FACT Magazine Bahrain March 2012

THE SMART MONTHLY GUIDE TO LIFE IN BAHRAIN

FACT M.E. - BAHRAIN EDITION

The Cultural Issue

The

FASHION. ART. CULTURE. TECHNOLOGY MARCH 2012

VOL 5, ISSUE 7

BD1

Spring of Culture

Extensive coverage of the most spectacular festival in Bahrain! (p34)

SR10

MARCH 2012

INSIDE THIS MONTH

Andrea Bocelli!

ISSUE 55 2/26/12 1:30 PM

Four UK acts over four separate venues means lots of laughs this March! (p.16)

Top Model Round 2

FACT talks to the legendary Italian tenor ahead of his live performance in the Spring of Culture! (p.32)

Bahrain’s most glamorous competition !

(p.60)

Bahrain’s Historic Sites

The Chef’s Table

A brand new feature in FACT, where we dine with the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain’s Executive Chef Guy Gateau !

We profile Bahrain’s many cultural and historic centres, from ancient archaeological sites to restored traditional homes and more! (p.22)

PLUS jan Cover.indd 1 AG_273_R60_Bahrain_Fact_27.3x19.4cm_En.indd 1

Mad March Comedy

Exclusive Interview...

The Camera Collection All the best cameras... (p.50)

(p.92)

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The FIAT 500 Ali Driver goes Italian! (p.54) 01/03/2012 12:57

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THE SMART MONTHLY GUIDE TO LIFE IN BAHRAIN

FACT M.E. - BAHRAIN EDITION

The Cultural Issue

The

FASHION. ART. CULTURE. TECHNOLOGY MARCH 2012

VOL 5, ISSUE 7

BD1

Spring of Culture

Extensive coverage of the most spectacular festival in Bahrain! (p34)

8 Artful Dodger!

SR10

The next X-Clusive party brings famous UK garage act Artful Dodger!

8

NOTEWORTHY

16 Mad March Comedy!

MARCH 2012

INSIDE THIS MONTH

Mad March Comedy

Exclusive Interview...

Andrea Bocelli!

Four UK acts over four separate venues means lots of laughs this March! (p.16)

Top Model Round 2

FACT talks to the legendary Italian tenor ahead of his live performance in the Spring of Culture! (p.32)

Bahrain’s most glamorous competition !

(p.60)

Bahrain’s Historic Sites ISSUE 55 2/26/12 1:30 PM

The Chef’s Table

A brand new feature in FACT, where we dine with the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain’s Executive Chef Guy Gateau !

We profile Bahrain’s many cultural and historic centres, from ancient archaeological sites to restored traditional homes and more! (p.22)

PLUS

The Camera Collection All the best cameras... (p.50)

Four different acts across four separate venues means some serious comedy value this month!

(p.92)

+

The FIAT 500 Ali Driver goes Italian! (p.54) 01/03/2012 12:57

FACT Magazine M.E. Bahrain Edition March 2012 Volume 5 Issue 6

FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef.

Ministry of Information Subject Registration Number: CFB779 Director Omar Shaheen Publishing Director Edward Smith Editor-in-Chief Tony Sidgwick (editor@factlive.com) Deupty Editor Zara de Haldevang Regional Head of Sales Laura Alvarez Senior Sales Executive Sari Mabire Designer Rashed Bindaina Fashion Consultant Laura Bale Student Intern Maddy Smith Photography Contributors George Matthews Rashed Bindaina PRINTED BY Union Press ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 1721 6099 E-mail: laura@factlive.com All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher.

All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

22 Manama: a Capital of Culture

In dedication to the Spring of Culture, and the fact that Manama is Arab Capital of Culture for 2012, we bring you our Big Culture Feature, profiling all of Bahrain’s sites of interest!

32 Andrea Bocelli

An interview with the legendary Italian tenor kicks off our coverage of the spectacular Spring of Culture festival!

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32

CULTURE

ARTS

44 John Carter

FACT previews the latest movie from Pixar studios - their first live action ever.

50 The Camera Collection

With all this culture going on, we thought we’d let you know the best way to capture it all!

TECHNOLOGY

50

54 The Fiat 500

Ali Driver reviews the chic little Italian mini, and enjoys it far more than he expected to...

60 Bahrain’s Top Model: Round 2

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FASHION

The next episode in what is already turning out to be a fantastic Top Model campaign...

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FROM THE EDITOR

Spring is in the Air! THE Spring of Culture is one of my favourite periods in Bahrain, as it brings with it a sense of excitement and vibrancy to the country that only a month of spectacular entertainment can bring, as well as signifying the run-up to the Gulf Air Bahrain F1 GP, the 2012 round of which was officially announced last month at the BIC. We need this entertainment, sorely, as the past year has been one of strife and struggle, and we all need some distraction in our lives. This will come in the form of performances by Julio Iglesias, Andrea Bocelli, just to name the two most famous acts.

There will also be performances from cultural icons from around the world, including the awesome Bahraini progressive rock band Osiris, who return to the stage after a fantastic live gig last September. Laying out the Spring of Culture spread in our arts section really got us excited as we looked in detail at the Spring’s calendar.

However, the Spring of Culture is just one period in what is a whole year of

cultural celebration for Bahrain, as it is conducting a year long campaign after being selected as the Arab Capital of Culture 2012. And, to celebrate, this month heralds our ‘Big Culture Issue’, which brings an extensive overview of all the sites of interest and cultural centres Bahrain has to offer, of which, we found out to our surprise, there are many more than you think!

We also need the F1 GP. It will provide a very welcome injection of cash into the economy from visitors, teams, tourists and the like that the leisure industry, and all its peripherals, are craving like a dying man in the desert craves a glass of blissful water!

This industry accounts for a significant percentage of the country’s economy, and supports a significant percentage more, and it took a serious hit over the last year.

I have all my fingers and toes crossed that everything goes smoothly from now until after the GP, because if it does, people might have more confidence that Bahrain is once again a place to visit and do business, and we can all start getting down to some serious prospering!

Tony Sidgwick Editor-in-Chief tony@factlive.com

My favourite

News from the

story this issue Andrea Bocelli p32-33 We secured an exclusive interview with the legendary Italian tenor ahead of his live performance in the Spring of Culture this March. Turn to our Arts section to find out more!

Andrea Bocelli

The Master Tenor The world’s most famous living tenor singer, Andrea Bocelli, is coming to Bahrain to perform live as part of the spectacular Spring of Culture!

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FACT Penthouse

H

e is the multi-awardF. You are one of the main winning Italian tenor believe I can be sufficiently objective artists responsible for and multi-instrumentalist in my view to make an impartial credited with opening classical bringing classical music judgment. I am extremely fond music up to wider audiences French opera and I know that of into the mainstream. a great across the world. He has recorded many people are wild about German Are you proud to have thirteen studio albums, of which or Russian opera, and anyway introduced classical music he has sold 70 million copies not believe that I hold the key I do to worldwide, making him the biggest to so many people? any absolute truth as it probably selling classical artist in history.

A. Yes, especially because opera doesn’t exist, especially where is art is He won a Golden Globe for my true passion. In the past classical concerned. his music for the animated movie music was the true popular music The Quest for Camelot, and his classical I feel as if I’m returning a part and F. Which musical of album, Sacred Arias, earned him instrument do you most like what music has given to me if a place in the Guinness Book help in bringing these all-time I can of classics to play, and why?

World Records for simultaneously to a wider audience.

A. Without doubt, the instrument holding the top 3 positions on I love most is the piano, which the F. You have been a US classical albums charts. have studied with great passion I ever passionate musician from Possibly his most well-known since I was a child. I love all musical song, ‘Time to Say Goodbye’, a very early age. Can you instruments in general, but it is one of the best-selling singles is describe why you were so necessary to know something all time, selling over 12 millionof well to be sure that you really very drawn to music when you love it. copies worldwide., and staying were so young?

F. Have you played in the the top of the German charts at A. It was an intuition of my mother Middle East before? fourteen consecutive weeks. for who, when I was a whimsical A. Yes, I have been in UAE few As a result of his huge success, only managed to make me eatchild, times, in Oman, then in Egypt, he has been honoured with a by where putting on background music I sang under the great Pyramids star on the Hollywood Walk she used as a “sedative”. She that Giza, and also in Petra, Jordan, of Fame for his contribution to of where live me listen to the tenor Franco made I took part in a wonderful tributetheatre. His work has also earned whose voice I fell in love withCorelli, concert to the great Pavarotti. him the more lofty title of Grand soon as I heard it. From then as Officer of the Order of Merit F. How do you feel about of music became a constant and on the Italian Republic, one of element in my life. It was a realvital coming to play in Bahrain? highest honours available in the Italy. of lightning, so much so that flash A. I am singing here for the first And, in what must be the most at nine time years of age I already knew quite and as always it will be very exciting, telling sign of his phenomenal a number just like of “the first time” always is! songs. success, tickets to his show in Bahrain sold out within hours!

F. Which language do you F. What do you have to say Could there be any higher most like to sing in, and to the people of Bahrain? accolade?

A. I would like to thank you for why?

FACT Magazine talks to the inviting me here to perform. It’s A. Opera originated in Italy and, singer ahead of his performance pleasure for me to sing in here a big an Italian who loves his country as for the in the Spring of Culture this and first time opera, and I truly I feel hope there that Italian is the best month… be more occasions in future to will language for it. However, I don’t come back.

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As you can see from the bit on the left, we managed to bag an exclusive interview with the world-famous Anrea Bocelli, which we were more than a little bit proud of! This months sees the introduction of a brand new feature to FACT magazine, the Chef’s Table, with the first to host us being Chef Guy Gateau of the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain... We had a truly enlightening time taking in all the cultural sights of Bahrain for our cultural issue this month - we learnt more about Bahrain in a month than we have in the past four years!

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Something Pure in a synthetic world Welcome to a world where you can experience nature at its very best.

Take your pick from our refreshing menu of signature treatments fashioned with rich, super-natural ingredients, and let our therapists craft a ritual around your whims and wishes. Breathe in the scent of Pure relaxation, right in the heart of Manama. Revive!

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NOTEWORTHY 1

March

- Spring of Culture begins! (see p.34)

THUR

2

FRI

3

SAT

4

SUN

5

MON

6

TUE

7

WED

8

- X-Clusive Party, with Artful Dodger @ Tian (see opposite)

THUR - Comedy Roadshow @ various (see p.16)

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- Lost Paradise of Dilmun re-opens (see p.12)

FRI - Comedy Roadshow @ various (see p.16)

10 SAT

11 SUN

12 MON

13 TUE

14 WED

Mock Chili Peppers @ Kicks Bar (see p.95) 15 -- Red Saudistock @ Fiddler’s Green (see p.96) THUR

16

- Red Mock Chili Peppers @ Champs (see p.95)

FRI

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- St. Patrick’s Day @ JJ’s Irish Pub (see p.18)

SAT

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19 MON

20 TUE

21 WED

22 - Craic Attack comedy @ JJ’s Irish Pub (see p.16) THUR

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24 SAT

25 SUN

26 - Alwan arts event begins @ Al Riwaq (see p.15) MON

27 TUE

28 29 - Joe Driscoll @ Fiddler’s Green Pub (see p.94) WED

THUR

30 - Joe Driscoll @ Diplomat Brunch (see p.94) FRI

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X-Clusive events are throwing yet another excellent event this March, and they’re bringing over UK Garage act Artful Dodger to entertain their selected guests…

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rtful Dodger is a UK R&B and Garage act that shot to fame with the release of their hit single “Rewind”. The single also provided a platform for the success of UK R&B singer Craig David, who’s vocals featured on the track.

As many of you will know by now, X-Clusive events do things a little differently than most. Established in 2009 by Rashid Al Gaoud, X-Clusive is now run by double team Jacob Habboush and Ebrahim Al Gaoud and, of course, a tonne of people who make every event possible. The company started with a simple idea: put on great quality parties for similar-minded people. The success of this business lies in its statistics – starting with private parties for selected crowds, the crowds now often consist of 700 members all

getting together to have a good time.

Entry isn’t for just anyone though.

X-Clusive prides itself by not existing as a product for the masses. X-Clusive members are chosen; no one can purchase or apply for a membership but members can recommend friends who fit the X-Clusive profile. To gain event entry, you must be a member or have approval.

Bahrain has already proved to be a winner though. Having secured sturdy relationships with a lot of the island’s best venues, the X-Clusive name is one with a top reputation and even better parties.

Watch out for this space – with tonnes of live international acts lined up for the rest of the party season, make sure you try and find a way to get involved.

GO:The event takes place in Tian restaurant, in Block 338 district, on March 8. To find out more, call 3662 0460.

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The Artful Dodger Goes X-Clusive!

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QUOTE OF

FACT talks to Mark Hill, from Artful Dodger, ahead of their set this month, who must be one of our most ‘talkative’ interviewees yet…

F. Please explain the name. Were you obsessed with Oliver Twist as a kid?

M. No when we first starting making music we would bootleg a beat from here or a baseline from there, that’s’ where the name The Artful Dodger comes from.

F. What first brought you into the music world?

M. I was a big fan of Michael Jackson when I was younger, also my brother and sister was already in the music business so I guess it runs in the family.

F. You and Mark Hill initially set up the band, what was it like after you went your separate ways?

M. Fine, Mark is doing his own thing and we are doing ours.

F. “Re-wind” was over ten years ago now; can you still listen to the complete single?

M. Yes we play it almost every set its still goes down as well today as it did 10 years ago.

F. How was it that you collaborated with Craig David in the first place?

M. Craig was from Southampton and we met through Alistair.

F. You’ve been fairly quiet in the past few years, with your last single being ‘Flex’ back in 2006, where have you been hiding?

M. We have been doing so many live shows and been in the studio recently getting the up and coming album together.

F. It’s great to see you’re now branching out to the Middle East. Why Bahrain? Have you been to the island before?

M. Yes, we were in Bahrain about two years ago and we loved it, we also go to Dubai & Abu Dhabi quite frequently.

F. How would you describe your fan base?

M. Our fans are amazing, we still have our fans from 10 years ago and lots of new younger fans.

F. So tell us, what are your plans for the future?

M. Lots of more live shows and a forthcoming album.

F. Where would your ideal tour be?

M. We toured the US about 9 years ago and we would love to go back.

F. How would you sum yourself up in a sentence…

M. We are music lovers with a love for food & partying !!!

THE MONTH “Bahrain is a free and open society, and women are fully empowered members of society.”

HE Houda Nonoo, Bahrain’s Ambassador to the United States, giving a speech to Chevy Chase Presbyterian Church, in the United States

Follow FACTBahrain on

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NOTEWORTHY

THE SCOPE

LOVE IT !

Dhow Victims Paid

SO OBVIOUS!

That’s right, a CAR! One of Bahrain’s most experienced horsemen, Sami Mohammed Ghazwan, has finally completed a stunt he has been months in training for, by jumping over a Daihatsu car on horseback without touching any part of the car. It’s the first time that a stunt of this kind has been pulled off in the Gulf. Credits to both horse and rider!

Interfering Busybodies

A message to the interfering busybodies from Europe and the US who are entering Bahrain under false pretences to join in with protests on the streets of Bahrain: Would you please just **** off and mind your own business?

Thanks to your pointless efforts, formerly welcoming Bahrain has now tightened up visa requirements at the airport, and thousands of visitors are now facing delays in the airport coming into the country. Thanks a lot for that!

P.S. The violence against innocents in Syria is vastly more serious than in Bahrain, but we don’t see you going over THERE to join in protests, do we? No, of course not, because then you might actually have to put yourselves at risk for your so-called values! Pathetic…

CAN’T BELIEVE IT

So now, finally, after a five year struggle in which many of the victims dropped out due to the mounting legal costs, the owner of the dhow involved in the Al Dana dhow tragedy has now been ordered to pay out to the victims. However, the fee ordered to each victim is paltry, and in many cases not even enough to cover legal costs, but at least the victims and their families can now draw a line under the whole thing and move on with their lives!

Showjumper Jumps Over a Car!

HATE IT! Zara’s Question of the Month:

How bad is your road rage?

I

swear there is something that happens every day on the roads that doesn’t fail to surprise me.

If it isn’t some numpty adopting the “Saudi swerve” and ultimately ending up in the central reservation, it’s someone else attempting to overtake on a turning, on a corner or just when it is physically impossible. So is it ever acceptable to vent your anger even when you’re not involved?

A friend of mine did just this the other day – instead of shouting, she gave the naughty hand gesture, which was completely justified by the way.

Illegal? Yes of course. Deserved?

Even more so.

It is bad enough being a woman here

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sometimes (I count my stars I am not blonde) but being a female driver is a whole new board game. The new road near my house is now the ultimate crash hub; every day new tyre marks appear on the road, where 90mph idiots hurtle themselves in front of pickups, just so they get the one up on the junction. A dog has been killed, my sister has almost been run over whilst running. Yes, I admit to occasionally ignoring my Lancer beeping when the 120 mark has been hit but when it comes to being safe? Stop staring, put your phone down and learn the definition of the term ‘fast lane’.

I think what this all boils down to is just how easy it is to get your

license here. A close friend of mine paid his instructor to lie about how many driving hours he had done so he could pass his test. Another acquaintance doesn’t even have a license and still hits the roads at ridiculous speeds and in various states. Is everyone just waiting for something bad to happen for us to get some sense knocked into us? The past week has proved just that.

Without wanting to sound like a complete wimp, bad driving really freaks me out… so stay safe and watch out for the idiots – unfortunately this seems to be the large majority of people behind the wheel.

Ok, rant over!

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Bahrain’s Biggest Waterpark Reopens!

After a winter hiatus, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun opens its doors to the public this month, bringing thrills and splashy spills…

Bahrainbred Book Launched A book about Bahrain, created in Bahrain, and compiled entirely from contributions by Bahrain-based writers was launched last month online, with a hardback version coming soon…

T

he book, whose full title is My Beautiful Bahrain - A collection of short stories and poetry about life and living in the Kingdom of Bahrain, is now available to purchase on Amazon Kindle.

A hard copy on paper back is also planned for the near future, so that you can purchase your very own piece of true Bahraini literature.

With lots of fascinating personal ‘life’ stories, quite a few tourist-type information and fact-based contributions, some wonderful poetry, an occasional piece of fiction (set on the island) and a mixture of other diverse and captivating prose, with fifty contributions from forty writers from fifteen countries, My Beautiful Bahrain is both varied and unique, and an undeniably indispensable guide for travellers and visitors to the island, as well as a ‘must-read’ book for people living here, doing business here, or just interested in what life is like living on this tiny, tiny island in the Arabian Gulf.

GO: To find it, do a search on Amazon.

Alternatively, to reserve a hard copy go to http://www.bahrainwriterscircle.com/mybeautiful-bahrain/.

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L

ost Paradise will reopen on March 9, kicking off what is now its fifth season entertaining visitors and hosting events. In addition to 18 of the fastest slides, water sprays, spa pools, family raft ride, interactive children’s wet play and the gulf region’s largest wave pool, there are also a range of new attractions and activities planned to create even more excitement!

This year’s campaign is themed as the “Wonders of the Lost Paradise”, where the waterpark creates a pleasurable and magical escapade for all ages. New extreme adventures are currently being added, such as the Amazing Zipline. An adventure that is becoming famous in Asia and European countries, the Zipline will be a first in Bahrain.

Suspended from a cable high above with safety harnesses, visitors will shoot down the line from the top of one of the water slides and land all the way at the bottom with a big splash at the wave pool.

Another new attraction is the relaxing Fish Spa. A special spa

featuring the special doctor fishes, or Garra Ruffa fish, brought all the way from Asia, this one-of-a-kind experience lets the fishes nibble only on the dead skin of a person’s feet leaving the skin with a healthy glow.

Other new attractions in the pipeline include Dunk Tanks, Rodeo Bulls, Gliders and much more.

Exciting new activities are also lined up this season, starting with the fitness campaigns introducing Water Aerobics, Zumba lessons, pump up sports and competitions such as the return of the water volleyball championship and the 1st water basketball tournament.

To really whip up the season, additional events are being included, such as an Amazing Escapade race, Special Themed weeks, the much-anticipated Summer Festival, Amazing Shows and more.

With the grandeur and history of the Dilmun period reflected by the unique stone structures and architecture, this year promises to be an amazing experience and a garden of paradise for all guests to enjoy.

GO: To find out more, log on to www.lpodwaterpark.com.

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World-Class Football Training for Kids!

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is being presented to Bahrain’s youngsters, with places in world-class football training camps now available!

B

ahrain’s youngsters now have the chance to attend the football training camps of some of the world’s best clubs, including Real Madrid in Spain, AC Milan in Italy, Man United in England, and Paris Saint Germain in France.

Youth football players around the world called them “Soccer Camps”, “Soccer Schools”, “Football Camps”, “Football Schools”, “Campus de Fútbol” or “Stages de Football”.

These football camps are known by football players worldwide, many of whom attended these camps themselves as youngsters.

Kids will live their football dreams with these elite international camps.

Thousands of players from all over the world have participated at these Official Clubs International Youth Football Camps and Football Schools over the years.

Middle East Sports Management & Marketing (MESMM) is the first company in Middle East to provide these kinds of services, which are

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open to kids aged seven to seventeen years-old. They provide mainly overnight (residential) Youth Football Training Camps with major clubs in England, France, Spain and Italy.

The football course at each of the camps will be comprehensive, covering all elements of the game including techniques, skills, phases of play and small-sided games. On the first day, groups are established based on age and ability. The football coaches are all highly qualified staff from clubs and are therefore specialists in sport formation.

They will teach participants how to improve their style, but most importantly, they will teach them how to work and play as a team. During the camp, the kids will have technical preparation drills (ball control, ball recuperation, defence, attack, shot, passes, marking, tackling etc.) and tactical preparation drills (1 on 1, defence vs. offense, game system, ball movement, style of play, field coverage, off sides etc.) as well as

tournaments.

MESMM is a young and dynamic Sports company in the Middle East market dedicated to offer sports events, sports consulting, camps & academies and athletic representation.

They are the first in the region to offer this unique selection of football camps for kids with prestigious European football clubs.

They also offer consulting services to professional clubs as well as sports organizations.

GO: To find out more, log on to www.mesmm. com, or call 77177881.

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,, Al Riwaq Launches Alwan 338

Al Riwaq Art Space in Block 338 in Adliya is hosting a unique series of artistic and creative events throughout March and April for the Spring of Culture…

A

l Riwaq Art Space and the Block 338 community are to present a grand community-driven cultural and artistic collaboration called Alwan 338 that will take place throughout the area.

The event will begin from March 26, and will run for three weeks. The activities will be spread across four different venues and will cover four different artistic expressions.

I Am the Other It will kick off with a contemporary art exhibition, entitled “I am the Other”, taking place in the now abandoned Bohemia Restaurant building in the 338 district with visiting artist Mo Reda.

Reda’s works explore the origins of the distancing and divisions between the self and the other. The journey Reda takes begins with a series of questions: Who is the other? Why do we include and exclude the other from our own selves? Where does the self end and the other begin? How can we exclude the other, when we ourselves are ‘the other’ to those around us?

Artist in Residence Mo Reda’s project in Bahrain spans a period of three months as he collaborates with artists in Bahrain at Al Riwaq Art Space. Together, they develop their works and create their own concepts based on the theme of ‘the other’. For the project, the artists occupy Bohemia, an abandoned building in the heart of modern Block 338 in Adliya, and transform it into a space to display their works.

The project also makes note of the importance of transferring knowledge and experience from established artists to emerging, younger artists. Essentially, in this alternative art education project, older artists will gain experience in coaching while the younger artists learn from their mentors’ experiences. All this is facilitated within the walls of the abandoned building.

The following weeks will include both music and film weekends with the three-week programme ending with a grand finale.

The overlooked square near Monsoon Restaurant will be transformed into one of the cornerstones of the event: Recycled material will be creatively utilized to make a stage and public park area that change weekly to accommodate the outdoor music and film events.

Al Riwaq Art Space will also be hosting a series of interesting workshops and weekly exhibitions for Bahraini artists. The gallery will showcase a documentation of the entire event including artist interviews related to the “I am the Other” exhibition.

In collaboration with Restaurants from the 338 area this block will be transformed into a hub for art and music, in which the restaurants will also host their own exclusive events and special menus for the duration of this event.

Block 338 will be transformed into a hub for art and music, in which the restaurants will also host their own exclusive events.

GO: For more information, log on to www. alriwaqartspace.com, or call 1771 7441.

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NOTEWORTHY

Mad March Comedy!

Get ready for a month full of laughs, with three nights of comedy featuring the talents of four fantastic comedians lined up for the month of March!

The Craic Attack

N

ot to be outdone by these new upstarts, Bahrain’s favourite Irish Pub brings back what is now a well-established comedy night in Bahrain, the Craic Attack! Taking place on March 22, Craic Attack will be bringing two more famous British comedians to Bahrain, Paul Zenon and Mickey Hutton.

Paul Zenon is the UK’s number one cutting-edge comedy magician, with appearances from Channel 4 con-man to the Comedy Store, Hollywood to Bollywood, and Countdown to ‘La Clique’. For the past 25 years, Paul Zenon has brought his unique combination of contemporary trickery and streetwise stand-up to the stages and screens of Britain and over 30 countries worldwide.

Since presenting the BBC1 shows Tricky Business and Tricks ‘n’ Tracks in the early Nineties, the UK pioneer of ‘Street Magic’ has made around 350 TV appearances as performer, presenter and pundit.

Youtube is full of videos of this talented artist, so if you want a taste, get online!

Newcastle born comedian Mickey Hutton has performed all over the world in venues as far apart as the Falklands Islands, Shanghai, Jakarta and Mumbai.

He has written and directed for television as well as appearing in front of the camera shows as diverse as Spender, Hearts of Gold, Hangar 17, The Royal Variety Show, Monarch Of The Glen and Crocodile Shoes.

Mickey had a regular column in the Sun and his debut novel, Massive, got fantastic reviews. He still treads the boards as an actor and was recently in John Godber’s award winning play, Bouncers.

At the moment he is writing his second novel and still regularly compères at the Comedy Store in London.

GO: Entrance to Kicks and Champs will be BD5, whilst Corners will be BD10, including two free drinks. For more information, call Kicks on 3992 2583, Champs on 3981 2397, and Corners on 1603 1113, or visit any of them on Facebook.

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The Comedy Roadshow

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n the second stint of what’s promising to be a regular feature of Bahrain’s nightlife, the Comedy Roadshow tour of Bahrain returns to three of the country’s best-loved pubs, bringing two UK comedians, Tony Cowards and Hal Cruttenden.

Hal Cruttenden is one of the top comedians working in the UK today. Recent television appearances include Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, The Royal Variety Performance 2009, Comedy Rocks and The Rob Brydon Show. As a television warm up, he has worked for The Jonathan Ross Show, Alan Carr’s Chattyman and The Rob Brydon Show.

Hal’s big breakthrough in stand up came with his nomination for the Perrier Newcomer Award at the 2002 Edinburgh Festival for his solo show ‘Hal’. He is a regular at all the top UK comedy clubs and has supported Rob Brydon, Sean Lock, Ardal O’Hanlon and Omid Djalili.

Tony Cowards has been performing stand up comedy all over the country since 2004.

A quickfire joke teller whose one-liners cover a wide spectrum of subjects, his quick wit has made him a sought-after act by various promoters and clubs around the UK including The Comedy Company, Up The Creek, Downstairs at the Kings Head, CKP, Best Medicine, Komedia and many, many more.

Tony’s likable ‘everyman’ character and wide ranging humour (which is mostly clean) means he is comfortable in front of any audience, and he’s also regularly used as an MC by many of the top booking agents and is renowned for his quick wit and superb improvisational skills.

Tony and Hal will be performing in Kicks on Thursday, March 8, and then in Champs and Corners on Friday March 9.

GO: Tickets are BD5 on the door at JJ’s Irish Pub on the night. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. For information, call 3932 9083.

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Angelique Kidjo & AsA 11th april ArAd fort

a truly extraordinary double bill: the african divas thrill arad. Back after her electrifying 2009 debut in Bahrain, Grammy winner angelique Kidjo’s well choreographed, highly energetic performance of soulful sound blends driving West african grooves, surging samba beats and sophisticated jazz harmonies. While singer and songwriter asa brings a winning fusion of contemporary soul, pop, reggae and funk with her strong vocals and soul-stirring melodies. ticKets are sold at seef mall West WinG

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NOTEWORTHY

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day with the Woodbines!

This March we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, the festival of the Patron Saint of Ireland. And where better to celebrate than with an Irish band in Bahrain’s favourite Irish Pub? Well, we can’t think of a better place…

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nd what makes it even better? Well, this year it falls right on the weekend – Saturday to be precise, and so JJ’s have a two-day festival planned for Friday the 16th and Saturday the 17th with a fantastic programme of events to really get things going.

The Woodbines

What do you get when you join up five of Irelands finest traditional and rock musicians? The answer is the sheer power, dynamism and live energy that embodies trad/rock/ fusion band The Woodbines.

Formed in April 2007, the band is fast becoming one of the most sought-after acts on the Irish live music scene. Blending traditional Irish music with pop, rock, Cajun and folk songs to create a blistering live show, The Woodbines certainly serve up a pulsating eclectic set wherever they perform.

What other band can boast mashing traditional Irish music tunes and reels with such popular bands like The Violent Femmes, The Bangles, Beyonce, and Guns and Roses, as well as keeping the faith alive to traditional classics

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from Moving Hearts, Stocktons Wing, Luka Bloom and The Horslips?

Their live sound captures an audience and has introduced a host of newcomers to the energy and dynamism of Celtic-influenced music. They have played some high profile gigs in Ireland, especially on the festival scene, and supported major acts such as Stocktons Wing, De Dannan, Aslan and The Saw Doctors.

Festivals they played in 2011 include Comortas Peil Ventry, Phoenix Festival, Listowel Races Street Festival, Tri-Athlone Festival and more.

Catch the Woodbines for St. Patrick’s weekend at JJ’s Music Hall on March 16 and 17 accompanied by two dancers from the Lord of The Dance show, Joey Comerford and Lori Haul. The Lord of the Dance is the famous show created by the legendary Michael Flatley, which features traditional Irish dancing in a spectacular stage show.

GO: : Tickets will be available on the door at JJ’s for BD5 general admission. For table reservation call 3932 9083.

A Few Facts About St. Patrick’s Day: • St. Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated internationally on March 17 to commemorate St. Patrick, the most commonly recognised of the patron saints of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.

• Thanks to an Irish Diaspora that has spread throughout the world, most notably to Great Britain and America, and to it’s festival atmosphere and enjoyable celebrations, St. Patrick’s day is now the most widely celebrated saint’s day in the world.

• Saint Patrick is said to have used the shamrock, a three-leaved plant, to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish, and the wearing and display of shamrocks and shamrock-inspired designs have become a ubiquitous feature of the day.

• Saint Patrick was actually born into a Romano-British family in Roman Britain, but was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken captive to Ireland as a slave. He escaped back to Britain and became a priest, but returned to Ireland to bring Christianity to the pagan Irish.

• The original colour associated with St. Patrick was actually blue, but because of the shamrock the colour green became increasingly prevalent, until it took over as the main colour association.

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p22: The Big Culture Feature!

GETTING UNDER BAHRAIN’S SKIN THIS MONTH

The Big Culture Feature 2012 In celebration of the Manama Capital of Culture 2012, we bring you our Big Culture Feature, profiling all the cultural and historical sites of interest in Bahrain - and you’ll be amazed how many there are!

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Bahrain’s Artistic Centres Where else to witness the best of Bahrain’s art world than the centres themselves? Here we choose the best of the best to soak up the latest collections and marvel at the most creative skills of local and regional artists.

Al Riwaq Art Space

This is one of the top-notch establishments in Bahrain’s art and cultural scene. A non-profit space supporting contemporary art practice, Al Riwaq aims to help the creativity of the island’s youth. Founded back in 1998, the gallery has upheld its vision to promote creativity and art values, where artists are given a platform to exchange ideas, provoke intellectual debates, promote, inspire and develop creative thinking and nurture cultural production.

This gallery promotes its mission by building and maintaining a strong relationship between art and society through its programmes. In order to build up social awareness and appreciation of visual arts, Al Riwaq Art Space hosts local and international group exhibitions, workshops, talks, film screenings and meetings for the art communities and patrons.

Contacts: 1771 7441, www.alriwaqartspace.com.

Albareh Art Gallery

Marking the second gallery to open in 1998, Albareh Art Gallery has come a long way in the past 12 years. As well as building a formidable stable of artists, both established and emerging, it has become the definitive destination for local devotes, dedicated professionals and adventurous collectors from across the Middle East and beyond.

The gallery’s initial aim was to fill the spotlight with talent through a series of solo and group programmes. The exhibitions were collections from established artists from the Arab world as well as their counterparts from other continents. Albareh has continued its journey to unearth undiscovered talent, cultivate promising practitioners and showcase the very best in artistic expression. The space is now filled with paintings, sculptures and photographs, all representing the increasing passion for art emerging in the Kingdom.

Contacts: 1771 3535, www.albareh.com

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Perhaps one of the most beautiful examples of architecture in Bahrain, La Fontaine’s history has a lot to say. An historical monument dating back to a hundred and fifty years, its location is nestled right in the heart of Manama close to the infamous souq. The centre is the only one of its kind throughout the Middle East, revered as an architectural masterpiece and artistic glory; the property belongs to the Al Reza family, where the unique lines capture the essence of a grand European chateau yet retaining the charm of the authentic Islamic architecture.

It took an impressive 3.6 million hours of labour and over 5.2 million dollars of private investment to get this art space back on its feet, and it now stands as the first private museum on the island. The old residence’s traditional design, consisting of a series of rooms around the central courtyard, lends itself to a gallery with high ceilings and expansive wall space all filled with contemporary artworks designed by leading international artists.

Conctacts: 1723 0123, www.lafontaineartcentre.net

Arabesque Art Gallery

With its doors first opening more than 20 years ago in 1977, the Arabesque Gallery claims to have grown to be ‘the major private gallery in Bahrain’. Recognized as the main outlet in the Gulf Region for antique art of the Middle East, this gallery is also known for specialising in David Roberts’ 19th Century Lithographs, old maps of Arabia and the chromolithographs of Prisse D’Avennes.

This isn’t just a place where you go to check out the best of the local Bahraini art, this is also where you go to make sure your own work is mounted properly. There is a customer-based picture framing service for the individual and for corporate clients.

Contacts: 1772 2916, www.arabesque-gallery.com.

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Cultural Centres

When it comes to cultural hotspots, Bahrain has little gems scattered all over the island. Whatever the scale of the educational facility, there are places all over the Kingdom all waiting to give you an insight in the island’s past.

Bahrain Fort

Also known as Qal’at Al Bahrain Site, this archaeological site is one of the largest found on the island. Located on the north coast of the island in Seef, the fort was inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list in 2005, based on its outstanding cultural value. As the capital of the ancient Dilmun Civilization, the site represents not only one of the most important ancient civilizations of the region but also Bahrain’s identity as a centre of commerce and cultural exchange. The Islamic fort dates back to the 16th century A.D. and contains the remains of cities that were inhabited during many periods, four to five thousand years ago. Since its discovery, different groups of archaeologists have unveiled the remains of buildings of six cities surrounding the fort.

Bahrain National Museum

Situated at the junction of the Al-Fateh Highway and Sheikh Hamad Bridge leading to Muharraq, the National Museum officially opened 23 years ago and became the largest museum in the Middle East. Consisting of several exhibition halls covering the history of Bahrain, you can discover anything and everything from the Stone Age up until the pre-oil period. The museum impressively covers 27,800 square metres and spreads over two buildings. As well as covering 6000 years of Bahrain’s history, the museum possesses a rich collection of the Kingdom’s ancient archaeological artefacts acquired since its opening. Among the exhibits in the ancient history section is an actual burial mound that was transported from its site in the desert and reassembled in the museum.

Ahmad Al Fateh Mosque

Known as one of the largest mosques in the world, where it has the capability to accommodate over 7,000 worshippers at a time, this place of worship is the largest of its kind in Bahrain. Close to the Royal Palace, the mosque stands out as a symbol of spirit, adventure and religious zeal. The dome is made out of fibreglass weighing over 60,000 kilograms and was built by the late Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa and was named after Ahmed Al Fateh, the conqueror of Bahrain. The mosque now includes the National Library, which opened to the public in 2006.

Burial Mounds Tree of Life

This natural wonder is over 400 years old! Standing alone in the middle of the desert, this well-matured tree has come to be known as the “Tree of Life” because of the mystery surrounding its existence.

Without any known water source, and known to withstand harsh environments, this tree has attracted thousands of visitors over the years and will continue to do so for the fascination of its existence.

There are a fair few locations dotted around the island, all of which resemble burial grounds dating back thousands of years ago. With seven groups of mounds on the island, they have often been referred to as some of the world’s largest ancient cemeteries. The mounds include A’Ali, Al Hajar, Buri, Hamad Town, Janoosan, Shakhoora and Tylos. These mounds are just a physical example of how much history is embedded into the soils of Bahrain.

Sar City Archaeological Site

This is an outstanding example of a well-planned city, which existed in the region during the ancient times and dates back to 2300 BC. The main features of the site are a Dilmunite Town and a cemetery with interlocking graves.

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Bahrain’s Old Capital Standing as Bahrain’s third largest city and the previous capital until 1923, Muharraq is filled to the brim with culture, history and hidden secrets.

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uharraq Town was first established by the Sunni tribe in the early nineteenth century. Located on the Muharraq Island, it has long been a centre of religiosity and is home to Bahrain International Airport.

The history of the city stem back centuries, where its origins go back to the time of the Dilmun some 5,000 years ago. Muharraq was also the centre of a pagan cult dedicated to the shark god Awal, and the city’s inhabitants, who all depended on seafaring and trade for their livelihood, used to worship Awal in the form of a large statue of a shark located in the city.

Muharraq became a major centre of Nestorian Christianity by the fifth century and several names of the villages today reflect the Christian legacy: Al-Dair meaning ‘the monastery’ and Qalali meaning ‘a monk’s cloisters’.

Now home to Bahrain Air and Gulf Air Headquarters, Muharraq is home to a huge number of government schools and Bahrain’s most successful football club the Muharraq Club. With close proximity to Amwaj, one of the most idyllic areas of the island, this city is still a thriving area to live, work and discover the traditional gems of Bahrain.

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Abdullah Al Zayed House

DESIGNED for Bahraini Press Heritage, this house was the first restoration project undertaken by the Sheikh Ebrahim Center with private sponsors. This 100 year-old building opened back in November 2003, fully restored in all its glory as the house of the founder of the first weekly newspaper in Bahrain and the Gulf. The house is dedicated in preserving the press heritage of the Kingdom and simultaneously preserves a part of the country’s unique architectural traditions.

The Abdullah Al Zayed house was extended and opened to the public in November 2009. All of the house’s restoration would not have been possible without the sponsorship of His Highness Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, BBK, National Bank of Bahrain, Bahrain Credit and Bahrain Kuwait Insurance. The extension pays huge debt to the generosity of Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa and the National Bank of Bahrain.

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Bin Matar House

THIS name seems to be a common denominator when it comes to promoting the work and talent of local artists. Restored by the Center to protect Bahrain’s traditional architectural heritage, the meaning of Bin Matar means ‘memory of the place’, where the name reflects the dual function of this traditional building in presenting the identity of a people. While the building embodies a strong cultural identity through its design and architectural elements, the house stands as a repository of memories, through the individuals who lived in it and the events that took place.

The Bin Matar House is dedicated to protecting and promoting the memory of the Bin Matar family as well as conserving Bahraini architecture.

Opening just over three years ago, this newly restored House plays host to a permanent exhibition on the history of pearling in Bahrain and the Bin Matar family. The House, restored

by Arcapita, features an ongoing programme of temporary art exhibitions in the dedicated space.

The Information Center

WHAT was once used as a local majilis is now the official Information Center and part of the 80 year-old house that opened for visitors in 2008. Anyone visiting the Shaikh Ebrahim Center should definitely stop here first as this is the spot to get local maps of the area and traditional houses as well as the calendar of upcoming events and information leaflets. Like any museum or cultural building, you have to know what is on offer before you have a look around so make sure this is your first port of call when visiting here.

House of Coffee

Kurar House

TO continue the Shaikh Ebrahim Center’s ambition on promoting art and production on the island, the Kurar House was established in March 2007. The concept of the house was to preserve the dying and unique Bahraini art of Kurar embroidery. Not only does the building provide a fantastic venue for elderly Bahraini ladies to pass on their skills and knowledge of Kurar to the younger generations, it also helps to preserve the tradition of such a treasured area of the island’s culture. The Center is keen to support artisans in their production as well as market the Kurar-embroided clothes to the people of Bahrain. Huge thanks is owed to Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and Kuwait Finance House for the existence of the house.

ABOUT to celebrate its three year birthday is the House of Coffee; a functioning café that represents a combination of three old traditional Bahraini houses.

The aim of this house was to maintain the overall look of the area and the small lane that leads up to it, therefore the traditional façade was a key factor to be retained in its development. The interior of the houses however were completely renovated and now exists as a place for visitors of Muharraq to stop and rest and sample its modern menu.

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Celebrating the Capital of Culture

Manama is the region’s Capital of Arab Culture for 2012, and Bahrain is celebrating the title with a whole year of cultural events and exhibitions!

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oted as the Capital of Arab Culture in 2012 during a meeting of Arab ministers of culture held in Yemen in 2004, Manama will be the regional focus this year with a diverse programme of cultural, educational and entertainment activities, most of which represent new and unique endeavours.

Bahrain has now embarked on a busy schedule in which culture is celebrated through its myriad facets on the island, with plans designed to suit students, families, artists, intellectuals and tourists.

Each month takes on a different topic and series of events which inter-relate while the engagement in a vibrant cultural discourse underpins the programme such that a topical book will be translated each month, culminating in a unique publication at the end of the year featuring 12 works made accessible for the first time to the Arab reader.

of architecture – February. In line with the month’s theme, architects and urban planners were invited to submit proposals for the redesign of Bahrain’s Bab Al Bahrain square with a debate on public space in the Arab World also initiated.

The design competition will be evaluated by an international jury, and a temporary pavilion constructed on the grounds of the Bab Al Bahrain square in order to display some of the work and events of that period. Clearly a popular concept, the events of the month of architecture have initiated a wider public dialogue whereby similar competitions have now been launched in Libya and Egypt.

March

In the same vein, each month will examine a different cultural aspect.

This month focuses on design in the Arab world, with guest speakers reflecting on the role of design in life and people’s choices. Concluding with an inimitable fashion show in which Arab designers will collaborate with their international contemporaries, March promises to be an exciting and colourful month.

April

This is followed by the month of heritage in April – a spectacular opportunity to explore the development and historical discoveries of archeologists in the Arab world in addition to the very significance of heritage to selfdefinition and identity.

The 19th Heritage Festival of Literature and Popular Dance casts a light on the formation and transmission of memory through

January

As such, January was launched as the month for art, with the Fifth Bahrain International Sculpture Symposium, hosting the work of Arab and Bahraini sculptors, which took place alongside a Plastic Arts Exhibition in which Jordanian art, in collaboration with the Royal Society of Fine Arts, will be showcased.

Some of the key highlights of January included the 38th Annual Fine Arts Exhibition and the Institut du Monde Arabe exhibition of contemporary Arab art, both held at the Bahrain National Museum.

February

Similarly, celebrated international architect and winner of the Pritzker Award, Rem Koolhas, visited Bahrain during the month

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short stories, poetry, dance and songs which reflect a period, in turn integral to the Bahraini sense of identity. A romantic evocation of both past and present, this festival should not be missed.

this trajectory than a presentation of Arabic Cinema – Past and Present, in which Arab films of the last century will be juxtaposed against the productions of today’s Arab youth.

Linking heritage with the wider community, the month of May reflects the importance of museums to collective identity patterns. Guest speakers include the Director of the State Hermitage Museum, Dr Mikhael Piotrovsky, while the wide array of events will cater for all walks of life.

Drawing on the collection of the Bahrain National Museum, a special exhibition – Tylos, Journey Beyond Life – will attempt to reconstruct ancient thought and practice in the realm of the afterlife. Similarly, the Enkiru Bus Museum, a mobile exhibition designed for children, will tour the island introducing children to the rich cultural heritage of Bahrain.

During the month of music, September, the masters of Arab song, jazz and oud playing will be invited to share their knowledge and talent with residents and visitors of Bahrain and further cultural dialogue will be facilitated through the 21st International Music Festival in which international and regional musicians will perform.

May

June & July

Poetry and literature are the themes of June and July, when regional poets and intellectuals will be invited to discuss the latest trends in thought and creative writing.

August

Linked to this, August, the month of translation, will portray the movement of cultural patterns across peoples and their impact.

What better medium to symbolize

September

October

Then, for the first time, the spotlight will be cast on Bahrain’s Hawar Islands during the month of the environment, October.

These islands, off the coast of the mainland, will host an important forum for international and regional organizations interested in the preservation and management of nature reserves and world heritage sites. There, the importance of traditional knowledge in the protection of natural reserves will be examined in the hope that a joint Arab protocol will be developed which strengthens the role of the inherited Arab cultures in the conservation of the region’s natural resources.

November

The month of the theatre,

November, will herald the opening of Bahrain’s first national theatre in a further celebration of cultural exchange. This state-of-theart monument to creative stage productions will enable the growth of local and regional theatrical talents in their many complementary areas of expertise. Audiences can look forward to the staging of a local play, marking the beginning of a new era in drama for Bahrain and the surrounding countries.

December

Manama, the Capital of Arab Culture will wrap up its programme in December, the month of the homeland, in which diversity and cultural pluralism are embraced.

Building on the island foundation of a multi-ethnic Bahrain, December programmes seek to highlight and enhance the rich national fabric.

A busy year ahead, the many events organized by the Bahrain Ministry of Culture for Manama, the Capital of Arab Culture, promise much opportunity for learning and entertainment. Visitors are expected from the region and beyond and interest in the exchange of ideas facilitated by the different themes and engagements is high. This is an exceptional programme that shouldn’t be missed!

GO: Further information is available online at: http://www.manamaculture2012.bh/en/media/ Media,6030,en.pdf

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Bahrain: Past, Present and Future What was once just an archipelago of 33 islands, Bahrain is now the home to some of the largest trading grounds in the Middle East. Known for its Islamic banking sector, aluminium production and the Grand Prix, this emirate-turnedkingdom now plays hosts to thousands of businesses, nationalities and opportunities.

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iterally translated as ‘the two a bill in late 1957 declaring Bahrain seas’, of which the fact still to be the 14th province of Iran, it remains a dispute, Bahrain is led to a series of demonstrations 55km long and 18km wide, where led by religious groups forcing the the King Fahd Causeway connects rulers to flee to safety. the island to Saudi Arabia. Soon By the 1970s, despite the setbacks to be connected to Qatar with the of the past 20 years, Bahrain world’s longest marine causeway, replaced Beirut as the financial hub Bahrain has progressed through of the Middle East. The oil boom time to become a ‘hub’ of the benefited the economy greatly, and Middle East. yet the mid 1990’s saw the uprising Despite the modern architecture violence between the government and numerous efforts to keep up and the cleric-led opposition. with the modern times, history is With HM Hamad bin Isa Al embedded into the foundations of Khalifa replacing his father as every square metre of this island. head of state, this decade saw the For a brief history and introduction of instituted elections extraordinary facts from the early for parliament, women being given centuries, Bahrain used to bear the right to vote and the release witness to countless battles between of all political prisoners. Marked the tribes. What many people may

by Amnesty International as an not know is that the Al Khalifa “historic period of human rights”, family moved to Bahrain in 1797, Bahrain suddenly began to receive first settling in Jaww and later the credit it deserved after years of moving to Riffa. negative press.

In 1802, having been invaded by In demographic terms, Bahrain’s Oman, the island was governed by population has grown considerably a twelve year old child, when the over the past century - today’s Omani ruler Sayyid statistics show Sultan installed his that the estimated son, Salim, as governor current population Despite the in the Arad Fort. is 1.2 million of modern After regaining which 61% are power 18 years later, Bahraini. architecture, the Al Khalifa tribe Life in Bahrain history is retained power by has changed embedded entered into a treaty dramatically into the relationship with throughout the Great Britain; from course of history, foundations of this moment on the especially in the last every square Al Khalifa were the fifty years or so. metre of this Al-Hakim (rulers) of Although change Bahrain. has not entirely island Oil was discovered been through in 1932; a factor choice, many would which brought rapid say that the future modernization to the island. of Bahrain is unpredictable.

Despite this, World War II resulted The world has bore witness to in the spread of increasing antithe past year, where riots and British sentiment throughout the violence have been a common Arab World and riots in Bahrain. feature, yet hope still remains The troubles, however, did not end for this little island. With strong there. After Iran’s parliament passed aspirations towards reform and

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the strengthening of human rights, and strong economic policies, most on the island hope to see a stable and prosperous future in which everyone takes part and benefits.

Perhaps what makes Bahrain special is its loyalty to tradition and its historical roots. You merely have to walk around the souq, down the hidden streets of Muharraq or perhaps even take a glance around the art galleries to see that the country’s morals and past are cemented in its national identity.

The youth have now seemed to take a step up to assume the role of their predecessors. Although keeping in touch with the 21st century, museums, art galleries and businesses are all seeing the younger generation getting more involved and interested in helping keep Bahrain’s reputation and success at the top of its game.

Since Bahrain marked its independence on August 14th 1971, the country’s economy is still very much dominated by the production and processing of petroleum.

The economic conditions have undeniably fluctuated with the changing fortunes of oil in the past 20 years. However, in the Kingdom, petrol accounts for 60% of export receipts, 60% of government revenues and 30% of GDP. With the growing problem of global warming, the resources will definitely be depleted within the next century.

For this reason, Bahrain must start to pave the way into showing greater support for the environment, diversifying its economy and continuing to educate the future generations, whilst instilling important morals and lessons in life. All of this is given much weight in the Kingdom’s 2030 Economic Vision outlined by the county’s Economic Development, which is His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, The Crown Prince.

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ARTS

KEEPING BAHRAIN’S EYES, EARS AND MINDS IN SHAPE

THIS MONTH YOU MUST...

p32: Andrea Bocelli p42: Bahrain Beats p44: On Screen

Spring of Culture

Our coverage kicks off with an interview with Andrea Bocelli!!

(see p32)

READ

Agent 6 by Tom Rob Smith

The thrilling third instalment of the series. (see p46)

HEAR

Neighborhoods

by Blink-182

The new album from the pop-punk trio... (see p42)

WATCH

John Carter

The first-ever live action flick from Pixar studios! (see p44)

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Andrea Bocelli

The Master Tenor The world’s most famous living tenor singer, Andrea Bocelli, is coming to Bahrain to perform live as part of the spectacular Spring of Culture!

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e is the multi-awardwinning Italian tenor and multi-instrumentalist credited with opening classical music up to wider audiences across the world. He has recorded thirteen studio albums, of which he has sold 70 million copies worldwide, making him the biggest selling classical artist in history.

He won a Golden Globe for his music for the animated movie The Quest for Camelot, and his classical album, Sacred Arias, earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for simultaneously holding the top 3 positions on the US classical albums charts.

Possibly his most well-known song, ‘Time to Say Goodbye’, is one of the best-selling singles of all time, selling over 12 million copies worldwide., and staying at the top of the German charts for fourteen consecutive weeks.

As a result of his huge success, he has been honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contribution to live theatre. His work has also earned him the more lofty title of Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, one of the highest honours available in Italy.

And, in what must be the most telling sign of his phenomenal success, tickets to his show in Bahrain sold out within hours!

Could there be any higher accolade?

FACT Magazine talks to the singer ahead of his performance in the Spring of Culture this month…

F. You are one of the main artists responsible for bringing classical music into the mainstream.

Are you proud to have introduced classical music to so many people?

A. Yes, especially because opera is my true passion. In the past classical music was the true popular music and I feel as if I’m returning a part of what music has given to me if I can help in bringing these all-time classics to a wider audience.

F. You have been a passionate musician from a very early age. Can you describe why you were so drawn to music when you were so young?

A. It was an intuition of my mother who, when I was a whimsical child, only managed to make me eat by putting on background music that she used as a “sedative”. She made me listen to the tenor Franco Corelli, whose voice I fell in love with as soon as I heard it. From then on music became a constant and vital element in my life. It was a real flash of lightning, so much so that at nine years of age I already knew quite a number of songs.

F. Which language do you most like to sing in, and why?

A. Opera originated in Italy and, as an Italian who loves his country and opera, I feel that Italian is the best language for it. However, I don’t

believe I can be sufficiently objective in my view to make an impartial judgment. I am extremely fond of French opera and I know that a great many people are wild about German or Russian opera, and anyway I do not believe that I hold the key to any absolute truth as it probably doesn’t exist, especially where art is concerned.

F. Which musical instrument do you most like to play, and why?

A. Without doubt, the instrument I love most is the piano, which I have studied with great passion ever since I was a child. I love all musical instruments in general, but it is necessary to know something very well to be sure that you really love it.

F. Have you played in the Middle East before?

A. Yes, I have been in UAE few times, in Oman, then in Egypt, where I sang under the great Pyramids of Giza, and also in Petra, Jordan, where I took part in a wonderful tributeconcert to the great Pavarotti.

F. How do you feel about coming to play in Bahrain?

A. I am singing here for the first time and as always it will be very exciting, just like “the first time” always is!

F. What do you have to say to the people of Bahrain?

A. I would like to thank you for inviting me here to perform. It’s a big pleasure for me to sing in here for the first time and I truly hope there will be more occasions in future to come back.

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A World of Music A World of Music

05 March

09 - 10 March

Where: Shaikh Ebrahim Center When: 8pm Known as a fanatic of Bel Canto in Western and Near Eastern classical music, Ghada Ghanem is a “cantatrice” and a technician in the art of vocalisation. Awarded by the NY Wagner Society and the Metropolitan Opera, she is also known to have a mixture of the toughness of Asmahan, the tenderness of Leila Murad and the nostalgia of Fairuz.

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm Eitetsu Hayashi, an international acclaimed pioneer of solo-performance in Japanese traditional drum “Taiko”, is on his premiere Middle-Eastern tour. He is accompanied by Japanese bamboo flutist Makoto Takei and four passionate drummers from Eitetsu’s “Fu-Un no Kai”. The young talented Taiko drum ensemble, Eitetsu will create the new perspective of Taiko, encountering the unseen world to himself, authentic and cutting-edge performance.

A Tarab musical evening, with Ghada Ghanem

03-04 March

Julio Iglesias Live Performance Where: Arad Fort When: 8.30pm Julio Iglesias, the best-selling Latin artist and one of the top ten best-selling artists in history, will perform in Bahrain for the first time this March. He has sold over 300 million albums, in 14 languages, has released 80 albums and has performed live in each of the five continents. Iglesias rose to international prominence in the 1980s as a performer of romantic ballads, and his success has continued and grown constantly as he crossed musical and linguistic borders.

01 March

A Tribute to Umm Kulthum by Riham Abdul Hakim

09 - 10 March

Dan Zanes & Friends

Where: Arad Fort When: 5pm All the way from Brooklyn, New York, back by popular demand after a largely attended run of shows in 2009, Dan Zanes & Friends bring their festive style of 21st century all-ages handmade family music to the Arad Fort. Dan and his band’s wild sounds of electric guitar, fiddle, drums, trumpet, upright bass, harmonica, spoons, mandolin, voices, and orchestra will whip people of all ages into an all-out dance party!

Taiko Legend: Heart beat from Japan

Photo Credit: Gala Narezo

Where: Bahrain National Museum When: 8pm This is a tribute to the legendary “Umm Kulthum: The Legacy”,

by Egyptian diva Riham Abdul Hakim, who will be accompanied

by Maestro Selim Sahab and the Arab Music Ensemble.

Photo Credit: Kazumi Kurigami

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08 March

22 March

Andrea Bocelli, the World’s most beloved Tenor

Fayha Choir conducted by Maestro Barkev Taslakian

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm An evening of Arabian music which will feature a playlist of international and oriental songs, all performed without any musical instruments (Acapella). With a breathtaking performance, the sounds of forty young singers unite together creating a unique path for the audience to follow, where culture and music guide them to an alternate world.

Where: Bahrain National Museum When: 8pm This is Andrea Bocelli’s debut in Bahrain, which will also be featuring soprano Paola Sanguinetti, who will perform a duet with Bocelli, and special guest pianist Ilaria Della Bidia and State Hermitage Orchestra, with Eugene Kohn as conductor. For more information and FACT’s interview with Bocelli, see page 32.

02 April

18 March

Souad Massi

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm An internationally acclaimed Algerian singer-songwriter, Souad Massi’s debut CD, Raoui, became a global sensation garnering numerous awards for the artist.

Massi blends Western acoustic music with her North African roots to create beautiful sounds with poetic lyrics. She is the winner of the BBC Radio 3 world music awards, as is UN Ambassador for the Micro Credit Launch for Women and most recently named 2011’s top ten most influential African and global women’s voice of today.

Naghmashat Imane Homsy

Where: Shaikh Ebrahim Center When: 8pm The famed Lebanese qanun virtuoso Imane Homsy began playing at the age of seven under the guidance of Professor Muhammad Al Sabsaby. She graduated from the National Higher Conservatory of Lebanon with a diploma in qanun with distinction. She has developed her own technique in qanun playing whilst using all ten fingers without abandoning the traditional sound of playing using two fingers.

11 - 12 April

Mozart Group

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm A tribute to the German composer with a twist, according to the Mozart Group’s own words, they “exist despite the sober formality of great concert halls, despite the boredom of classical musicians’ life, despite fanatic lovers of classical music, despite fans of rock, rap or pop who are afraid of classical music. We treat our Muse with a humorous irony and we’re sure, he will have nothing against it!”

11 April

20 March

Angelique Kidjo and Asa

A Live concert

by Bahraini rock legends Osiris

Where: Arad Fort When: 8.30pm Internationally renowned band Osiris is one of the first, if not THE first, true progressive rock bands in the Middle East. Comprised entirely of Bahraini musicians, the band is well known for its complex compositions and symphonic melodies that blend progressive rock music with Bahraini rhythms utilizing traditional instruments and percussions. They recently performed a very successful concert in September, and now return to the stage for the Spring of Culture. This concert will be based on the band’s last two conceptual albums, which focus on Bahrain’s heritages and traditions.

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Where: Arad Fort When: 8.30pm A truly extraordinary double bill, the African divas are set to thrill Arad.

Back after her 2009 debut in Bahrain, Grammy winner Angelique Kidjos’s performance of soulful sound blends driving West African grooves, samba beats and jazz harmonies, whilst Asa brings a winning fusion of contemporary soul, pop, reggae and funk with her strong vocals.

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A World of A World of Dance and Dance and Theatre Theatre 06 March

Princess Bari

14 - 17 March

Walls and Bridges: Puppetry with Karen Konnerth

Where: Art Centre When: 10am & 4pm This fun and thought-provoking program features timeless folk tales from Russia, the Marshall Islands, the United States and China, performed with hand, shadow, and tabletop puppets. This memorable show has enthralled audiences in Pakistan, Costa Rica, and the U.S.

15 - 16 March

The Greatest Street, Directed by Waled Aouni Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm It is a place that has shaped the spirit of his people, where glorious events have happened over the centuries, and one of the most ancient streets in the world. We can feel the heroes are passing nearby. We can smell the scent of their stories and tales like grass growing on its walls and roads, their souls are flying and wandering in the spaces of the streets, and they whisper to us to guard this mystical street.

A dance theatre production with stunning visuals and choreography.

16 - 17 March

Tom Tom Crew Where: Arad Fort When: 6pm The pulsing energy of hiphop meets the raw physicality of acrobatics in an astounding mash-up of gravity-defying manoeuvres, astonishing beatboxing, improbable contortion and dynamic drumming. Having thrilled audiences throughout the UK, Europe, the US and Canada, Tom Tom Crew brings their unique brand of urban acrobatics to Bahrain’s audience, in a show where skill and athleticism meet urban artistry.

Photo Credit: http://www.tpo.it/htm/produzioni/play_please/foto.htm

Where: Arad Fort When: 8.30pm When the Queen bears him a seventh daughter instead of a son, the King throws the child into the sea. Brought up by a fisherman, Princess Bari is told the truth of her identity.

On her journey to her father’s kingdom she faces many trials and adventures. In this opulent production of elaborately embroidered and colourful costumes, skilled dancers and musicians, Korea’s most exciting contemporary choreographer, Eun-Me Ahn, fuses traditional art forms with scintillating and highly original dance theatre.

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05 April

25 March

Jody Sperling Time Lapse Dance

Little White Egret Folk Dance Ensemble

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm The group presents mesmerizing fabric-and-light dance spectacles after the style of Loie Fuller (1862-1928).

One of her era’s most influential performing artists, Fuller created an art form by swirling silk costumes into moving sculptural forms and illuminating them brilliantly. The company honours Fuller’s legacy in celebration of her 150th birthday, as internationally acclaimed Fuller reinterpreter and Artistic Director Jody Sperling revives Fuller’s spirit.

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm This Chinese dance troupe is widely considered to be the most professional folk dance troupe in China. Featuring the exotic dance art of Chinese ethnic minority groups and characterized by the unique Minnan (South Fujian) culture, the troupe has won great fame and acclaim at national and international level competitions and performances.

28 - 29 March

22 - 23 March

Shaolin Temple performance group

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical

Where: Cultural Hall When: 8pm Established in 1998, the Chan Shaolin Temple Group have performed many shows all around the world and succeeded in spreading Shaolin Kung Fu culture to many countries. The basis of their show is to mix a multitude styles of kung fu, wu shu and of Chan Buddhism (Zen) and Shaolin kung fu in a harmonious and straightforward way. Its members are masters of traditional Chinese medicine, making them the most prominent figures representing the classical Shaolin Temple disciples to be called the “Temple’s Most Precious Treasure”.

Where: Arad Fort When: 6pm If you’ve ever felt lost, then you’ll know just how Trixie’s favourite stuffed Knuffle Bunny feels when he’s left all alone in the laundromat. If you’ve ever felt loved, then you’ll know just how Trixie, Knuffle Bunny, and their family feel when they’re together. Full of adventure, song, and gigantic dancing laundry, Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical is s Kennedy Centre for Young Audiences production based on six-time Emmy Award winner Mo Willems’ picture book with music by Grammy Award–winning composer Michael Silversher.

Photo Credit: http://www.tpo.it/htm/produzioni/play_please/foto.htm

23 - 24 March

Play Please!

Interactive Musical Atelier

05 – 06 April

Tap Dogs

Where: The Alumni Club When: 11am & 4pm Imagine being inside a big musical instrument, where as we move we create music and drawings with the simplicity of a game. As we think, we play a game, but we also play an instrument or a part in a performance. ‘Play’ means “having fun”; and as we have fun, the big instrument we are in becomes a musical atelier, where children are invited to participate and ‘experiment’ with their own gestures as a form of composition, a creative exercise for a collective musical score.

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Where: Arad When: 8.30pm Tap Dogs is a show for people of all ages and creeds. Over 15 years, it has been seen by over 11 million people, in over 37 countries and 370 cities and received 11 international awards!

It has been described as, “Part theatre, part rock concert and part construction site.” Set on a construction site, Tap Dogs combines high-energy dance, theatrical performance and live music in this fast paced, unstoppable theatrical spectacle.

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A World ofAArt World of Art

04 March – 04 April

“Diversity” By a group of Arab artists

Where: Albareh Art Gallery When: Opening at 7pm Albareh Art Gallery will host a collective exhibition entitled “Diversity” by a group of Arab Artists. The collection will highlight different techniques, concepts, forms, and materials that are currently tackled by a group of selected Arab artists. The artworks exhibited will include a mix of paintings, photography and sculptures. This exhibition aims to give an overview of the diversity of the Contemporary Art Movement in the Arab world.

18 – 31 March

Where: Albareh Art Gallery/ abcad When: Opening at 7pm Albareh Art Gallery/ABCAD will host a solo Exhibition by Maja Soric, a versatile creative artist. The beauty of Soric’s wearable accessory and sculpture works is inspired from the fact that she tries to mix eastern and western cultures to produce pieces of wearable accessories, which combine in their design the rigidity reflected from the West, as well as the warmth reflected from the East. A talk about jewellery design will also be presented by the artist.

22 March - 01 April

15 April - 06 May

Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre When: Daily 9am – 1pm & 4pm – 10pm, and Fridays 4:30pm – 10pm The 15th Bahrain International Book Fair is a biennial event that showcases publishers and booksellers in all subject areas under one roof. The Book Fair has built a sound reputation and has fostered the participation of Arab and foreign publishing houses. The event aims to encourage readers at all levels, interests and ages to experience the joy of reading.

Where: Albareh Art Gallery When: Opening at 7pm In this new collection, the artist was inspired by the universe and its perpetual movement. Science has often revealed the exact intuition of man as it was the case for the image of the universe. The astronomer Hubert Reeves once said: “We are the dust of the universe.” Nasser explains about his new collection; “Driven by my intuition, I express myself through my art in order to understand my being and comprehend the universe.”

The 15th Bahrain International Book Fair

“The Sound of the Universe“ by artist Nasser Soumi

17 March – 31 June

Mahmoud Darwich Where: Bin Matar House, Muharraq When: 7pm Darwich (1941-2008) was author of over 30 books translated into 40 languages, and was one of the great modern poets. He had a fervent following throughout the Arab world. Darwich’s MURAL is an interactive sound art installation based on one of his most famous poems, Mural. Using cutting-edge technology, sound and touch, visitors will be able to experience this great writer’s poetry through recordings of his work in his own voice.

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Sunday 25 - 31 March

Maja Soric

Chinese Embroidery Masterpieces Exhibition Where: Art Centre When: 25 March 7pm, 26 -31 March 8am - 1pm & 4pm - 8pm Embroidery is a time-honoured traditional art of the Chinese nation. As one of the four major embroidery styles of China, Suzhou embroidery is quite unique with its beautiful pattern, harmonious colour, lively stitching and exquisite craftsmanship.

26 March – 13 April

I am the other Where: Al Riwaq Art Space When: 7pm I am the “Other”. Where does the self end and the other begin?

How can we exclude the other, when we ourselves are ‘the other’ to those around us? Visiting Artist at Al Riwaq Art Space Mo Reda collaborates with artists from Bahrain to present an evoking exhibition that takes place in an abandoned restaurant in the heart of Adliya.

29 – 31 March, & 5 - 7, 12 – 14 & 19 - 21 April

Alwan 338

Where: Adliya Block 338 When: Thursdays 6pm – 10pm, Fridays 12pm – 10pm & Saturdays 11am – 6pm Al-Riwaq Art Space and Block 338 community present exciting events reflecting the area’s unique culture. The extended programme will utilize contemporary art, music, film, workshops, and culinary delights. An exhibition space will be created at the ‘Bohemia’ building, and an outdoor stage will be built. Artists from abroad and from Bahrain will be presenting a vision unlike any other.

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A World of A World Words of Words

02 April

Nuzul

Where: Nuzul Guest House When: 7:00 pm The “Lodging House” project is a restoration of a historical home realized to host the visitors of both the Centre and the Bank, in the heart of Muharraq where you’ll find the privacy, comfort and originality of the popular neighbourhoods and culture concourse. The project is sponsored

by KFH.

01 - 02 March

19 March

09 April

Where: Diplomat Radisson Blu When: 9:00 am Celebrating Manama, the Capital of Arab Culture, the Ministry of Culture, in coordination with the Arab Administrative Development Organization, is organizing the 2nd Forum on Festivals in the Arab Countries, Manama, March 1st & 2nd, 2012. This forum is a unique platform for festival organisers to exchange experiences on festivals focusing on cultural economics and new trends in social media.

Where: Shaikh Ebrahim Center When: 8:00pm A prominent diplomat and political, writer, Dr. Mostafa El Feki is the author of 17 books in international affairs, political theory and Middle Eastern politics. Currently he is chairman of the foreign affairs committee in the Egyptian Parliament, an active member in the Supreme Council of Culture, National Council of Human Rights. He is also a contributor to Masr El Yom and Al Hayaa newspapers, as well as periodicals and foreign books.

Where: House of Poetry When: 8:00 pm Naim Talhouk’s ninth poetry collection “Due to Her Body” consist of two parts: the first being, “I lost the patriotism to my country.” The second panel, “My body is screaming for light,” reflects the composition of the Sufi significance praising the concept of the ultimate journey in the light of existence and freedom.

2nd Forum on Festivals in The Arab Spring; Lecture

by Mostafa El Feki the Arab Countries.

12 March

26 March

16 April

Where: House of Poetry When: 8:00 pm Samih Al Qasim is among the most famous of Palestinian poets. His poetry is influenced by two primary periods of his life: the period before and after the Six-Day War. Al Qasim has published numerous poetry collections, some of which have been translated into English.

Many of his nationalistic poems have been put to music. He is the editor in chief of the Palestinian newspaper Koull El Arab.

Where: Al Zayed House When: 8:00 pm This is a lecture by playwright and story teller Ibrahim Jaber Ibrahim.

Ibrahim has worked in various domains in journalism since the 1980s. Chosen as Secretary for Culture, media and publishing in the governing body of the Jordanian Writers Association in 2001, he obtained the Palestine Prize for journalism and media studies for 2011.

Where: Shaikh Ebrahim Center When: 8:00pm A lecture by Mohamed Ali Farhat, who was born in Sidon in Lebanon in 1945. He is a playwright, poet and a journalist, who was honoured by the Lebanese university for his philosophy. He worked for Al Safir newspaper in Lebanon and in 1995 he joined Al Hayat newspaper an Al Wasat magazine in London were he still works to date.

An Evening of poetry with Samih al-Qassim

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“Due to Her Body”, poetry

by Naim Talhouk

Is Arabic media capable of achieving or building the truth?

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“The positioning of the Arab Intellectuals in the different intellectual currents.”

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NEW BAHRAIN “NATURAL BAHRAIN” PHOTOGR PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION COMPETIT THIS month FACT’s National Photography Competition onctinues, with already over a hundred fantastic entries submitted, featuring all aspects of Bahrains natural world, and we’re hoping for 100 more! Entrants have until March 22nd to submit their entries before the competititon closes!

The theme for the competition this year is ‘Natural Bahrain’, and seeks to highlight Bahrain’s environment, and the challenges it is facing in a modern world. It aims to encourage photographers to go out and discover whatever is left of Bahrain’s natural beauty, wherever it may be, from farms in Janabiya to the emerald seas surrounding the Kingdom to the deserts of Sakhir.

Plantlife, wildlife and marine life can all be featured, as long as it’s an essential part of nature.

Also welcomed are images that show the enroachment of human development on Bahrain’s environment, with juxtapositions of man-made objects and nature’s efforts to survive alongside them.

The picture you see here is the winning picture from last year’s competition, themed “Unseen Bahrain”, which sought to showcase the lesserknown side of Bahrain. The image, taken by Reem Tawfiqi, captured this perfectly. While everyone living in Bahrain has seen its skyline, few have seen it in this context, with the barren desert scene contrasting with the distant development in the background, creating an almost dystopian feeling within the viewer.

It is this kind of originality and experimentation we’re looking for once again in this year’s competition.

Good luck, and happy snapping!

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N RAPHY ITION HOW TO ENTER

You may enter up to three images in the contest. Send an email to editor@factlive.com with a link to the images that you wish to enter, or attach the images to your email. Please note that emails with attachments larger than 5MB will be rejected. You may send more than one email, but not more than three.

THE EMAIL MUST INCLUDE Your full name...

Your email address...

Your contact number...

Where the photo was taken...

Your country of origin...

SAAR

RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Minimum size of 1000 pixels in the longest direction (portrait or landscape). 2.

No pornographic images. 3. Some processing with Photoshop is ok, but heavily processed or completely fabricated images are not eligible. 4. Entrants must have actually taken the photograph. Purchased or stolen images are not permitted. 5.

FACT M.E.Publishing ultimately reserves the right to disqualify images it deems inappropriate. 6. By submitting an image the entrant retains ownership of the image, but grants FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing an unrestricted license to publish, promote and reuse the image in perpetuity.

BUDAIYA

Serving 100% FAIRTRADE organic coffees with a superb array of high quality food including soups, sandwiches, cakes, fruits and breakfasts.

For further enquiries regarding Esquires Coffee locations, call 77 177-660 FACT BAHRAIN MARCH 41 march issue.indd 41

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ARTS

NEW ALBUMS, ARTISTS, AND AUDIOPHONICS

CHOICE TUNES

In Association with Virgin Megastore, Bahrain City Center

Punk/Rock

Neighborhoods

The band looked perplexed by this new fangled device they called a “camera”...

By Blink-182 WHAT’S IT LIKE:

After a five-year hiatus, and eight years since their last LP, you would have been forgiven for thinking that Blink-182 were dead and buried, especially given the tension that made the band separate the first place, and drummer Travis Barker being involved in a near-fatal plane crash.

Then there was the untimely demise of one of their favoured producers, Jerry Finn, which was another blow to the band.

However, perhaps all of these tragic events allowed the band to put their differences aside and realise there are bigger issues in life, as they have now come back a stronger and more mature group overall.

They’ve lost some of the teeny-punk cheese factor, and have instead come out with a more mature sound that shows growth in the group. For example, ‘Up All Night’ breaks down into a deliciously heavy-rock guitar riff, and tracks like ‘Ghost on the Dance Floor’ and ‘Kaleidoscope’ are catchy and upbeat, but with a definite darker tone than their old material.

In addition, the vocals of Tom DeLonge are less squeaky-teen, which, in our opinion, makes for a vast improvement alone!

A-

Rock

Rap

Pop

Nostalgic Vibes & Wired Virtues

Watch the Throne

Battleground

By Freefall

By Jay-Z & Kanye West

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

Supporting regional talent, we bring you Nostalgic Vibes & Wired Virtues, the first LP from Freefall, a Kuwait-based band.

The album is a heady combination of heavy, alternative rock and grinding ballads that will take you on a journey from 80’s Motley Crue-esque hedonistic guitar riffs to 90’s lyrical disillusionment to modern-day hardcore cynicism.

The heavy guitar riffs and pounding beats of ‘Tic Tic Tock’ will have you playing air guitar along with the best of them, and the haunting melodies and sultry samba beat of ‘From Where You Are’ wash through your mind like a dusty night breeze.

We’d love to say that the album is good for a Kuwait-based band, but that would be a lie. This album is good for a band from anywhere in the world, and it’s encouraging to see talent like this being uncovered in the region, as it only spells good things.

B+

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By The Wanted

The title of this album is a telling clue as to the content, with a young prince of the urban music scene, West, hungrily eyeing the throne currently occupied by the seasoned and battle-hardened veteran, Jay-Z. That the egos of these two musicians managed to get close enough, for long enough, to complete a collaboration is a testament to the mutual respect between the two. However, the strain often tells, with some of the tracks coming across as a little loosely assembled.

However, no two talents like this could come together without some magic being made. Impressively, they even manage to aim the focus away from themselves for long enough to deal with some social issues along the way, with tracks like ‘Murder to Excellence’ commenting on black-on-black homicide in the States. A worthy offering.

B+

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

So it seems pretty boy bands aren’t completely dead after all, though aside from Take That’s recent efforts, it also seems that originality is still somewhat lacking in the genre, which thankfully is noway near as prolific as it used to be.

Battleground is a well-polished affair from the cheeky-chappie Irish group, with contributions from heavy hitters like Xenomania adding to claimed writing credits from the band members themselves lending a certain amount of credibility to their efforts, even if, at the end of the day, decent pop is the best you could call it.

Vocally, the band don’t lack talent at all though, and the boys themselves are pretty enough to get the girls excited, so Battleground will undoubtedly enjoy a modicum of success.

However, not a single heterosexual male will go near it with a barge pole!

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ARTS

TOP FILMS SHOWING THIS MONTH IN BAHRAIN

ON SCREEN

John Carter D: Andrew Stanton C: Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, Willem Dafoe, Samantha Morton

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

An American Civil War veteran is somehow transported to Mars through astral projection, and instead of a barren planet, he finds a lush environment inhabited by 12-foot tall barbarians, who are instantly suspicious of this new arrival from earth. There he also finds a gorgeous princess (luckily enough) who is in need of a saviour. He obviously obliges, and lots of feats of heroism ensue.

Taking the snaggsckraglacks for walkies was never a simple affair...

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING:

The premise for this movie sounds absolutely ridiculous, and if it was a completely new story it would be worthy of instant dismissal!

However, it’s actually based on a much-loved character that celebrates his centenary this year, having first been penned in a novel in way back in 1912 (when a story like this was much more sellable to the general public)!

If you really try not to take the plot seriously at all, what you’re then treated to is a very fun action hero adventure with bags of great CGI effects, epic monsters and lots of eye-

catching fight scenes with said monsters (see image above).

It is fantasy escapism through and through, where the main character is transported to a parellel world where be can be a heroic figure, save the princess and her people, and get the girl.

This is also animation specialist Pixar’s first foray into live-action movies, so you know they will be throwing the full weight of their impressive expertise in animation into it, so expect the effects to be top-rate.

WIN 2 FREE CINEMA TICKETS

Redeemable for any film at any Cineco cinema

Answer the following question: Which actor plays the character John Smith in the movie?

SMS answers to: +973 3655 8274 or E-mail answers to: editor@factlive.com

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Project X D: Nima Nourizadeh C: Thomas Mann, Oliver Cooper, Jonathan Daniel Brown, Dax Flame

ARTS

If there’s one way to feel popular for a night, it’s to throw a party and invite EVERYONE on Facebook!

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

In a dramatic re-enactment of a situation that’s hit the news several times in recent years, three high-school geeks throw a party to try and raise their social standing in school. However, the party rapidly spirals out of control as word spreads through social media, and the chaos and carnage spreads throughout the neighborhood.

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING:

This is a story that is both every teen’s fantasy and nightmare at the same time - your party turns out to be the bash of the century, and for one night you are elevated to the status of kings - the most popular people in school, the stuff of legend. However, then it starts to get out of control as the alcohol takes effect, and chaos kicks in. From beginning to end, this film looks like an absolute scream, and even if you’ve never thrown a party like this (which most of us haven’t) then at least you can live it for one epic night. This is American Pie meets Superbad on steroids.

He suddenly wished he hadn’t commented on their ridiculous tuxedos...

Wrath of the Titans is the sequel to the first mythological fantasy action flick Clash of the Titans, and sees Sam Worthington reprise his role as Perseus, who goes on a quest to rescue his father Zeus, who has been taken prisoner by his treacherous other sons, Hades and Ares. Along the way he finds, much to his chagrin, that the Kraken isn’t the only colossal hellish terrifying creature knocking about...

Stab it in the head!

No, the OTHER head, with the flames coming out!!

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is the story

21 Jump Street

D: Phil Lord & Chris Miller C: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube, Jake M. Johnson

WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Revisiting

the much-beloved old TV series from the 80’s starring Johnny Depp, the movie follows the story of two underachieving cops who are sent back to high school in an undercover operation to break a criminal ring dealing synthetically-produced drugs to high school students, which has resulted in deaths.

of a fisheries expert who is employed by a Yemeni sheikh to realise his unlikely dreams of bringing salmon fly-fishing to Yemen, using his breeding and technological know-how. The story, of course, becomes much more than that thanks to the interesting characters he meets along the way.

They couldn’t help but feel that salmon fishing in Scotland would’ve been easier!

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING: The original 21 Jump Street series was hugely popular, and launched the career of a very young Johnny Depp.

Each episode dealt with social issues, and had moral messages, but this movie version seems to have focused more on the comedy route. Given the comedy chops of Jonah Hill, when combined with tough-guy image of Channing Tatum, it could make for entertaining viewing.

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ARTS

BAHRAIN’S BEST READS THIS MONTH BY GENRE

CHOICE WORDS

In Association with Virgin Megastore, Bahrain City Center

Fiction

Agent 6

By Tom Rob Smith WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

This is the third and final instalment in a trilogy following the life of Soviet government agent Leo Demidov.

Formerly an idealist who firmly believed that his work suppressing dissidents would lead to a crime-free communist utopia, over the course of three books his ideals are shattered by the discoveries he makes about the actions of his government.

Now we come to him in this final episode, where he is a bitter, disillusioned and opium-addicted wreck training Afghan communist sympathisers in the height of the Cold War, who is helpless to save his family as tragedy strikes them during a socalled ‘friendship-building’ trip to the US.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

There is a reason why the first two books in this trilogy have received such critical acclaim. Tom Rob Smith’s lead character has committed countless atrocities whilst serving his government, but the sympathy with which the author treats the character as he realises all his efforts and life’s worth were misguided is impressive to behold.

While the book does stand alone very well, and is a rollicking good read, we would advise reading the two prequels first, as they lay the foundations and back story Afor the character that enrich this third and final episode.

Fiction

Crime Fiction

Fiction

The Third Reich

The Night Stalker

The Decision

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

By Roberto Bolaño

The Third Reich follows the story of a young German couple, protagonist Udo and his girlfriend Ingeborg, who take a holiday in a Spanish resort town on the Costa Brava.

On the face of it, it’s a typical idyllic holiday spot, but soon cracks begin to appear in the facade. The boyfriend of another German couple they meet and befriend inexplicably disappears, and while the two girls return home, Udo remains behind to try and discover what happened to him.

Eventually, his mental condition begins to decline, and sinister events unfold.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

What should have been yet another great posthumous novel from the late literary master, The Third Reich is unfortunately a bit of a clumsy effort by the Chilean writer.

The book takes a painfully long time to get going, long past the point that the average reader would have given up and put the book down. Bolano attempts to keep us going with tense atmospheric prose, but it doesn’t quite achieve the desired effect.

However, the second half of the book improves significantly, as Udo’s mental condition deteriorates into a delicious C+ downwards spiral. Worth it in the end, but only just!

by Chris Carter

The third book in the Detective Robert Hunter series by Carter. This time, he’s on the case of a serial killer, as the mutilated bodies of unidentified women begin to turn up with gruesome messages contained within.

Hunter is pulled off another case to investigate, and his case soon becomes embroiled with another missing persons case being investigated by the razor-sharp Whitney Meyers, and it begins to become apparent that many women might be held hostage by the killer.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

The first two books in this series were highly successful, largely thanks to Carter’s tense, thrilling and fast-paced style that keeps you turning the pages.

It is, in fact, sometimes hard to stop yourself from flicking ahead, as cliffhanger after cliffhanger are dropped in, which whilst sometimes frustrating, undoubtedly adds to the tension - a neat trick by the author.

Once again, the story follows a serial killer stalking female victims, and it would be nice to see a little variety in this respect. The details of the murders are also B+ quite grisly, but it will appeal greatly to fans of the genre.

By Penny Vincenzi

The Decision follows the story of a young couple in the sixties - upperclass fashionista Eliza and the workingclass Matt, who is making his fortune in property - who meet, fall in love, get married, and have a beloved daughter.

The book charts their marriage as the cracks begin to appear, before it ultimately falls apart, and they must decide what to do about custody of their child.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

The main strength in this book is the richness, detail and vitality Vinceni gives to all the characters in the story, so that you begin to feel you know them, and they become part of your life.

As a result, you almost begin to live vicariously through the book, like watching a soap opera, and the actual reading of the novel becomes more important than the development of the story itself, which is no mean feat for an author.

The sheer size of the book means that it’s not recommended for light readers, but for everyone else, it’s a meaty tome that will keep you entertained for a long while, and leave an empty space in your life B+ when it’s done. However, not best for travelling light...

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Under the Patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa King of Bahrain

Discover nature’s generosity Bahrain Animal Production Show 2012

22-27 March 2012 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir

Get ready for an amazing animal show!

The second edition of mara’ee promises a memorable experience for all visitors, packed with fun, education and entertainment...

· Live shows featuring: Cómo bailan los Caballos Andaluces, Clemence Faivre

· Trade exhibition (3 days) with exhibitor’s sharing session · Public events including: animal exhibition, bird show, fish world, themed walkabout acts, outdoor theatre, fun stations & farmers’ market

· Educational zone including: animal boulevard learning trail, rainforest adventure maze, mad science lab, friends of mara’ee show ... and much more

Come along with your family and friends – admission is free. for more info: www.maraee.gov.bh

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TECHNOLOGY KEEPING THE PEOPLE OF BAHRAIN STATE-OF-THE-ART

p50: The Camera Collection p52: The Lab p54: The Fiat 500

The Camera Collection Never is there a better time to be a photographer, amateur or professional, than this time of year in Bahrain. This is because not only have you got the spectacular Spring of Culture events and the Bahrain F1 GP, but you also have the Bahrain Capital of Culture, where all of Bahrain’s historical and culturally significant sites are highlighted. And then there is FACT’s National Photo Competition…

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Cameras

TECHNOLOGY

Cameras to Capture All the Culture in Bahrain!

Never is there a better time to be a photographer, amateur or professional, than this time of year in Bahrain. This is because not only have you got the spectacular Spring of Culture events and the Bahrain F1 GP, but you also have the Bahrain Capital of Culture, where all of Bahrain’s historical and culturally significant sites are highlighted. And then there is FACT’s National Photo Competition…

Hasselblad 202fa

In any round-up, we like to start with a bang, so here it is – the Hasselblad 202FA. Hasselblad cameras are considered an industry leader in photography, and as such, are priced well out of the range of your average photographer. Expect to pay upward of BD5000 for a reasonably equipped one! The digital ‘back’, which is the attachment that allows you to take digital images, alone costs anything from BD2000-6000! For example, the rangetopping Hasselblad CFV-50 Digital Back costs around

50

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$17,000 online, which is BD6,400. And that doesn’t even include the camera itself!

They’re not available in Bahrain, so you have to order them or buy them from the States or Europe. And why, you ask, are we even featuring them? Well, because they’re good. So good, in fact, that NASA uses them to take pictures from space.

They can capture images of up to 50MP resulting in images that are 65MB in size!

And it’s always nice to dream…

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Cameras march issue.indd 51

Nikon D4

The professional-grade Nikon D4 is a high-end digital SLR camera with a 16.2MP full-frame sensor. It’s based heavily on its predecessor, the highly popular D3S, with a few changes to improve the product.

As the D3S was so popular, Nikon obviously didn’t want to play with it too much, so the changes on the D4 are minimal. The area that has been improved most is the video capture capability. The biggest technical change is the addition of a 91,000 pixel ‘metering’ sensor, replacing the 1005 pixel example used up until now. Nikon also claim to have drastically improved low-light focusing too, with an ISO of 204800, which is huge, resulting in clear pictures in dark settings.

TECHNOLOGY

Canon G1X

This is a fantastic compact camera that is a ‘step-up’ product for amateur photographers who want to take things a little more seriously without going the whole hog with an SLR. It’s a large 14MP sensor camera with a 4x zoom lens and extensive manual controls.

Leica M9-P

Canon 1DX The Canon 1D X is the latest in Canon’s 1D line. It boasts slightly more impressive specs than the Nikon D4, with an 18MP full-frame sensor, and includes more professional video capture features than any of its predecessors.

The most impressive feature is the three DIGIC processors, including Dual DIGIC 5+ image processors, capable of delivering approximately 17 times more processing speed than DIGIC 4, and a dedicated DIGIC 4 for metering and AF control which utilizes a new 100,000-pixel metering sensor for enhanced exposure accuracy with color and face detection. The Dual DIGIC 5+ processors provide high-speed continuous shooting, lower noise, and a significant increase in data processing speed than previous EOS-1D models.

Like the Nikon, the 1DX also has an ISO of 204800.

Sony A77

Employing different technology than normal SLR cameras, the Sony A77 uses Translucent Mirror Technology to offer high-speed shooting and a smaller body size. Compared to a conventional DSLR camera, Translucent Mirror Technology has a fixed, translucent mirror that splits the optical pathway between the main image sensor and a separate phasedetection autofocus sensor, and offers a simplified mechanical design that enables the camera to be smaller.

The Sony A77 can shoot fullresolution 24.3 megapixel pictures at up to 12fps as well as 1080p Full HD video, whilst maintaining continuous auto focus and auto exposure, an impressively fast rate for such a relatively inexpensive camera.

This good value-for-money offering is Leica’s 18MP full-frame rangefinder camera, which is the world’s smallest full-frame digital system camera. Designed for value and reliability, the sapphire crystal LCD screen is possibly the toughest of its kind on the market.

Fujifilm w3

The FinePix Real 3D W3 is Fujifilm’s second 3D compact camera, and is the first to shoot movies in 3D HD, with dual 10MP CCD sensors and twin lenses. It comes with a 3.5-inch 3D LCD display, as well as a new Auto 3D mode, and records sound in stereo as well.

Sony DSC-TX200V

Placing as much emphasis on aesthetics as functionality, the Cybershot DSC-TX200V is a compact 14MP digicam with a sleek design, and a range of good features, including 5x optical zoom, and autofocus with contrast sensor, tracking and face detection – a great happy snapper.

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TECHNOLOGY

LAB TEST

BOSE BLUETOOTH HEADSET Available: BOSE Stores (Price: TBC)

LET’S face it: Bluetooth headsets are NOT cool. Granted, they’re an excellent idea in the car – not just a legal requirement, but a life saver.

However, anyone seen outside their car wearing one, like some sort of yuppie jewellery, deserves to have it slapped off their head!

(NB: FACT Magazine does not endorse, or encourage, the slapping of any heads, Bluetooth-enabled or otherwise, or any other acts of random physical abuse of any kind – Ed.) However, if you’re going to insist on wearing one around town, as if you’re a professional of such importance that having your phone surgically attached to your head is a case of absolute necessity, then you might as well make it a high-brand one. While it might not reduce your status as a pretentious geek, it at least sets you apart from the rest as one with some modicum of taste!

So, a Bose Bluetooth Headset might be just what you need. To start with, they’ve made the design very compact and unobtrusive, meaning that should you get caught wearing it in public, you can plausibly use the excuse that you simply forgot it was there.

As for actually making calls, as

one of the leading brands in audio hardware in the world, you can bet that the sound clarity will be excellent, and not as if you’re receiving a call from a late relative “from the other side”!

It also boasts a dual microphone system that works to improve speech intelligibility from your side, reducing the interference of background and wind noise, and this is further improved by ‘signal processing’, which synthetically cancels out background noise. The upshot of all this is that you can make a call on it without shouting aloud to yourself like some sort of

EMOTION

BOSE BLUETOOTH HEADSET EXPERIENCE-METER Happiest human ever

Very impressed

“If you insist on wearing one, then we recommend this one!”

“It’s small and compact, even for a Bluetooth headset.”

“It functions extremely well, transmitting and receiving sound of a very high quality, as we’d expect from Bose.”

Pleased

Indifferent

“Not a traditional fan of Bluetooth headsets, but let’s give it a go…”

Ouch!

PROS

TIME 52

village idiot.

Another nice feature is the Bose Adaptive Audio Adjustment technology, which measures background noise and adjusts the volume in the headset accordingly, so that you don’t have to keep fiddling with the volume when you walk from a noisy room into a quiet one and back again.

So, to summarise, the Bose Bluetooth headset reduces much of the irritating aspects of Bluetooth headsets, making it as socially acceptable as they get. It’s small and unnoticeable, it doesn’t require you to shout into it in public places, and it doesn’t need you to keep poking at it like an agent out of the Matrix.

In fact, we would go as far as to recommend that this headset should be issued as standard equipment to anyone taking a job in a financial institution or talent agency.

-Background noise reduction -Adaptive audio adjustment

CONS

-You have to wear it.

A

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TECHNOLOGY

LAB TEST

LG 72-inch 3D LED TV Available: AJM Kooheji (Price: BD4,500)

THIS, ladies and gentlemen, is what LG claim to be the largest 3D LED Smart TV available for public retail in the world. Now, the word ‘largest’ is bandied about all-toooften these days.

When we Googled ‘largest 3D LED TV’ whilst writing this review, every different manufacturer’s name came up at least once in the results, INCLUDING Porsche Design, no less, and there were bigger TVs than this listed. So, what gives LG the right to make this claim?

Well, it seems that the key phrase is ‘Smart TV’. A pretty obscure niche, but this is, in fact, the world’s largest 3D LED Smart TV. Until someone else makes a bigger one, that is…

Whatever can be said about this TV, however, the one undeniable fact is that it is colossal – it would completely dominate the average homeowner’s living room. It’s six feet diagonally across – the height of a large fully-grown man!

That equates to 59 inches wide and 40 inches tall. And, the price is far bigger than the average homeowner’s budget, at four-anda-half grand!

So, now that we’ve established that this TV is for rich people with

massive living rooms, let’s get down to the TV itself, which is, without doubt, hugely impressive.

Watching a 3D movie on a screen of this size beats the actual movie theatre experience hands down, as the picture is better, thanks to the amazing clarity of the LED screen, and to the fact that you get the experience from the comfort of your own home.

What sweetens the deal is LG’s Smart TV technology. It comes with a series of LG applications that enable you to view web content, browse social networks and just surf the Internet in general with a simple point-and-click Magic Motion

EMOTION

LG 72-inch 3D LED TV EXPERIENCE-METER Happiest human ever

“The Smart TV features are fantastic!”

“Wow, look at the size of it!”

Very impressed

“The 3D experience is very good.”

Pleased

Indifferent

remote system. It’s enabled with UGC (User Generated Contents), SNS (Social Networking Service), Photo Sharing Service, weather forecasts and other useful applications from LG. We could’ve spent hours playing with it!

The 3D viewing experience is great too – it just seems to get better and better with each new generation of TV these days.

This is mainly thanks to features like the film patterned retarder, which pretty much abolishes flickering, and the 3D glasses themselves, which employ passive 3D technology, are lightweight and battery-free, and therefore more comfortable.

And finally, the TV’s special Smart Share function allows you to wirelessly access the content stored in your digital devices including digital cameras, mobile phones, tablets and PCs, which is very convenient. It also features a highly intuitive user environment featuring the LG Home Dashboard that allows users to navigate several functions from a single main menu.

All in all, this TV is a very impressive device, that is, if you can afford it…

Ouch!

PROS

“look at the price of it.”

TIME

CONS

-It’s massive! -It’s also massively expensive.

-Smart TV features

A

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TECHNOLOGY

ALI DRIVER SAYS THAT

“The Fiat 500 is the absolute definition of European retro chic!”

Our Mystery Motoring Expert, Ali Driver, had a great time whizzing around in the Fiat 500 pretending to be young, gorgeous and Italian…

I

t’s hard to define the place a cool AND fun, which more than car like the Fiat 500 has in the doubles its appeal.

Gulf. In Europe, it’s easy – it’s So, now we come to the next a desirable, stylish, trendy and most important question, which affordable compact car that’s easy will be vital to the success, or to park, light on fuel and cheap to failure, of the Fiat 500 in the Gulf: tax.

What is it like to drive?

However, in the Middle East, To begin with, lets start with there is no tax, and fuel is cheap. some facts: Plus, in a region where big is better, Among the countless awards compact is seen as ‘cheap’ rather the Fiat 500 has already won are than desirable, and yet the Fiat 500 “City Car of the Year 2009” by is not as cheap as other compact Business Car UK, “Best Car of cars available on the market, so 2009” by Auto Motor Und Sport will not appeal to people actually Germany, “World Design Car of looking for an economy option. the Year 2009” at the New York So, again, we come International Motor to the question: where It’s surprising Show, “City Car of does the Fiat 500 fit in? the amount of the Year 2008” by The key to solving BBC’s Top Gear, performance this riddle comes in “Small Car of the the shape of the Gucci you can Year 2008” by UK versions of the Fiat TV Show Fifth get out of it 500 that sit alongside Gear and “Car of the standard model on and, more the Year 2008” by importantly, the showroom floor.

Car Magazine in It’s a novelty – a cool how much fun the UK. plaything – a quirky It has also been you’ll have and unique accessory awarded the that makes a statement whilst doing it! impressive 5 Star about the driver, and Rating from safety enabling them to stand out from experts Euro NCAP, which is the rest on the crowded streets of phenomenal for a small car, and the region’s capitals. only a handful of cars in the whole Other cars that do the same thing world have been awarded are the VW Beetle and the Mini.

When standing outside the Fiat However, whereas the Beetle was a 500, you can’t help but feel that boring drive, the Mini is an absolute it will be cramped inside, which hoot to whizz around in, making it is why you’ll be amazed at how

54

spacious it is when you do climb in. There is easily enough room for four large adults, or five skinny teenagers, inside the 500, with everyone being quite comfortable.

The automatic gearbox isn’t the most refined I’ve ever seen, with sometimes jerky shifts, especially when you’re giving it a bit of oomph. However, put it into the manual option, and the sequential gear changes open up a whole new world of fun to be had in the 500, with the option of the steeringwheel paddles, or the actual stick shift. Once again, I find myself disappointed to live in a region where fully manual gearboxes just aren’t the done thing.

The plucky little 1.4l 100hp engine doesn’t sound like much, but it’s an engine that begs to be let loose. If you keep the revs high and work the gears right, it’s surprising the amount of performance you can get out of it and, more importantly, how much fun you’ll have whilst doing it!

Remember that speed is relative, and in a car this size, you really feel like you’re going faster than you are, and slotting it in and out of tiny spaces as you power through busy traffic becomes like a game.

You’ll quickly find that you can slip through gaps that no sedan, or even most hatchbacks, are ever going to manage.

This is exactly what this car is

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TECHNOLOGY for – the crowded streets of city centres, and not long motorway journeys, which makes Bahrain the Fiat 500’s perfect playground!

And the list of options that come with the car is the real icing on the cake. Inside the stylish interior there is a very decent sixspeaker stereo system with an MP3 compatible CD player and a USB connection. There’s also Bluetooth hands-free connection and steering wheel-mounted controls for most of the above.

Overall, the 500 doesn’t impress at first, but after a while it begins to carve itself a place in your heart, and as the time to return it to the showroom drew near, I suddenly found myself reluctant to give it back! So, I ended up taking it for one last lap of Bahrain, and was genuinely a bit sad when I handed over the keys. Once you learn your way around it, it’s an incredibly fun little car to drive.

Don’t get me wrong – it’s definitely no Mini. However, it’s also half the price of a Mini, and yet it’s not half as good. In fact, it’s way more than half as good.

If I were a father, I would buy this as a first car for my daughter.

It won’t be long before Manama begins to look like the streets of Milan, with Fiat 500s parked outside cafés and designer boutiques whichever way you look!

“After careful analysis, we concluded that the Fiat 500 is smaller than a dhow.”

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TECHNOLOGY And she would love me for it, and I would be happy in the knowledge that she is kept safe by the 5* NCAP rating.

But, would I buy it for myself?

Well, don’t get me wrong – I had a fantastic time whizzing around in this plucky little car.

Until, that is, I saw my reflection in a window on a high street. It was at that point I realised how ridiculous a man of my age, size and slightly overweight build looked in it!

So the answer is yes – if I were in my twenties, Italian, gorgeous and fashionable, I would buy this car. I would drive it around with my aviators on and a cigarette dangling from my bottom lip, and I would toot cheekily at pretty ladies on the street, and flash them a dazzling smile, and they would pretend to be offended but secretly be thrilled. However, I am not any of those things, so I will stick to my large, comfortable sedan with shaded windows that noone can see in through!

There are, though, many young Arabic guys I know who could easily pull off the above image with aplomb, looking very much like Italians in their dress sense, skin tone, eye and hair colour, etc. The only problem is, they all want Mustangs.

So to answer my earlier question, yes, the Fiat 500 does have a place in the Gulf. It’s just that no one knows it yet!

Early signs are good though.

Having spoken to the showroom manager at Behbehani, it turns out that within two weeks of the launch of the 500 in Bahrain, they’d already sold seven of them, to customers of both genders.

At this rate it won’t be long before the streets of Manama begin to look like the streets of Milan, with Fiat 500s parked outside cafés and designer boutiques whichever way you look!

Who is Ali Driver?

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“After extensive market research, we concluded that the Fiat 500 looks good on a beach...”

1. He lives in Bahrain and says he grew up on the streets of Muhurraq, but we think he’s actually from a rich family in Saar, and won’t admit it.

2. He says his car skills are all self-taught, but we’re sure we’ve seen a course certificate from the BIC on his wall.

3. He drives cars better than anyone we know (but don’t ever tell him).

4. He claims to be able to change a regular car tyre in under 4 minutes, but we’re sure that’s only when his wife helps him.

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TECHNOLOGY

The Renault Endurance Challenge

FACT takes an epic drive around Bahrain in the Renault Megane hatchback...

Renault’s BIC Track Day Getting cultured at the National Museum...

As Ali Driver was unavailable at the time, it was up to FACT’s Zara de Haldevang to go to the Bahrain International Circuit to get to grips with the Renault range last month...

T The Megane at Arad Fort...

Outside Al Aali Pottery Workshop...

he Renault Fluence is a car to be proud of. Doing just what it promises, the Fluence delivers an “efficient, comfortable and enjoyable ride”, but it’s the actual handling which is the real winner. Designed to combine steering and handling with minimal noise and vibrations, the car is one of the easiest and most natural drives in its class to have hit the market this year.

Out of the two petrol versions on offer, the 1.6 16V 110hp automatic was the one in which we sped round the Bahrain International Circuit – the ultimate destination to test out the limits of the car. Despite its sporty aspirations, the Fluence is roomy and surprisingly classy; the bodywork has a new grille and rear bumper, the six-speed manual mode gives the car that extra ‘umph’ that often lacks in cars in this segment. It handles well, it looks even better and is the ideal run around, especially if you have longlegged (human) friends.

T

he Renault Safrane is a different story. Aimed to appeal to the elite business class crowd, this smacks more of an executive saloon car with an imposing presence from the outside and effortless comfort inside. Broad yet powerful, the Safrane has the space like the Fluence, but the attention to detail takes things one step further.

When behind the wheel, the drive isn’t as lively, but remains definitely affirmative. Equipped with a 2.5L engine, the car keeps its composure on the gentle drive but is far from designed to keep up with the boy racers. This car has been referred to as the ‘motorised sofa’ in the past and, in a way, the reviews ring true, but that’s not to say that you aren’t looking at a good investment.

Comfortable, spacious and smart – three words to sum up a vehicle that any one in a suit would be happy to cruise around in.

Taking in the sunset at Al Jazayer beach...

Stuck in traffic in a pro-government rally next to Al Fateh Grand Mosque...

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FASHION

FIGHTING THE BATTLE AGAINST BAD TASTE IN BAHRAIN

p60: Bahrain’s Top Model - Round 2 p82: Amazing collections from adidas

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2012 Welcome...

to the fourth season of Bahrain’s reality magazine modelling series, where you (that’s you readers!) get to choose who will be Bahrain’s Top model 2012! And, for the first time this year, we are accepting female AND male models widening the scope of modelling talent that will be highlighted by the competition...

1.

How this works:

Each month for four months, the contenders are given a fashion shoot challenge, and we print each contender’s best images (as chosen by them!)

2. You vote on which contender you think models best, each month. The two male and female models with the lowest points from the popular and judges votes is eliminated from the competition.

3. We all have a rollercoaster four months of modeling madness as the nine contenders vie to become Bahrain’s fourth Top Model!

The Top Model team...

This round sponsored by

Laura,

Fashion Stylist Laura is the one running around leading our models into battle, choosing outfits and styles, and generally cracking the whip on the shoot sets.

George,

Fashion Photographer George is a very experienced fashion photographer, whose expertise helps us find great locations and visions for our photoshoots.

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Thanks to

Salsa Jeans for providing the amazing clothes for the shoot. Also thanks to Al Muzdaker Stud stables, most notably the lovable “Graffiti” the horse! Thanks also go to Keram Mazouzi for the behind-the-scenes images. And for hair and make up, no-one does hair and make-up like Jean! Not only did Elie & Jean style the hair and do the make-up for the models in this round (and every round), they are also claiming responsibility for the models hair for the entire duration of the competition!

FACT BAHRAIN MARCH

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Voted out this month...

Beka

Georgia

Majid

Shawn

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Noor

Noor is a student who defines her look as “simply amazing, because with every click of the camera, a better me comes out!” So we have no issues with confidence here! Noor is a people person who loves listening to the worries of friends, and them making them laugh again. Beauty inside and out is a winning combination in this competition!

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Talita

Another student in the pack, Talita is studying Business Informatics. And once again, we have another girl whose idol is her mum! “She is the most amazing woman I know, as she is extremely hard working and if I’m a quarter of the woman that she is then I’d be a fantastic one!” Talita defines her look as “casual and cute.”

Week 1

Week 2

Pauline

Week 3

Pauline describes her look as simple and classy, and this is reflected in her favourite brands: Massimo Dutti, Zara and H&M. Interesting facts about Pauline: she’d live on Cheese Doritos if she could, she eats anything with ketchup, and has occasional random bursts of energy when she just dances around.

Could be something to do with the Doritos…

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Laura Bale Says...

“Noor has done a lot of modelling before in Bahrain and is a beautiful young lady but she needs to be careful not to hide behind her hair for confidence. Even though every girl dreams of hair like hers!”

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

come text to come text to come text to come text to come text to come text to come text to come text to come text to co

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Pauline has done shoots for different designers in Bahrain so knows how to pose and comes across very confident.”

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Week 1

Week 2

Emani

Emani is also a student, and touchingly enough, her idol is her own mother, because “she is the strongest, most spontaneous woman I know.”

She defines her look as versatile, because she likes to try out new looks! She’s also sporty, who bowls for the National Ladies team, so there’s a competitive streak in her too!

Week 1

Week 2

Nermin

Student number four in the competition, Nermin’s idol is Heidi Klum, which is fitting! This is because Klum “has the ability to balance between her modelling career and her family.” Interestingly, the person she’d like to meet most, though, is French first lady Carla Bruni, because “she’s a talented princess that sings, acts and models as well!”

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Emani Is a shy young lady but I feel she tried her best to not show it, and put herself out there for the photos.”

Week 3

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Nermin is involved in modelling and promotions all over Bahrain, so she has the confidence behind her, and it shows.”

Week 3

Week 4

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65 01/03/2012 16:22

to vote for Tatlia to stay in

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01/03/2012 16:22

to vote for Noor to stay in

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to +973 4872 MARCH FACT BAHRAIN 70 3615 march issue.indd 70

01/03/2012 16:22

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71 01/03/2012 16:22

Imtiaz

Imtiaz is a finance professional, and the only Top Model who ISN’T a full-time student (although he does study on the side). His idol is Johnny Depp, because “he knows how to handle his fame.”

Imtiaz mainly shops at Zara, with the occasional treats from Gucci and LV when he can afford it. An intellectual type, his interests are history and politics!

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Jamie

Just as we thought – Jamie is the next student in the line-up. He defines his look as “Quite preppy”, which we agree with! His favourite shops are H&M, TopMan and Zara. An interesting fact about Jamie is that he speaks no less than four languages, and likes to travel, which is convenient!

He also plays guitar, but only the one…

Week 1

Week 2

Sam

Week 3

An arty type, Sam is a student in Graphic Design, who is interested in designing fashion wear using technology. So, he can design his own clothes, and model them too! A man with sophisticated tastes, Sam’s favourite fashion labels are Diesel, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. He describes his look as “A bit funky, but modern.”

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Laura Bale Says...

“Imtiaz has modelled in Bahrain for different shoots and is very confident in front of the camera. Just needs to be careful not to be too overconfident and try to have to many opinions.”

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Jamie looks good in the photos and has his own look but I think he is nervous. He needs to relax into the shoot next time.”

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Sam is very confident in front of a camera. Just needs to be careful not to put his chin so far down, as sometimes it can look like he is looking at the floor.”

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Week 1

Week 2

Arsalan

The first student in our male pack (and we get the feeling, not our last…), Arsalan’s idol is Donald Trump; so there’s an entrepreneurial streak in there somewhere! He describes himself as reckless, social, and an entertainer, so sounds like an interesting person to have at a party! His philosophy is: You only live once! And right he is…

Week 1

Week 2

Junaid

An open-minded person, Junaid has no specific idols, but instead believes that we are all humans who are equally capable of great things, and “what one person can do, someone else could do better if they tried.” In addition, he has no specific musical tastes, but instead likes anything, “as long as it has a good beat and fits my mood.”

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Arsalan always follows tasks well and sticks to timings. His pictures came out well but he has to make himself known and stand out more.”

Week 3

Week 4

Laura Bale Says...

“Junaid looks good in the camera and came across confident but He has to make sure he listens to direction from the team.”

Week 3

Week 4

FACT BAHRAIN MARCH march issue.indd 73

73 01/03/2012 16:23

to vote for Imtiaz to stay in

SMS ‘Imtiaz’

to +973 3615 4872 74 FACT BAHRAIN MARCH march issue.indd 74

01/03/2012 16:23

to vote for Jamie to stay in

SMS ‘Jamie’ to +973 3615 4872

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75

01/03/2012 16:23

to vote for Junaid to stay in

SMS ‘Junaid’

to +973 3615 4872 76 FACT BAHRAIN MARCH march issue.indd 76

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to vote for Arsalan to stay in

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FACT BAHRAIN MARCH march issue.indd 77

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01/03/2012 16:23

Int

to vote for Sam to stay in

SMS ‘Sam’

to +973 4872 MARCH FACT BAHRAIN 78 3615 march issue.indd 78

01/03/2012 16:23

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FASHION

All Day I Dream About Sportswear…

Gone are the days when sportswear was just for sports – it has creeped into our lives in an ever increasing way, from the days when high-tops and shell suits became mainstream, till today, when the worlds of fashion and sportswear become ever more intermingled.

ONE One company that is taking this to a higher level is adidas.

The iconic three stripes have has been beenpart partofofour ourlives livessince, since, believe it or not, 1947, and have been worn by sports stars and Olympic athletes pretty much ever since. However, it wasn’t until the seventies that they became a fashion statement, when their basketball shoes became part of popular culture.

Since then, their popularity has waxed and waned depending on fashion trends, but in the past decade their retro styling has enjoyed an upsurge in popularity. However, in recent years collaborations with designer brands have planted adidas firmly in the realm of highly fashionable sportswear.

We recently brought you a collaboration between adidas and Oysho in our January issue, but these two latest lines that were announced last month have really stirred things up on the FACT penthouse’s fashion desk.

Read on to find out more…

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FASHION

For the ladies…

Adidas Originals

I

n 2012, adidas Originals celebrates a special anniversary: it has been 40 years since the legendary three-leafed trefoil was introduced.

Today the products that bear the mark are all part of the Originals collection, and the people who wear them honour its authentic, original sportswear.

In Spring/Summer 2012, timeless classics return to the forefront of the collection, including the Track Top and the Polo, which have been re-designed in a host of fresh, vibrant colours. Next to a solid, authentic sportswear and street-style offer, this season’s collection also includes more innovative silhouettes ranging from outfit-driven fashion pieces to tech-lifestyle footwear.

1972 was the year of the Munich Olympics and also the first time when the iconic three-leafed logo was used. In 2012, adidas Originals celebrates the Trefoil logo by re-introducing classic apparel and footwear pieces from that era, like the iconic ’72 Track Top, which has been updated as a more fitted, contemporary piece appealing to today’s fashionconscious youth. The adiStar Racer, a classic running shoe from the same year, is a sleek addition to the vintage footwear family.

With the 2012 London Olympics coming in summer, adidas Originals also presents dedicated product packages celebrating both next year’s host and iconic adidas silhouettes of former contests. A melange of products, from apparel featuring union jack inspired prints to metallic footwear in gold and silver will bring a dash of style to fans of the biggest sport event in the world.

The Spring/Summer 2012 women’s collection offers collegiate styles from sporty to stylish and as well as more fashion-inspired pieces. From hooded-dresses featuring the “72” logo to casual beachwear in bright block colours and lighter, fresher prints, the Originals women’s collection is perfect for the warmer summer months.

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For the gents…

FASHION

Adidas Porsche Hybrid Designs

P

orsche Design Sport is collaboration between adidas and Porsche Design.

The range of luxury sportswear utilises the industry’s most advanced technologies in concert with luxurious, exclusive materials, performance-enhanced details and impeccable craftsmanship.

Porsche Design Sport has long been distinguished by its exclusive materials, performance enhanced details and meticulous craftsmanship. The Spring/Summer 2012 collection continues the tradition, with design details that pay homage to professional car racing. One standout piece, the Racetrack Jacket, offers an exciting and unexpected combination: the classic lines of a biker jacket, executed in a highly functional fabric that whisks away moisture, repels water and stains, and creates a cooling effect.

The newly updated Driver’s Pant is engineered with the same advanced fabric technologies. Another piece, the short sleeve Pique Polo, features UVP treatment for high performance moisture management and UV protection from the sun.

In footwear, the Drive Athletic II driving shoe offers a supple, summer-weight aniline leather upper with ergonomically placed, carinspired ventilation inserts for superior airflow.

A low-profile rubber outsole is designed to heighten pedal sensitivity.

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FASHION inthe Home FIGHTING THE BATTLE AGAINST BAD TASTE IN BAHRAIN’S HOMES

Rosenthal Meets Versace A collaboration which has resulted in some very unique china pieces, these latest homeware products from Versace will stand out in any home...

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Rosenthal Meets Versace FASHION inthe Home

Behold these extremely unique collections of China from Versace, boasting very strong Oriental themes in brightly coloured pieces that will stand out in any home…

Asian Dream/The Legend of the Dragon

“The Legend of the Dragon” and “Asian Dream” are the new exclusive collections by Rosenthal meets Versace. Oriental art, myths and legends permeate the atmosphere of the new series for an exotic and fascinating journey to the Far East.

A red dragon, the most legendary figure of Asian mythology, rises majestically in the middle of the service plate, conveying all his might and glory.

Opulent golden baroque patterns and four small medallions representing the sun and the Versace Medusa decorate the background.

Versace has paid tribute to Asia and its traditions in the past, most recently in its Atelier and Prêt à Porter collections.

The mythological figure of the Dragon is available in a very bright and colourful blue, red and gold version (“The Legend of the Dragon“) or in a sophisticated red, gold and white reference (“Asian Dream”).

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FASHION inthe Home

Bright Christmas

“Bright Christmas” is another new collection by Rosenthal meets Versace. The Maison Versace celebrates the 2012 holiday season in the most colourful, joyful and elegant way. Christmas is a time of family gatherings, warm feelings, peace and joy.

The home becomes the meeting place for those we hold dear. Bright Christmas reinterprets these joyful, warm and pleasant moments through vivid colours and opulent decorations.

The series is characterised by golden and white geometrical patterns against a red background, resulting in an astonishing optical effect. A baroque Christmas wreath entwined around the iconic Greek motif creates a contrast with the geometry of the patterns.

These contrasts of design and colours convey a shiny effect that brightens the holiday season. The service includes a dinner set, cups and mugs, an étagère, porcelain bells and tree ornaments, table light and boxes.

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Alosra’s got the EGG factor!

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook

@Alosra_Bahrain Alosra Supermarket

Saar 17 697558 Amwaj 16 033773 Durrat 77 770001 www.bmmigroup.com

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0:32 AM

//

Time Unwind to

Recreation is just as important in life as occupation! This is your guide to making the most of your precious spare time. There’s no need to waste it...

FINAL WORD

What’s your

BAHRAIN

IQ

S.A.T’s? M.B.A’s? Pah! In Bahrain,

only one test score really matters: your

The spectacular Spring of Culture kicks off this March. Do you:

Bahrain IQ!

a attend each and every event like dedicated culture vulture you are? b pick and choose the events you’dthe like to attend, and which you’ll give a miss? c stay at home and sulk all the way through because

time before they were all sold out?

you didn’t get Andrea Bocelli tickets

in

T

his month is your last chance to enter our National Photography Competition, “Natural Bahrain”. Do you:

a

read our camera feature in the technology section, suddenly decide that it’s the photographer’s life for you, and run out and buy a Hasselblad for BD8000 and enter three pictures of the Tree of Life in the competition? casually explore Bahrain and its surrounding islands, taking tranquil shots of birds and sunsets, or any scene that inspires you, and then decide that your work is far too lofty for a simple magazine in Bahrain, and instead send them into National Geographic (who still, incidentally, haven’t replied)? send in pictures of your mate passed out in the back garden for a joke?

b

c

It’s Mother’s Day this month. Do you:

a

express your gratitude for a mother who cared for you, nurtured you, and raised you to be the person you are today by showering

with gifts and love? b whisk her off on a luxury holiday to sayherthanks for all

Disneyland and Seaworld and all

c put the old bat in a home?

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those times she took you to your other favourite destinations as a child?

FACT BAHRAIN MARCH

BAHRAIN IQ - p106

Our sly monthly round-up of recent Bahrain news

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//

VENUE REVIEW

MEI N YU

Lagoon, Amwaj Islands, Tel: 16010160 Price: BD40-50 for two persons

WE admit, we’ve been meaning to visit this great new bistro-style restaurant on the Lagoon on Amwaj Islands for a while now, but something always seemed to come up. Well, now we have done, and we were not disappointed in the slightest.

Mei N Yu is exactly what the Lagoon has been missing ever since it opened – a stylish, laid back, unpretentious and licensed venue with great food.

With the tranquil waterfront views of the Lagoon and a comfortable outdoor lounge to boot, the restaurant is a place where you can chill with a few friends for drinks and snacks or enjoy a cosy dinner for two.

Their wine-tasting nights are already a staple of Bahrain’s leisure and dining scene, and the venue even won the Best Newcomer category in the FACT Awards 2011, as voted for by the Bahrain public.

Funnily enough, after all this, it’s taken us until now to do a food review on the place! The fantastic cuisine comes courtesy of Chef Kavindra, a guy with almost 15 years of experience cooking in and around Bahrain, from five-star hotels to wellknown fine-dining restaurants.

First off comes the fresh bread with a trio of herb butter, cream cheese and a delicious garlic and avocado (we think) dip, which was perfect to whet the appetite.

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To start with, we shared a deliciously smoky Hammour Pâté, which came with lightly toasted triangles of bread. Having never had anything like it, it was a pleasant surprise; full of flavour without being too fishy or salty.

Then came the mains, which were duck marinated in orange and honey with a lovely gravy, and breaded fish cakes with a remoulade sauce. The fish cakes were tasty, and the sauce delicious, although the outer coating could have been a little more crisp.

However, we were completely blown away by the duck, which was absolutely sublime.

Cooked to perfection with a slightly pink tinge in the middle, they were tender and flavoured exquisitely by the orange and honey marinade. I could have eaten it over again when I finished it!

We rounded off the meal by sharing the date pudding with ice cream and butterscotch sauce. Once again, absolutely delicious, and though we were tempted, we didn’t order another one!

Largely due to popular demand, the restaurant now does take out and even caters for small events of up to twenty or so people, which is testament to how popular it has already become. If you haven’t already stopped by, be sure to do so – it’s worth the drive to Amwaj!

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DINING DEVELOPMENTS...

New Brunch at Kempinski

SOMETIMES you just need a family day out and where else better to do that than over a meal. Looking to eat and drink as much as you and pay a set price? Well the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel are putting on the ultimate Family brunch at Saveur. All prepared by Executive Chef Holger Jackisch and his team, you can head down and enjoy delicious dishes for BD18 per person for food and soft drinks (BD28 if you want to enjoy ‘selected’ beverages). Holger won “Best Brunch in Dubai’ in 2007 so his food is definitely worth a try. You even get to use the infinity pool afterwards – careful you don’t sink though…

GO: Open from 12-4pm every Friday, call 1717 0000 or email restaurants.bahrain@kempinski to book your table.

Tantalizing Tapas Purely Prego

IT’s always nice to know a new joint has opened on the island and this time the Royal Golf Club gets a high five from us for its newest venture, Prego. This new restaurant has the ultimate Italian menu consisting of authentic pizzas, fresh pastas as well as some classic dishes such as Risotto con Funghi and Pollo Piccata. As if you needed an incentive to go and test the food, every time you dine in at Prego, which is open ALL day might we add, you get the opportunity to win two return flights to Rome. If you want to eat inside and watch your food being cooked in the Wood Stove or perhaps dine al fresco on the wood terrace, this food is totally worth it.

GO: Call 1775 1263 for information

NOWHERE can beat the serenity and pretty swanky setting of the Sofitel. So if you needed an excuse to head down there, the Tapas offers are it.

For one, you can head down and throw yourself into the Latino atmosphere. Every Sunday from 7pm, you can listen to the live Cuban duo and fill your mouths with plato de quesos, tostada pimientos y sardinas, anchoas fritas & gambas… as well as a welcome glass of Sangria.

If you are a seafood fan, then Mondays gives you a chance to eat unlimited Mussels & Fries for BD 11. The Oyster & Chablis night every Wednesday from 6pm is when you can indulge in some seriously nice French Belon oysters served with a glass of Chablis.

For those looking for some serious Spanish food, then save yourself for the Friday nights.

With a buffet offering you more than 15 different typical Spanish dishes like Tortillas, Gazpacho and Piparradas, you can not only eat tonnes of food but you can try some signature cocktails and learn how to do the cha-cha-cha as well.

Choose this for BD15 each and you get 50% off your second Tapas offer. A complete bargain!

GO: Call 1763 6412 for reservations.

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with

Guy Gateau This month, we dine at the table of the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain’s Executive Chef, Guy Gateau, who treats us to a feast in the hotel’s La Med restaurant…

W

elcome to the first instalment of what is a whole new concept in FACT Magazine – the Chef ’s Table! Each month, we will be having dinner with the head chef of one of Bahrain’s leading hotels or restaurants, who will show off their culinary skills, and give us some insight into the world behind the kitchen door that few of us rarely see, though most of us dine out at least once a week!

Hosting our first dinner is the aptly named Executive Chef at the Ritz Carlton, Guy Gateau (gateau, of course, meaning ‘cake’ in French!), who treated us to a sumptuous Mediterranean-based feast.

Amusingly enough, Chef Guy’s career has, to some extent, been shaped by his name, resulting in the fact that he might just be a little more experienced in the pastry kitchen than other chefs!

“Throughout my career, I have always been in pastry at one time or another, and I do think it’s mainly due to my name!” exclaims Guy. “I remember early in my career, they would need somebody in the pastry kitchen, because of sickness or absence, or whatever, and the chef would always say, “Gateau! Go and do it!””

We watched as Chef Guy brought out the seafood, purchased fresh that morning from the market, that he was going to use as the core ingredients

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for one of La Med’s specialty dishes, a delicious Arabian Gulf Bouillabaisse.

“The important thing about seafood is that the more fresh it is, the better,” he explains. “I say that, but these days, the technical aspects of freezing food means that you can have frozen products of a very high quality now, that are absolutely astonishing.”

Chef Guy is passionate about using local produce wherever possible, as he often finds that perfectly good ingredients can be found and used to great effect, and that in many cases importing is the ‘easy option’. An example of this is in his other La Med specialty dish that we sampled, “An Epigram” of Baby Lamb.

This is a dish where the lamb is served in two ways, with one portion boiled and made into crisp cakes and grilled, and the other is the loins seasoned and breaded.

“Local lamb is much smaller than lamb imported from Europe or New Zealand, as they’re not fed on so much grass,” he explains. “It still has lots of flavour though. Because it’s so small, the only whole cuts of meat you can use are the loins. The rest we used for the cakes, which are all the neck and the rack, all the upper part of the lamb seasoned with mustard and herbs, and some bread, a little butter, then grilled until crisp.”

As we sat down to eat and talk with Chef Guy, dish after dish from La

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Med’s new menu arrived on the table for us to sample. From the ‘mezzeh’style hot and cold small plates menu we had Eggplant Roulade (stuffed with Goat Cheese, Raisins and Pine Nuts – very nice), Chicken Lollipops (in a pomegranate sauce with lemon juice – absolutely amazing!), Crisp Brie Cheese (with grilled watermelon with Zatar sauce – an interesting combination we’d never seen before) and Fried Crab Dumplings (stuffed crab pastries – small, but very tasty!).

We also had the Lemon Chicken Tajine, which was absolutely delicious, and also one of the most colourful and photogenic dishes we sampled, as you can see from the images!

As we ate, we spoke to Chef Guy about his past experience as a chef, and his future plans for the Ritz Carlton.

Chef Guy began his career in the culinary arts almost by accident, though some might call it fate. For various reasons, he left school at a young age, but his father wasn’t content to let him drift, and so began a pivotal moment in his life.

“My father took me for a ride in the car one day,” he recalls. “And he said, “What are you going to do?” And I told him “I have no idea!” And he said, “Well, you’re going to have to learn a trade, if you don’t want to stay in school.” And we went on down the list, and eventually, he said, “Do you want to be a chef?” And I remember it vividly, the idea of being a chef sticking in my mind.”

So, Guy ended up apprenticed to a very well-known chef, who taught him practically every aspect of cooking, from slaughtering animals to harvesting fruit and vegetables, and even spending time in a charcuterie near his village, learning how to cure meat and make pâté.

“I learned that it doesn’t matter where you learn, or which school you go to, if you stick exactly to the curriculum, you won’t go very far. If you don’t have that drive, that love of the product, and that curiosity to experiment, and create new things, then you’re just piling things on a plate.”

Aside from his time spent as an apprentice, there are two other periods of his career that really shaped his life

and experience. The first was his time spent working with one of the most famous French chefs in history, the late Alain Chapel, a three-star Michelin chef whose restaurant is still famous today.

“When you work for a man like that, there are so many memories,” he says.

“He taught me a lot of things; how to cook with butter, or how to cook with your ears. When I started to work with him, it was September, the start of the hunting season, with a lot of game birds in the kitchen. You would have ten or twelve birds in your oven, and would have to tell how they were cooking just by listening to the butter sizzling!”

The second period that shaped his career is the time he spent as a partner in a business with a man called George Pralus developing the sous-vide (under vacuum) cooking techniques, now widely used in food preparation around the world. The technique involves cooking food that is preprepared and then vacuum-sealed in plastic bags, before being cooked at low temperatures over a long period of time.

This type of cooking allows food to be pre-cooked and then stored for longer periods without degeneration in quality, which allows for prepreparation of high quality foods for big events.

Chef Guy has provided his expertise in a consultancy role for many years, and will be bringing it to his new role at the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain. “We’re converting a part of the kitchens in the hotel with the equipment, and we’ll be introducing the techniques to the industry here in Bahrain,” he says.

So how does it feel to be working now at the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain? “I’m honroued to have the chance to come to an organisation like this, first of all, because it’s not that easy! I was very impressed by the ownership of the place, and what they were doing for the hotel and their ladies and gentlemen, the dedication they have towards the hotel is basically the reason why I’m here.”

And with new menus on the way for the newly-renovated Plums and Primavera restaurant, we can expect lots of good things at the Ritz Carlton, Bahrain in the coming year!

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT

Cocoon Lounge Address: Website: Opening hours: Contact No:

Best Western Hotel, Juffair www.cocoonlounge.net 17:00-02:00 Every day +973 3650 0114

THIS MONTH

Friday, 2 March Weds, 7 March Friday, 9 March

Weds, 14 March

Friday, 16 March

Friday, 23 March

Weds, 28 March

Friday, 30 March

Lipstick Lounge with Sami Dee An icon on the UK clubbing scene, Sami was involved in the development of many nights and is best known for his urban jackin’ house style!

Paul Hamilton (JUICY MUSIC) Born in Malta, Paul brings amazing energy to his big room deep & tech house sets and is currently in Dubai with the brand Vegas Baby!

Sugarshaker (SheBang, UK) DJ and produce, Sugarshaker is one of the few female DJ’s to spin with vinyl and now plays for plastik fondue at Ministry of Sound.

Lipstick Lounge Presents Essential Ibiza with Anthony Chester and Ian Thompson Essential Ibiza is your guide to the best of the sunshine party Island, their club brand offers no less!

Lipstick Lounge Presents the Big Birthday Bash with Damian D’Costa (Casa D’Costa) So many of Bahrain’s best parties have had Damian behind them… his bday is definitely one to be there for!

Jason Kabuki (Shangri-la, Dubai) Jason is a successful DJ, producer and remixer that has helped launch many new venues in the London and Dubai. Jason has performed in Ibiza, Turkey, Greece, Spain and now has a residency in the Shangri – la, Dubai.

Simon Baker (airLondon, UK) A UK artist that knows his own style and generates his own musical footprint. Each of his tracks creates a fresh storm two of Baker’s productions made it into iTunes Best Of Year charts in 2009 and 2010.

The Gallery presents Social Deconstruction album launch with Gavyn Mytchel(UK) Deep, Tech, Funk, House. Resident at the infamous Turnmills, London for the last six years and weekly resident at Ministry of Sound since 2008, Gavyns gig diary reads like an airport departures board!

REGULARS SUNDAYS

Groovin’

MONDAYS

Sushi Mondays with Live Jazz

WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS THURSDAYS DAILY

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DONT MISS...

Only the very best old-skool hip-hop and RnB played weekly every Sunday all night.

Enjoy a platter of Sushi with unlimited selected beverages for just BD12 per head from 7pm-12am, whilst Lelane and Jameelo perform live Jazz, followed by Late Night Ladies Lounge until 2am.

Lipstick Lounge

Complimentary cocktails for the ladies from their indulgent Lipstick Lounge menu, from 5pm-2am.

Fabulous!

Get Fabulous as Cocoon Lounge heats up for a luxurious night of deep and delicious RnB spun by exclusive guest DJ Neil T! Ladies enjoy free sparkling wine all night long!

Late Night Ladies Lounge

Complimentary spirits and wines (no cocktails) for the ladies from 11pm to 2am.

The Triumphant Return of Joe Driscoll!

After a wildly successful gig in JJ’s Irish Pub back in October, the talented Mr. Driscoll returns to Bahrain once again, bringing his guitar, his loop sampler and his impressive beat-boxing skills…

THIS TIME, it’s the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel who is welcoming Mr Joe Driscoll for a live show in Fiddlers Green Pub on Thursday, March 29, alongside resident DJ Dwayne Anthony. Joe will also be playing the next day, Friday March 30, at the Diplomat’s Ultimate Party Brunch, and afterwards for the post-brunch party downstairs in Fiddlers.

Already known as one of the fastest-evolving and most exciting acts to hit the US and UK scene, New York-born Joe is now based in London, where he has been beefing up his one-man-band skills on both sides of the Atlantic. This Indy award winner isn’t just your standard guitar singer; he can rap, sing, beat box, play a list of instruments, including the didgeridoo, and is known to be able to jam with anyone and everyone.

This unique and quirky artist had the crowd in JJ’s going wild last time with his one-of-a-kind performance, where he used various instruments, his vocals and beat boxing skills and his loop sampler to come up with a full set of musical creations that had everyone dancing.

With the success of his album Mixtape Champs, described as ‘his best work to date’, Joe’s music has been on the radio, TV and stage, where he has opened for acts such as Gym Class Heroes, Regina Spektor, the Sugar Hill Gang and Coldcut. People have also fought over his title track and first single so they can make a remix out of it. When other artists aren’t trying to remix his music, others are begging for a collaboration; Rodney P & Skitz, Spragga Benz and Mr. Benn are a few name drops.

If you are ultra keen to catch this well-worthy act again (we know some of you have been desperate since last year) then the Fiddler’s doors open at 9pm and will only set you back BD5. The brunch starts at 12pm, with Joe coming on stage at 1.30.

GO: Call 1752 5263 or Michael on 3993 7844 to get your reservation.

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT

Dragon Hotel & Resort Address: Awmaj Islands Contact No: +973 1603 9800 Website: www.dragonresorthotel.com www.mujuamwaj.com

Playing five nights a week in Muju...

Lelane and Jamelo!

Hailing all the way from South Africa, this highly accomplished pair will be taking over the reins from the Margaret Bell Jazz Duo, and though they have big shoes to fill, they’re more than up to the task!

LELANE

The Red Mock Chili Peppers

An act that pays tribute to one of the most legendary rock bands of all time, the Red Mock Chili Peppers are set to perform a live gig in Bahrain this March…

DON’T MISS OUT...

JAMELO

Muju Jazz Brunch

Hosted at Muju every Friday, what is already becoming one of the favourite brunches on the island, featuring international cuisine and excellent sushi. The price is BD25 nett, inclusive of all beverages, and takes place from 12pm to 5pm.

KNOWN as one of the best American alternative rock bands, the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ music is some that will never be forgotten, even long after the band itself is no more.

To pay tribute to the legendary tunes that have been produced by the band, Kicks and Champs will be putting on a live show featuring one of the world’s best Chili Peppers tribute acts, the Red Mock Chili Peppers.

We have all heard the songs (if you haven’t then YouTube them now, and seriously, get out more!); ‘Californication’, ‘Can’t Stop’, ‘Under the Bridge’ and the ‘Zephyr Song’ are all ultimate classics. Their music is respected by millions, and they obviously have an undeniable talent for music, with 16 UK Top 40 hits and an increasing fan base, despite forming 24 years ago now (wow, has it really been that long?!).

Now this tribute band isn’t just about the songs – these four guys from Leicestershire got together in 2004, formed RMCP and now sing, act and look just like the real deal. They have worked tirelessly perfecting every aspect of the band’s sound, look and on-stage presence.

GO: For just BD5 you can head down to Kicks, Hotel Diva on Thursday, 15 March or Champs at the Juffair Hotel on Friday 16. Call Kicks on 3992 2583 or Champs on 3981 2397 for information or reservations.

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT

TaBu

Address: Opening hours: Contact No: BB Pin: Dress code:

Email:

Now open in Juffair!

1st floor, Panorama Hotel, Juffair 20:00 – 02:00 - Seven days a week +973 3999 4199 23B781C1 Smart Casual (no t-shirts, no caps, no sports wear, no exceptions!) tabu.juffair@hotmail.com

One of Bahrain’s most popular nightspots, TaBu is now well established as one of the most happening clubs in Juffair, hosting fresh acts and sizzling nights week in, week out.

Bringing you the most cutting-edge beats courtesy of their talented in-house DJ Salime and regular guest DJs from around the world, TaBu maintains its rightful place as one of the hottest nightlife venues in the Kingdom. Check out their special events and promotions below, and make sure you’re in the know...

DON’T MISS OUT...

Friday, 2nd, 16th & 30th March

‘R&B Friday’ with DJ Cossta

All the smoothest R&B sounds and urban beats, courtesy of guest DJ Cossta...

Friday, 9th & 23rd March

Poetry Over Music “Spoken Words” Nights of luscious lyricism, with guest DJ Cossta, featuring skills on the microphone.

Every Thursday

“Indulge” with DJanes Kate & Alex The ultimate weekend warm-up, with the gorgeous DJanes Kate & Alex, from St. Petersburg, alongside resident DJ Salime.

REGULAR NIGHTS...

Mondays and Wednesdays.

Ladies Night

Complimentary cocktails, wine and sparkling all night long!

Thursdays and Fridays

Weekend Rise Up

All the best weekend dance floor fillers with resident DJ Salime!

TaBu’s resident...

DJ Salime

Salime has been entertaining TaBu’s crowds for over three years now, spinning up a heady combination of classics, crowd-pleasers and the latest dancefloor hits to keep things pumping all night long!

Saudistock Is Back!

Bringing the best of Saudi’s expat rockers to Bahrain, Saudistock was a cracking night out during the last event in JJ’s, so expect more of the same this March!

NOT many people know this, but there’s a die-hard rock music scene entrenched within the expatriate community of Saudi Arabia. They have to entertain themselves somehow, we suppose…

So if they have a good time in Saudi, imagine how much fun they have when they come to Bahrain!

You will all have heard of the infamous Woodstock music festival in the 60’s, where a hundred thousand flower power hippies joined forces to celebrate their love of music and free love?

Well, this’ll be nothing like that.

It is, instead, a couple of Saudi’s best-know rock bands, FBR and Hard Candy, performing backto-back gigs in Fiddlers Green at the Diplomat Radisson Blu on Thursday, March 15.

What’s great about this event is that it’s free. Just kidding – it celebrates regional talent AND it’s free!

Head down for about 9pm and the best band of the night will get to perform at the Diplomat Brunch the very next day.

So get your festival gear on and come down to support some bands. For those of you over from Saudi looking for a place to crash, there are special room + brunch rates on offer for BAE and Aramco staff.

GO: For more information and bookings, call 1752 5263.

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT

Upstairs Downstairs Address: Website: Opening hours:

Contact No:

DONT MISS...

Building 754, Rd 3825, Block 338, Adliya www.upstairsdownstairs.me 11:00 - 15:00 & 18:00 - 00.00 - Sun-Weds 09:00 - 15:00 & 18:00 - 00.00 - Thurs-Sat +973 1771 3093

Located in the heart of Bahrain, a terrific buzz hits you as you enter Upstairs Downstairs and make your way through the bar to the utterly charming twofloor restaurant. Decorated in a traditional English Country House style, it’s like being at a private dinner party hosted by a friend, with an ambience further heightened by local jazz musicians performing on stage. International guest stars regularly take the stage too.

The menu is eye-catching, with a varied selection of cuisines from around the world, from fajitas to fish cakes, unique salads and more, with vegetarians well catered for.

So drop in to Upstairs Downstairs and experience something truly unique in Bahrain today...

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTLY!

Sunday, Monday & Tuesday

Jojo

The Intercon’s Fresh New Act

Saturday & Wednesday

Saturo

A talented new resident band takes to the stage in the InterContinental Regency Hotel’s Downtown bar…

Thursday & Friday

Frankie’s Friends

AS if we needed an excuse to head Downtown, here is one anyway for those of you looking to spice up your ‘live music’ tick sheet in Bahrain. The InterContinental Regency has a new resident band, TACIT, now performing nightly in the Downtown bar.

A six-piece musical ensemble, the group excel in four part vocal harmonies, where they can sing anything from Bon Jovi to Bryan Adams, Whitney Houston, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Queen, Jason Derulo and David Guetta!

Four guys and two girls make up this group who, after countless gigs all over South Africa, and also having won Battle of the Bands there in 2011, are keen to explore the rest of the world. Good for us that Bahrain is the first stop on their list!

With Tammy, Khylie and Isaac on lead vocals, Hein on keyboard and backing vocals, Spencer on the bass guitar and Carlos on the drums, this diverse mixture of friends has a awesome stage presence, where their song line up brings together that ideal mixture of jazz, rock, blues and the ultimate new top hits.

Get yourselves down to Downtown to check out this lot. If you are looking to check out some great music from a talented band in a snazzy venue, then this is the ultimate hot spot to achieve all three!

GO: For information, call 1722 7777.

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Professional Professional Wedding Wedding Photography Photography & & Videography Videography

1759 3993

www.ksdibahrain.com

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Health & Wellbeing Your body is your temple, so worship it! Looking after your health doesn’t have to mean exercising and eating health food - a good pampering is just as important...

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Stress

Less, Feel Best!

Nobody likes to be stressed, but your body likes to be stressed even less than you do! This is because stress levels can actually have a physical effect on your health. Dr. Ann Mostafa tells us more…

H

ealthcare professionals often advise us to manage our stress for our own well-being.

The issue has been researched and investigated for the last twenty years, and still continues to be researched at several universities in the States.

So what is all the fuss about? What is stress? What happens to us physically and mentally?

In the physical domain, stress has a very specific stimulant response, which begins when our mind perceives a ‘threat’. Our brain sends this message chemically to the base of our brain that sends a hormonal alert to our adrenal glands, located on top of our kidneys, and they release the stress hormones, adrenaline and cortisol.

Cortisol slows down digestion and immunity and enables our body to mobilize fats and send them for fuel to the muscles. The idea being, that this extra energy will help us escape danger, by increasing our stamina.

The next substance released is adrenaline, which makes our blood pressure rise, our heart start pounding and our palms sweaty. We are physically ready to flee from the threat.

When the threat is gone, the stress hormone levels go back to normal. Our heart stops pounding and all functions put on hold are resumed again.

The nature of today’s problems isn’t as simple as escaping from a threat.

Our threats aren’t necessarily physical

anymore; they are chronic annoying things, like workplace conflicts, bills that are due, political situations and other longstanding problems that we can’t just ‘flee’ from. Modern life can leave us in a state of chronic physical tension, anxiety and stress.

What happens when our body can’t switch off the stress activation?

According to a study from Duke University, chronic stress increases our blood pressure, which in turn stresses our arteries that become thicker because of the chemical signalling to the repair cells. As our arteries get thicker and narrower, our blood pressure rises even more.

Stress affects our sleep, making it harder to relax and let go of worries. This lack of sleep affects our memory, making us forgetful, missing appointments and deadlines. Then we worry even more.

Our skin and hair get affected because of the chronic cortisol release. Our immune system gets worn out so we start getting colds and infections easier as well. So we miss more work or school, which feeds the vicious circle of stress.

Stress reactivity is determined by several factors: genetics, personality, childhood stress levels and our serotonin and dopamine system reactivity.

However, there is a lot we can do to mediate the effects of stress and save ourselves from its harmful effects.

The nature of today’s problems isn’t as simple as escaping from a threat. Our threats aren’t necessarily physical anymore.

GO: Dr. Anne Mostafa is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist offering psychotherapy to both children and adults. To find out more, log on to www.bahrainpsychologist.com.

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Do you sleep

like a baby?

Our Health Columnist is fitness guru Craig Heslop, Founder & Coach of Tribal Fitness, who believes that a more back-tobasics and natural approach to living is the key to a healthy lifestyle…

Here are a few tips:

• Studies have found that cortisol is better mediated when we sleep before 12 at night.

• We need to have friendships,

supportive family relationships or social support networks so we can voice our issues and seek support and advice.

• We can engage in a relaxing

and enjoyable hobby, which decreases stress hormones and increases serotonin and dopamine levels naturally. (Duke University 2002 study)

• We can maintain healthy eating habits and avoid caffeine and tobacco, which induce our stress hormone release.

• We can seek professional

advice when our problems start to overwhelm us, so we avoid illness or getting out of control.

GREETINGS Tribe! Each month I would like to provoke some actions that enable you to live a longer and stronger life. At Tribal Fitness we encourage our people to move, eat and live naturally as we believe this is the best way to optimize health and wellbeing.

Nature intended us to live the light. For hundreds of thousands of years we have moved by the light and slept by the dark. The sun was the only clock or alarm clock we needed. In modern city life this has become increasingly difficult. We almost live a vampire existence today – we avoid sunlight during the day and enjoy illuminated nights!

Despite many advances in mankind, our bodies have not changed much at all.

Our sleeping bodies still produce growth hormones between 10pm and 2am. If we are not asleep by 10pm then we reduce our body’s ability to heal and become stronger.

If you are a night dweller then welcome to increased inflammation and reduced immunity. To achieve your optimum health and wellbeing I would suggest the following 3 steps: Remove all artificial light from your bedroom – glowing alarm clocks, mobile phones and TV’s. Utilize the curtains to block any fake city light coming through the window. You are now primed to sleep well!

Experience some smart sun exposure every day. This enables you to fall into a natural circadian rhythm of where light = active and dark = sleep. Eating your lunch outside is a great way to get some free vitamin D! Move every day. By staying stagnant all day you really haven’t earned the right to sleep well. It doesn’t matter how you move – walk, run or play. If you feel some physical fatigue by bedtime you will hit the hay hard!

I look forward to hearing how improved sleep has improved your quality of living!

GO: For more information, or to get involved with Tribal Fitness, email craig@tribalfitness.com, or call 3947 3710

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT

Address: Seef Mall, New Extension, 2nd Floor Contact No: 1700 1700 Website: www.toniandguybahrain.com

TONI&GUY brings Balmain to Bahrain!

With Balmainia everywhere in the world, celebrities like Beyoncé, Kate Moss, Rihanna, Kristen Stewart and many more are all regularly being snapped wearing the latest Balmain designs.

Next to the haute couture house, Balmain also enjoys worldwide recognition with their haute coiffure collection - Balmain Hair - which carries a complete Hair+ line. This hair brand is just as famously in demand as her fashion sister. Stars like Paula Abdul, Christina Aguilera, Chantelle Houghton, Kirsty Duffy and Laura Jansen are huge fans.

Balmain Hair is the world licensee and manufacturer of Balmain Hair fashion and is related to – and inspired by - the French fashion house Balmain Paris. This famous fashion house was founded in 1945 by the renowned couturier Pierre Balmain, known for his elegant and super feminine Madame Jolie-style.

In 2005 the fashion brand took a twist when Christophe Decarnin came on board as a head designer. With his outstanding, edgy, glamorous and sexy looks, he brought rock & roll to the catwalk, making Balmain into the most wanted fashion brand amongst trendsetting party girls and celebrities all over the world.

This year Balmain Paris welcomes it’s new head designer: Olivier Rousteing. After spending five years at Roberto Cavalli and working for Balmain’s women’s wear studio since 2009, Olivier is ready to show the world his talent as the new head designer in the upcoming shows. Following the latest fashion trends, Balmain Hair and the international fashion world are closely connected. Balmain Hair is a beloved brand that many famous hairstylists work with and can therefore often be seen on the catwalk at various famous fashion shows in Paris, Milan, London and New York. Be inspired! Are you ready to let Balmain rock your world?

Visit Toni&Guy at Seef Mall or call 1700-1700. www.toniandguybahrain.com

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Get in the

Zone Christal Dennis is a Personal Performance Coach and Hypnotherapist with a Masters in Psychology Leadership Development and Coaching. She is dedicated to helping people overcome life’s hurdles and tapping in to their deepest potential...

THE ‘state of flow’ has been described at various times across the ages by luminaries like Esther Hicks and Mihaly Cscizentmihalyi. This state, to put it quite simply, is when you are busy with an activity that you enjoy and you are totally absorbed by this activity. This is the time when you are “in the zone”, and it feels so good. Time seems to stand still and all that matters is what you are doing right now. These are moments of great inspiration, when life takes on a magical quality. These are moments when great ideas for new businesses are born or when one single tiny insight changes the direction of your life.

All this personal development talk about being in the now and then having great goals for the future can be confusing. Where are you exactly supposed to be if you are in the now and you have plans for the future? A word that comes up often is balance. It is about having a fine balance between being happy in your present while having a wonderful vision for the future. Being too much in the present without a vision of the future can keep you in a state of directionlessness, and having a great vision of the future without enjoying the now is a recipe for stress and pain. Also, if you are not enjoying the now and not enjoying the process of creating the future you are envisioning, its quite likely that that future is not going to materialize as you envision it.

Creating this balance requires commitment to happiness. This means regular meditations, removing limiting beliefs that stop you from enjoying life now, being with people who have high levels of consciousness and use this consciousness to turn every aspect of their life into something phenomenal. All that you need is inside you right now. You have the potential to create the life you want. Think it, feel it, create it!

GO: For a personal consultation call 3669 6666

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FINAL WORD

What’s your

BAHRAIN

IQ

S.A.T’s? M.B.A’s? Pah! In Bahrain, only one test score really matters: your Bahrain IQ!

The spectacular Spring of Culture kicks off this March. Do you:

a attend each and every event like the dedicated culture vulture you are? b pick and choose the events you’d like to attend, and which you’ll give a miss? c stay at home and sulk all the way through because you didn’t get Andrea Bocelli tickets in time before they were all sold out?

T

his month is your last chance to enter our National Photography Competition, “Natural Bahrain”. Do you:

a read our camera feature in the technology section, suddenly decide that it’s the

photographer’s life for you, and run out and buy a Hasselblad for BD8000 and enter three pictures of the Tree of Life in the competition? casually explore Bahrain and its surrounding islands, taking tranquil shots of birds and sunsets, or any scene that inspires you, and then decide that your work is far too lofty for a simple magazine in Bahrain, and instead send them into National Geographic (who still, incidentally, haven’t replied)? send in pictures of your mate passed out in the back garden for a joke?

b c

It’s Mother’s Day this month. Do you:

a express your gratitude for a mother who cared for you, nurtured you, and raised you to be

the person you are today by showering her with gifts and love? whisk her off on a luxury holiday to say thanks for all those times she took you to Disneyland and Seaworld and all your other favourite destinations as a child? put the old bat in a home?

b c

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