes of book-collectors over the course four hundred years. Cambridge University Library, Cambridge, 01223 333055 5 Feb - 18 Mar The Starry Rubric Set The group exhibition The Starry Rubric Set (the title taken from a quote from Milton’s poem Paradise Regained) considers classical astrology as a device to bring together new works made by artists who were in residence at Wysing Arts Centre during 2011 and to introduce the three themes of Wysing’s 2012 programme: The Cosmos, The Mirror and The Forest. The exhibition includes site-specific works, moving-image, sound work, sculpture and prints that loosely ex-

plore systems and structures of space and time. Wysing Arts, Bourn, 01954 718881 8 - 23 Feb BA (Hons) Fine Art BA (Hons) Fine Art students from Cambridge School of Art exhibit their work. Ruskin Gallery at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge.

8 - 23 Feb Design Icons: Cambridge Innovation Festival Creative Front Cambridgeshire, part of Anglia Ruskin University, is leading the month-long Design Icons Festival, as part of the Design Council´s Design Fund for Growth initiative.

Over 80 products have been nominated as leading designs to come out of Cambridgeshire. A selection panel of industry experts will shortlist the best products which represent Cambridge design to appear in the exhibition, including the People´s Choice as voted for by members of the public. Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm. Ruskin Gallery at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge.

14 Feb - 1 Apr Henri GaudierBrzeska: Vorticist! Henri GaudierBrzeska’s career as a sculptor was regrettably short. Born in France in 1891, he was killed in action in 1915, aged just 23. Yet in the three and a half years preceding his departure for the trenches he managed to create a remarkable and innovative body of work. Gaudier moved to London from Paris in early 1911.

There he worked alongside prominent figures such as the poet Ezra Pound, the sculptor Jacob Epstein, the painter Wyndham Lewis and the philosopher T.E. Hulme. With them, in 1914, he created Vorticism, Britain’s first avant-garde movement. Through a selection of sculptures and related drawings drawn from the permanent collection, this display explores Gaudier’s Vorticist work, arguably his most significant contribution to the development of modern sculpture. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 17 Feb - 4 Apr Craig Kerrecoe: Peel The Bark From The Tree A solo exhibition of new paintings by the Cambourne-based abstract artist.

Frameworks, Cottenham, 01954 250138

SPECIAL EVENTS Every Saturday Ely Craft and Collectable Market Ely. 8am-2pm.

(01353 662062) 5 Feb Georgian Peterborough Tour The Georgian period is a neglected part of Peterborough’s past. Discover on this tour how the Georgian period had a big impact on Peterborough and the fascinating stories from this time.The tour explores how the town was not quite the backwater we might expect and looks at some of our surviving and missing Georgian buildings. Hear also some of the stories behind our Georgian past, including how Peterborough ended up on a ‘Grand Tour’, attracted one of the country’s best-know artists, had a sedan chair service longer than anywhere else in the country and why a set of bells saved the local MPs life. It also tells the story of the world’s first purpose-built prisoner of war camp!

Peterborough Museum, Peterborough, 01733 452336 15 Feb Twilight at the Museums: Puppet Parade An evening of puppet fun. Make your own puppets and join in the shadow puppet performance. Then, if you dare, go into the old abbey to hear the Twilight Ghost Story. 4.30-7.30pm.

The Farmland Museum & Denny Abbey, Waterbeach, 17 - 18 Feb Cambridge Book Fair Noon-6pm Fri, 10am-5pm Sat. The Guildhall, Cambridge, 19 Feb Wartime Peterborough Tour Take a tour with an ‘ARP warden’ round the streets of the city centre and discover more about Peterborough during the two world wars. Peterborough Museum, Peterborough, 01733 452336 26 Feb Cambridge Glass Fair Leading specialist fair bringing together 300 years of collectable glass in one day. Contemporary artists show their work alongside antique & decorative glass from all periods. 10.30am4pm. Chilford Hall, Linton, 07887 762872 26 Feb What’s In a Name Tour A guide will take you through city streets, exploring the origins of the names and giving a fascinating insight into the history of Peterborough through its streets and their changing uses over the centuries. Peterborough Museum, Peterborough, 01733 452336 26 Feb Cambridge Art & Crafts Market Original & Unique Designed Work by the Stallholder’s. 10.30am-4.30pm. Scotsdales’s Garden Centre, Great Shelford, 27 Feb NSPCC Cambridge Dining Club Luncheon Jacquie Jones, first ‘artist in residence’ for National Horseracing Museum, talks about her lifelong passions and influences.This friendly Dining Club welcomes new members - both men and women- and their guests to join us. 2Courses & Coffee just £16.50. La Mimosa Restaurant, Cambridge, 01954 719745

Cambridgeshire

Diving

Take the

PLUNGE It’s the best sport he never wanted to do. Diving Officer, Joe Blyth, tells us how he fell in love with scuba diving

W

hen my girlfriend first suggested we learn how to scuba dive, I was sceptical I would enjoy it and lacked enthusiasm. But, seeing as we’d booked a holiday to Egypt and would have a few free days in Dahab, it would offer a good opportunity to dive there and see some of the reefs and aquatic life Egypt is known for. Plus, it was something we could learn and potentially enjoy together – brownie points for me, I thought.

So, we signed up to an Ocean Diver course run by the local St Ives Sub Aqua Club (SISAC). Going along for the first time wasn’t nearly so daunting as I thought it would be, as all the members were friendly to us newbies, and ready to offer advice and much-needed help.

The course itself started off with a series of lectures and lessons in the pool.

The instructors were always understand-

ing and patient, and took time to teach us the skills we would need, from taking our first gasps of breath underwater to perfecting our buoyancy, and learning skills that would enable us to deal with ‘what if?’ scenarios in case anything ever went wrong underwater.

We then progressed to open water diving, with a number of trips to inland quarries where we went through our underwater drills and were introduced to the strange world beneath the water. And then, the ultimate aim for any diver – to go to sea. Our first club trip was a weekend in Swanage, and to take our first dive beneath the waves and see our first wreck – albeit only a little fishing vessel – was, to say the least, incredible.

Despite my initial misgivings, I was a diving convert. By the time we made our visit to Egypt I was in love with everything scuba-related, and had spent an entire summer exploring the south coast of the UK. That was seven years ago, and since then my girlfriend and I have crammed in many happy days beneath the water with the club.

Since those first ventures to sea I have dived the D-Day landing wrecks in Normandy, swam along the bows of the scuttled WWI German Fleet off Scapa Flow, entered the tunnels and caverns of the eerily strange cenotes in Mexico, and played with hundreds of grey seals in a

little cove off Northumberland – and many other memorable experiences besides that most people never get to experience.

But joining the club has meant more to me than simply diving – it has meant some fantastic friendships with which to enjoy this amazing underwater world.

It really is the best sport I never wanted to do, and I would recommend it to anybody wanting to try something new for 2012.

If you would like to give diving a go, try Dives are held at One Leisure Centre in St Ives on Sunday evenings for £10.00 per person.

SISAC is running Ocean Diver and Snorkelling Courses in February and March.

If you’re already a diver or snorkeler and wish to get involved, please check out the club website for trips and events or pay us a visit at the leisure centre one Sunday evening.

For full details contact St Ives Sub Aqua Club (SISAC) www.sisac.co.uk trainingofficer@sisac.co.uk Tel. 07550 010289 eastlife.co.uk|143

c I have to say that when I was first approached, a couple of years ago by East Magazine to advertise I viewed it as "just another Magazine" but the price was right!! so I agreed to take a small space.

Now many editions later I find in hard to refuse !!! as the Copy is of excellent quality our advert always looks great.

The staff are really helpful and happy to accommodate position etc.; if at all possible.

When each edition arrives in our office our own members of staff are always interested in looking through the many sections of it.

Our company Classic Wings operate Vintage Aircraft flights from the Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire, so we find that area circulation is perfect for our business. d Sue Reed, Marketing Assistant Classic Wings Vintage Aircraft Flights www.classic-wings.co.uk

www.eastlife.co.uk ...we make it easy for you to do business

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eastlife.co.uk|145

OutEast

Out & about

It’s SNOWDROP time!

Carpets of BEAUTIFUL WHITE FLOWERS will appear all over the region this month.

Here’s a few places to head for a SHOWDROP SPECTACULAR...

CHIPPENHAM PARK The display of naturalised snowdrops at Chippenham Park is among the finest in East Anglia. The many acres of woodland and lakeside gardens are carpeted white for several weeks early in the year and provide an enchanting setting for this magnificent seasonal panorama. Delicious home-made soups, sausages and other refreshments will be available when the park opens each weekend in February, 11am-4pm.

Chippenham, Ely, Cambs 01638 720221 www.chippenhamparkgardens.info

SNOWDROPS ‘Galanthus’ (meaning milk flower) is a small genus of about 20 species of bulbous herbaceous plants in the Amaryllis family. They are lovely flowers and are among the first to raise their heads in the New Year, releasing a fragrance when it is warm.

It is native to a large part of central Europe, but was probably only introduced to the British Isles in the early 16th century. In the 19th century, soldiers were so enchanted by snowdrops that they brought them back from the Crimean War battlefields to plant in their gardens.

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HEDINGHAM CASTLE Enjoy the grounds, recently restored as part of Channel 4’s ‘Landscape Man’, and wander around the valley walk in awe of all the different varieties of snowdrops. Photograph the snowdrops present within the grounds since the 1900s and enter them in to the yearly photographic competition for a chance to win a Hedingham Castle season ticket. Warm yourself with a free glass of mulled wine and make your way to the Garrison floor of the mighty Norman Keep to purchase a warming bowl of homemade soup. Snowdrop Sundays, open 5, 12 & 19 Feb, 11am-4pm. Castle Hedingham Essex 01787 460261 www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk

THE FORGOTTEN GARDENS OF EASTON LODGE See the wonderful display of snowdrops in the gardens and then warm yourself with some homemade soup or perhaps a bacon roll. Sundays 19 & 26 Feb, Noon-4pm. Little Easton, Great Dunmow, Essex www.eastonlodge.co.uk BENINGTON LORDSHIP GARDENS The gardens are famous for the huge drifts of naturalised Snowdrops that cover most of the moat and the grounds around the Norman castle and house in February and March. Over 100 varieties now grow around the garden creating a truly spectacular display. There will be a series of concerts in St Peter’s Church each Sunday in February, from 2.30 to 3.15pm.

Gardens open daily 4th-26th Feb 12-4pm. Benington Lordship, nr Stevenage, Herts 08701 261709 www.beningtonlordship.co.uk ANGLESEY ABBEY, GARDENS & LODE MILL One of the most significant collections in the country with over 200 varieties, some unique to Anglesey.

Join a special weekday tour at 2pm to uncover the fascinating snowdrop story and gain expert advice. Watch an introductory snowdrop film in the Visitor Centre or discover more at the ‘tell’ table.

Garden Guides share

their knowledge and you can start your own collection with the many varieties available in our Plant Centre. 1 – 24 Feb, 2-3pm. Booking advisable on 01223 810080. Quy Road, Lode, Cambridge, Cambs www.nationaltrust.org.uk/angleseyabbey/ WALSINGHAM ABBEY The grounds of Walsingham Abbey are famous for the spectacular ruins of the mediaeval priory and place of pilgrimage, together with an unrivalled display of massed snowdrops in February.

Snowdrop Walks are open daily from 4 Feb – 4 March, 10am-4pm. Common Place, Walsingham, Norfolk 01328 820510 www.walsinghamabbey.com THE PLACE FOR PLANTS Join a walk around the 15acre garden and arboretum with Rupert Eley to see the display of snowdrops and rare winter flowering trees and shrubs. £9.95, 21 Feb, 10.30m. East Bergholt Place, Suffolk 01206 299224 www.placeforplants.co.uk RAVENINGHAM GARDENS The home of Sir Nicholas and Lady Bacon, it was Sir Nicholas' mother, Priscilla Bacon, who added snowdrops to the garden. 12 Feb – 4 March, 11am-4pm Mon-Fri, 2-4pm Sun. Raveningham, Norfolk 01508 548152 www.raveningham.com

For more great places to see Snowdrop displays go to www.eastevents.co.uk/snowdrops2012 eastevents.co.uk|1

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