Exposed Magazine October 2024

A NEW CHAPTER

HAPPy DRINKS!

available until 6.00pm, SUNDay TO FRIDAY

Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail or two!

CHOOSE FROM OVER 20 COCKTAILS TAGGED WITH THE 'CUBANA STAR' IN OUR DRINKS MENU FOR ONLY £7.00! PLUS...

>> House Spirit Double £7.00

>> Selected bottled beers £3.50 - Corona and Super Bock

>> Selected house wines £4.25 per glass or £18.50 per bottle. Choose from Pinot Grigio White, Pinot Grigio Rosé or Montepulciano Red

>> Prosecco - £22.50 per bottle

>> Sangria or Sangria Blanca £22.50 per jug

**DOWNSTAIRS BAR EXTENDED HAPPY OFFER**

We have extended all of the above Happy Drinks offers for a further two hours, until 8pm, Monday to Friday in the downstairs bar **only available in the downstairs bar

available until 6.00pm, SUNDay TO FRIDAY

Call in and chill out at the end of a hard day, unwind and soak up our relaxed Latino vibe whilst enjoying our ‘Happy Tapas’ deals. ANY 2 tapas dishes for £12.95 £5.00 off ANY Of our tapas set menus –– OR ––

Fantastic value when you dine early. APPLIES TO ALL TABLES SEATED AND ORDERING BEFORE OR AT 6PM.

Please note our Happy Drinks and Happy Tapas Offers are not available during December

27: TURNING THE PAGE

Off the Shelf Festival of Words is back for its 33rd year, featuring a vibrant mix of literary events and creative showcases. Ahead of the opening with IT Crowd star Richard Ayoade, we caught up with the festival’s long-standing curators and spoke to Sheffield author Sunjeev Sahota about his latest novel.

22:

THE PERFECT 10

Peddler Market, Sheffield’s iconic street food event, marks its 10th anniversary this October with an epic birthday bash. Founders Ben Smith and Jordan Roberts looked back on a decade of top-notch eats, live music and the growth of their beloved Burton Road venue with Exposed.

36:

TIME TO FALL IN

From the immersive soundscapes of Sensoria to the city’s biggest beer and cider festival, this autumn is packed with unmissable events. Whether it’s award-winning festivals, exploring urban markets or catching horror classics at Celluloid Screams, we’ve got it covered!

62:

MADE IN SHEFFIELD

Sheffield-born singer-songwriter Gia Ford’s stock is on the rise. Last month, the artist spoke to Kathryn Schoon about delving into dark, macabre stories with her debut album Transparent Things

GAFFERS

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FINANCE

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GRAFTERS

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GI’ US A HAND PLZ

Heather Paterson, Mark Perkins, Ruby Deakin, Kathryn Schoon

Exposed is published monthly by

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seckou keita

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funk & soul house party

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sports team

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newton faulkner

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michael head & the red elastic band

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turin brakes

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grace petrie

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SATURDAY 25 JAN 2025

THE MAGIC NUMBERS

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SATURDAY 12 april 2025

fleetwood bac

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foundry, sheffield students’ union western bank, s10 2tg foundrysu.com - foundry@sheffield.ac.uk @foundrysheffield

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WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

ON THE RISE

In the basement of the recently restored Nichols Building in Shalesmoor, a new urban spa has been beautifully brought to life by the people behind R1SE Yoga. Husband-and-wife team Chris and Jennifer Downham have relocated from their spiritual home just across the road in Krynkl to create R1SE Urban Spa, the latest phase of their wellness journey.

As well as their ever-popular yoga classes, the stylish new space allows them to offer even more experiences including Fire and Ice sessions, where customers will take a 75-minute journey of extremes from the sauna to the ice bath, breathwork and massage. These Fire & Ice sessions totally rejuvenate the body and mind while also making your skin feel like you have had a full facial. What makes it truly special is that it’s all about self-care; you’re doing it to yourself. You learn the techniques, keeping the costs much lower while empowering yourself with skills to take home.

Sessions in the new spa can be freeflow or guided, with their expert staff on hand to explain the benefits and science behind each therapy. The guided sessions will offer three different levels: blissed out, high energy or balanced, which will dictate what you actually do in each session, whether it’s breathwork, massage, ice baths, saunas or meditation.

This space will also be home to social nights, club nights and silent discos, utilising their so-bar area, which will feature Chris’ homemade kombuchas, a selection of other non-alcoholic drinks, and flights of drinks.

Explaining the ethos of the spa, Chris said: “The three words we use to describe the spa are ‘chaos, control and calm’; that sums up everything we do. Life is chaotic,

you have to have control systems and we deserve to be calm. It’s all about using your body in different ways to either feel buzzing or to put you in a calming state, and we can switch those experiences up at the touch of a button.

“R1SE is all about performance and recovery – something that isn’t just for athletes, but for everyone. All humans need to perform and recover, whether it’s mentally, emotionally or physically. At R1SE, we use your miraculous bodies and natural stimuli – heat, cold, breath and light – unlocking your ability to perform and recover in the most organic way.”

The spa utilises science and technology to replicate the natural experiences we are missing from a busy urban lifestyle. Chris explained: “We want you to have the scientific benefits of sunshine through red light therapy. The key is to surrender to it because everything is going to change –from temperatures to breathing – so you have to be open-minded.”

R1SE began life in 2018. Up to that point, Chris had owned various businesses over a 30-year period but had to declare bankruptcy when he found himself in the unenviable position of becoming the victim of fraud. Thus, when it came to naming the new yoga studio, ‘rise’ felt like the perfect fit.

R1SE was more than just starting a new business, though; it was a complete change of lifestyle for Chris and a reordering of his priorities. “At that time I had an earnings restriction, so I decided I would work on a community farm and got to understand a lot more about nature and fill in some of the massive gaps that I had in my knowledge.

“There were pros and cons that I could feel from nature and living a different life, and I made the very deliberate decision to live the second half of my life completely opposite to the first half.

“I was always wearing suits, ties and driving Mercs to holiday homes – what in my background was perceived as success. It made me happy, but I’m happier now without that.

“But back then I was getting into my mid-40s, and things were starting to hurt. I was also waking up most nights feeling angry about the guys who had stolen millions of pounds from me and put me in the situation I was in.

“I had the opportunity to start again from scratch in a new field. I was enjoying nature, and my wife’s always done yoga, so the combination of angry head, sore back, and Jen quietly doing the right thing for many years led me to yoga. I went to a studio in Sheffield, and I loved it.

“Old Chris, Chris version one, would have laughed his head off at new Chris in this situation. I went from eating meat to

becoming vegan and not drinking alcohol for five years. I turned my world upside down, and it felt great.”

As he learned more and felt the personal benefits of yoga and breathwork, Chris and Jen decided to take the plunge and open their own yoga studio. Chris had a contact in Krynkl, and they set up shop in the Shalesmoor shipping container unit.

Chris said: “We just gave it loads of passion, and it was really busy from the start. It was much more of an urban feel and very accepting. It was less about unwritten secret rules and more about movement and getting out of pain. I found my passion, and I believe if you find your passion, it’s not work. We should all be able to be as happy as a dog!”

From there, they opened a second venue at Brook Place, while developing the offer to complement the movementbased yoga with other areas of focus such as nutrition, nature, and team and community.

This growth led to the decision to open the urban spa, where they will combine the principles of nature with technology in order to ‘hack into’ well-being. “We live unintentionally like battery chickens; we’re a bit like battery humans in artificial boxes, driving artificial boxes, always at the same temperature, taking antibiotics, and eating artificial food.

“We need to be a bit free-range. Just let ourselves out into the field a bit more. We started moving more towards these principles when we opened Brook Place, and that’s where R1SE then starts to become less R1SE Yoga and more R1SE.

“For me, things have to get better, and at Krynkl, we were standing still, so it felt like the right time. I’d spent six years looking at the Nicholls Building, and the basement seemed like the perfect space for a new spa. What better space for a spa than a former rave cave?”

To check out their sessions, miniretreats and memberships, head over to their website for details: r1se.co.uk/urban-spa-sheffield.

Orchard Square S1

WILD FORAGER

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

experience, reference books, and guidance from mentors to confirm a plant’s identity. Apps can be a helpful starting point, but always double-check with trusted sources before eating anything.

1

Foraging in and around Sheffield has its own rhythm. Living here for 13 years has taught me how you have to be attuned to the subtle shifts in timing – the city’s proximity to the Peak District and its lush woodlands means that choosing which day to venture out is crucial for catching wild food in its prime. Whether you’re foraging for wild garlic in Meersbrook Park or keeping an eye on the bramble patches and greengage trees that line Porter Valley, the same rule applies. The microclimates around Sheffield make the timing even more unpredictable; one side of the city might see mushrooms after a week of rain, while another may still be waiting for that perfect flush.

2 3

THE “TAKE SOME, LEAVE MOST” RULE.

Foragers have an unwritten rule: never take more than you need and always leave more than you found. This respect for nature is key to ensuring that wild food remains abundant for future harvests and for the wildlife that depends on it. Overharvesting can deplete a once trusty patch for years to come, disrupting ecosystems and reducing biodiversity. By leaving plenty behind, foragers ensure that plants and fungi can regenerate, keeping food sources available year after year. This mindset fosters a deeper connection to the land – we take care of the earth so that it can continue to provide for us in return.

YOU NEVER REALLY TRUST IDENTIFICATION APPS.

While plant and mushroom identification apps can be handy, experienced foragers know their limitations. These apps rely on algorithms that can often be wrong, especially when it comes to subtle differences between species – mistakes that could lead to consuming something dangerous. Foragers develop a healthy scepticism towards technology, instead relying on years of personal

4 5

YOU KNOW THE TASTE OF NATURE CHANGES WITH THE LANDSCAPE

One of the most fascinating things about foraging is that the same plant can taste vastly different depending on where it grows. Greens like nettles, dandelions and chickweed harvested from the rich, damp soils by the River Don tend to be tender and milder than those from up on the windswept moors of the Peak District. The environment – the soil, climate, water and surrounding flora – all have a huge impact on flavour, and foragers develop an understanding of how landscape shapes taste. This is something you only learn through years of hands-on experience and is a reminder that food is deeply connected to its environment in ways that supermarket produce rarely reflects.

NOT ALL WILD FOOD IS INSTAGRAMWORTHY

Foragers know that wild food doesn’t look like the stuff you find in supermarkets. It’s often scruffy, uneven and probably has a few bug bites. Berries can be misshapen, leaves weathered, and mushrooms covered in soil. But those imperfections don’t affect the taste or nutritional value. Foragers embrace nature’s unfiltered side, valuing sustainability and flavour over aesthetics – regardless of what you might see us posting on Instagram.

Danielle Gallacher has over 20 years of foraging experience and has authored The Forager’s Almanac, available now for £16.99.

STREET SMARTS

Cambridge Street Collective has been named the Best Food Hall of 2024 at the British Street Food Awards held last month in London. The recognition comes just a few months after the food hall operated by the Blend Family first opened its doors in May 2024, a key milestone in the ongoing Heart of the City redevelopment.

This year’s competition was fierce with other finalists including Kargo in Salford and fellow Sheffield food hall Cutlery Works. Both Steel City venues are also part of the Blend Family’s, and this latest victory marks impressive progress for the organisation as the Neepsend-based Cutlery Works previously took home the same title in 2022 and 2023.

Matt Bigland, founder and CEO of Blend Family, expressed his excitement about the win attributing their success to the exceptional variety of kitchens at Cambridge Street Collective. “This

recognition is a testament to the exceptional array of kitchens we feature at Cambridge Street Collective. From African cuisine and pizza wonders to authentic Asian classics our diverse culinary offerings cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences,” he said.

In addition to its 20 kitchens and four bars, Cambridge Street Collective hosts a range of events and workshops aimed at providing immersive cultural experiences. It also serves as the home for the Blend Culinary Foundation which focuses on combating food poverty and fostering community connections through various workshops, masterclasses and live demonstrations.

Looking ahead, Cambridge Street Collective is already gearing up for its first festive season promising a vibrant atmosphere for friends and families to celebrate together. The venue is set to offer a range of seasonal events and experiences designed to showcase its culinary diversity and appeal to a broad audience across the region.

“We listened to local feedback and delivered a truly diverse and independent offer – it’s exactly what people wanted, and their support has been incredible and all the votes in the British Food Awards are testament to that,” Bigland added.

cambridgestreetcollective.com @cambridge_street_collective

POCO

Small Bar, Big Vibes in Little Sheffield...

Tucked away in the Stag Works courtyard on John Street, Poco is the latest venture from the team behind Kelham Island favourite, piña. Opened in June, Poco maintains its sister bar’s Mexican influences but brings a more intimate bar experience to the table, offering a relaxed yet refined space to enjoy expertly crafted drinks and nibbles. As owner Joe Cribley explains to Exposed, “Poco means ‘little’ or ‘little bit’ and the concept reflects that – a smaller, more elevated version of what we do at piña, with a focus on quality and a laid-back atmosphere.”

Poco’s expertly curated cocktail menu is divided into seven categories, offering something for every palate – from inventive margarita variations to a fresh take on the classic Negroni. While South American spirits like tequila and mezcal continue to take centre stage, the menu also explores beyond these, ensuring a diverse range of flavours and a more

rounded experience.

“We wanted to create a balanced menu, so no matter your taste, there’s always an option,” says Joe. “We’ll keep mixing thing up to keep it seasonal, so we’ll have a new menu launching in October. We also work with local suppliers like Starmore Boss to curate a wine list that complements our snacks perfectly.”

On that note, Poco’s food menu keeps things simple, offering a small selection of bar snacks. “We’ve got focaccia baked fresh from our friends at Lovely Rita’s bakery next door, plus olives and nuts,” Joe adds. "Montaditos and more elaborate options will be available for private hire events, where we have time to prepare in advance."

The pedestrianised courtyard inside Stag Works adds to Poco’s charm, with outdoor seating and ambient lighting creating a laid-back vibe amongst the growing community of independents

that includes music bar Zephyr’s, Lovely Rita’s Bakehouse, fashion brand Mamnick's LOFT store, slow-made clothing specialists Nyoo and a number of creative enterprises ranging from stonemasonry to animation studios.

“We want to provide a cosy place for people to come and enjoy a nice drink around this part of town,” Joe explains. “With New Era Square around the corner, new openings nearby and the growing foot traffic here, we feel like we’re in the right place at the right time. Historically, this area was known as ‘Little Sheffield’ and Poco's tagline is ‘Our Little Bar in Little Sheffield’. We’re hoping to build on that and hopefully see the area grow in profile – much like the rise of Kelham Island.”

Looking ahead, Joe is keen to utilise their beautifully designed space and branch out into small private events. “It’s the perfect space for intimate gatherings – around 40 to 60 people – and we’re getting a lot of requests for private hires,” he says. With Christmas around the corner, they are already taking bookings for festive parties.

Find out more about the little bar making big waves in Little Sheffield by following @poco. sheffield on socials.

WHERE Stag Works 84 John St Highfield S2 4QU

OPENING TIMES

Fri: 17.00-23.00 Sat: 15.00-23.00

DO I NEED TO BOOK?

Bookings and walk-ins available. Private hire available on request.

GIVE IT A GO

CHOCOLATE BAR

Bullion Chocolate, Sheffield’s first bean-to-bar chocolate maker, has expanded its presence with the launch of Chocolate Bar at Leah’s Yard. Known for its handcrafted, single-origin chocolate, Bullion’s latest venture adds to its visitor-friendly chocolate factory in Neepsend with an all-day café/bar experience. The modern, airy space combines chocolate with drinks, food and a distinctive local flavour, creating a brandnew sweet spot in the heart of the city.

Founded by Max Scotford in 2016, the Bullion brand has built a reputation for crafting premium chocolate using ethically sourced cocoa beans. Chocolate Bar is the latest expression of this passion for quality, designed to make Bullion’s high-end chocolate more accessible to the Sheffield public.

“We’ve dreamt of having premises in the city centre for some time now,” Max told Exposed. “We’re excited to have this opportunity to create a really unique offering, where we can cater for everyone with everything from speciality coffee and breakfast bakes in the morning, through to lunch with hot drinks and light bites, and then into the evening for a relaxed tipple.”

The café’s ‘build-your-own’ hot chocolate concept lets customers customise their drink by choosing cocoa percentages, temperature (iced options are available) and adding a wide range of natural flavourings like gingerbread, sea salt or chilli.

If you’re after an adult-friendly twist to your visit, Chocolate Bar offers indulgent takes on classic drinks, including boozy craft drinking chocolate made with premium local spirits, such as cocoa liqueur rum from Locksley Distilling. The carefully curated cocktail menu also features favourites like the Bullirum Espresso Martini and 90% Negroni – both made with cocoa-infused spirits sourced from independent Yorkshire-based brands.

Perfect for date nights or some afternoon unwinding, a carefully curated wine and beer list is designed to pair perfectly with the rich chocolate flavours. Max specifically recommends the Budvar Dunkel – a dark Czech lager with smooth, malty notes that

complement the cocoa. The wine selection is equally impressive, with options chosen to balance the richness of Bullion’s chocolate treats.

“We loved the idea of creating a space that appealed to everyone, whether it’s families looking to treat the kids during the day or a nice setting for a more grown-up get-together in the evening, especially as we come into the colder months where people are looking for cosy spots to unwind in,” said Max.

As well as the chance to enjoy one of their famous Bullion bars, the café offers a range of light bites and artisan pastries. Customers can enjoy freshly made goods, including Bullion’s beloved brownies, banana bread and sandwiches as well as decadent cookes, cheesecakes and ice cream made in collaboration with Our Cow Molly.

The café’s location in Leah’s Yard – a recently opened hub for independent makers – adds to its charm. With its outdoor terrace overlooking the bustling Cambridge Street Collective food hall opposite, the area is beginning to cement itself as a hotbed for independent food and drink vendors. Max has also ensured that the city’s returning students feel welcome, offering a 10% discount for those looking for a more affordable indulgence.

Since opening, Chocolate Bar has seen an incredible response. In the first week alone, it sold over 1,200 hot chocolates, far exceeding initial expectations. Max is already planning future expansions to the menu – potentially introducing charcuterie boards with cheeses and cured meats for those looking to complement their drinks with savoury bites.

“We’re really pleased to be open and

have blown away with the response so far. We’ve got plenty of plans to continue improving the Chocolate Bar concept and our offering, so watch this space,” he added.

With its focus on high-quality chocolate, local ingredients and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, Chocolate Bar offers a truly unique experience in the increasingly exciting Heart of the City development. Why not pop in and satisfy your sweet tooth the next time you’re in the area?

@chocolatebaruk

FIND THEM

Chocolate Bar at Leah’s Yard 20-22 Cambridge St S1 4HJ

OPENING HOURS

Monday: 8am to 6pm

Tuesday: 8am to 6pm

Wednesday: 8am to 10pm

Thursday: 8am to 10pm

Friday: 8am to 11pm

Saturday: 10am to 11pm

Sunday: 10am to 6pm

UPFRONT 10 YEARS OF PEDDLER

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF PEDDLER MARKET

Peddler Market is nothing short of a Sheffield institution – an incredible street food event that takes place on the first Friday and Saturday of every month at its warehouse home in Kelham Island. It mixes some of the UK’s best eats with fantastic live music, DJs and independent market traders.

Ahead of Peddler Market’s epic 10th year event, we caught up with founders Ben Smith and Jordan Roberts about the journey so far, some big birthday plans and what’s in store for the future.

What was the inspiration behind Peddler Market?

JR: Well, we’d been trading at street food events in London as The Hop Box for years, and I really wanted to throw a party in a car park and improve Sheffield’s food scene. I spent a lot of time in Liverpool and Manchester, where the scene was massive, and after moving to Sheffield, I noticed some room for growth.

BS: It was clear that street food was emerging as a genuine alternative to going to a restaurant, with the added benefit of seeing the food being cooked and engaging directly with the chefs. But it was important not to sacrifice quality. After trading at events in London, we knew the key ingredients for a successful event and felt well-placed to make it happen in Sheffield. We knew we wanted to make Peddler more than a street food event, so we try to deliver so much more, with great local music and DJs, a gritty industrial backdrop, top-of-the-range craft drinks and a platform for indie businesses.

What were the early days of Peddler Market like?

BS: The early days of Peddler Market were very much a case of learning by doing. We were foodies who liked a good party; we weren’t event professionals. We even forgot to order bins for the very first events! We started with a road closure on Arundel Street, but we outgrew the location quickly. The early Peddlers always had great traders and beer, and it had a wonderfully friendly, organic vibe.

Why did you decide to make 92 Burton Road your permanent home?

JR: We soon had to close more of the road and eventually hire a warehouse to cope with the number of people – and get out of the rain! In 2015, we decided to roll the dice on Kelham Island, which at the time was mainly traditional pubs and Yellow Arch Studios and not much more.

BS: The Peddler Warehouse gave us the shelter we needed, alongside outdoor space to let us become a year-round event. Our new home gave us room to grow. We could now hold more than 8,000 people per weekend and we could evolve Peddler Market to suit bigger and more exciting traders, crowds and artists. We now host festivals, like Get Together, regular weddings, corporate parties and events, exhibitions, like Pete McKee’s a couple of years ago, and OF COURSE, the legendary Exposed Awards.

What’s been the best thing about being at the Warehouse?

BS: The Warehouse was an undiscovered, forgotten relic of Neepsend’s industrial heritage, and our street food-loving patrons absolutely buzzed off the backdrop. The Warehouse feels raw and imposing but it’s also comforting. After almost a decade in the Warehouse, it now combines industrial vibrancy with a modern cultural venue. There’s nothing better than soaking up the summer sun in the cobbled courtyard, listening to live music or bunkering down inside when it’s cosy in winter.

JR: Who doesn’t love a warehouse? Industrial chic repurposed with heart and soul! And it’s even waterproof…ish.

Tell us about your favourite traders that have been at Peddler Market

JR: That’s like choosing your favourite child, and they might be reading this!

BS: There is a humility to Peddler, which perhaps people who are genuinely humble wouldn’t admit! We get our kicks from watching our vendors trade successfully. If the traders are happy, so are we! This isn’t always the ‘norm’ at some events, but street food is at the heart of Peddler Market. We love shouting about old and new food traders, but we want to give a special shoutout to our neighbours in the courtyard. Roku, B’Reyt Dough and Depot Bakery traded at Peddler in the early days and now have permanent residency next door.

We’ve heard you have a big birthday bash coming up…

BS: It’s amazing that we’ve reached 10 years! We’re immensely proud to have lasted this long. The food and drink world can be fickle, but I think we’ve got here by being agile and responding to what the people want: fresh, delicious street food and amazing musical talent.

JR: Peddler Market Nº 87 is going to be one of our biggest and best Peddlers to date. The street food is going to be off the charts, with a lineup of proper Peddler legends returning for the celebrations.

UPFRONT 10 YEARS OF PEDDLER

The music lineup is going to knock your socks off too. Friday night is all live music with Montuno headlining, and then on Saturday we have a very special guest, DJ Coco Maria. Of course, there’ll be afterparties in the one and only Factory Floor, too. In the courtyard, we’re going to recreate one of our favourite winter Peddlers from way back when, with lasers, smoke machines and bubbles. Unfortunately, Matthew Kelly wasn’t available, but we did try!

BS: We’re over the moon to invite some Peddler royalty to our 10th birthday who have gone on to bigger and better things since they were last with us. One of the first winners of the British Street Food Awards, Baked In Brick, is bringing the charcoal grill out of retirement for our birthday. And Sheffield favourites, Percy and Lilly’s, will be at Peddler for the first time in six years – we’ve tried to lure them back in before, but they are frankly too popular and successful in their own right! It’s not just the amazing food and music though, we’re also hosting a range of activities over the weekend, including a Tequila Masterclass, where you can learn

THE WAREHOUSE WAS AN UNDISCOVERED, FORGOTTEN RELIC OF NEEPSEND’S INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE. THE WAREHOUSE FEELS RAW AND IMPOSING BUT IT’S ALSO COMFORTING.

how to make a marvellous margarita, Life Drawing with NamlessNat and a Coffee Cocktail Masterclass and Tasting with Ozone Coffee.

Sounds amazing! So, what does the future hold for Peddler Market?

BS: We’re focussing on making Peddler Market Sheffield bigger and better than ever. We enjoyed taking Peddler to other towns and cities, with our Chesterfield pop-up and more regular events in Wakefield and Leeds, and we want to do this more in the future. But our goal has always been to make continuous incremental improvements in Sheffield, making sure everyone

leaves Peddler Market with the ‘I’m glad I went out’ feeling. We really just want to provide even more of what Peddler-goers love – the UK’s best street food, great tap takeovers and banging tunes in the heart of Neepsend!

Peddler Market celebrates its 10th birthday on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th October at 92 Burton Road, Neepsend, S3 8BX and you’re all invited! To find out more about the food traders, music lineup, activities and market stalls at Peddler’s birthday, head to www.peddler. market.

@peddlermkt

7.30pm 10 December th

TURNING THE PAGE

The Off the Shelf Festival of Words is returning to Sheffield this month for its 33rd edition, promising another vibrant celebration of literature, arts and culture. This year’s programme offers an impressive lineup of local, national and international talent, making it one of the most exciting literary events in the UK.

On 7 October, Richard Ayoade, comedian and BAFTA-winning actor, will open the festival at the Octagon Centre with his latest novel The Unfinished Harauld Hughes, a whimsical tale that sees the protagonist embark on a mission to resurrect the works of a forgotten playwright who happens to be his double. Later in the month, fellow comedian and writer Sara Pascoe will debut her first novel Weirdo, a humorous and raw exploration of contemporary life, and Julian Clary makes it a trio of comedic talent as he discusses his latest crime novel, Curtain Call to Murder.

Among the highlights is Zeitgeist and viral sensation Led By Donkeys, who will take the stage to discuss their most impactful moments from 2019 to 2024. Known for their cutting political commentary, the group will explore their viral videos, including recent targets like Liz Truss and Nigel Farage, as well

as their coverage of the Covid crisis and Westminster corruption. The insightful event will delve into how art and activism can be used to challenge power.

The festival will also feature former Makar of Scotland Jackie Kay, who will be reading from her new poetry collection . These poems chronicle her decades of political activism, from her early involvement in Socialist movements to the forefront of feminist, LGBT+ and anti-racist campaigns, including the Black Lives Matter movement.

BBC broadcaster Adrian Chiles will offer a humorous and eclectic talk, covering everything from self-checkouts to his discovery of a naked doppelgänger on OnlyFans. Meanwhile, Dame Margaret Drabble will return to her hometown to join Sherlock writer Steven Moffat for a discussion on interstellar travel with physicists, exploring how science inspires fiction.

Music lovers will appreciate Swedish›

›journalist Jan Gradvall’s intimate portrait of ABBA, based on over a decade of exclusive access to the iconic band. Gradvall’s new biography delves into the sound and cultural phenomenon that made ABBA global superstars.

Elsewhere in the event, award-winning historian Professor David Olusoga and Dr Yinka Olusoga present their new book, Black History for Every Day of the Year – a vital celebration of Black history spanning ancient times to the modern day. From unsung heroes to cultural icons like Stormzy and Simone Biles, they’ll explore key moments and figures across sport, science, activism and more.

The festival also proudly highlights local talent, with appearances from twice-Booker-nominated author Sunjeev Sahota and Désirée Reynolds. Sahota will present his latest novel The Spoiled Heart, while Reynolds will share Born on Sunday Silent, a film adaptation of her short story.

South Yorkshire writers Andrew McMillan and Kerry Hudson will curate strands of this year’s festival. Hudson will discuss the significance of place in writing, alongside Anita Sethi and Helen Mort. McMillan will present his debut novel Pity, exploring themes of community, masculinity and postindustrialisation in the North.

Professor Vanessa Toulmin, Director of City, Culture & Public Engagement at the University of Sheffield, said: “As one of the UK’s longest-standing literary festivals, it’s fitting that the Festival is delivered by the University of Sheffield, reflecting our commitment to contributing to the city’s rich cultural vibrancy.

“The festival continues to attract an ever growing audience and this year boasts its most diverse programming to date.  Our strong national and international reputation attracts renowned authors to our region, while still fostering a thriving environment for local talent.”

Off the Shelf Festival of Word takes place 7 October - 3 November. Scan the QR code on this page to view the online brochure.

KEEPING THE STORY ALIVE

Festival curators Leslie Webster and Maria de Souza have been at the helm of Off the Shelf Festival of Words for over 30 years. They spoke to Exposed about the festival’s origins, constant evolution and the impact it’s had on the city’s vibrant literary scene.

Off the Shelf has been running for over 30 years, which is a remarkable achievement! Can you tell us about how the festival first started and what inspired its creation?

LS: Off the Shelf (OTS) started at Sheffield City Council, working with colleagues in Libraries. While smaller in scale, it was always about celebrating books, words and ideas! The festival name was about encouraging people to take a book off the shelf and dive in. Sara Unwin, Head of Cultural Engagement at the University of Sheffield, and I always argue about who came up with the name!

The first festival was mainly held in libraries across the city, with lots of workshops and events including a reading of Lee Miller’s War by the Crucible Youth Theatre and a Multicultural Book Fair. Maria de Souza joined the team for the second edition of the festival and, amazingly, after all these years, this original team is still together and passionate about the festival and the power of words!

Over the years, how has the festival evolved in terms of size, structure and the type of events you organise?

MDS: We were always ambitious for the programme and wanted to bring some of the best writers to Sheffield. We came up with inventive ways to persuade authors to visit, such as sending Valentine cards signed from “A city full of admirers”. Nick Hornby admitted that this approach was what got him to Sheffield. After successfully running the festival for a few years, we attracted the attention of national publishers and they began to trust us with their bigger name authors. From there, the festival has grown in reputation, scale and popularity. Funding from Arts Council England meant we could expand beyond libraries and into venues across Sheffield. The University of Sheffield is dedicated to fostering culture within

South Yorkshire. When Professor Vanessa Toulmin, the University’s Director of City, Culture and Public Engagement, noticed that OTS was at risk of being discontinued due to austerity measures, the University stepped in to preserve the valuable expertise and relationships associated with it. In 2016, the University of Sheffield assumed responsibility for delivering the festival. This decision aligned with the University’s commitment to cultural vibrancy in the city, enabling collaborations with academics and researchers and integrating the festival into the University’s research activities.

One of the unique aspects of Off the Shelf is its support for local talent. How do you go about identifying and supporting Sheffield writers?

LW: From the beginning, we felt strongly that the festival should showcase the wealth of literary talent in our own city. This continues, and the current festival has a rich line-up of homegrown writers including Sunjeev Sahota, Helen Mort, Matt Coyne, Holly Williams, Russ Thomas and many more. Organisations such as Hive, Writers Workshop, Sheffield Authors, Slambarz and Sheffield Novelists take part. The festival also works with local publishers, including And Other Stories, The Poetry Business, Vertebrate and Longbarrow, with events featuring their authors. Publishers who have moved to Sheffield because of the vibrant writing and publishing scene here include the mighty Hachette group! Headline, part of Hachette, have created a series of special events in collaboration with us this year.

How do you choose the authors, poets and speakers for each year’s festival? Is there a particular vision or set of themes that guide your selections?

MDS: We’re good at spotting and supporting celebrated local talent.

The team has vast experience of programming, expertise gathered over many years. We know what our audiences enjoy. Sheffield is a radical city and politics, journalism and history always go down well, as evidenced by our biggest-ever audience for campaigner Chris Packham last year. Reading trends and topics change, and we are always up to date with what is pertinent now, such as the climate emergency.

We’re always striving to attract new audiences. Our programming is bold, innovative and diverse. We work with Guest Curators to bring fresh perspectives and new ideas. Benjamin Zephaniah was our first Guest Curator and amplified work with young people, the readers and writers of the future. We feel it is important to include events that might appeal to a smaller audience, such as poetry in translation, and we always feature international writers. This year, we are featuring Morgan Talty, Alexis Wright and Asako Yuzuki, author of the cult Japanese bestseller Butter. We want to attract the widest possible range of readers and introduce people to new work.

We don’t generally theme the festival. We offer a huge range of events designed to appeal to a wide audience. We do focus on anniversaries, such as this year’s 70th anniversary of the publication of Lord of the Flies and the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike.

We work with national and local

publishers. We visit publishers in London each spring to explore their autumn book releases. We receive hundreds of pitches from all over the world and keep our sector knowledge up to date. Choosing is a difficult task! Perhaps the best way to describe it is like making a cake: a lot of different ingredients with added flavour, zest and some surprise elements. The aim is to create something delicious that everybody wants a slice of!

Looking back at over three decades of festival history, which events or authors stand out as particularly memorable for you?

LW: We’re really pleased to have had some major literary names over the years – Poet Laureates and prizewinning writers – and it is really hard to pick favourites. For me, meeting my favourite author, Dame Hilary Mantel, was a huge thrill. Maria chose David Mitchell, author of Cloud Atlas, and Edwyn Collins, as music is a passion of hers. For Sara, a Drive-In with Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, because of Covid restrictions, would be a top pick. We have to mention our unique Text in the City initiative, putting new words in public places. Writers include Jarvis Cocker, Carol Ann Duffy, Michael Rosen, Roger McGough and Warda Yassin, who at the time was Sheffield Poet Laureate. Seeing words written large across our beautiful city for

everyone to enjoy is a lasting legacy we are all so proud of.

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s event?

MDS: It’s so hard to choose with more than 100 events, but we can’t wait to welcome historian David Olusoga with our colleague at the University of Sheffield, Yinka Olusoga, writer of bestseller One Day David Nicholls, politician Sayeeda Warsi, artist Conor Rogers, who has created the brochure cover illustration, comedian Sara Pascoe and Andrew McMillan with his novel Pity. We are excited about the whole programme and hope your readers are too!

After 30+ years of success, what’s next for Off the Shelf? Are there any exciting plans or changes you’re considering for the future of the festival?

LW: We want to keep doing what we are doing – we know it works. We will keep working with guest curators to increase the diversity of the programme and attract even more diverse audiences and participants. We will support talent development, making the city a great place to live, work and study. The University of Sheffield is committed to helping make the city a great place to live, work and study and the festival plays an important role in that ambition.

offtheshelforg.uk

LOOKING LOCAL

Ahead of the festival, Exposed asked twice-Booker-nominated, Sheffield-based author Sunjeev Sahota to share some insights into his latest novel, The Spoiled Heart.

What inspired you to write The Spoiled Heart, and how did the idea for the story originate?

I’ve got three kids, and we live in a middle-class suburb of Sheffield, leading a pretty middle-class life. I guess I’ve been very aware for a while now that my children’s upbringing is different from my own working-class one in Chesterfield, and thinking about that contrast brought certain questions to the fore: principally, why is the left so rubbish at talking about class?

Can you share some insights into the main themes you explore in the novel?

Class and race have arguably been the superstructures governing my life, and ideas relating to both are prominent in the novel. One character, Nayan, espouses a politics based around solidarity, while another – Megha – champions a politics of identity. Maybe if the book has any insight, it’s that identity or representational politics is inimical to the work of creating a fairer world.

The story is set at the edge of the Peak District. How does the setting contribute to the overall narrative and themes?

The Peaks are where Nayan goes to get away from the tumult of his life – he’s running for the leadership of his union – but also to

process his grief; his mother and his son died in a fire some twenty years earlier. The landscape offers peace, respite, healing – more broadly, those great green hills breathe oxygen into the otherwise tense and secretive atmosphere of the book.

What do you hope readers will take away from The Spoiled Heart?

I want readers to be enthralled and captivated by the story, alive to the language I use, and to also think a bit harder about politics on the left, and whether it’s going in the direction it should be.

How important is it for you to engage with literary festivals like Off the Shelf, and what do you enjoy most about them?

I’ve got better at festivals. I used to find talking about my work excruciating, but I do now enjoy it, and I like meeting people, and readers, especially. Literary festivals are a real joy, a place where ideas meet and debate ensues. We need them more than ever.

You can join Sunjeev in conversation with Catherine Taylor about his new novel on Sunday 20 October 2024 at Millennium Gallery. Tickets available from offtheshelf. org.

Sheffield A-Z brought to you in association with Hendersons relish. Spicy sauce and spicy snacks.

It would be remiss not to give our recently arrived student population a hearty welcome in this issue. Now that you’ve settled in and are starting to find your way around the city, it’s time to get to know the place a bit better. From its alesoaked history to its thriving independent scene, this A-Z guide will give you a taste of the culture that makes the Steel City so special.

A IS FOR ALE

And plenty of it! Welcome, dear student, to the ale capital of the UK – if not the world. Yes, it’s all hail the ale around here – just ask the New York Times, who ranked Kelham Island, one of Sheffield’s most beercentric areas, higher than The Vatican in their ‘52 Places to Go’. Plus, a beer report from last year found that this region boasts more breweries per head than anywhere else in the country. We'll drink to that!

B IS FOR BESSEMER

The chap responsible for Sheffield’s worldwide reputation as a manufacturing city. In 1856 Henry Bessemer invented the Bessemer process – a method of converting iron into steel – which saw steel production soar to an output of 10,000 tonnes a week by the 1880s. You can actually head down to Kelham Island Museum and take in the sight of an old converter stood outside the building, if that’s your idea of fun.

C IS FOR CRUCIBLE

The home of world snooker since 1977, the Crucible Theatre brings tens of thousands of visitors to the city each year – many who arrive between April and May to soak up the snooker-loopy atmosphere. It’s also home to the revered Sheffield Theatres group, who in recent years have been the birthplace of award-winning plays such as Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and Standing at the Sky’s Edge.

D IS FOR DIVISION STREET

Situated in the heart of the Devonshire quarter, this lively street boasts a mix of small independent shops, bars, pubs and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and students alike.

E IS FOR ELECTRONIC MUSIC

The ‘new wave’ era of the 1980s was born up ‘ere, with the likes of synth-toting legends Cabaret Voltaire, Human League, Heaven 17 and ABC all hailing from the Steel City.

F IS FOR FOOTBALL

As home to Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest association football club; Hallam FC’s Sandygate, the world’s oldest football ground; and Bramall Lane, the world’s oldest professional football stadium, it’s no wonder this city is football mad. The Steel City derby between Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday is one of the fiercest rivalries in the game, and with the first clash of the season set for November, you’ll soon find out there’s never much love lost between Blades and Owls supporters.

G IS FOR GREEN SPACE

A third of Sheff lies in the Peak District, the only UK city

to include a national park within its boundary. Totting it all up, there are over 150 woodlands and 50 parks, making it one of the greenest cities in Europe.

H IS FOR HENDERSON’S RELISH

How passionate can a city be about a relish? The answer is VERY. While you’re here, you might hear it called “Hendo’s”, but this iconic sauce has been made in Sheffield since the 1880s and is a big part of the local culinary scene. It’s even inspired poems, artwork, songs and a few questionable tattoos! Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan-friendly, it’s so beloved that even Sean Bean had it shipped worldwide when filming abroad. And you don’t question the Bean.

I IS FOR INDEPENDENT

Sheffielders are incredibly proud of our thriving indie businesses. Homegrown shops, cafés, restaurants and bars are everywhere – from the city centre to the suburbs. Keep picking up your monthly Exposed mag to stay in the loop with the latest from local businesses.

J IS FOR JOE AND JARV

Sheffield is home to two legendary Cockers: Joe Cocker and Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker. Joe, born in Crookes, worked as a gas fitter before finding fame with hits like ‘Up Where We Belong’, his iconic cover of The Beatles’ ‘With a Little Help From My Friends’ and ‘You Are So Beautiful’. Jarvis, who grew up in Intake, led Pulp to the forefront of the UK Britpop scene and ‘Common People’ is guaranteed to go off on any Steel City dancefloor. Though they’re not related, both are local legends, well deserving of their spots on Sheffield’s Walk of Fame.

K IS FOR KELHAM ISLAND

Recently named in the top 50 ‘coolest neighbourhoods in the world’ by Time Out Magazine, this manmade island was formerly the heart of the city’s industrial past. Today it’s one of its trendiest areas and houses everything from independent pubs and restaurants to bustling street food markets and iconic music venues.

L IS FOR LEADMILL

Sheffield’s longest-running music venue is a student hotspot known throughout the UK for its championing of live music. None other than Ringo Starr wrote to the owners in 1992 to thank them for the support offered to young musicians, while Franz Ferdinand described the venue to Arcade Fire as a “rite of passage for UK bands worth their salt”.

M IS FOR MCKEE

Pete McKee is one of Sheffield’s most beloved artists, known for his distinctive style that captures life in the city with warmth, humour and nostalgia. You’ll see his colourful, cartoon-like characters around the city, with perhaps the most famous being ‘The Snog’ on the side of Fagans pub. Go and get the obligatory pic in front of it when you get the chance.

N IS FOR NAH THEN

A versatile local phrase often used as a greeting or to mean “now, listen here.”

O IS FOR OLYMPIANS

We’re reyt proud of some of the incredible athletes we’ve produced here. Gold medallist Jessica Ennis-Hill is a local lass, and IAAF president Seb Coe found his considerable knack for track & field while attending high school here.

P IS FOR PARK HILL

Park Hill Flats is one of Sheffield’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the late 1950s as a bold experiment in social housing, this Brutalist structure – the largest Grade II listed building in Europe – has undergone a major transformation. Today, it’s a vibrant mix of accommodation and independent businesses like South Street Kitchen and The Pearl at Park Hill bar. The famous “I Love You Will U Marry Me” graffiti is still visible on the walkway, and even appeared on a t-shirt sported by Arctic Monkeys’ Alex Turner.

Q IS FOR QUARTERS

Since 1994, Sheffield city centre has been divided into 11 distinct quarters: Kelham Island, Riverside, Castlegate, Sheaf Valley, Cultural Industries, The Moor, Devonshire, St George’s, St Vincent, Cathedral, and the Heart of the City. Each quarter has its own unique vibe and character, offering plenty to explore – from indie shops and cultural spots to historical landmarks and buzzing nightlife.

R IS FOR REPUBLIC

During the 1980s, the left-wing policies of Sheffield Council, led by David Blunkett, were often made in direct opposition to Margaret Thatcher’s (boo, hiss) government, earning the city the title of ‘The People’s Republic of South Yorkshire’. Thatcher’s policies left a lasting impact on the city, with the decline of the steel industry and widespread unemployment still a bitter memory for many. The legacy of that era isn’t forgotten and continues to shape Sheffield’s strong sense of community and resilience.

Sheffield A-Z brought to you in association with Hendersons relish. Spicy sauce and spicy snacks.

S IS FOR SANCTUARY

Sheffield proudly became the UK’s first official City of Sanctuary in 2007, reflecting its commitment to welcoming refugees and migrants. The city has long benefited from the rich cultural influences brought by its diverse communities, shaping everything from its food scene to its arts and music. This spirit of inclusivity is celebrated each year at the Migration Matters Festival, a vibrant event that honours the stories, creativity and contributions of migrants to the city’s cultural tapestry.

T IS FOR TRAMLINES

Sheffield’s very own Glasto! Tramlines Festival started here in 2009 with bar owners and venue promoters looking for a way to keep the city centre busy when the students go home. The first festival attracted 35,000 visitors with the likes of Toddla T, Reverend & The Makers, The XX and Example on the bill. Since then the event has gone from strength to strength, moving to Hillsborough Park and fostering a vibrant fringe offering in the city centre.

U IS FOR URBAN REGENERATION

The city has undergone significant urban regeneration in recent years, transforming once-industrial areas into vibrant, modern spaces. From the redevelopment of Kelham Island and Neepsend to the ambitious Heart of the City project that has recently brought venues like Cambridge Street Collective and Leah’s Yard to Sheffield, these efforts are doing an impressive job of reshaping the city while preserving its heritage.

V IS FOR VARSITY

Beginning back in 1997, the Sheffield Varsity tournament Hallam University and University of Sheffield is one of the biggest of its kind in the country. With 1,500 students playing 35 sports in 20 different locations, it’s bloody huge and there’s plenty of pride at stake for both sides.

W IS FOR WARP (RECORDS & FILMS)

Warp Records was founded here in 1989 by Steve Beckett and Rob Mitchell, going on to become one of the most influential labels in electronic music with a roster boasting the likes of Aphex Twin, Hudson Mowhawke and LFO. Warp Films began as a side-project, but after Beckett teamed up with film producer Steve Herbert in 2001 the company grew, going on to produce the likes of Dead Man’s Shoes, This Is England and Four Lions among many other highly-rated British films.

X IS FOR (E)XPOSED

Fair enough, we’re bending the rules a bit, but X is for Exposed – your essential guide to all things Sheffield! Whether it’s the latest on local indie businesses, gig listings or cultural events, we’re here to keep you in the know. We celebrate the city’s creativity, spirit and community every month, making sure you don’t miss a thing.

Y IS FOR YELLOW ARCH STUDIOS

Today the UK’s first fully-licensed recording studios, this buzzy venue in Neepsend has provided rehearsal space and a live stage to some of the city’s finest musical exports, with the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Tony Christie, Richard Hawley and Bring Me The Horizon all treading the boards there.

Z IS FOR ZAMBIAN SISTER CITY

Sheffield has a friendship agreement with Kitwe, the second largest city in Zambia, known for its mining heritage.

Psst... for all the latest cultural happenings in Sheff, don't forget to sling us a follow on Instagram (@exposedmagsheff) and TikTok (@exposedmag).

WHAT’S ON

Looking for summat to do? Here are all the big autumnal Sheff shindigs, lovingly compiled for your pleasure…

SENSORIA

3-6 OCT

Sheffield’s renowned festival of film and music returns this month with a diverse programme of live performances, screenings and creative workshops. Highlights include an immersive light and sound installation at the former Cole Brothers store, BISHI’s live score for the VR experience Maya, a special screening of The Shaolin Invincibles with a new soundtrack by Chipzel, and a haunting performance by Gazelle Twin. For families, Blown Away offers a lively introduction to music for children, while SynthFest UK invites synth enthusiasts to explore cutting-edge technology. sensoria.org.uk

PEDDLER’S 10-YEAR CELEBRATION

4-5 OCT

The city’s most popular street food market is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an extra special edition. Known for pioneering the street food scene in the UK, Peddler Market will offer its signature mix of award-winning vendors, craft beers, cocktails and live music. This anniversary event promises to be bigger than ever, with additional entertainment, makers’ stalls and surprises. Entry is free, and the event runs from 5pm-11pm on Friday and 12pm-11pm on Saturday. peddler.market

SEVEN HILLS WHISKY FESTIVAL

5 OCT

Promising a dram good time, the Seven Hills Whisky Festival is coming to The Steamworks in Sheffield on Saturday 5th October, offering a fantastic day for whisky enthusiasts and newcomers to the spirit alike. With over 200 whiskies to sample, including selections from famous distilleries like Laphroaig and Singleton, attendees will also discover offerings from emerging producers. Expert-led masterclasses delve into whisky history and tasting techniques while street food stalls, an oyster bar, and live DJ sets add to the atmosphere. Tickets start at £45 and include a free Glencairn glass and a ‘Dream Dram’ token. sevenhillswhiskyfestival.co.uk

NO BOUNDS

11-13 OCT

No Bounds Festival returns to Sheffield for its 7th edition, celebrating the intersection of art, music and technology. This year’s theme, ‘Agency and Revelation’, explores hidden stories within Sheffield’s cultural landscape. Highlights include performances from Grammy-winner Flowdan, DJ Manuka Honey and Batu. Opening at Sheffield Cathedral, the festival will span venues across Sheffield and Rotherham. Special events include Mark Fell’s Cole’s Hidden Corners installation at the Cole Brothers building and Amy Carter Gordon’s cross-city exhibition Entanglement, Commons and Cultural Mycelium. Expect workshops, world premieres and more. Visit the No Bounds website for full details. noboundsfestival.co.uk

POLLEN MARKET

20 OCT

Pollen Market heads to on Sunday 20th October 2024 from 10am to 4pm, bringing its vibrant botanical market to Sheffield’s Grey to Green corridor in Castlegate. This popular monthly event features a wide selection of plants, flowers and greenery, alongside live music, art and street food. With local traders selling crafts, food and drinks, Pollen Market is the perfect way to explore Sheffield’s thriving indie scene. Whether you’re a plant lover or just looking for a relaxing Sunday activity, this market has something for everyone. Entry is free! pollenmarket.co.uk

CELLULOID SCREAMS

24-27 OCT

Sheffield’s annual horror film festival heads back to the Showroom Cinema for those who dare to attend! Celebrating its 16th edition, the festival offers a chilling mix of premieres, cult classics and short films from both established and emerging filmmakers. Expect special guest appearances, Q&As and plenty of surprises. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or just curious, Celluloid Screams provides the ultimate fright-filled weekend celluloidscreams.com

ILLUMINATE THE GARDENS

1-3 NOV

Illuminate the Gardens returns to Sheffield Botanical Gardens next month, promising a memorable evening of fireworks, illuminated installations and live performances. Enjoy over 10 light displays, including the popular Tales from The Other Side shadow theatre and the Sound Sculpture Garden. The event features a ‘low bangs’ fireworks display for younger children, alongside the main show for thrill seekers. With an expanded range of food stalls and drinks from local breweries, it’s perfect for all ages. Saturday has sold out, but tickets for Friday and Sunday are still available. illuminatethegardens.co.uk

LAITHWAITES WINE FESTIVAL

15 NOV

The Laithwaites Wine Festival is coming to Sheffield for the first time on 15 November at Trafalgar Warehouse. Attendees can explore over 100 wines from 20 producers worldwide, with selections from France, Italy, Spain and more. The festival, known for its engaging atmosphere, will include wine tastings, a cheese and wine masterclass, and a unique ‘Merlot on the Dance Floor’ experience, blending wine tasting with music. Tickets are £35, covering tastings and access to all events.

laithwaites.co.uk

STEEL CITY BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL

16-19 OCT

The 48th Steel City Beer & Cider Festival is back Kelham Island Museum for 16-19 October. Organised by Sheffield’s CAMRA branch, this popular event offers over 200 cask ales, keg craft beers, and around 30 ciders and perries. Expect live music, street food, traditional pub games and a vibrant atmosphere. Highlights include drinks from local and national breweries and the everpopular Champion Beer of Sheffield competition. Tickets and more details are available on the festival’s website sheffield.camra.org.uk/festival

OCTOBER

THINGS TO DO STEAMWORKS

FULL STEAM AHEAD

At the beginning of this year, Sheffield’s events scene welcomed a fresh addition in The Steamworks, a dynamic 11,000 sq ft venue nestled in the bubbling Little Sheffield area between London Road and Bramall Lane. Co-founded by Susie Foulerton and Louise Glover, the space is not only providing a fresh take on the city’s cultural landscape but helping to revitalise a historic area in the process.

Occupying a former steelworks, the venue has evolved from an empty shell into a lively social hub, building a reputation for hosting a wide range of events in its industrial surrounds. Susie recalls: “It was standing empty when it first came on our radar, and we quickly saw the potential. Way before, it was a well-known steam joiner’s yard. The person who owned it built a lot of the big houses in Nether Edge, so that’s where the name came from.”

Since its first street food market back in January, The Steamworks has gone on to host an array of occasions, ranging from their popular night market socials and indie wedding fairs to silent discos and exhibitions of all types. Susie notes: “The range of events we’re getting is unreal... everything from live comedy to boxing to retro football shirt showcases. We want to be seen as a cultural hub for the area, a place committed to hosting a broad range of events.”

As much as the 500-cap space hosts its own events, it is equally a hireable venue, with its versatility drawing interest from both local and national organisers. “We do our own events, but ultimately it’s a hire space,” Susie explains. “One of our biggest to date was the Open House poster convention for Vice Press. We had a queue up the road from 6am for that. That’s now found its home here, and it’s great having those kinds of events celebrating local creatives.”

Situated between the everbustling London Road and emerging hotspots like New Era Square and Stag Works, The Steamworks sits at the heart of an up-and-coming part of the city. “There’s a nice feel to the Little Sheffield area, and there’s

plenty of history too. Just next door to us there’s Portland Works, a famous listed building housing artists and craftspeople. It’s a cool place to be and has potential to grow.”

It was the food markets that first put The Steamworks on the map, offering something different to the city’s centre’s south side. However, with the number of food halls and street food markets in Sheffield at an increasingly healthy number, the team is shifting their focus to carve a niche. “We’ll still be doing our night market socials, but we’re now concentrating more on themed nights, live music and fresh ideas. We did a world carnival weekender in August, which went really well, so we’re going to focus more on those kinds of themed events.”

The upcoming calendar reflects this shift, with an

exciting October lined up. “October is jam-packed,” says Susie. “We’ve got Seven Hills Whiskey Festival, an indie market, a mid-century market and a vintage fashion event with rare finds and premium true vintage from the 60s and 70s. We’re also hosting a sex-positive market, Hex, one of only a few venues in the country to do so.”

Coming into spooky season, the venue will transform into an immersive cinema space for Halloween, featuring curated horror nights and quizzes alongside a themed Night Social Market. “We’ve got Korean horror, Japanese horror and a nostalgic night with films like The Lost Boys and The Craft,” she adds.

As well as all the events you could shake a stick at, the building houses rentable studio space upstairs, home to creative

businesses like sustainable clothing brand Retribe and retro football shirt collector Granny’s Attic Football. “There’s a really nice mix of people here. We’ve got Blurb tattoo studios, Clapping Seoul food traders and a podcast studio. There’s a studio space currently up for rent too.”

With a strong commitment to inclusivity, The Steamworks keeps its prices affordable for all. “We’re never an expensive place to come and visit. None of our ticket prices are high, and our food and drink prices are mid-range. We want to be accessible to everyone, and that’s reflected in the wide range of ages that come along to the events. Keeping that broad appeal is something we really work hard at.”

Beyond the events and the creative studio space, Susie points out something crucial about The Steamworks: it’s one of the few women-owned and run venues in the city. “After 20 years in hospitality, I feel there’s a real lack of womenowned, women-run venues in Sheffield,” she notes. “So we’re hugely proud to count ourselves amongst the very small number of women-owned venues here.”

Find out more about The Steamworks’ diverse events and creative spaces at thesteamworks.co.uk.

WHERE 111 Randall Street Little Sheffield S2 4SJ

VENUE HIRE/STUDIO ENQUIRIES

Email hello@ thesteamworks.co.uk

SOCIALS @the_steamworks

We

FOOD AND DRINK THE FAT CAT

TRADITION MEETS TASTE

God bless The Fat Cat. Nestled in the heart of Kelham Island, the centuries-old building has long been an OG of Sheffield’s vibrant pub scene. Known for its cosy atmosphere, hand-pulled ales and beloved pies, the famous boozer has recently undergone a significant but respectful transformation, both in its food offerings and decor. Over a pint with Exposed last month, owner Ed Wickett shared some updates on what’s been happening at the esteemed establishment.

Following the retirement of their cook of 40 years, The Fat Cat has hired some fresh faces to take the helm in the kitchen.

“We’ve brought the team from Two Fathers Catering in, and they’ve really hit the nail on the head,” says Ed. These two chefs, previously part of the True North Brewing Company, have struck out on their own and brought a revitalised food offering to The Fat Cat.

While providing some exciting additions to the culinary offering, the new menu stays true to The Fat Cat’s reputation for excellent homecooked, hearty meals and traditional fare. Ed emphasises that while the kitchen might be under new management, the pub’s commitment to quality and value remains unchanged.

“People don’t want to leave still hungry, and the pies are very much still at the heart of things – that’s non-negotiable,” he says with a grin.

Alongside the nonnegotiables, you’ll now find new dishes such as grilled bacon chops, cauliflower and chickpea curries, gourmet burgers and even some small sharing plates to nibble on while you sip a pint. “We’re a pub for everyone, and we want the food and drinks offer to reflect that. We’ll always be a traditional place known for good beer, but you can’t rest on your laurels with a reputation and have to keep improving your offer,” adds Ed.

In addition to changes in the kitchen, The Fat Cat has also had a bit of a facelift. “We’ve just finished our refurb,” Ed mentions, discussing the fresh coat of paint, new signage and additional fixtures that now adorn the pub’s doors and walls,

replacing the mismatched tones from before. This new look aims to accentuate the building’s welcoming, cosy vibe, just in time for the colder months ahead.

“We’ve got open fires, which really create that snug atmosphere people love when the nights start drawing in,” he says.

The refurb has been well-received by regulars, with Ed noting that while the changes are subtle, they’ve helped preserve the timeless feel that makes The Fat Cat so unique. “We didn’t want to go modern,” he adds, “but it was time to freshen things up while staying true to the pub’s roots. We have a lovely, heated garden, but in the dark nights and rainy days of autumn, people come here for the warm interior and hot food, so we wanted to make sure it looked nice for the change of season.”

Speaking of the garden, Ed shares that the outside bar, formerly the original

Kelham Island Brewery space, is available to hire for private events, alongside the pub’s function room upstairs. “We can get between 30 to 50 people in, perfect for an intimate gathering,” he says.

Looking ahead, the new chefs are set to bring out a special Christmas menu, launching on 20 November. Ed hints at some exciting new dishes, a mix of traditional favourites and creative offerings that promise to delight diners. “We haven’t done a Christmas dinner for a while, so it’ll be nice to get people in for that festive vibe,” he says. As per usual, the pub will go all out with its Christmas decorations, making it the perfect spot for a meal or drinks during the holiday season.

The Fat Cat has been a cornerstone of Kelham Island since his dad, real ale visionary Dave Wickett, took over in 1981, and Ed is determined

to keep it that way. “We’re still sticking to those values from day one,” he says proudly. With a growing number of new venues popping up around the area, Ed recognises the importance of staying true to the pub’s original blueprint while evolving to meet the needs of today’s customers, which range from students to pensioner and everything in between.

“I think that’s the beauty of The Fat Cat. It’s an everchanging area and we’ve gone from our regulars being steel and factory workers to welcoming a wide range of people and ages in here. All are welcome, as long as you behave yourself, and we’re looking forward to more people visiting, seeing our spruce-up and enjoying the great food on offer. The Fat Cat’s for everyone, and we want to keep it that way.”

@fatcatsheffield

FOOD AND DRINK NEWS

The ultimate chicken wing extravaganza is coming to Sheffield for its 10th edition in a three-day wing-eating showdown. Hosted by street food hotspot Peddler Market, Wing Fest will showcase the best chicken wings from the UK’s top vendors, alongside live music and many wing-themed activities.

As well as being a celebration of one of the nation’s favourite foods, Wing Fest’s jam-packed entertainment schedule includes axe throwing, eating challenges and an array of live bands and DJs. Over 100,000 wings will be served across the weekend alongside a host of drinks, with Wing Fest’s signature trucker hats also on offer.

Richard Thacker, founder of Wing Fest, explained: “The wingslinging line up is comprised of local and national superstars, and a myriad of flavours and cooking techniques. Visitors will experience how the humble chicken wing has been taken to new heights of deliciousness and culinary wonder.”

The festival will also host wing competitions, offering ticket holders the chance to vote for their favourite bites alongside a panel of judges. Vendors will compete for multiple titles, showcasing their best wing-making talents in the ultimate chicken wing battle.

Sheffield Wing Fest takes place between 18th-20th October, with tickets available via wingfest.co.uk

WINGING IT SPILLING THE TEA TOASTING NEW BEGINNINGS

Independent tea company Bird & Blend opened opening their newest branch on Pinstone Street last month, joining many other businesses taking up residence in Sheffield’s Heart of the City development.

Offering over 100 flavours, the store aims to create creates a fun, interactive in-store where customers can experience mixing award-winning tea-based drinks. From inventive flavours such as Birthday Cake, MojiTEA and Chocolate Digestives, to firm favourites Builders’ Breakfast Brew, Earl Grey Crème and many more, there’s something to try for tea-lovers of all tastes.

As well as mixing teas, the Sheffield team will also host live free matcha tea demos, mixology classes, tea-matching services and many more creative events. Showcasing its range of teas in its bespoke Tea Wall display, the store also offers the largest matcha tea selection in the UK, and features a takeaway tea bar for those just dropping in.

Mike Turner, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Bird & Blend Tea Co. explained: “The regeneration in Sheffield City Centre is remarkable and we wanted to be a part of that. We see our stores as not just retail spaces, but as community hubs where customers can come to make connections with one another and our team, and enjoy interacting with our teas.”

For more info, visit Bird & Blend’s website at birdandblendtea.com.

Sheffield-based drinks retailer Beer Central, a much-loved institution located in the Moor Market, has officially changed hands. After ten years of running the shop, owners Sean Clarke and Deborah Jackson have stepped down, handing the reins over to the team behind Scotland-based Krafty Fine Drinks.

However, the new owners, Ross and Megan, who met in the Steel City before opening their first premises in Kirkcaldy, are keen to reassure loyal customers that Beer Central’s main ethos and offer will remain the same. “It’s very much a case of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’,” Megan told Exposed. “Sean’s legacy is important to the city, and we want to carry that forward.”

Many of the beloved aspects of Beer Central – the local deliveries, beer subscription boxes and Christmas keg offers – will continue under the new management team. In addition, they plan to revive the monthly bottle shares, an event where beer enthusiasts gather to taste and discuss various brews.

While much of Beer Central’s operations will stay the same, including the name, the new owners are excited to introduce some fresh offerings, particularly an emphasis on showcasing Scottish breweries. Megan noted: “We want to bring more of Scotland down to Sheffield.

There are some fantastic breweries up there, and we believe Sheffield beer lovers will appreciate what they have to offer.”

Krafty Fine Drinks, based in Kirkcaldy, Fife, started as a bottle shop before expanding into a taproom. Ross and Megan are based in Scotland, while store manager Gavin will oversee day-to-day operations in Sheffield. Megan emphasised their strong ties to the city: “We might be based up north, but we’re firmly attached to Sheffield; I’m very proud to be from here and we’re excited to be a part of its thriving beer community.”

You can pop in to see the new team at The Moor Market on Monday-Saturday, 8:30am-5:30pm. Follow @beercentralsheff for further updates.

Looking for the perfect spot to unwind with friends, enjoy a fantastic pint, and soak in some genuine local vibes? Welcome to The Ranmoor Inn—Sheffield’s cosy, community-driven pub that’s got something for everyone!

CASK ALE HEAVEN / CRAFT KEG & DRAUGHT BEER / REFRESHING CIDERS / WINES & SPIRITS / PRIME LOCATION / COMMUNITY FEEL

Whether you’re here for the ale, the atmosphere, or just to see what all the buzz is about, The Ranmoor Inn is your new favourite hangout. Come see us soon!

330 FULWOOD RD, SHEFFIELD S10 3GD

FB: The Ranmoor Inn // Insta: @the.ranmoorinn

FOOD AND DRINK NEWS

PRET RETURNS

Pret A Manger is set to open a new shop in Sheffield this November, creating 15 new jobs with 1,200 sq ft shop on Cambridge Street, a key part of the Heart of the City development.

This marks Pret’s return to Sheffield after closing its Fargate branch during the pandemic. The new shop, managed by franchise partner Exultant Group, will offer 38 indoor and 20 outdoor seats, catering to both grab-and-go customers and those dining in.

Guy Meakin, Pret’s UK Shops & Franchise Director, expressed excitement about the launch, noting the popularity of their food and coffee in Sheffield. “We can’t wait to welcome customers back when we open our doors in time for Christmas,” he said.

Councillor Ben Miskell praised the opening, highlighting its contribution to the ongoing transformation of the city centre.

“The addition of Pret continues the incredible transformation of the city centre into a greener, thriving and more vibrant place to work, live and visit,” he said.

The new shop is part of Pret’s expansion across Yorkshire and includes partnerships with local charities to donate surplus food.

Mizan Syed, Exultant Group’s CEO, said: ““People in Sheffield tell us they love Pret A Manger, so we are delighted to be bringing a new store to the city centre. We are proud to be contributing to the local economy here by employing locally and using local contractors to fit out the unit.

“I am also incredibly proud that we will be helping those who are homeless or struggling with cost-of-living crisis by providing increased food donation from our sites.”

EXPOSED EATS …

BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH AT GRAPPA

West Street Italian bar/restaurant Grappa recently announced a bottomless brunch offering, where you can chow down on freshly made pizza and pasta dishes while being served unlimited prosecco, cocktails, beer and wine.

The brunches take place every Friday to Sunday, and 90-minute slots are available to book from midday until 6pm. Exposed’s BB team of four opted for the later booking, entering the downstairs bar area of the spacious two-floor venue to the sounds of the resident DJ playing a mix of pumping feelgood tunes spanning everything from house to RnB – with even a bit of ABBA thrown in!

There are two menus to choose from, priced at £35pp and £40pp. The former gets you the staples: a range of classic pizzas with a couple of pasta options including Wild Boar Lasagne and Penne Arrabbiata (sides an optional extra), served with bottomless glasses of prosecco, Aperol spritz, bellinis, mimosas and various soft drinks. However, for an extra five pounds, we’d strongly recommend getting the £40 deal if you can spare it. This opens up a range of delicious premium cocktails (the Italian Mojitos were a strong favourite), wines and beers, as well as giving you the choice of additional pizzas and Grappa’s signature pasta dishes.

Upon arrival, we were quickly furnished with welcome drinks and a jug of water (hydration is key!) and were left to soak up the atmosphere while browsing the menu. Service was quick and attentive, with friendly staff always on hand for a top-up and happy to talk us through the drinks and dishes on offer.

I opted for the hearty Parpadelle Polpette –ribbons of pappardelle pasta cooked to a perfect al dente, coated in a thick, velvety tomato sauce, and served with rich, tender lamb meatballs topped by shards of parmesan. My fellow diners also plumped for some traditional favourites: creamy Spaghetti Carbonara, indulgent Wild Boar Lasagne and the straightforward but always satisfying Marinara Pizza.

With two of our group having eaten at Grappa before, we fully expected the food to be enjoyable – and true to form, it did not disappoint. However, it was the cocktails on offer that blew us away and quickly became the talking point of the meal. The Italian Mojito – a refreshing twist on the Cuban classic, enhanced with Disaranno and strawberry syrup for a sweeter finish – was the star of the show. If you’re in the mood to try more, the light and refreshing Hugo Spritz and the tangy Malfy Lemon Spritz were also strong contenders.

As the vibes (shoutout again to the DJ who kept the energy levels high throughout) were picking up heading into Saturday evening on West Street, we decided to stay for another round of drinks once our slot had ended, giving us the chance to toast the end of a truly “buono brunch senzo fendo.”

If you’re after a brunch that’s a step away from the usual offerings of Eggs Benedict and French toast, and instead want to enjoy a range of classic Italian flavours with a modern twist, you can book your spot at Grappa via grappasheffield.com or by calling 0114 698 1950.

Under new management by the people who brought you The Schoolrooms and Assembly

• Serving pub classics and our famous Sunday carvery

• Tuesday night’s pub quiz 8pm with alcohol and cash prizes

• Playing every match of Euros 2024

• Large family friendly enclosed beer garden

• Available to hire for private parties

• Open Monday – Sunday 11:30am – 11:30pm

Follow us on socials; Instagram: @thebradfieldplough Facebook :The Bradfield Plough www.thebradfieldplough.co.uk

New Road, Low Bradfield, Sheffield, S6 6HW

FOOD AND DRINK THE BOSTON ARMS

MORE THAN A MICROPUB

Robbie Macdonald, owner of the thriving Boston Arms in Woodseats, is here to bust a few myths about micropubs. While craft beer and a snug feel play a big role, there’s so much more going on. From cocktails and homemade pizza to live music and community events, here are five things you might not know about their smashing little venue.

IT’S NOT JUST BEER

When it comes to micropubs, people might assume beer is the only product and that it’s expensive and niche. Of course, beer – particularly craft beer brewed by independent breweries – is a key cornerstone of any micropub offering. However, most places, including the Boston Arms, serve a full range of products to suit different target markets. We keep our beer range fresh and accessible. Freshly ground coffee and hot drinks are available all evening. We also have a full range of wines. We are particularly passionate about our cocktails and have recently revamped our menu for the winter months.

Although we’re no longer the only venue in Woodseats to serve cocktails, we were certainly the first to do so. It was a risky move to offer something completely new and different to an area used to traditional pubs. As part of being ‘more than a micropub’, our focus has shifted slightly from only craft beer to craft cocktails also sharing the limelight. We believe a USP of ours is being a micropub with a full cocktail menu of 22 cocktails and mocktails, including rotating seasonal specials such as our Spritz menu and Cocktails of the Week. Our current Cocktail of the Week is a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini with Absolut Vanilla, Kahlua, Bailey’s, pumpkin spice syrup and freshly brewed Smith Street espresso.

Our new menu features an even bigger range of classic cocktails – made exceptionally well – with great quality spirits

A GREAT FOCUS OF OURS IS MARGARITAS... WE THINK WE DO THE BEST SPICY MARG IN SHEFFIELD!

and ingredients. We’ve chosen these cocktails because they are classics for a reason: everybody knows and loves them. We like to think everybody’s favourite cocktail is featured somewhere on our menu. A great focus of ours is Margaritas, which often feature on our rotating specials. We think we do the best Spicy Marg in Sheffield!

Our cocktails are all priced at £7.95, but a great offer we run Monday to Thursday is any two of the same cocktails for £14. Our rotating specials are also two for £14 all day, every day!

WE’RE MORE SPACIOUS THAN YOU MIGHT THINK Space is often the curse of micropubs. The Boston has the blessing of several rooms tucked away, including a sizeable upstairs function and dining room. This means we are still micro in atmosphere, with lots of little corners and snugs, but our overall capacity opens us up to further opportunities such as private parties and a working kitchen.

That said, squeezing into a packed micropub on a Friday night is always great. You’re far more likely to start chatting to

random customers. A friendly welcome is the unwritten rule of a micropub – no space on a table? Come and join ours! It’s something our customers, especially our regulars, are great at doing. We’ve watched friendships blossom from chance encounters in busy rooms.

THERE’S HOMEMADE FOOD ON OFFER

Speaking of the kitchen, we’ve been slinging hot, fresh pizza for some time now – all prepared in-house. We like to boast a relaxed dining

FOOD AND DRINK THE BOSTON ARMS

experience, offering something that can be shared amongst friends. Table bookings are welcome, but most of our orders come from peckish customers who want something on the fly, which we love. A bit of spontaneous scran to keep the conversation going.

Our kitchen is the next part of our business we’re looking to grow. Many micros simply don’t have the space or capacity to make it viable, so we feel fortunate to be able to offer something. Keep your eyes peeled for some exciting new additions to our menu in the coming weeks.

WE’RE A PROUD MEMBER OF THE WOODSEATS COMMUNITY

Community and inclusivity are at the heart of what we do. Like plenty of micropubs in Sheffield, serving products is just a small part of our purpose. We like to think of ourselves as an asset to the

community. After all, it’s the people that make a place what it is. We offer a safe space, free of charge, for all kinds of community-led activities, including book groups, art classes, choir singing, music practice sessions, support groups and PTA meetings.

Many Sheffield suburbs are thriving right now, but for us, we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but Woodseats. The place is buzzing, and our activities give us a great snapshot of the wonderful people who call this place home.

WE HOST LIVE MUSIC AND EVENTS

A few times a year we work with a local promoter and content producer (Original Voice Media) to host live music. We have a mixture of local artists as well as one or two from further afield to give our customers the opportunity to listen to something new. Again, space can be a challenge

for micros, but we just about have enough space upstairs to host musicians. Let’s just say the gigs are intimate!

A big passion for us is the themed events we host. Our criteria is to think outside the box and do something your average pub wouldn’t. Some highlights this year have been a Crisp Festival, which included a huge range plus beer and crisp pairings and bottomless crunch, as well as a Sour Beer Fest that was hugely popular. We’ve always got new ideas in the pipeline, so keep an eye on our socials for any fresh announcements!

WHERE 676 Chesterfield Rd Woodseats S8 0SD

OPENING TIMES

Mon: 3–11 pm

Tuesday: 3–11 pm

Wednesday: 3–11 pm Thursday: 3–11 pm Friday: 3–11:30 pm Saturday: 11 am–11:30 pm Sunday: 11 am–10:30 pm

SOCIALS @bostonarms.sheffield www.boozehound.shop

@bostonarms.sheffield /

FOOD AND DRINK THE BRADFIELD PLOUGH

PLOUGHING AHEAD

The Bradfield Plough, a much-loved staple in Low Bradfield, has undergone a stunning transformation, breathing new life into the historic countryside pub, which dates back to the 1830s.

As part of an extensive refurbishment that began earlier this year, following the pub’s purchase by the team behind the thriving Assembly Bar & Bistro and The Schoolrooms Café & Bar, rooms have been thoughtfully redesigned to increase space and enhance the pub’s charm while maintaining its traditional roots.

One of the key highlights of the renovation is the former barn, which has been upgraded into a stylish dining area. Previously an underutilised room, it is now one of the main seating areas, complete with beautiful Georgian-style panelling, new seating and lighting that create a warm and inviting ambience.

The new Tap Room has brought significant improvements as well,

including the addition of booth seating and a space to watch live sports fixtures, with a working fire on hand to keep things warm as we head deeper into the chillier months.

The team have taken a segmented approach to the refurbishment, working room by room to ensure a seamless customer experience. This method allowed The Plough to stay open while upgrades were made, with some areas, such as the Tap Room, already completed, and others, like the middle bar area, slated for completion in November.

The pub prides itself on offering a variety of locally sourced ales from the neighbouring Bradfield Brewery, which pair beautifully with pub classics like fish and chips, pies, stacked burgers, and their hugely popular Sunday

carvery.

In addition to the classic pub fare, the menu also features a regularly updated specials board, offering slightly fancier dishes ranging from saffron risotto to slow-cooked pork belly.

Outside, the pub’s spacious beer garden has been refreshed, too. The Plough’s picturesque views over the surrounding countryside remain as breathtaking as ever, now with a tidied-up garden and additional seating for guests to soak in the sun. Plans for a future extension to expand the outdoor space further hint at even more exciting changes to come.

Beyond the structural improvements, The Plough has continued its focus on fostering community engagement. With a bustling quiz night on Tuesdays, friendly staff who know the locals by name and

a strong focus on making the pub a welcoming space for everyone – from families with kids to hikers and dog walkers – it remains a true countryside pub at heart.

As the finishing touches are applied, the pub will close very briefly in November for final updates to the bar area and cellar, which include switching to a new brewery supplier and installing updated beer lines. Once complete, The Plough will be fully equipped to offer an even better dining and drinking experience, all in time for the festive season.

Reserve a table at www. thebradfieldplough.co.uk, or pop in for a pint at New Road, Low Bradfield, S6 6HW.

@thebradfieldplough

FOOD AND DRINK GUYSHI

TURNING UP THE HEAT

West Street favourite Guyshi is celebrating its second anniversary as the city's first Japanese charcoal BBQ and bar. We spoke with manager Matthew Lay to uncover the inspiration behind the venture, hearing how this quite unique spot has carved its place in Sheffield’s thriving food scene.

Happy 2nd anniversary! What inspired you to bring Sheffield’s first Japanese charcoal BBQ and bar experience to life?

Thank you! The inspiration for Guyshi came from a passion for authentic Japanese cuisine and the desire to offer something truly unique to Sheffield. We saw a gap in the market for an interactive dining experience that’s more than just a meal –something where the process of cooking and sharing becomes part of the fun. Yakiniku is such a fun and sociable way to dine, and we knew it would be something people here would love.

Can you tell us about the journey behind curating your menu? What makes Guyshi special?

We wanted to stay true to Japanese flavours while catering to a range of tastes and diets. That’s why our menu includes everything from classic dishes like gyudon and tempura to our melt-in-your-mouth A5 grade wagyu beef. We also have a vegan menu, which features sushi rolls made with mock meat, and our vegan yakiniku platter which you won’t find anywhere else in Sheffield. The Utage menu, where customers can order multiple rounds of dishes from £34.99 per person, is a popular way for diners to try a variety of dishes and make the most of their visit. On top of the food, we have a well-curated drink menu, offering a selection of sake, Japanese beers and a

range of signature cocktails that perfectly complement the dining experience.

You also have a teppanyaki table. What makes your approach to teppanyaki unique?

Our teppanyaki table offers a truly immersive dining experience. It’s not just about the performance of the chef, though that’s certainly a highlight – it’s about creating a connection between the diner and the food. Watching the ingredients being cooked right in front of you, taking in the aromas, hearing the sizzle – it’s an experience that engages all your senses. Our chefs enjoy interacting with guests, making the whole meal feel more personal and memorable.

How has the Sheffield community responded to Guyshi since you opened? The Sheffield community has been incredibly supportive! People have really embraced

the interactive nature of our yakiniku and teppanyaki experiences, especially for group gatherings and special occasions. Our unique touches, like our robot cat waiter that delivers food to tables, have been a huge hit, adding a fun and modern twist to the dining experience. While some initially thought we might be on the pricier side, once they saw the range of what we offer – like the build-yourown bento box lunch deal and our set menus – they realised we’ve got options for every budget. We’ve worked hard to ensure our dining experiences are accessible to everyone, whether you’re looking for a premium night out or a more affordable lunch.

What sets Japanese BBQ apart from other barbecue traditions?

One key difference is the use of charcoal, which adds a subtle, smoky flavour to the meats and vegetables as you grill them at

Don’t forget, we’ve got coupons in this magazine – just cut them out and enjoy a discount on your next visit!

the table. In contrast, Korean BBQ is typically cooked over gas grills and features stronger marinades with more robust flavours. Japanese BBQ is more about simplicity, letting the natural flavours of the meat, especially premium cuts like wagyu, shine through. We also provide Japanese condiments and seasonings served on the side for dipping, which enhances the taste without overpowering it.

Finally, what’s something at Guyshi that everyone should try?

I’d have to say our yakiniku experience! It’s such a fun and unique way to dine. For vegans, the vegan yakiniku platter is a must-try – it’s packed with flavour and surprises even non-vegans. If you’re a meatlover, the wagyu beef is a top recommendation—it’s incredibly tender and full of flavour.

guyshi.co.uk // @guyshi_ sheffield

FOOD AND DRINK UNIT

EXPANDING THE UNIT-VERSE

It’s been a year since Unit opened its doors at Valley Centertainment and the Sheffield-born business has quickly become a go-to spot for locals, students and visitors from further afield who’ve discovered their tasty creations on social media. Known for its unique blend of craveworthy comfort food, independent spirit and focus on community, the brand is celebrating its oneyear milestone with a mission to expand the “Unit-verse” and enhance the experience for all.

“We’re the only independent restaurant in Centertainment and we’re proud of that,” says venue manager Salim Algundaid. “The team all grew up in this city together and we work with local fitters, artists and suppliers to bring a Sheffield experience to our customers. Whether it’s our live music events featuring local talent or our partnerships with local businesses, we want to give back to the community that’s supported us.”

This sense of community extends to Unit’s menu, which features a creative mix of street food-inspired dishes alongside more traditional comfort fare including their famous fried chicken and thick decadent concrete shakes. The burgers in particular have become a Steel City institution, with favourites like the ‘High Steaks’ and ‘Mother Clucker’ leading the pack. New additions such as the ‘Shrimpy Fries’ and ‘Veggie Pammy’ regularly rotate onto the menu, ensuring there’s always something fresh to try.

On the dessert front, they’re excited about new offerings like fudge cake and tiramisu, the latter served with a bit of theatre. “There’s a bit of a show behind it,” Salim teases, “and it’s gone down really well with customers so far.”

It’s been an exciting period for the team; over the past year, Unit has tripled its presence, adding Valley Centertainment and a bustling stand at Cambridge Street Collective food hall to its OG restaurant on Headford Street. Beyond the restaurants, they’ve also branched into local retail, offering popular sauces, seasonings and branded

merchandise – including T-shirts and hats – available in-store and at popular Sheffield spots like the Millennium Galleries.

“We wanted people to take a little bit of Unit home with them,” Salim explains, “so it’s great when we see customers sending us pictures of their rooms decked out with our stickers or wearing our T-shirts. It shows us that people really connect with the brand and want to be part of our story.”

While the brand has firmly established itself as a local gem, regularly attracting visitors from across the north and midlands, Unit has always maintained a strong relationship with Sheffield’s student community. “We’ve always had a really strong student following, even back when the brand started six or

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2021, those madheads at Unit sent a burger into space. Yep, the meaty spaceship landed over 100 miles away at football team Colchester United’s training ground. Talk about scran that’s out of this world, eh?

seven years ago,” Salim shares. “Those students have grown with us and now we’re seeing them come back with their families. It’s amazing to have that kind of connection.”

They actively nurture this connection through student promotions and convenient delivery options via platforms like UberEats, making it easy for students to enjoy their favourite dishes whether dining in or ordering from the comfort of their digs. “We get a lot of students coming out to the cinema, bowling or seeing a show at the arena, so we’re perfectly located if they’re looking to support an independent business while they’re out here,” he adds.

As they celebrate their first anniversary at Valley Centertainment, Unit has no

plans to slow down. The team is excited about the future with plans to expand both their physical locations and virtual brands. “We’ve got a couple of projects in the pipeline,” Salim reveals. One of these is the development of a playful “Unit-verse” concept, where multiple food ventures will operate under the Unit umbrella.

Reflecting on the brand’s eight-year tenure at the top of Sheff’s comfort food scene, the team are hungrier than ever to keep the upward trajectory going. As Salim puts it, “We’re always thinking about how to keep things exciting – that’s what we’re all about. We want the Unit-verse to keep growing and expanding!”

@unitsheffield

REASONS

IS THE PERFECT WINTER ESCAPE IN SHEFFIELD

COSY VIBES TO BEAT THE CHILL

Known for its welcoming charm, Katie O’Brien’s is the perfect spot to escape the cold. With twinkling fairy lights, traditional Irish décor and live music filling the air, it’s an instant mood-lifter on dreary days. As the festive season approaches, the tavern will be fully decked out in Christmas decorations, creating a magical setting where you can warm up with a Baileys hot chocolate, Irish coffee or a glass of mulled wine.

LIVE MUSIC TO WARM THE SOUL

Live music is at the heart of Katie O’Brien’s. The mezzanine stage hosts talented acts every Friday to Sunday, but as Christmas approaches, expect live performances every day of the week. Top-rated Irish bands will be flown in especially for the festive season, giving you the chance to sing along and soak up the craic –whether it’s a midweek pint or a weekend blowout.

FESTIVE PARTIES DONE RIGHT

Whether you’re planning a small get-together or a big corporate Christmas bash, Katie O’Brien’s spacious venue has festive food and drink packages to suit every group. Expect a hearty dose of Irish hospitality, with warm service and good cheer. While pre-booking is an option, walk-ins are always welcome –perfect if you fancy popping in during a night out.

THE IDEAL POST-SHOPPING PITSTOP

After a busy day browsing Sheffield’s Christmas markets or tackling the high street, Katie’s is just around the corner on Mappin Street (behind West Street), a short walk from the Peace Gardens. Reward yourself with a creamy pint of Guinness or a comforting hot drink as you unwind from the festive frenzy.

THE 12 PUBS OF CHRISTMAS

If you’re planning a 12 Pubs of Christmas pub crawl, Katie O’Brien’s is a must-stop! As one of Sheffield’s most authentic Irish pubs, it’s the perfect place to keep the festivities going. With a special seasonal drinks menu soon to be announced, all the biggest sports fixtures show live and DJs keeping the party alive into the wee hours, it’d be rude not to add Katie’s to your list!

MADE IN SHEFFIELD

For Steel City native Gia Ford, music is a vessel to indulge in stories about the weird and wonderful. Stalkers, serial killers and the hopelessly romantic all feature in her new debut album, Transparent Things. You can hear Nick Cave-inspired sounds accompanying her sinister narratives and grungy aesthetic, all culminating in a truly dark and vintage-feeling record.

Last month, I sat down with Gia to chat about her burgeoning career, exciting new album and of course, her deep connection to Sheffield.

Tell us about your connection to Sheffield. How did growing up here influence you musically, and what are your favourite music venues in the city? I grew up between Sheffield and Cheshire because my parents split up when I was a baby. I never felt connected to Cheshire, but every holiday and weekend I was in Sheffield, and now I live here. I just love Sheffield and it feels like my place on Earth. It’s the most perfect place for me and feels like a magnet.

I didn’t spend a lot of time going to music events as a kid, so I’m kind of new to the music scene in Sheffield. I’ve still never been to The Leadmill – which is ridiculous! Sidney & Matilda is a good little venue, and Panke Social too.

My musical inspirations came from my parents, and I think I’ve subconsciously connected that to the landscape here. My dad would drive me between Cheshire and Sheffield, and we’d go through Winnats Pass which is so beautiful. It’s quite naturally visceral in that way. As a teenager, I’d be driving through there just as I was starting to write music, and those things naturally collided.

Your musical career is really starting to take off – how did you get here?

My song ‘Sleeping in Your Garden’ is crazy, because I released that on my own and it’s got a million streams. I don’t get it! I’d just parted from my label at the time, so I was kind of afraid and felt like it was going to be difficult to get anyone to hear my music. I still consider myself very much at the beginning of something, and everything is still incrementally growing.

I was on holiday recently with my family in Northumberland in this tiny fishing village, and there was a W.H. Smith’s miles away in the middle of nowhere. It was absolutely crazy because I found an NME magazine in there and it was four or five pages of just me.

How would you describe your music? It’s hard to liken it to something. It’s easier to meld influences, so Fleetwood Mac for the 70s feel, and Nick Cave in the darkness of it. But it’s also got soulful bluesy stuff, like ‘Drown Me Out’ by The Rolling Stones. ‘Love Shot’ is really Princey, just by virtue of the guitar line. Broadly, it’s dark, macabre, alternative rock, I would say.

Congratulations on your new album, Transparent Things! How did you choose that name?

I didn’t actually have a name for it until I finished it. I was just going to pick one of the song names, but I thought that was lazy and wouldn’t be representative. There’s a lot of outcasts on the record, people that feel invisible to the world. I thought the transparency thing was quite interesting because the characters are not only invisible, but they’re transparent with their emotions in the music, when elsewhere in their life, they might not be.  I also had a book lying around my house called Transparent Things, so I reread the synopsis and it really fit the album. It’s about people’s secret histories and little transparencies within the characters. There’s details about literature within the record, so it felt novelistic.

Could you tell us about some of the characters in your songs? There’s something dodgy about all of them. I like to write about uncomfortable

WORDS KATHRYN SCHOON // PHOTO MELANIE LEHMANN

people because I want to know what makes them that way. It’s interesting to see what lies between me and them. People who are outcasted because they’re too difficult to try and understand. For instance, there’s a stalker on there, there’s a serial killer on there. There’s a man who’s lost his wife and tries to dress his new wife in her old clothes.

I don’t think people like to admit that they have any similarities with anyone like that. But, there are threads that can lead anyone to become these people. You aren’t born a stalker, it’s your experiences. So I just wanted to explore those kinds of things. Most characters on the record have some sort of secret brewing or something that they feel alienated by.

You’ve got quite a strong vintage aesthetic. How important is image as a musician?

I think it’s necessary to take these facets of yourself and blow them up so they create an image that people can understand and define easily. My girlfriend does all of my creative direction and has been really important in that side of things. I’ve always liked good tailoring and vintage men’s suits, so I want to portray that classic writerly image. I also find vintage photos so beautiful, and the record has that vintage vibe too, especially with the way the guitars were recorded through 1960s amps.

What is your favourite song on the album?

I hate that you’ve asked me that! My initial favourite was ‘Paint Me Like A Woman’, and it’s still one of my favourites to play. But now the album is out, I’m trying to subconsciously love the ones that haven’t been in the spotlight as much. I’d say ‘Our Mutual Friend’ is the one I’m most proud of. It’s the last one on the album and would never have been a single because it’s too sad and long. I love ‘Don’t Drown Me Out’ as well because it’s like a classic song that I might have on my playlists.

What’s coming up in the future?

I’ve got a show in Paris next week at a club called Supersonic, and next month I’m playing at Left of the Dial Festival in Rotterdam. Then I’ve got a UK headline tour, which is something I’ve never done before. It’ll be fun but I’m nervous. Afterwards, I just want to carry on writing. It’s been so hectic recently and I’ve had no time to be idle and lay around. I’d love to tour some of the US in the future, especially because the album was recorded in LA.

Gia Ford’s debut album

Transparent Things is out now. @gia__ford

SCAN THE QR CODE TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR JARRED UP FESTIVAL (£25) AT SIDNEY & MATILDA.

JARRED IN CHARGE

On 19 October, Sheffield music promoters Jarred Up are set to host their biggest lineup yet. On an autumnal afternoon at the Rutland Arms, we caught up with founder James Watkins to discuss plans for their very first festival.

For those who still haven’t heard – who are Jarred Up?

Jarred Up is a creative organisation made up of Jarred Up Presents, which hosts and promotes shows, mainly in Sheffield. Then there’s the record label, where we focus on promoting bands from Sheffield. We also run a magazine that’s still in the works, alongside the Arts Lab – the more community-based side of Jarred Up. All the money from Arts Lab goes back into community events, like our open mic night, which is a central part of that.

As for the festival, it’s a Jarred Up Presents event – the first of its kind! We’ve done all-day events like the Tramlines Fringe shows, but this is the first time we’re running our own festival.

What’s happening with Jarred Up Festival?

It feels crazy ambitious. We’ve been putting on shows in Sheffield for years, but we’ve never run a standalone festival. The festival will take place at Sidney & Matilda on 19 October and will feature the venue’s new 250-capacity room. Early-bird tickets have sold out, and Tier 1 tickets are on sale for £25.

We’ve got around 30 acts performing from across the UK, Europe, and Australia, plus local Sheffield bands. Pom Poko will play a warm-up show the day before. It’s separate but aimed to get people ready for the festival. The event itself runs from 4pm to 4am, with artists performing in the main room, basement room, and factory room upstairs – all running simultaneously.

DZ Deathrays are flying in from Australia to headline, which is one of our biggest bookings ever. Hotel Lux is headlining the basement room, with Cooper T and Home Counties also performing. Manchester’s Duvet and Nottingham’s Cucamaras are part of the lineup, alongside local bands like Femur, Nervous Pills, Shelley Byron, and Flat Stanley.

Tuned In, another Sheffield promotions group, will run the factory room upstairs, with Von Vella headlining. We’ve partnered with them before, so it’s exciting to bring them on board for our biggest event yet.

What can audiences expect from the event?

There’s always an element of punk with Jarred Up events. We build energy throughout the day, starting with more psychedelic acts like Flat Stanley, Shelley Byron, and Sister Wives, another Sheffield band. Things get more intense as the day goes on.

We’ve even got some in-your-face bands early on, like Nervous Pills kicking things off at the Gallery Stage. There’s a variety of genres, including Hip Hop and Rap with artists like Cooper T. We never put on anything too poppy or indie – everything is a bit alternative, a bit off-centre. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find something to appreciate at Jarred Up Festival.

It seems like there’s been a lot of work going on at Sidney & Matilda – how’s it looking?

Sidney & Matilda hosts a variety of genres, and a lot has changed in terms of the layout. The venue’s bigger, with a new main room and an outdoor courtyard space. It’s great because, even though different promoters might be running events, everyone mingles in the shared spaces. We’re also programming late-night events with collaborators like Mondo Radio, Footprints Jazz Club and others. We’re up for working with anyone on original creative ideas.

@jarreduphq

“You could think of it as dad rock that actually rocks,” says Mike Pomranz, describing Pancho Grande. Made up of middle-aged Sheffielders juggling day jobs and a gaggle of kids, the band might not fit the typical DIY rock ‘n’ roll hellraiser mould, but as he explains during our coffee meeting in Kelham Island, that’s precisely what gives them their edge.

Philadelphia-born Pomranz has been a musician since he was a kid, playing his first gigs as a singer-songwriter on the Sunset Strip in the late 90s. “I was always an acoustic artist and made some decent traction on the LA solo acoustic scene, but honestly, after 20 years of that grind, I was done,” he says. “I wasn’t getting anywhere, and I wasn’t enjoying it anymore. It felt stale.” Inspired by a desire to inject some life back into his music, he bought a cheap electric guitar from Rich Tone on Broadfield Road and met Neil, Pancho Grande’s drummer. “I wanted to play the drunkest, rowdiest, don’t-give-a-shit rock and roll I could. No more overthinking or polished acoustic stuff. Just pure, fun garage rock.”

Digging a little deeper, he describes this concoction as “Slop Rock” – a genre defined by its rawness and energy, not technical perfection. “I don’t want to just stand there and play,” Mike says. “We bring a lot of energy. I always say if I’m not close to having a heart attack by the

Catch Pancho Grande at Sidney & Matilda on 8th October, where they’ll be belting out their signature brand of rowdy, honest slop rock with support from Cure For Conspiracy and Modern Problems. Tickets (£5 adv/£8 OTD) are by scanning the QR code below.

end of the show, I haven’t done my job.” Their gigs are a mix of self-aware humour and high-energy rock, something Mike partly attributes to his years as a stand-up comic while living in New York. “I like talking to the crowd, cracking jokes, making people uncomfortable. It’s all part of the fun.”

It’s an ethos that underpins everything Pancho Grande does. The band’s name itself (Spanish for ‘big hot dog’) is a tongue-in-cheek reflection of their playful attitude. “It’s basically a name a bunch of drunk kids would come up with, so it fits perfectly with our M.O.,” he laughs. This irreverence carries into their music, where the focus is on straightforward, catchy riffs and lyrics that reflect their everyday lives. “I write songs about being a middle-aged man who still likes getting drunk, hates the stress of owning a house and wishes he could do more of the fun stuff if it weren’t for the kids.”

Mike points towards the honesty of their music as a key factor in creating a genuinely cathartic outlet, something he felt was missing during his years as a solo artist. “Back then, I was working so hard to write ‘good songs’ that I sucked the honesty out of them. There was this constant need to make some sort of grand statement, you know? Now, it’s all about what’s real to me: being a dad, getting older, dealing with the mundane stuff. As I said, it’s dad rock, but in a more raw, messy way.”

Pancho Grande’s sound draws from classic punk and garage rock influences like The Stooges with a sprinkle of Brooklyn post-hardcore band Le Savy Fav, but there’s also an element of DIY ethos that runs through the band’s work. They self-produce, self-mix and often

involve their kids in the creative process –literally. Their last EP, We Paid For This?, features artwork by bassist Matt’s child. “It’s all about keeping things close to home and organic,” Mike says. “We’re not trying to be too polished; we just want to have fun and put out music we enjoy.”

As for their upcoming show in Sheffield, the band are particularly excited about headlining Sidney & Matilda. “We were supposed to have a few more gigs, but some fell through. Of course, Sheffield is the big one. We’re going to push as hard as we can and make it an exciting show. People want energy. They want a show. I don’t know why people would work all week and watch some shoegazey shit without once acknowledging the audience. It’s supposed to be fun for everyone, right? So let’s make it that way.”

@panchograndeband

GIG OF THE MONTH

DEAD CAT BOUNCE @ NO BOUNDS

NO BOUNDS // 12 OCT // SOFT GROUND

Arts organisation Arts Catalyst in collaboration with No Bounds festival is set to host new experimental opera ‘Dead Cat Bounce’ for an immersive performance experience like no other.

The creative piece is the collective work of artist and writer Gary Zhexi Zhang and experimental music collective Waste Paper Opera, taking place at Soft Ground on 12 October. It will feature a choir of local singers forming a chorus alongside the cast of performers and musicians.

Exploring interweaving realities and entangled histories, the piece draws parallels between environmental and financial catastrophes across time and space, staged within a sculptural installation. The opera takes the form of a baroque oratorio, which tells a sacred narrative using instruments and voice.

Unfolding across five vignettes of past and future, the work spans 2016 China, 1788 Versailles, 2027 Miami, 589 BC Jerusalem and 1855 Japan, with each story uncovering the events of preemptive chaos. These narratives explore the intersection between capitalism and ritual, finance and nature, belief and manifestation, and the unmaking of reality in the wake of catastrophe.

Following the live performance,

Dead Cat Bounce will continue as an exhibition at Soft Ground, featuring a multi-channel audio installation for visitors to experience amongst the sculptures and structures of the space.

Tickets for Dead Cat Bounce are included in the weekend festival pass for No Bounds, available at noboundsfestival.co.uk. Tickets (£11.55) can also be purchased for this specific performance via the QR code on this page.

SOFT LAUNCH

7 Oct // Sidney & Matilda // £11.25

Rising Irish indie quintet have quickly made a name for themselves as ones to watch since forming after separate musical projects. Their eclectic style, blending indie rock with hints of modern psychedelia, has garnered attention from major music publications and tastemakers.

BOB VYLAN

13 Oct // Leadmill // £18.90

Genre-blurring punk duo Bob Vylan bring their unapologetic mix of punk, grime and raw social commentary to the Leadmill. Prepare for an explosive night of energy, bold lyrics and politically charged bangers. leadmill.co.uk

DIVORCE

14 Oct // Yellow Arch Studios // £12 Nottingham-based grungy alt-rockers Divorce bring their distinctive blend of raw vocals and jangly guitar riffs to the stage. With a rising reputation for their dynamic live shows, they’re ones to watch in 2024. yellowarch.com

SOFT PLAY

22 Oct // Octagon Centre // £28.75

Popular punk duo Soft Play (formerly Slaves) bring their high-energy performance to Sheffield’s Octagon Centre. Expect raw vocals, explosive tracks, and an intense live show that’s sure to leave a mark. ents24.com

MAXIMO PARK

24 Oct // Leadmill // £28.50

Indie rock favourites Maximo Park return to Sheffield with their high-enery live show, performing hits old and new. Expect bouncing anthems, sharp lyrics and plenty of noughties nostalgia. leadmill.co.uk

CLOCK DVA

27 Oct // Yellow Arch Studios // £20

The Steel City’s very own Clock DVA return for a special hometown show at Yellow Arch. Highly respected pioneers of the city’s industrial and electronic scene, their genre-defying sound blends postpunk, EBM and experimental music. yellowarch.com

PHOTO: TOM PLATINUM MORLEY

Nick Cave may now be seen as an elder statesman of rock, but back in the early ‘80s, he was far more uncompromising. Ian White’s new documentary Mutiny in Heaven: The Birthday Party tells the story of Cave’s legendary first band. We asked Mark Perkins to track down Ian for a chat about the film. Even though Ian was travelling by train to Melbourne, through the wonders of WhatsApp, Mark was able to speak with him about the project.

Mutiny in Heaven is certainly a fascinating film.

I tried to make it as immersive as possible. With a film like this, I think it’s important to put the audience in the front row – both during the live performances and with interviews featuring the surviving band members. They’re all really lucid, intelligent people who know how to tell great stories. A lot of music documentaries are heavily curated by the band or their management, but I was never told ‘you can’t say that’ or ‘you can’t go there’. I had complete freedom to tell their story as I saw fit. In fact, what the band cared most about was the sound mix.

How did you come to work on this project?

It came out of an earlier project that guitarist Roland Howard and his producer started around 2005. I’m not sure if it was meant to be a film about Roland or The Birthday Party – I wasn’t involved at that stage. But Roland fell ill and sadly passed away, so nothing was done with the footage. Then, somewhere around the pandemic, Lindsay Gravina, Roland’s producer, called me and asked me to stop by his studio. Mick Harvey, the group’s other guitarist, was there, and we discussed what could be done with all this footage that had been sitting on

a hard drive for about 15 years. It really came from that.

Once you agreed to work on the film, I assume you interviewed the surviving members of the band?

No, I didn’t. I’m not a big fan of sitting people down in front of a camera and lights, then firing questions at them. If you go down that route, you tend to ask standard questions, and you get standard answers. I tried a different approach. I gave the band members talking points, and they’d just chat to each other. For example, Mick would call Nick, and they’d discuss various things, each recording their side of the conversation. I pulled a lot of great material from that, which I think worked well. When people who have known each other for decades talk about shared experiences, it’s bound to be more interesting.

Is this something you’ve done before when making films?

No, but I’m always looking for alternative ways to do things. I think it’s easy for films these days to become generic. Too often, there’s a standard way of doing things – they look and are structured in a particular way. I’m always pushing back against that idea. I didn’t reinvent anything, but I wanted the film to look distinctive, rough, and almost analogue.

When I started putting it together, I received boxes of archival material from various sources, and when you open these boxes, there’s this wonderful smell of ‘old stuff’. Looking through postcards, aerograms, photos, maps – you realise these things and textures are from another time, as everything is now online. I wanted to fold all these elements into the fabric of the film to capture the look and feel of that era. Alongside that, I looked for archival interviews from the band’s lifespan. If I had two options, I’d always choose something recorded while the band was still active. I hope we captured the essence of The Birthday Party and their chaos.

The way you used animation was particularly effective and gave parts of the film a distinctive style.

That’s thanks to Reinhard Kleist, a Berlinbased illustrator and graphic novelist. We’re all big fans of his work, so we contacted him and asked if we could use it. He was very gracious and came on board. I think it worked well because The Birthday Party’s story is like a crazy comic cartoon – like they’re a demented boy band. Part of the idea was to give the film that graphic novel look, as though they were cartoon characters in their own comic book.

How involved were you in the final edit?

I did a rough cut to figure out what went where. Then I worked in the studio with Aaron March for a couple of months to fine-cut it and nail the storytelling. Aaron did a fantastic job, especially on the live sequences, making them look really good. One thing about The

Birthday Party is that, playing live, they never went through the motions. Everything they did was heartfelt, and they were always striving to innovate. Their career was built on not being stale. As soon as they felt they were losing that edge, they called it a day.

I found it interesting that when they relocated from Australia to London, they found bands like Echo & The Bunnymen and Teardrop Explodes boring.

A lot of those bands had only been together for a short time when they became famous. In the UK at that time, you might appear in the music press like NME or Melody Maker, and soon get picked up by management or a label. You’d record a single and get put on the road quickly, often without much live experience. In Australia, that didn’t happen. You had to work your way up through hundreds of live shows. So, by the time The Birthday Party got to the UK, they’d played two or three nights a week for years. Their live show was honed. Another thing that shocked them was how musicians only hung out with other musicians, photographers with other photographers, and so on. In Melbourne, there was cross-pollination between writers, painters, filmmakers, playwrights, and musicians. That was a key part of the band’s formation. Berlin, which they moved to later, was more like Melbourne, with its creative energy and diversity.

Mutiny in Heaven: The Birthday Party is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.

THE ART OF ADAPTATION

Last month, Exposed’s Ruby Deakin had the opportunity to sit down with acclaimed playwright Chris Bush to discuss her latest creative venture – a reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s iconic 1879 play ‘A Doll’s House’ heading to the Crucible this month.

What was your initial vision for A Doll’s House?

We wanted something that feels really clean, that really blows the dust off. We’re not radically updating or transposing the play to somewhere else. It keeps it in that original setting but tries to get rid of anything that’s stopping you from really connecting with these characters, purely by virtue of it being 140 years old. We’re painting a version of this world which feels still plausibly authentic to the period but also is really going to make sense to a contemporary audience, in terms of understanding who these people are, why they’re behaving as they do, and what’s at stake if they don’t.

Though the roles and legal rights of women have changed since Ibsen first wrote the play, the questions of family, female autonomy and free will continue to resonate with women today. What do you consider to be the modern significance of Ibsen’s play? You have to remember just how incredibly transgressive it was for the time. I think that’s one of the reasons why we didn’t want to update it into a modern-day setting, because of what Nora is risking and just how socially unacceptable some of her decisions are. In terms of how the power dynamics operate in the play, they still feel very truthful and fresh, showing the way in

which women’s voices still aren’t heard or given weight and value.

I think the whole piece is massively about class and status as well as gender, and we’ve made some small but significant changes to the backgrounds of some characters, uncovering more of the financial situation of the family. If you’re from a background that isn’t as moneyed, if you do everything right, if you’re lovely and charming, then maybe you can exist in a structure of public society, but what you’re allowed to do within polite society is so conditional to your behaviour and ability to never deviate from a specific path. We’ve worked on being able to understand just what risk, jeopardy and need look like in this world.

How has Ibsen’s play been reinvented for the new adaptation?

Probably the most significant changes we’ve made involve the background of the characters. In this version, Nora, instead of being the daughter of a judge, has grown up in an orphanage and has been adopted by the judge. We wanted to understand why she hasn’t inherited money, among other questions which Ibsen didn’t address. Nora being adopted felt like it was an interesting way of exploring her privileged upbringing,

but also her sense of gratitude from a really early age – she wasn’t here through birthright, but through somebody else’s great act of generosity. In my mind, that makes sense for a lot of her decisions and character traits and shows how her social position feels conditional based on her good behaviour.

Nora feels slightly torn between two sides, one where she performs the role of the charming wife with a well-educated, posh husband, and one where this drops when a friend from the orphanage, Christina, comes to visit. As she is doing well for herself in this grand apartment, she feels the need to say ‘yes, I’ve got all of this, but I’m still me.’

Ibsen’s original script focuses on an allwhite, upper-middle class household, which the Crucible adaptation has reimagined for a more diverse cast. How would you describe the impact of these racial differences, and how do these differences influence the ideas of the play?

From that early conversation, there was no way we were going to have an all-white production, so we were in a position of either colourblind casting or colour-conscious casting. Nineteenth century Norway was so dominantly white, but not entirely. We wanted to

cast the best people we could, so parts weren’t specifically written for certain racial backgrounds, but we wanted to make sure we could tinker a little bit afterwards, and make sure there was that flexibility in the text.

It feels like we’re moving away from colourblind casting, and colourconscious casting feels far more artistically satisfying, but also, it’s the right thing to do. It’s a slight tightrope walk between allowing the racial implications to be explored if the actors and company are interested in exploring them, without stating that this version of A Doll’s House is specifically about race. It still feels like the world of the original, but we open it up a bit.

The idea for the stage set is relatively simple, taking place within a single room. This leaves the actors exposed throughout the play, and this is clearly heightened by the Crucible’s thrust stage layout. What did you have in mind when considering the staging? One of the reasons I love the Crucible and the dimensions of that stage is you can’t get too fussy in terms of the design, because you need to keep that expanse and that openness. Ibsen liked to write huge dense paragraphs of scene setting, telling you the colour of the

couch or how many flowers are in the vase, and we’re stripping a lot of that out. Capturing that incredible open space and being able to see that movement, it feels like you’re always seeing it more in three-dimensions than in a little picture frame set.

There are a few lovely little tricks in this set design which echo the idea of Russian dolls, and the layers within layers feels interesting for a Doll’s House. It’s going to be very exciting.

The final scene of A Doll’s House is often thought to be the most impactful, though the play is famed for having multiple endings as the original finale was deemed too outrageous at on of its earliest performances. What were your thoughts when considering staging the final scene, and what impact did you want the ending to have?

The final beat of the show is something that people won’t have seen in A Doll’s House before. It’s not changing the ending as Ibsen has written it, but it’s a final moment beyond that, which feels like it’s going to be a satisfying moment.

From a 21st century perspective, if there weren’t kids in the play, it would be easy to understand that Nora is leaving and starting a new life. But you’ve got young children in the mix that she doesn’t take with her. In this version, Nora’s kids are still there but they’re never physically in front of us, which was definitely another challenge. We have to make them feel real enough for her that we don’t forget their presence and portray what a rift it is for her to tear herself away from them.

What do you hope people will take away from the performances?

For those who know it, I hope people are going to go away having seen a production that isn’t radically inverting what they know of A Doll’s House, but one that looks beautiful, that has absolutely world-class performances, and that maybe illuminates a level of emotional truth behind some of those characters.

Equally, I’m hoping that a significant proportion of our audience won’t have any familiarity with A Doll’s House at all. They will see a story of a woman who we meet thinking that she has achieved everything that she’s ever wanted, and who, through a series of crises and revelations, takes steps to liberate herself at no small degree of cost, both to herself and others.

A Doll’s House will run at the Crucible from Sat 21 Sept – Sat 12 Oct. Tickets and more info available from sheffieldtheatres. co.uk.

MUSIC SCHOOL

NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL A MUSICAL! @ LYCEUM THEATRE

When you turn up to a jukebox musical based on a series of compilation albums made famous in the 80s, with a guest appearance from ‘So Macho’ singer and Simon Cowell’s best bud, Sinitta, you know exactly what kind of evening awaits you. This isn’t Ibsen.

However, that’s not a bad thing. This show offers the audience – largely made up of 50-something year old women – a chance to let their hair down, sing along to the sounds of their youth, and hopefully, enjoy a few laughs.

And, for the most part, it delivers. While there were some first-night stumbles, these hiccups did little to distract from the overall enjoyment. A few actors ran over each other’s lines, and there were moments when props didn’t quite cooperate – policeman’s hats fell, videos toppled from shelves – but none of these were catastrophic, and they didn’t take away from what was a genuinely amusing script.

Like many of these shows, the programme tells you very little about the plot – mainly because there isn’t much of one – but for those curious, Now That’s What I Call a Musical! is all about two friends, Gemma and April, who, in late 80s Birmingham, are about to leave school and go their separate ways. One wants to be a nurse, the other a famous Hollywood actress. When there’s a school reunion 20 years later, things haven’t quite gone as planned…

In a growing line of jukebox musicals, Now That’s What I Call a Musical! joins the ranks of other retro-inspired shows like I Should Be So Lucky and Greatest Days. The format is familiar: beloved songs stitched together by a light, feel-good storyline. And though the plot is secondary, it doesn’t matter because the fun and nostalgia of the music carry the evening.

Despite being billed as a double headliner for Nina Wadia and Melissa Jacques (both of whom are excellent, by the way), it’s the younger cast that really dominates stage time in the first half of the show. Nikita Johal and Maia Hawkins both give strong vocal performances, with Maia’s voice, in particular, standing out in the early numbers.

Of course, the real star of the show is the music. Now That’s What I Call a Musical packs in an impressive selection of 80s hits, ranging from Blondie’s Heart of Glass to Soft Cell’s Tainted Love. It’s a light-hearted, fun-filled evening that delivers exactly what the audience came for: great songs, plenty of laughs and a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia.

DIZZY

25 SEP-12 OCT // PLAYHOUSE // £22

Dizzy is a fantastical adventure about 15-yearold Qamar who seeks answers after her brother’s death. Guided by graffiti artist Stax, she enters the dream-like world of the Axis where memory and imagination merge. Written by Oliviernominated Mohamed-Zain Dada, this moving and contemporary play explores grief, art and the unbreakable bonds that transcend mortality. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

ONLY CLAY

5-6 OCT // KELHAM ISLAND MUSEUM // £5 (U16 FREE)

The popular ceramics fair returns 5-6 October at Kelham Island Museum, showcasing diverse ceramic art. This year’s featured artist, Wendy Lawrence, creates sculptures inspired by natural textures and architecture. Browse unique ceramics, from designer tableware to quirky sculptures, and meet the makers. The afterparty at Yellow Arch Studios offers live music. Open 10am-5pm (Saturday) and 10am-4.30pm. onlyclay.co.uk

ART

22-26 OCT // LYCEUM // £15-£45

The smash-hit comedy returns, starring Seann Walsh, Chris Harper (Call the Midwife, Coronation Street) and Aden Gillett (The Crown). Serge’s purchase of an expensive, allwhite, painting tests his friendship with Marc, who is appalled, and Yvan, caught in the middle. Directed by Iqbal Khan, Yasmina Reza’s multiaward-winning play explores loyalty, identity and friendship with riotous humour sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

ACTS OF CREATION: ON ART AND MOTHERHOOD

24 OCT-19 JAN // MILLENIUM GALLERIES // FREE

This new exhibition will explore the joys, challenges and myths of motherhood through over 100 artworks, spanning from the feminist avant-garde to today. Curated by Hettie Judah, the exhibition features painting, photography, sculpture, sound and film by artists like Tracey Emin, Paula Rego and Marlene Dumas. sheffieldmuseums.org.uk

KENREX

26 OCT-16 NOV // PLAYHOUSE // £25

KENREX is a gritty, gripping one-man show blending true crime and Western genres, set to a live Americana soundtrack. Based on the 1981 Skidmore, Missouri murder, where sixty witnesses saw nothing, this thrilling production comes from the creators of the Olivier-nominated Cruise. Expect a foot-stomping, edge-of-your-seat drama. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

WORDS: PHIL TURNER PHOTO: PAMELA RAITH

THE OCTAGON CENTRE

FRIDAY OCTOBER BONGOʼS BINGO

SATURDAY OCTOBER MAX FOSH

MONDAY OCTOBER BLOSSOMS

TUESDAY OCTOBER SOFT PLAY

FRIDAY OCTOBER HENRY MOODIE

SATURDAY OCTOBER TINDERSTICKS

MONDAY NOVEMBER THE LIBERTINES

FRIDAY NOVEMBER LIGHTNING SEEDS

SATURDAY NOVEMBER THE ROSADOCS

TUESDAY NOVEMBER BEABADOOBEE

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER AN EVENING WITH GUENTHER STEINER

THURSDAY NOVEMBER SHED SEVEN

FRIDAY NOVEMBER BONGOʼS BINGO

SATURDAY NOVEMBER LINDISFARNE

SUNDAY NOVEMBER AN EVENING WITH STUART BROAD

TUESDAY NOVEMBER CONFIDENCE MAN

THURSDAY NOVEMBER ENTER SHIKARI

FRIDAY NOVEMBER NORTHERN LIVE

FRIDAY DECEMBER BONGOʼS BINGO

SATURDAY DECEMBER THE SHEFFIELD BEATLES PROJECT

SUNDAY DECEMBER THE SHEFFIELD BEATLES PROJECT

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER TRAVIS

FRIDAY DECEMBER BONGOʼS BINGO

SATURDAY DECEMBER EVERLY PREGNANT BROTHERS CRUSTMAS SPECIAL

MONDAY MARCH YOU ME AT

SUNDAY MARCH TAYLOR MANIA!

THURSDAY MARCH YTHE MARY WALLOPERS

WEDNESDAY APRIL POSTMODERN JUKEBOX

MONDAY MAY SUPERGRASS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT performancevenues.group.shef.ac.uk Octagon Centre, Clarkson Street, S10 2TQ

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