The Quench Awards Welcome to this year’s Quench Awards! Following on from the success of last year’s supplement, here is our selection of the best Cardiff has to offer the average student - without breaking the bank! We’d like to continue rewarding those who work to improve the quality of our student experience and we hope these few pages go a little way in doing so. Enjoy!
The Quench Awards
2 CULTURE
BEST VISUAL ARTIST
SIMON HOLLY
CULTURE
BEST COMEDIAN
DAVE SMALL Having spent endless hours watching much of Cardiff ’s comedy circuit, one act sticks out like a sore thumb, Cardiff ’s Dave Small (or otherwise known as ‘The Big D’). Despite being relatively new to stand up, Dave’s mix of the puerile and the sophisticated, the absurd and logical, is a sight to behold. Moving seamlessly from logical Lenny Bruceesque political rants about the Liberal Democrats recent propaganda, to well thought out one liners (“My dad has got one foot in the grave, they couldn’t find the rest of him”). Last month he performed at a Labour conference party and is performing in the Welsh Unsigned Stand-up Act award at the end of June in Porters, which I urge you to go to and witness Dave. His originality, wit and stage presence are going to take him to places most comedians dream of. — Jowan Mounsey, President of the Comedy Society 14/ 15
RUNNER UP: RON WOODWARD Originally from Cardiff, Rod Woodward has gained much success across the UK with his “half Welsh, half Italian and all funny” comedy act. With performances in the Royal Variety Performance and several venues this year, Woodward’s comedy and personality undeniably need to be rewarded. In the past, Woodward has been granted the title of a “young Dave Allen” of comedy which is an important contribution to his successes throughout 2014/ 2015.
Simon Holly contributed to the G| 39 debate with his trademark style of digital art being evident upon the boards of the project. A collaboration of ideas are explored within his work ranging from the issue of cloning and duplication as well as the process of sampling. Unlike any other artwork Quench has seen this year, Holly explores a deeper side of art that ignores traditional means of artwork and instead celebrates the 21st Century by using digital art and issues of contemporary society to emphasise throughout his works. From his first solo exhibition in November 2008 entitled ‘The Tipyn Point’, Holly’s work has begun to spread across Wales which makes him the winner of this category.
RUNNER UP: CATRIN WILLIAMS Memories, past events and people close to our hearts. These are all things that create sentimental value in our lives. Catrin Williams elegantly presents her artwork in a way that is not extravagant or excessive. Her work rather creates and emphasises the necessity of memories in our lives. Certain images of Catrin Williams’ collection include memories of her Mother’s busy kitchen and her holiday in Prague. Simple sounding- we know, but William’s can also be accredited for not situating herself on a cultural high horse. Instead, she uses memories and events to create meaning throughout her images which is an effective way of presenting art.
“SHERMAN HAS SECURED ITSELF AS ONE OF THE TOP THEATRES IN CARDIFF DUE TO ITS UNIQUE PERFORMANCE SPACES AND BEAUTIFUL BARRESTAURANT FOYER” CULTURE
BEST PERFORMANCE SPACE
SHERMAN CYMRU It might surprise some readers to learn that Sherman Cymru has existed in that same spot beside the Union since 1973. However, since its modernisation between 2010 and 2012, Sherman has secured itself as one of the top theatres in Cardiff due to its unique performance spaces and beautiful bar-restaurant foyer. The award goes to Sherman thanks to its two versatile performance spaces. The main auditorium reaches capacity at a vast 460 seats and yet still grants every audience member a clear view of the stage, allowing maximum engagement. The smaller ‘stwdio’ space is perfect for more intimate performances, and with just over 140 seats in a micro-amphitheatrical arrangement, performances are almost within touching distance.
RUNNER UP: WESTON STUDIO Cosy and warm yet tense and atmospheric. These adjectives may seem rather oxymoronic when put together in the same sentence but Weston Studio at Wales Millennium Centre can provide several feelings and emotions to the audience which parallels the performance. The small performance space is usually shadowed by the main auditorium spaces of WMC, placing the Weston Studio at a hidden gem in the heart of one of Cardiff ’s best cultural venues.
CULTURE
BEST THEATRE COMPANY
“WE BELIEVE THAT JACOB’S MARKET TRULY DOES OFFER SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE”
COMPANY OF SIRENS Company of Sirens are relative newcomers to the theatrical game; founded in 2010 to perform the play Séan Tyrone, Company of Sirens have been on a winning spree of fantastic performances. Part of the reason this company have garnered such acclaim – both from ourselves and several other critics – was due to their reputation for confronting and performing contemporary texts that deal with extremely difficult subjects. Their most recent production of Dark Vanilla Jungle was attended by Quench and saw the company tackle issues of sexual assault, loneliness and demons of the body and mind. The delicacy and candour with which they treat such texts leads to profound, touching performances that are both uncompromising and honest.
RUNNER UP: ORBIT THEATRE COMPANY The worthy runners up of this category is simply a nobrainer. With consistent ratings of four and five stars, the Orbit Theatre Company blows the phrase ‘am-dram’ straight out of the water. Their performances of 2014/ 2015 have included an array of ages under twenty one which only contributes to their success. Irving Berlin’s beloved classic ‘White Christmas’ was a prominent hit among the New Theatre’s audience and would not have looked absurd among the stages of London’s West End.
FASHION
BEST INDEPENDENT FASHION
BEST KEPT SECRET
RENATE A well- deserved winner, Renate offers premium womenswear clothing, footwear and accessories from Scandinavian, Australian and British brands. This modern and minimalistic ladies fashion boutique opened in late 2014 and quickly established itself with a reputation for stocking quality, on-trend clothing from unique, small brands. The store hand-pick their favourite pieces from widely acknowledged international brands, bringing them to Cardiff. Each piece is individually chosen to exhibit the themes of modern detailing and eye-catching design. The quality, minimalism and effortless elegance of these unique pieces will help the fashionistas of Cardiff to recreate their favourite outfits on the catwalk, with items ranging from stylish daytime separates to party pieces for special occasions.
RUNNER UP: HOBOS This brightly coloured vintage boutique, situated in the heart of Cardiff ’s bustling High Street Arcade specialises in 60s, 70s and 80s vintage clothing. Items range from classic vintage tees, floral dresses, to high waisted denim shorts, while Men’s pieces include suede and plaid shirts and classic leather jackets. All items are individually chosen, and sit alongside other quirky accessories and collectibles. Over the years, Hobos has become known as the go-to place in Cardiff for individual denim cut-offs, and statement chunky knits.
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FASHION
JACOBS MARKET Lose yourself in second-hand books, vintage clothing, bespoke medals, furniture, vinyl records, comics and many more. With over 30 stalls under one roof, this is the place to visit during your stay in Cardiff. The reason we chose Jacob’s Market as the best kept secret winner was because of its treasures, trinkets and collection of eccentric sellers. Many of the stall holders even hire out their pieces to the public to help with your fancy dress needs. We believe that Jacob’s Market truly does offer something for everyone; whether you are trying to add some individuality to your uni bedroom, are a total book-worm and love the classics, or authentic vintage clothing is your thing.
RUNNER UP: BUFFALO BOUTIQUE Not everyone would be aware of the Buffalo Boutique. Usually you’d find yourself having a few cocktails at the bar, and eating some delicious grub, but why not combine all this with a spot of vintage shopping. We nominated Buffalo Boutique as they offer an outstanding, but niche range of intricate lace and sequined pieces, as well as timeless statement handbags and quirky jewellery.
The Quench Awards
4
“WE’VE DISCOVERED ITEMS IN THERE WITH THEIR ORIGINAL TAGS ON, CLEARLY UNWORN YET BEING SOLD AT A FRACTION OF ITS ORIGINAL PRICE.” FASHION
BEST BEAUTY STORE
ELF ELF has a big range of great value unique products. When browsing the store, you are likely to come across the small necessities such as blotting paper (used to get rid of excess shine on your face) and mascara shields (used to avoid getting mascara on your skin). All these handy items available at a small price, it’s a great store for stocking the things that we’d otherwise be looking to buy online. Of course, it also sells more generic make up, especially great lipsticks and eyeshadows. These are known for their high pigmentation, great colours and packaging, as well as affordable price tags. This makes ELF a useful and student friendly beauty store.
RUNNER UP: SUPERDRUG BEAUTY STUDIO The Superdrug Beauty Store offers all the current, trending and essential beauty products that you might need. It’s always handy when you can buy all your favourite products in one place. The store is modern, sleek and stylish offering a nice atmosphere to shop in and plenty of eye candy for those who just want to window shop or smell some new scents. A great store if you’re ever in the mood for a girly browse.
MUSIC
BEST VENUE
THE GLOBE FASHION
BEST ON A BUDGET
Surrounded by boogying music fans and the smell of warm beer, it’s hard to believe that this cosy 350-capacity venue at the heart of Albany Road was once an independent cinema. Now, one of Cardiff ’s premiere independent music venues, we believe this little slice of history plays a part in what makes The Globe just that much more special. Jungle, Kate Nash, Augustines and Glass Animals are amongst the many talents that have graced the stage of this hallowed hall of music and there’s sure to be many more yet to come. For more info on upcoming club nights and gigs, head to www.facebook.com/theglobecardiff
RUNNER UP: CLWB IFOR BACH
OXFAM BOUTIQUE Oxfam Boutique, located on St Mary Street, at the entrance of Morgan Arcade, deserves the winning place as it combines a good cause with affordable fashion as a bonus. Charity shops are often known for hiding some gems given that you take the time and effort to look through a fair number of items before finding those special few. Oxfam Boutique is no different, in fact, each of our previous visits have resulted in finding great clothes, not to mention the great prices! We’ve discovered items in there with their original tags on, clearly unworn yet being sold at a fraction of its original price. So if you’re after some big buys at a small price, this one’s for you.
RUNNER UP: PRIMARK It would be rude not to mention Primark when talking about budget stores. The clothes, quality and fashion range of the store just keeps getting better and better as the years go by yet their prices remain continually low and affordable. Compared to the days when simple tees, plain denim and plimsoles were about the only things you could buy in Primark, the store has now expanded into a fashion savvy, high range competitor of stores like New Look.
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Seasoned giggoers and club night attendees alike faun over the crown jewel in Cardiff ’s music scene, with both artists and DJs galore pulling in crowds a-plenty; it would have been a crime not to mention the establishment that has stood on Womanby Street since 1983 for the mere reason that it holds a firm place in our fuzzy music hearts. For more info on upcoming club nights and gigs, head to www.facebook.com/ClwbIforBach
MUSIC
BEST INDEPENDENT CLUB NIGHT
TRAVEL
“JEALOUS LOVERS GET BETTER WITH EVERY DAY THAT GOES BY”
BUNK HOUSE
TEAK Nestled in the fiery belly of Jacob’s Antique Market, TEAK have been bringing the best of upcoming and established electronic DJs to Cardiff for less than eighteen months, but that hasn’t stopped them selling out nearly every event they’ve put on. From Pardon My French to Max Graef, TEAK continuously impress with their top-notch lines ups and unique choice of venue. Last year’s Miami Beach Party rounded off the academic year with a bang and we can only hope for more of the same this time around. For more info on upcoming nights, head to www.facebook. com/TEAKCardiff
RUNNER UP: DIRTY POP Who doesn’t love a good bit of disco dancing? Taking over Clwb Ifor Bach every Saturday, Dirty Pop offer up a night of fun and frolics soundtracked by everyone you could wish for and more; Prince, Madonna, Salt-N-Pepa and palz fill the ears of eager Dirty Poppers, easily securing this boogie wonderland its place as one of Cardiff ’s best loved club nights. For more info on upcoming nights, head to www.facebook. com/dirtypopcardiff
MUSIC
BEST PROMOTER
JEALOUS LOVERS CLUB There’s nothing like a returning winner, hey? Jealous Lovers get better with every day that goes by, boasting upcoming and past shows by a bastion of both local and international artists; from math rock to pop punk and everything in between, there’s always a show not to miss and never a show that disappoints. Topping off the academic year with Feels Like Summer, a multi-stage microfestival in collaboration with Juxtaposed that will take place at Gwdihw Café and Bar on May 3rd, the JLC crew have well and truly outdone themselves. If last year’s event is anything to go by, it’s set to be a stonker. For more info on upcoming shows, head to www.facebook. com/JealousLoversClub
RUNNER UP: FIRST DAY PROMOTIONS First Day Promotions set the ball rolling back in 2012 with a hell of a show from New Order’s Peter Hook and since then, things have only been getting better. 2015 has seen the likes of TOY, Cymbals, Sivu and Telegram all head up gigs for First Day and from what we’ve heard, they’re only going up from here. Frequenting a whole host of venues around Cardiff, their shows are certainly ones to look out for in the coming year. For more info on upcoming shows, head to www.facebook. com/FirstDayPromotions
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BEST HOSTEL
Bunkhouse is well known for its cosy bar on St Mary Street. Fitted with picnic benches, beds, umbrellas and fairy lights, this hostel boasts a perfect social area that others lack. The busy bar area means it’s easy to meet fellow travellers and locals alike whilst still having a homely atmosphere. The hostel is in the center of town and in an ideal place for those wanting to experience Cardiff ’s nightlife but is probably not the best option for those wanting a quiet stay. A number of different rooms are available to suit varied budgets and preferences and breakfast is included in the price.
RUNNER UP: NOSDA HOSTEL NosDa Hostel sits in an ideal setting right on the River Taff with rooms looking out over the Millennium Stadium. The hostel is perfectly located for those visiting Cardiff to watch the rugby or for anyone who wants to be close to the city centre. If you’re visiting in a group, NosDa staff will allocate you a specific wing of the hostel so communal facilities will be shared uniquely between your group. Rates are cheap considering how central this hostel is and how spacious and clean the rooms are.
The Quench Awards
6
FILM & TV
BEST STUDENT BUDGET CINEMA
CHAPTER FILM & TV
BEST LOCAL FILM EVENT
CARDIFF INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL Running from 14 – 19th April at Porters and Chapter Arts Centre, CIFF hosted not only masterclasses with Stephen Frears, Paul Andrew Williams and a Q&A with the incomparable director John Boorman (where his newest release Queen and Country was premiered) but had 5 feature film and 15 short film pictures competing In Competition, two feature films and 14 short films screened Out of Competition. The BAFTA Cymru accredited festival shone a light not only on the independent film sector, but giving the local community a chance to see films they would never have thought about before. With their ‘The Hook Up’ event giving local companies and film industry hopefuls the chance to network and gain work. Major kudos to the creativity of Cardiff getting behind independent film makers!
Fancy a night out that won’t plunge you headlong into the depths of your overdraft? Think Chapter. Running a varied selection of films that ranges from cult classics to new indie releases, the centre have recently launched their new great value student scheme. There is a certain sense of importance that only comes with owning a membership card, and this one is completely free after you sign up for it through their website. Flash your ‘Chapter Student’ card and you can enjoy film tickets for as little as £3 each as well as 10% off food and drink (including booze, to be sipped nonchalantly as you enjoy your new status as an officially culturally enlightened young person).
RUNNER UP: CINEWORLD This year, in an effort to drag us all out of bed and away from Netflix, Cineworld rolled out their new student rate across the country. Just show your student ID at the front desk to buy tickets for £4 per person. It is worth knowing about this discount otherwise you could end up paying £9, which is their current ticket price for over 18s. Unfortunately, their discount doesn’t extend to snacks so you will no doubt end up spending more on popcorn than your ticket!
“FANCY A NIGHT OUT THAT WON’T PLUNGE YOU HEADLONG INTO THE DEPTHS OF YOUR OVERDRAFT? THINK CHAPTER” FILM & TV
BEST WELSH FILM
DARK HORSE Dark Horse tells the true story of a workingmen’s club who bred their own race horse. Filmed in the small valley town of Blackwood it details an archetypal underdog story about the racehorse, raised in an allotment, called Dream Alliance. Intercutting interviews, dramatic recreations and archive footage, Osmond manages to piece together a story that is deeply enthralling and has strong emotional core, whilst remaining surprisingly funny. As a standalone inspiring story, Dark Horse also deals with many issues including class, socio-economics and the nature of small communities. Osmond has crafted a film that is both emotionally and intellectually engaging. It treats the subject matter with the highest respect and has brought a rather small but undeniably heart-warming story to the world.
RUNNER UP: WALES ONE WORLD FILM FESTIVAL
RUNNER UP: TEETH
World cinema never gets its dues in society; so having WOW Film Festival hitting up Cardiff early this year was a much needed injection of culture. With its screening of films from all around the world, the festival highlights the importance of powerful imagery that transcends race and cultural boundaries. With several Q&A events with directors Afia Nathaniel, Helen Iles and Leila Sansour amongst others, the festival brought a new and exciting element to the local film industry.
Teeth is a concise but very effective film that is beautifully animated with a distinctive art style. Running at six minutes and voiced by Richard E. Grant the film charts the narrator’s lifelong relationship and obsession with teeth. Grant’s distinctive voice compliments the animation wonderfully with its raspy and methodical delivery. As well as being visually stunning it is also intellectually stimulating. Either way you’ll be thinking about it after it has finished.illupta tessendit doluptis dolore velicatassus is coreribus, cusam et aut andiam dem endipsum conetur mossimus cup?
FOOD & DRINK
FOOD & DRINK
FOOD & DRINK
BEST NEWCOMER
BEST BAR
BEST RESTAURANT
CF24 PROJECT
TEN MILL LANE
THÉ POT
CF24 Project is a great example of a flexible space. It’s not only a restaurant, but a multi-arts venue that displays local art and hosts music events, making it a great place to eat, relax and enjoy. The venue has a clear eco-ethos with upcycled and second-hand furnishings throughout. With oil drums for tables, recycled wood bar and local art displayed on the walls, the aesthetics are add to the whole community and home-grown atmosphere. It’s completely authentic and holds a lot of potential in terms of becoming not only a great student friendly restaurant, but a great local venue. It is a clear winner in terms of offering an interesting, unusual and not to mention a good experience when it comes to eating out in Cardiff.
As much as us students may love penny-scrapping pre-drinks, there’s nothing quite like the authentic, relaxed atmosphere of one of the city centre’s bars. A relative newcomer on the Cardiff drinking scene, Ten Mill Lane adds a whole new level of sophistication to a night out. Woo-Woos and Sex on the Beach’s are so 2010, be prepared for a range of intriguing signature cocktails, hand shaken by the knowledgable bar tenders at this underground hangout. The bar also holds cocktails master classes where you can try your hand a their
Proudly waving the flag for independent eateries on one of the city’s most up-and-coming streets for foodie hot spots and social hubs, The Pot on Crwys Road is more than a worthy of the title of best restaurant. Day time visits are for rustic sandwiches, good coffee and delicious homemade cakes, but what really shines at this cafe/ bistro are the culinary offerings come evening. Only open for business Wednesday through to Saturday, the small but perfectly rounded dinner menu consists of creative dishes using quality local ingredients, all lovingly crafted by the dedicated chefs in the tiny open plan kitchen.
RUNNER UP: ZERO DEGREES
RUNNER UP: MEZZA LUNA
RUNNER UP: APPLEJACKS
Housed in an old mechanic’s garage, Zero Degrees’ quirky venue is pretty damn cool even before you realise they’re harbouring a microbrewery inside. Brewing a small range of their own craft beers, this bar and eatery is a great spot for any hop-hankerings. With lighter brews such as mango beer, there’s a pint here to suit the palates usually opposed to an ale or two.
This small, Lebanese restaurant on City Road is definitely one of the city’s undiscovered gems. With a menu spilling over with exciting, authentic Middle Eastern dishes, the friendliest hostess around town and unbeatable student prices, this eatery deserves pride and place on any food lover’s Cardiff bucket list.
The American style diner complete with retro campervan offers a quirky twist on the classic American diner experience. With a vast array of burgers, American style breakfasts and a couple of unusual additions, it’s an interesting menu that offers something that Cardiff was definitely missing. Nestled in side -street Church St, it may be easy to miss in terms of
inventive flavour combinations.
location but definitely worth looking for.
FOOD & DRINK
BEST CAFE
THE PLAN
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Situated in the heart of Cardiff ’s quirky Morgan Arcade, The Plan is a great spot to grab some artisan coffee and a homemade slice of cake. Priding itself on locally sourced ingredients, The Plan has an extensive menu in the way of cakes, pastries, smoothies, breakfast and lunch dishes along with a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The genuine passion for coffee is clear and head barista Trevor Hyam is even a finalist in the UK Barista Championships. The Plan is a great example of why you should switch from that beloved red costa cup and see how independent coffee shops can satisfy your wildest coffee-based dreams.
RUNNER UP: STAG COFFEE With its leather wingback armchairs, bookshelves and general cosy atmosphere, Stag Coffee is a far cry from standardised franchise cafes. With an interesting and varied menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner and at reasonable prices too, your purse as well as your taste buds will be satisfied.
RUNNER UP: COFFEE BARKER Nestled within Castle Arcade, the café is a firm favourite amongst many students and the general public alike. There’s a reason why it is always busy and its down to the high quality paninis, milkshakes, coffees and cakes. The quirky interior with mis-matching furniture and Edison bulbs is highly unique and ensures that Coffee Barker is a stark and welcome contrast from your classic coffee shop experience.
Culture: Best Comedian, Best Visual Artist, Best Performance Space, Best Theatre Company. Fashion: Best Independent Fashion, Best Kept Secret, Best Beauty Store, Best on a Budget. Music: Best Venue, Best Independent Club Night, Best Promoter. Travel: Best Hostel. Film & TV: Best Local Film Event, Best Student Budget Cinema, Best Welsh Film. Food & Drink: Best Newcomer, Best Bar, Best Restaurant, Best Cafe. Special thanks to Jamila Gandhi, Emma Pethybridge and Greg McChesney for their original photography, and to Naomi Wong for her original artwork. Photography also from: Stamp The Wax, www.stampthewax.com; g39, www.g39.org; Tanya Bonakdar, www.tanyabonakdargallery. com; Cardiff Film Festival, https://twitter. com/cardifffilmfest