Iceni Magazine Norfolk Issue 53

I C E N I N O R F O L K

ISSUE 53

Why Shop With A Small Business?

What's On Across Norfolk This Month

The Little Mermaid

Heads To Norwich Theatre Royal

Calling All Landlords Can You Help A Young Person To Find A Home?

Welcome To Iceni Magazine,

CONTACT DETAILS All Sales Enquiries

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The summer holidays are almost over, the nights are drawing in and we're wondering where the year has gone!

This month we have a new guest contributor - Katrin Oldridge (aka Norwich Mumbler) Katrin will be sharing her views on a variety of subjects which will be known as her 'Norwich Mumblings'.

Also, this month, Paul Kirk will be letting us in on a few of 'Instragram's Secret Features', if you use Instagram we're sure there will be a new trick or two you can pick up.

'Are Friends Bad For You?' this is the question Susan Leigh is asking, check out page 16 to find out tips on how to maintain good friendships.

Did you know more than 83,000 young people find themselves homeless? The Benjamin Foundation is calling on all landlords to help a young person find a home, are you

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CONTRIBUTORS Cheryl Cade, Katrin Oldridge, Keri Beevis, Mark King, Matt Porter, Paul Kirk, Patrick Arundell, Susan Leigh, Tim Barnes-Clay.

Front Cover Image Justin Slee Page 3 Image Benjamen Terry - www.definedetail.com

a landlord? head to page 6 and find out how you can help.

We hope you enjoy Issue 53.

Disclaimer

Copyright Š Iceni Magazine Limited.

All rights reserved. No articles, adverts, content or design in this magazine may be used or reproduced either in whole or part, online or in print. The views and advice from contributors are not necessarily those of Iceni Magazine Limited. Every effort is made to ensure the contents are accurate, however Iceni Magazine Limited can not assume responsibility for errors, omissions or incorrect information. Iceni Magazine Limited accepts no liability for loss, damage or difficulties resulting from contracts between The Client and their customer. Inclusion within the magazine does not imply a recommendation.

Contents 52 16

pages

Full of absolute dynamic

creative content!

“You Reap What You Sow”

37

JOIN UEA COMMUNITY CHOIR

ARE FRIENDS BAD FOR YOU?

For A Free Open Rehearsal

How Many Of Us Refer To Practically Everyone We Know As Friends?

19

22 48

NEVER LOSE

Your Keys Again

NORWICH MUMBLINGS: The Return To Normality

06

The Benjamin Foundation Monthly Update

21

Iceni Columnists Keri Beevis

39

North West Norfolk Social Media Surgery

09

Would You Like To Sing In A Spectacular Winter Concert?

22

Never Lose Your Keys Again With The Trackr Pixel

40

What's On...

King's Lynn Corn Exchange

10

‘Our Day Out’ Gives Older...

People Time To Shine

24

Social Media Instagram’s Secret Features?

12

Legendary Musical Opens In Norwich In Less Than 12 Months

28

43

What's On...

King's Lynn Corn Exchange

Motoring Review Volvo V90 D5 Powerpulse R-Design

44

Norwich Theatre Royal Shirley Valentine

Why Shop With...

A Small Business?

46

Norwich Theatre Royal Blood Brothers

48

Norwich Theatre Royal The Little Mermaid

50

Iceni Horoscopes What Do Your Stars Hold

Just Being John New Book Release

30 33

Nibbles & Tipples The Sun Is Shining So...

16

Are Friends Bad For You? Maintaining Good Friendships

19

Norwich Mumblings The Return To Normality

35

What's On...

Across Norfolk

20

Iceni Columnists Mark King

37

Join UEA Community Choir For A Free Open Rehearsal

THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION

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Issue 53 2017

The Benjamin Foundation Calling All Landlords: Can You Help A Young Person To Find A Home?

Each year, more than 83,000 young people find themselves homeless. Rental prices are at historic highs and with ever–increasing demand for UK rental properties, finding a place called ‘home’ is an enormous challenge for young people.

The Benjamin Foundation is a member of the End Youth Homelessness movement, a partnership of charities and businesses that have joined forces to eradicate youth homelessness in the UK. The key objectives are to reduce youth homelessness by;

• Getting young people into a home • Getting people into employment, education and training • Providing young people with life skills to build a brighter future.

The Benjamin Foundation, through its partnership with End Youth Homelessness, is working with Yorkshire Building Society to deliver a Rent Deposit Scheme in Norfolk and Suffolk. The greatest barrier to young people gaining access to private rented sector accommodation is that young people often do not have sufficient funds for deposits.

The Rent Deposit Scheme helps young people by providing a guarantee certificate to landlords in place of a traditional cash deposit. This certificate protects the landlord from rent arrears to the property.

To help make the scheme a success The Benjamin Foundation is urgently seeking landlords to work with them. In partnership with socially conscious landlords the charity can then provide more homes for young people.

Benefits to landlords include:

• A guarantee certificate from The Benjamin Foundation in place of a traditional cash deposit, protecting the landlord from the costs of rent arrears and damage to property and so minimising the risks to landlords.

• Access to The Benjamin Foundation’s list of suitable tenants, so landlords can fill vacancies quickly and free of charge.

• The Benjamin Foundation helps to secure earlier payments of housing benefits and payments direct to the landlord.

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THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION

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Issue 53 2017

• Contrary to popular misconceptions, tenants on benefits often prove to be more reliable long term and look after property as they have fewer alternative housing options and therefore need to be good tenants.

• Every young person is provided with support for paying bills maintaining the tenancy and work towards greater independence.

• The Benjamin Foundation will work with both landlord and tenant to secure a stable tenancy.

• Every young person is eligible for a move-in grant to help furnish their first home.

Young people accepted by The Benjamin Foundation on to the Rent Deposit Scheme will have demonstrated their ability to maintain the conditions of their tenancy, respect their neighbours and work collaboratively with The Benjamin Foundation and landlord to make their tenancy a lasting success.

Securing suitable housing is essential for all young people’s transition to adulthood, and independent living and so The Benjamin Foundation calls on landlords in Norfolk and Suffolk to help young people achieve that goal.

Contact Us

If you are a landlord and would like to know more about the Rent Deposit Scheme please contact Michala Howarth at The Benjamin Foundation by email (michala.howarth@benjaminfoundation.co.uk) or telephone (07976 851202)

Dates for your diaries:

• Sunday 10 September - Join us at our Garden Party at the Bishop’s House garden in Norwich from 1-5pm.

• Thursday 28th September - Quiz night including two course meal at the Assembly House in Norwich 6pm onwards.

• Friday 3rd November Ipswich Sleep Out event - stay outside for a night and raise money to tackle youth homelessness.

• Friday 17th November Norwich Sleep Out event - as above.

For more information about any of these events contact: chris.elliott@benjaminfoundation.co.uk or call Chris on 01603 886933.

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Join Us Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday From 8.30pm For #norfolkhour On Twitter Connect With Other Norfolk Based Businesses

WOULD YOU LIKE TO?

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Issue 53 2017

Would You Like To Sing In A Spectacular City Centre Winter Concert?

Anyone can join internationally renowned Norfolk choir and sing about dreaming & waking in the city The latest call is out for anyone who would like to sing with an internationally renowned Norfolk choir in a unique winter concert to be staged in January 2018 at various locations around Norwich city centre.

‘Travels in Light’ will be the final part of a trilogy of pieces about sleep, dreaming and waking (and especially the bits in between) from the Voice Project Choir. Inspired by a quote from the painter Paul Nash ‘The divisions we may hold between the waking world and that of the dream are not there; they are porous; in a word, they are not there’.

This concert, at one of the darkest times of year, will focus on dreaming and waking.

The Choir’s co-director Jonathan Baker said ‘We’ve been developing the trilogy for about three years although the original idea came a while before that. As we’ve gone along, ideas for parts two and three have developed from the previous show so we feel it is very much three parts of one whole’.

The Voice Project Choir is totally open access with no previous experience or specialist knowledge needed. There are no auditions and everything is taught by ear with no need to read music. Anyone interested should simply attend the no obligation taster session on 10 October or the first rehearsal on October 17. ‘We don’t have a permanent choir’ said Jonathan’s co-director Sian Croose ‘some people sign up for every project and some join for one and return at a later date. I think that flexibility helps keep everything fresh’.

The taster session is an opportunity to meet the Directors, sing some of the music, and hear about plans for the January performance of Travels In Light. The idea is to stage the concert as a promenade event taking in various locations and buildings in Norwich city centre. The Voice Project was set up in 2008 as an educational education and performance organisation by music professionals Sian Croose and Jonathan Baker. As well as the choir, they run workshops designed to build vocal confidence and explore a wide variety of uplifting and inspiring vocal music.

Their unique vision of what a community choir can be has been taken to international festivals in mainland Europe, appeared on prime-time French TV and had been broadcast on BBC Radio 3.

The choir is one of the best known in the East of England and they will be taking their show The Arms of Sleep to next year’s Brighton International Festival.

For more information on the taster session, to book and for information on all Voice Project activities visit: www.voiceproject.co.uk or contact: info@voiceproject.co.uk PAGE

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9

OUR DAY OUT

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Issue 53 2017

‘Our Day Out’ Gives Older People Time To Shine ‘Our Day Out’, the fortnightly dementiafriendly workshop project, continues to push forward with a wide range of free activities to engage older people across the Norfolk area. Delivered by professionally trained arts practitioners, musicians and dancers, the project is run by arts and community development charity Creative Arts East, with special funding from Spirit of 2012.

The sessions welcome all older people, and are also supportive of those living with early to mid-stage dementia (and their carers), as well as older people living with long-term health conditions, or those who feel isolated within their community. The ‘Our Day Out’ groups are based

in Attleborough, Watton, Dereham, Thetford, North Walsham and Wells. The sessions are tailored so that they are accessible and beneficial for everyone to experience something new, in a safe and friendly environment.

So far in 2017, the groups have been enjoying making-music by combining electronic and acoustic instruments with Paul and Les, as well as creating uplifting songs and lyrics to some fantastic beats with Joe and Carl. The groups have also been enjoying some fun and entertaining dance sessions with Green Candle and Glass House Dance Company, specially devised to benefit and engage the whole body with gentle exercise.

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OUR DAY OUT

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Issue 53 2017

‘Our Day Out’ sessions are all about having fun and feeling good afterwards These are some recent comments from people who have been to the ‘Our Day Out’ sessions “Why didn’t anyone tell me this was this much fun when I was younger!”

“I enjoy being in the company of younger people at the sessions because I don’t get the chance nowadays” “Even though my dementia isn’t that bad yet, it's so nice to be here to see others that have the same thing as you.

Sometimes I forget my words when I talk to people but when I am here I don’t have to worry about that”

Our Day Out’ September sessions: Attleborough - Friday 8th Sept. 10am-12pm (Music Workshop) and Friday 22nd Sept.

2pm-4pm (Tea Dance event), St Mary’s Community Hall, Church Street NR17 2AH

‘Our Day Out’ sessions are all about having fun and feeling good afterwards, and Creative Arts East are keen to hear from older people who would like to join these friendly and inclusive creative activities. There are also opportunities for people who would like to become involved as volunteers, and help someone smile this summer.

In September, the groups will be taking part in some special ‘love themed’ Tea Dance events with Spilt Milk Dance Company and which will involve arts and crafts, cake, dance performances, games, and (optional) fancy dress! Friends and family of those coming along are most welcome too!

For more information on the sessions or any of the ‘Our Day Out’ groups, please contact Lea Schiller at Creative Arts East on 01953 713390 or email: lea@creativeartseast.co.uk.

More information is also available on www.creativeartseast.co.uk/projects/our-day-out

Dereham - Friday 8th Sept. 2pm-4pm (Music Workshop) and Friday 22nd Sept. 10am-12pm (Tea Dance event), The Meeting Point, St Withburga Lane, NR19 1DF North Walsham - Thursday 14th Sept. 1pm3pm (Singing workshop) and Thursday 28th Sept (Tea dance), 1pm-3pm, Cameo Café, 73 Happisburgh Road, NR28 9HD Thetford - Friday 15th Sept. 2pm-4pm (Tea Dance Event), Thetford Methodist Church, Tanner St, IP24 2BQ Watton - Thursday 7th Sept. 2pm-4pm (Music Workshop) and Thursday 21st Sept, 2pm4pm (Tea Dance Event), Watton Christian Community Centre, 57 High Street, IP25 6AB Wells-next-the-sea - Tuesday 12th Sept.

1pm-3pm (Singing Workshop) and Tuesday 26th Sept. 1pm-3pm (Tea Dance Event), Wells Community Hospital, Mill Road, NR23 1RF PAGE

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11

MISS SAIGON

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Issue 53 2017

Cameron Mackintosh’s Legendary Musical Opens In Norwich In Less Than 12 months Photo Johan Persson

Miss Saigon - August 15-September 15, 2018 The countdown is on for Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Miss Saigon as the show goes on sale online a year before its arrival in Norwich.

And Theatre Royal audiences will get the chance to see some incredibly experienced stage talent bring the musical to the stage from August 15 to September 15 2018.

Full casting for this production is still to be announced but it enjoyed a smash-hit run in London’s West End before opening on Broadway to nightly standing ovations. It swept the board at the 2015 Whatsonstage.com Awards winning a record-breaking nine awards including Best West End Show and Best Revival of a Musical which was the greatest number given to a single show in the history of the awards.

Set during the last days of the Vietnam War, it tells the story of 17-year-old Kim who is forced to work in a Saigon bar run by a notorious character known as The Engineer. There she meets and falls in love with an American GI called Chris but they are torn apart by the fall of the city.

It features music by Claude-Michel Schönberg adapted from original French lyrics by Alain Boublil, with additional lyrics by Michael Mahler. The new production is directed by Laurence Connor with musical staging by Bob Avian and additional choreography

by Geoffrey Garratt.

For the next three years, Kim goes on an epic journey of survival to find her way back to Chris, who has no idea he has fathered a son.

Since its London premiere in 1989, Cameron Mackintosh’s production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Miss Saigon has

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MISS SAIGON

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Issue 53 2017

Photo Johan Persson

Photo Johan Persson

become one of the most successful musicals in history. The original Broadway production opened on April 11, 1991 with what was the largest advance sale in Broadway history of $37 million. The show went on to play for nearly ten years and 4,063 performances seen by more than 5.9 million people.

It has now been performed in 28 countries, over 300 cities in 15 different languages, has won over 40 awards including 2 Olivier Awards, 3 Tony Awards, and 4 Drama Desk Awards, and been seen by over 35 million people worldwide.

Stephen Crocker, chief executive of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: “Miss Saigon is quite simply one of the greatest musical productions of all time combining a heart-wrenching story, an epic musical score and a spectacular production.

It is hugely exciting to welcome this landmark piece of theatre to Norwich and I, for one, am already counting down the days!"

Listing: Miss Saigon, Wed 15 August-Sat 15 September 2018 at 7.30pm, and Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Please note there are no Sunday performances. Tickets £8-£60. Discounts for Over-60s, Under-18s, and Groups. Audio-described and signed performance on Wed 29 August at 2.30pm.

Captioned performance on Wed 5 Sept at 2.30pm.

Book now at www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000

Photo Johan Persson

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JUST BEING JOHN

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Issue 53 2017

Just Being John John Murray lives a quiet life with his grandparents in a tiny Norfolk village on the edge of nowhere. He’s a high school geek, a nerd, and an introvert, fascinated by knowledge, but they’re all traits that earn him few friends in a world filled with noise, instant fame and fleeting trends.

A magazine, a chance find in his local newsagent, transports John to a new world, as alien as another planet, but as fascinating as anything he’s seen before, as he opens the pages to the Lords and Ladies, Saints and Sinners: The powerful in Japanese history.

A freak accident and a convulsion in the world means John’s eagerness to absorb new things is tested. He’s forced to live the reality of medieval Japanese life, learn the ways of the samurai and battle mythical and supernatural beasts on his quest to find his family and save this alien world.

July 2017 • £12.99 • Paperback • ISBN-978 024 462 538 2 • A book for young adults, taking them on an adventure through a Japanese land filled with samurai and supernatural beasts • Available at: www.lulu.com now • Available as an eBook on Amazon and iBookstore

About the author James Scoltock studied journalism at Lincoln University and has gone on to have an awardwinning career in automotive publishing. His first break in journalism was at The Sunday Times as a researcher and reporter on the business desk before moving over to the pan-European Automotive Engineer magazine, a title he worked on for almost nine years, three of those as editor. In his time on Automotive Engineer he won the Market Engineering Automotive Technology Journalist of the Year award, as well as being named the Skoda Laurin and Klement Design Writer of the Year and the Cummins Commercial Vehicle Writer of the Year.

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ARE FRIENDS BAD FOR YOU

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Issue 53 2017

Are Friends Bad For You? How many of us refer to practically everyone we know as friends? We may thrive on being popular, enthusiastically accumulate lots of introductions, have hundreds of contacts on our phones and network voraciously. But how many of the people we meet with regularly, socialise with, reveal our innermost thoughts and secrets to are true friends?

TV channel, Lifetime recently commissioned a survey on this very subject and discovered that millions of Britons 'can't stand' their friends because they're too high maintenance or have no shared interests. It's hardly surprising when we reflect that many of the people we spend time with are there through circumstance or accident.

We may have acquired friendships during our early school days, from our neighbourhood, through family connections or at work, but over time gradually realised that we've grown apart, supporting different goals, aspirations and outlooks.

The Lifetime study reveals that differing opinions, lifestyles and humour mean that 45% of us have 'frenemies', people we socialise with but don't really like. And, in fact, many of us 'struggle to get along' in our own group.

Why is this situation so commonplace? I guess it's often convenient and requires less effort to rub along with the people in our own orbit, with those who seem pleasant or 'nice enough'. Mixing and meeting regularly means we network, reinforce our social hierarchy and establish our own 'tribe'.

But sometimes our 'friends' can be negative, causing more harm than good. There may come a time when we need to ask, 'are my friends bad for me?' Do they support my best interests, challenge me to better myself and demonstrate real care?

Consider how much of yourself you invest in your friendships. Some people give of themselves constantly, providing time, loyalty, money; always thinking of others before themselves. Sharing our dreams, secrets and expectations may work if those involved apply the same consideration, but often one person is more heavily invested in the relationship. Or an unanticipated third-party may appear on the scene, putting the relationship's dynamics into disarray.

Nothing in life stays the same. Stuff happens as new interests surface in the shape of a life partner, children, promotion at work or

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ARE FRIENDS BAD FOR YOU

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Issue 53 2017

opportunities to move home or travel more.

Health-related issues may occur that require us to adapt accordingly, meaning some relationships may be demoted whilst others become more relevant.

to your own counsel. Expecting one person to be everything to you is too much responsibility both for you and them. Maintain your identity and relish other friendships, hobbies and interests.

Hence, it's wise not to put all your eggs in one basket. If we invest too much in one or two friendships we may find ourselves becoming unduly possessive, proprietal, jealous or controlling. Fear of missing out (FOMO) can be a factor if we're watching someone we've previously shared everything with start to live an exciting new life.

• Accept that some friends will have their limitations. Some may be fair-weather friends, only able to cope with fun, laughter and good times. Others may be foul-weather friends, happy to listen, give advice and support you, but disinterested in partying and frolics. Both have their part to play.

No one wants to be guilt-tripping, bullying or intimidating their friends into making decisions that are wrong for them, or be on the receiving end of that treatment either. That's why it's so important to accept that we can enjoy friendships in many different areas of life. Those relationships need not consume us, but instead can satisfy and support us in a variety of ways.

We may have friends who are fantastic at work.

They share our outlook, enjoy discussing work and career-related issues but otherwise have very little in common. This often becomes apparent when someone leaves their job, promising to keep in touch. When they return to visit, even after only a few weeks, there's usually very little to discuss once the initial greetings are over.

Tips for maintaining good friendships: • Learn not to rely too heavily on one relationship for all your emotional and companionship needs. Having a small circle of best friends is all well and good, but be wise

• Notice how much of yourself you 'give away' in your relationships. What do you offer, what do you get in return? Do you have boundaries where you say 'enough!' about sharing time, money, personal secrets and information. Extraordinary circumstances may mean one person does more taking and the other more giving, but set limits so the traffic's not permanently one-way.

• Accept that situations change; a new partner may appear, a job or business opportunity may arise that requires more dedicated time, effort or indeed the chance to work away. Be generous in celebrating your friends' successes.

Be firm and keep intuitively in touch with what's right for you. Friends may have a different perspective or even an ulterior motive about what you 'should' do. Yes, friendships require compromise and co-operation, but refrain from sacrificing your happiness to constantly accommodate others. Flexibility is fine but shouldn't become a way of life; ensure that your friendships are good for you.

Article By Susan Leigh Susan Leigh, Altrincham Counsellor and Hypnotherapist has published her third book, 101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday (ISBN 9781910275160) based on her social media series. A glossy, pocket-sized book, it's full of inspirational quotes & pictures, a treat to give or simply keep for yourself.

For more information visit: www.lifestyletherapy.net PAGE

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17

NORWICH MUMBLINGS

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Issue 53 2017

Norwich Mumblings:

The Return To Normality It’s that time of the year when lots of parents are either breathing a sigh of relief that they’ve survived the holidays, dreading their child’s first day of school, or perhaps shedding a tear that their little ones are even more grown up than before. Like it or not, September signals the return to normality.

I taught in Reception for many years and, before having children, I was always puzzled seeing parents trying to hold it together and not blub on the first day (until they got out of the school gates at least). I knew their child would be fine.

I knew they would have heaps of fun at school and learn so much with me! I also inwardly scoffed that I wouldn’t be like these ‘soft’ mums; I would be sending my future little darlings off to school without a tear in sight.

I get it now, of course. Although my eldest doesn’t start school for another year, she is starting Nursery in September and I know I’ll be dipping my toe in that ‘boohoo’ moment of ‘How can my child be this big already?’ – she’ll be skipping off without so much as a backward glance. Hopefully I can hold it together this year

(unlikely - since becoming a mum I’m a serious blubber!) and start to accept that someone else will have a major influence on her life, no longer just people from her family.

Maybe you’re ‘old-hat’ and used to it all now so you’re counting down the days until school reopens. Even some of my most patient friends have confessed that by the end of the summer holidays they are more than ready to wave their little ones back through the school gates, and their children are ready to go. They’re ready for some normality.

But whether you’re pleased that you made it through the holidays or sad they’re over, the inevitable start of a new school year is upon us.

So, here’s to the new pencil cases, the freshly labelled clothes, to the seemingly endless cheese sandwiches, the time to miss your little ones and, if you’re lucky, maybe even an uninterrupted cup of tea with fellow parents after the school run.

Article by Katrin Oldridge Norwich Mumbler https://norwich.mumbler.co.uk PAGE

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ICENI - COLUMNISTS

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Issue 53 2017

The Diary of a Norfolk Family.

Above: Mark King

By Mark King

After last month’s debacle with the Dentist I thought the family holiday in Skegness would help to relieve the frustration of being told I would have to hand over £3000 for my child’s brace. Well after seven days of basically, miserable weather on the Lincolnshire coast it did not. The children still had a great time as we endeavoured to keep them occupied, but holidays are not just for children; they’re just as important for the adults, and for me to recharge my batteries I need sunshine. Like a lizard first thing in the morning that basks on a rock I need those rays of energy.

So, a month has past and so has a wet Skegness but our disappointment with the level of service offered by the local medical services has not. It started with a noise bleed, well in fact a constant stream of them. One of the little ones has suffered from sudden bleeds for a year or two but then went for a whole week suffering three or four a day, especially at night and sometimes for up to half an hour. There’s nothing more ruinous for a night's sleep than having to change, and soak, blood stained bed sheets at 2am in the morning then spend half an hour trying to rub blood out of the carpets. When the wife came down with an ear complaint as well, the doctor’s surgery was phoned for a joint appointment.

There was no appointment offered. She was informed by the receptionist that the surgery could not deal with any ear, nose or throat issues and they would have to both go to the walk-in centre in Norwich city centre!

She was tired, tearful and upset and eventually the receptionist found a single appointment for the child only in three weeks’ time. The wife had to trudge to the walk-in centre. It was made pretty clear that the G.P service was on the verge of collapse because of long running staff shortages.

What is a sobering thought is that the area covered by this surgery has been allotted for new housing which is bringing thousands of new people into the community.

If they can’t cope with who’s here now, how are they going to handle all these new comers? www.always-hanging-around.blogspot.com Follow on twitter: @author_king

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ICENI - COLUMNISTS

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Issue 53 2017

A couple of weekends ago my new laundry bin arrived and I was dismayed to see it came as flat packed. Yes, seriously, they flat pack laundry bins these days.

Now I could see through the glass that it was my mother, but she stood on the doorstep, oblivious to my plight, glancing around my tiny bedraggled garden, and there I was, stuck in the middle of the living room, not daring to let go of the lid as I feared the one tiny screw would never hold the weight.

Now I have to say, I may be particularly terrible at DIY Above: Keri Beevis and flat pack building, but I do think the instructions, which said '20 minutes to assemble, 1 person required' were taking the mickey just a little. And yes, fair enough, my 2 hours and 40 minutes may have been a little extreme, but you would have had to be a bloody octopus to assemble it by yourself.

I called out to her, but she was in a world of her own, so, feeling a bit like Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible, I attempted to stretch myself, holding onto the heavy lid with one finger, scared it might self-destruct, as I reached for the keys that were in the door. My fingers brushed them and missed, but on second attempt I managed to knock them to the floor.

The most difficult bit was trying to attach the super heavy lid to the top. There were hinges and tiny screws, and me hanging on to the lid with one hand, trying to wedge it between my boobs, while attempting to line up the hinges with the screws with my other hand.

Screws were dropped, hinges kept moving, and there I was, swearing like a sailor, my butt in the air, as I tried to keep everything in position. Finally, after about 20 minutes of trying I managed to get one of the tiny screws locked in place.

Yes, victory! I told myself, fist pumping the air with glee. One small step for screw, one giant leap for Beev and all that. I was on top, I was king of the world, and then the damn doorbell rang.

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I yelled to my mother again. 'The key is on the floor.

You'll have to reach through the cat flap to get it and let yourself in.'

'Why?' she demanded indignantly.

'Damn it! Look, Mother.'

Her hand eventually appeared through the cat flap and, after scrambling around on the floor for the keys for what seemed like forever, she finally got inside the house, and between us we fixed the lid.

Oh, and bonus. She brought me pizza.

My mother knows how to spoil me.

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THE GADGET MAN

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Issue 53 2017

Never Lose Your Keys Again With The Trackr Pixel

For the last few weeks, I have had a little disc attached to my car keys which has proved invaluable in helping me find them (which happens more frequently than I would care to admit!).

The little unassuming disc is the Trackr Pixel, a device that is smaller than a ten pence piece, making it the smallest Bluetooth tracking devices available.

It builds on the functionality of the Cross Peerless Pen and the Trackr Bravo with my better range, significantly louder speaker and LED light which makes locating it easier find under car seats, at the bottom of bags and more often than not, in my pocket!

The Pixel is available in nine bright colours, with a lower price point that the Bravo. It also comes with free keyring and adhesive. This means you can attach it to your keys, wallet, bags, laptop, remote control or even pet collar!

Once the device is paired with the free TrackR app, you can make your lost item light up and ring by selecting it on your mobile device.

As before with TrackR Crowd Locate Network, should you lose an item out of range of your smartphone, the network is activated and enables you to receive anonymous updates of the last-known location of your missing items whenever another TrackR user passes within range of it.

If you own an Amazon Alexa-enabled device like the Echo, you can also use this to help you find your missing keys or phone. Pressing a button on the TrackR pixel device can also ring a misplaced phone – even if it's on silent.

As with all of these kinds of devices, the theory is great, but all too often gadgets don't live up to their hype. In the case of the TrackR Pixel, I can honestly say I wasn't disappointed. I found it worked flawlessly within Bluetooth range

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THE GADGET MAN

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Issue 53 2017

it also has a surprisingly loud speaker which allowed me to track items down in other rooms in the house easily. In the dark, finding it is a synch as it flashes brightly too.

and I was able to see it's last location. I didn't however get the opportunity to test the crowd locate functionality, however looking at Trackr location map, I can see that there has been a few Trackr registrations on the map local to me and it is very apparent when I popup on the map when we arrived here on holiday.

The Trackr Pixel feels durable and high enough quality to survive being attached to a set of keys,

The Pixel isn't an independent GPS tracker, it cannot work without the assistance of other mobile devices running the TrackR app, so don't expect it to help you find your rucksack in the middle of Dartmoor. It does however register its last location, which in most cases will be where you lost your item.

TrackR pixel can be bought online for ÂŁ25 at https://www.thetrackr.com/?ref_code=INxmg and might just be the ideal gift for that loved one that is always losing their keys!

Review By Matt Porter The Gadget Man http://www.thegadgetman.org.uk

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SOCIAL MEDIA

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Issue 53 2017

Instagram’s Secret Features?

It can be hard to keep track of all the new features added to your favourite social media apps so to help you out here’s a few of the latest features of Instagram that you may or may not have heard about.

So, to archive a post you can follow the following steps:

If you’ve been posting content on your feed for a while now there’s always the chance that some of your historic content is now out of date so take advantage of Instagram’s archive feature - it allows you to move posts from your profile page to a private tab that only you can see. Don’t worry though, if you need to reshare your post at a later date you can choose to do so and it’ll re-appear back in its original chronological position.

3. When you’re ready to reshare the post (if you need to) just go to the post in your archive and click ’Show on profile’.

Archiving

1. Go to the post you want to achieve and at the top right of the post tap the three dots to reveal the options and select ‘Archive’.

2. The post will then be moved into your archive.

To view your archived, posts go to your profile and click the ‘clock’ symbol in the top right of the screen.

Bookmarking Like Twitter, Instagram gives you the ability to save your favourite posts into private bookmark collections. which is great for inspiration or to keep track of what your competitors are up to.

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If you’ve not done this before here’s how: 1. Go to the post you want to save and click the bookmark icon on the bottom right corner.

2. If you’ve existing collections you’ll be able to select the collection you want the post to go into. If you’ve not got a collection already, just go to your profile page, click the bookmark icon and then click the ‘+’ sign in the top right corner. Type in your new collections name, tap ‘Next’ and save the post.

3. When you want to access your collections just click the bookmark icon on your own profile.

‘Places’ search This is a powerful and often forgotten feature of Instagram but it allows you to see the most popular and recent posts surrounding the place/area you’re searching which is great to engage with local people and fuel your own location-based posts.

1. Click the magnifying glass search icon at the bottom of your profile 2. In the search field type in your location and click ‘Places’ to be shown a range of results options surrounding your location based search and then view your posts.

Add UTM links to Stories If your businesses has over 10,000 followers you can take advantage of Instagram new linking ability - so if you’re sharing a news story, blog post or even a contest you’ll now be able to send followers directly to your website page. How cool is that! Here’s how:

Live video replay No longer do you lose live videos after the stream ends. Now you can repost the video to your Stories for 24 hours without losing views, comments or the like. Here’s how: 1. Record your live video and when your broadcast ends, at the bottom of the screen click ‘Share’ and your video will be available for an additional 24hours.

1. In Stories, take a photo or video 2. In the top right corner of your story click the chain link icon 3. Add the URL and publish your story not forgetting to include a strong call to action.

So there you have it, just a few of Instagram new features to help you engage with your audience and hopefully gain even more!

If you need more information or help on how Instagram could work for your business please get in touch with me at http://paulkirkdesign.co.uk or at @PKirk_designer PAGE

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ADVERTORIAL

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Issue 53 2017

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MOTORING REVIEW

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Volvo V90 D5 Powerpulse R-Design Review Reviewed by Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist - tweeting @carwriteups Volvo estates have come a long way since their ‘wardrobe on wheels’ image. We all knew they were safe and comfortable; they just weren’t sexy.

That all changed some years ago, and the last V70 looked great; arguably even better than its saloon sibling, the S80. Then in 2016, the V90 and the booted S90 came along; two stunning cars with more than a hint of sporting appeal woven into the luxury, ride comfort and space that Volvos always offer.

The models have been a success in the short time they’ve been out – but the V90 is the one that most people favour. As an estate car, it’s more practical, even though the Swedish car maker has made the load area slightly smaller than the previous V70’s.

For those who like versatility and don’t want the ‘conservative’ estate car image, Volvo has recently put its R-Design stamp on the V90.

This means you can still drive an estate car, but

one that looks hunkered down and stimulating.

Yes, stimulating – who’d have thought a Volvo could have that effect?

The R-Design flavour has always given Volvos that extra something – it’s made the cars spicier to look at and hotter in the way they handle.

The V90 R-Design is a genuine looker – a great piece of artwork all round. Its kerbside appeal is boosted even further, thanks to its 15mm lowered ride height, silver door mirrors, gloss black grille and flashy 18-inch alloy wheels.

The jazziness continues inside, with electrically operated leather and nubuck sports seats.

There are also metal-effect inlays, a vivid LED driver’s display, sports pedals, and illuminated tread plates.

My test car, the D5 Powerpulse AWD R-Design, came hooked up to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. This is connected to a 2.0-litre turbo diesel unit delivering 235PS - a well-judged output for regular motorway commuting.

It’s rapid enough for most palates, reaching

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62mph in 7.2 it is prudent, see well over this engine, I taken aback.

MOTORING REVIEW Issue 53 2017

seconds, but too. If you 50mpg from wouldn’t be

The V90 is refreshing compared with its rear-wheel drive German equals. In D5 guise, it has all-wheel-drive and adheres to the road like chewing gum.

The Volvo feels sprightlier, thanks to the weight of the pedals and the steering and while this is no small vehicle, it feels far from overwhelming, due to how acquiescent it is.

Because of the R-Design’s lowered, firmer suspension set-up, this V90 model will corner quickly without perceptible body lean. However, the drawback is that there’s no option to alter the suspension on the fly.

Mind you, air suspension can be substituted when you buy the car new, although it will cost you £1,500 for the privilege. On the regular non-R-Design V90s you are offered a more cushioned ride. But if you are determined to go for a sporty estate, and don’t mind a lower, firmer system, then the stock V90 R-Design is an excellent choice.

Pros ‘n’ Cons • Looks √ • Kit √ • Economy √ • Space √ • Hard Ride X

Fast Facts • Max speed: 149 mph • 0-62 mph: 7.2 secs • Combined mpg: 57.6 • Engine layout: 1969 cc 4-cylinder twin turbo diesel • Max. power (PS): 235 • CO2: 129 g/km • Price: £44,865 PAGE

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NIBBLES & TIPPLES

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Issue 53 2017

Nibbles &Tipples September Article By Cheryl Cade The sun is shining so we start to see people walking around with smiles, some though are bigger than others as their hard work is recognised

by Awards.

Once again, our region has a lot to celebrate, but for a change I am going to start with a pub and food. In March, The Stanford Arms, Lowestoft, was named as one of the top 4 Pubs in the Country by CAMRA. Then in August it was announced that for the second year running, David and Sam Burd had won East Anglian Pub of the Year.

This award is not just rated on the beer selection, it looks at a range of things, one of them is the pub as part of the community and what else it offers.

I have to say as a Yarmouth girl when I first ventured to this pub I felt like I was heading to a typical back street pub, nestled in the heart of terraced houses. I did not expect much, although I had heard a lot.

It was walking passed the wall of empty casks that got me excited first, a step inside took me back to my childhood. The look, smell, layout, friendly bar staff, as well local people having a drink and chatting.

I had not been brought here for the beer or the live music. I had been told of their best kept secret....

Davids rice dishes. During the winter months the food range changes but in the summer on a Sunday David gets out his big Paella Pan and being inspired by world cuisine invents some of the best rice dishes I have tasted, French, Moroccan and Creole just a few.

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This is combined with their Friday stone oven pizza and Wednesday is speciality food nights.

Has made it a destination pub for a few of my friends, in one case although he lives in Norwich the Stanford is now his local.

They also have another hidden gem, a small garden area that has been used to its full potential.

A canopy of grape vines creates cool shade from the aviary that means instead of the jarring cries of the seagulls over-head you are met with soft cheeps. While a side wall of succulents creates the impression of the Mediterranean.

So, if you are looking for a place to hide away for a few hours by the sea then the Stanford Arms is a very good bet.

I consider myself very lucky to live in a region that can boast so many award-winning breweries.

Throughout August a number of them have received awards. Winters won a Bronze at the Great British Beer Festival for their Mild. Lacons achieved 3 new awards at the World Beer Awards as did St Peters; Adnams and Redwell. At the Peterborough Beer Festival (the second biggest Twitter: @icenimagazine

in the country) Lacons, were joined in the awards by, Green Jack, Grain and Golden Triangle.

But they are not the only ones to win an award, I too am celebrating as a few days ago I was invited to the awards ceremony for my Luxury Travel Award for specialist travel company.

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NOVA SILVER

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Issue 53 2017

Why Shop With A Small Business?

Iceni readers will be familiar with the Norwich Lanes, and the wealth of shops, cafes and boutiques nestled within. Nova Silver has been in our current location on Lower Goat Lane for over 10 years, and throughout this time we’ve been proud to see the area go from strength to strength.

We can’t deny that there have been massive changes to the way that people shop over the last few years. Online shopping has become more and more popular as people become more familiar with it and delivery times become shorter. We’ve noticed our own online shop has become busier and busier with orders from all around the world. However, we loudly and strongly believe in supporting local businesses and you as a customer can get so much more out of the experience!

You’ll get something different Independent shops will be able to offer something you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Here at Nova Silver we design loads of our pieces in house, so you can even get a piece that is yours and yours alone. You’ll find that independent shops can offer you something original in a world that is becoming increasingly homogenised.

You’ll get a personal service Most members of staff in independent shops really know what they are talking about! It’s a great place to get advice and a high-quality service that is tailored to you.

You’ll be able to try things on, talk through your likes and dislikes, and even get recommendations that you might never have thought about.

You’ll help to create an interesting and vibrant neighbourhood.

Shops are nothing without customers! By shopping locally, you become part of the fabric of your community. The independent community gives colour, texture and flavour to an area and is a huge influence on the feel of a town or city.

Contact Details: Email: info@novasilver.co.uk Twitter: @icenimagazine

Visit: www.novasilver.co.uk

Telephone Trade Enquiries: 01603 305799

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Carry on reading to find out

What's On Across Norfolk this month.

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WHAT'S ON...

Issue 53 2017

Join UEA Community Choir For A Free Open Rehearsal

UEA Community Choir invite you to join them on Thursday 28 September at 1pm in the UEA Square, for a free open session.

UEA Community Choir is for those who want to start singing in a choir (even if they have never done so before); want to sing in a more informal way, sometimes with more contemporary music; or want to sing for fun and explore their voice.

UEA Community Choir is open to all (staff, students, and members of the community) and welcomes singers of all abilities and levels of experience. You do not need to audition to join the community choir, just pop along to the open rehearsal and tap into your singing potential.

If you are interested in joining UEA Community Choir, and taking part in the open rehearsal, please email: musicevents@uea.ac.uk to register your interest.

Please note that following the rehearsal, there will be regular sessions on Wednesday lunchtimes, during semester time.

For further information, please visit: www.uea.ac.uk/music-centre, email: musicevents@uea.ac.uk, phone 01603 593948 or follow @UEAConcerts on Twitter.

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Issue 53 2017

North West Norfolk Social Media Surgery

Meets last Wednesday of each month, 10am - 12pm at Thornham Village Hall.

Each meeting includes a focussed, in depth social media learning session, an update on the latest developments in social media, a question and answer session, and an opportunity for you to network with other local businesses.

One of the most frequent questions that I’m asked when I’m training others in social media marketing is “But, what do I post on social media? What do I talk about each day?”. I know it can be daunting - you know you should be posting something, but you end up sitting, staring at a blank screen.

This month’s North-West Norfolk Social Media Surgery will look at engaging social media content ideas to help you to avoid this situation, and generate conversation between customers and your business.

Come along to any meeting for £32, or subscribe to monthly meetings for just £30 a month, and receive further social media support via email or Skype too.

For more information visit: lambsocialmedia.co.uk Like on Facebook & Follow on Twitter: @lambsocialmedia PAGE

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WHAT'S ON...

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WHAT'S ON AT...

King's Lynn Corn Exchange Neil Sands production Music & Memories Wednesday 6 September 2.30pm | £13 / Concs £11 Neil Sands and his wonderful west end cast are back with a brand-new production of Music and Memories at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange on Wednesday 6 September at 2.30pm.

There can be no doubt that music brings back so many wonderful memories and this feel good afternoon filled with over 60 all-time favourite songs from the 1940’s through to the 1970’s will have the memories flooding back. From old time sing along, to Rock & Roll, Forties favourites to the pop hits of the 60’s, into the 70’s and some ABBA and a very special flag waving tribute to the veterans of our Armed Forces.

All mixed with stunning costumes, amazing voices, and lots of laughter, this show will brighten everyone’s day and prove how special Music and Memories are.

A Gordan Craig Theatre Production Rapunzel The Musical Thursday 14 - Sunday 17 September Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm & 6.30pm Friday 10.30am & 6.30pm Sunday 1pm & 4.30pm £19.50/ Family (4) £61 Schools £10 per student 1 teacher goes free for every 10 students Rapunzel, Rapunzel let down your hair at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange on Thursday 14 until Sunday 17 September.

Come and let your hair down with a host of lively characters in this new musical, Rapunzel.

Sophia is desperate for a baby of her own. Her husband Karl cannot bear to see her upset any longer and realising their lonely neighbour is their last chance he begs for Gothel's help. Gothel offers Karl a magic herb from her garden, but the price is high! Sophia and Karl will get the baby they long for but on Rapunzel's sixteenth birthday she must be returned to Gothel.

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Years later, trapped in a Tower, Rapunzel has grown into a beautiful and clever young woman but will she ever get out of the Tower and return home? Longing for adventure and freedom and with only Viktor, the crow, for company how will Rapunzel ever escape? Can Prince Freddie save the day or will Rapunzel never make it home?

Based on the Brothers Grimm classic fairy tale and featuring brand new toe-tapping songs this musical is ideal for the whole family.

Book, Music & Lyrics by Dennis, Lomax & Williams.

G4 Thursday 21 September 7.30pm Rows A & B - £76.50 (inc Meet & Greet at 6pm) Other seats - £29 G4 are delighted to be returning to the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange for the 3rd year in a row! This new show will feature exciting songs from their brand-new album - G4 Love Songs released on 3rd February 2017!

Due to the overwhelming demand for G4, the multiplatinum selling vocal harmony group will be back on the road in 2017 with special guests and their trademark harmonies that wow audiences wherever they go.

Having reformed in 2014 they have continued to transport their loyal following right back to the moment they first fell in love with G4's trademark harmonies.

G4 are excited to take their classic releases of Bohemian Rhapsody, My Way and Nessun Dorma on the road and are also thrilled to showcase some of the greatest love songs of all time as they tour the songs from their hotly anticipated album, G4 Love Songs for the very first time. This new album features songs including Your Song, Amigos Para Siempre and I'd Do Anything For Love.

G4 will be joined by some very Special Guests live on stage at this show: soprano Mary-Jess (winner of the Chinese X Factor and singer of the Downton Abbey Theme), Oli Nez (internationally-renowned multi-instrumentalist), Sorrelli Strings (critically-acclaimed string trio) and a local choir.

An evening of Classic and Romantic music that will surely transport you away for the evening with these consummate entertainers.

VIP tickets include a pre-show Meet & Greet with G4 at 6pm, where you'll be served a glass of wine and have the chance to meet the guys up-close and take photos and autographs.

To Book Tickets Or For More Information: Box Office: 01553 764864

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Issue 53 2017

Sweeney Entertainments Presents www.sweeneyentertainments.co.uk

Waterloo The Best Of ABBA Tribute Show Kings Lynn Corn Exchange Friday 29th September 7.30pm Following a fantastic opening year in 2015, Waterloo The Best of Abba Tribute Show returns in 2017 delighting audiences and bringing the “Abba Party” to venues up and down the country.

This truly phenomenal tribute show is presented by Sweeney Entertainments and Produced & Directed by James Baker.

In 1974 the little known Swedish pop group ABBA swept to superstardom with their Eurovision winning Waterloo, and four decades later the song and the band remain as popular as ever.

Waterloo looks back at the sensational rise to stardom of Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid and gives fans the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live ABBA show!

The unique ABBA sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by a full live cast and band - with stunning costumes and breath-taking choreography.

The lyrics penned by Benny and Bjorn are sung in wonderful, captivating harmony from the opening refrain to the final sing-along chorus of this spectacular tribute.

"Of all the Abba tributes this is the Best" The Portsmouth News "Not to be missed, they are fantastic, great night out" "Waterloo - Best of Abba Tribute Show is far more than a Tribute - they are Incredible!"

Tickets: £ 18.00 to £22.50 Prices inclusive of £1.50 per ticket booking fee. An administration fee of £1 per transaction applies online (regardless of the number of tickets purchased) Box Office: 01553 764864 Website: https://www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk/whats-on/music/waterloo/ PAGE

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Issue 53 2017

Gutsy Housewife Who Goes In Search Of Adventure

Shirley Valentine - September 5-9 Willy Russell’s heart-warming comedy Shirley Valentine, the tale of the Liverpool housewife who heads for Greece in search of adventure, premiered in 1986 and took the world by storm.

Celebrating its 30th Anniversary last year, the first major revival of this national treasure is touring the UK and lands at Norwich Theatre Royal from September 5-9.

With a career spanning over four decades, Willy Russell is undeniably one of the most successful playwrights of his generation. His plays, including Educating Rita, Blood Brothers, Our Day Out and Shirley Valentine, have been performed across the globe, winning countless awards and continuing to be in constant production.

Shirley Valentine was also adapted into an Oscar-nominated film starring Pauline Collins and Tom Conti.

It stars much loved West End leading lady Jodie Prenger as Shirley, the gutsy middle-aged woman whose kids have left home and as she makes chips and egg for her husband while talking to the wall, she asks herself where her life has disappeared to? Out of the blue, her best friend offers her a trip to Greece for two weeks and she secretly packs her bags to head for the sun where she starts to see the world and herself very differently.

Of the revival, Willy Russell said: “It’s now thirty years since Shirley Valentine first walked onto the page, into my life and the lives of so many others. Shirley cooked her first meal of egg and chips on the stage of the Everyman Theatre Liverpool, before then hoofing it down to London where along with the cooking and talking to the wall she started picking up the string of awards she’d win in the West End, on Broadway and in the film that earned both BAFTAs and Academy Award Nominations.

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“Since those early days Shirley has had an incredibly rich and varied life, appearing in many tongues across the globe in countless productions and being performed by many great actresses. The one thing Shirley Valentine has not done of late is extensively tour the UK. There have been approaches and plans mooted but, somehow, it’s just never quite felt right and so I’ve resisted such efforts - until now!”

He changed his mind though when producer Adam Spiegel introduced him to Jodie Prenger.

“I knew in an instant that here was a formidable actress, one who possessed the grit and the warmth, the drive and the vulnerability, the energy and the heart to make Shirley Valentine really live again. How could any playwright resist that or deny the whole of the UK the chance to see Jodie bring Shirley to life?”

Jodie Prenger first came to public notice when she won the role of Nancy in the West End production of Oliver! through the BBC television series I’d Do Anything. Most recently she toured the UK in the classic musical Tell Me On A Sunday. She also played the title role in the national tour of the musical Calamity Jane and has starred in One Man, Two Guvnors Willy Russell

Jodie Prenger both in the West End and on tour and as Lady of the Lake in Spamalot. Jodie is also a regular presenter on BBC Radio 2 Glen Walford, who directed the original production, is also directing this major revival and it is produced by Adam Spiegel Productions (Motown, The Last Tango, The Producers, Dance ‘Til Dawn, Midnight Tango, Love Me Tender, The Mousetrap on Tour).

Judy Foster, of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: “There is a little bit of Shirley Valentine in all of us, as who doesn’t dream of leaving it all behind to head for a Greek island? Combining such a well-loved story by a wonderful writer like Willy Russell with a fantastic actress like Jodie Prenger is guaranteed to produce a fun evening with some real laugh-out-loud moments.

Tickets for the show are selling really well, so don’t hesitate too long before booking.”

BOX OFFICE 01603 630000.

For more info or to BOOK ONLINE www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk PAGE

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Issue 53 2017

Happy 30th For Hit Musical Which Is Coming To Norwich

Blood Brothers - September 19-23 It is 30 years since Bill Kenwright’s well as portraying the troubled character in production of Blood Brothers first the show’s final West End performances at the Phoenix Theatre in 2012. toured the UK. Now it is out on the road again and makes a welcome return to Norwich Theatre Royal this autumn.

Hailed as one of the greatest musicals of all time, it is written by the award-winning playwright Willy Russell winning four awards for best musical in London and seven Tony Awards on Broadway.

It started life as a play performed at a Liverpool comprehensive school in 1981 before opening at the Liverpool Playhouse in 1983 later completing sell out seasons in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Japan. It also ran in the West End for 24 years exceeding 10,000 performances.

Blood Brothers, which comes to Norwich from September 19-23, tells the story of young mother Mrs Johnstone who is forced to take a job as a housekeeper to provide for her seven hungry children when her husband leaves her.

When she discovers she has fallen pregnant again with twins, her world crashes around her and she enters a secret pact with her employer leading to a tragic conclusion.

The show tells a captivating tale of twin boys separated at birth and features some iconic songs including A Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the heart-tugging Tell Me It’s Not True.

Lyn rose to fame in the early Seventies as a member of The New Seekers singing on their 1972 Eurovision Song Contest entry Beg, Steal Or Borrow, and their Number One hit two years later, You Won’t Find Another Fool Like Me. She is also no stranger to the stage starring in the 2013 UK tour of Cabaret, Boy George’s musical Taboo, and also Footloose The Musical.

Returning to the role of the Narrator is Dean Chisnall who last wowed Norwich audiences in the title role in Shrek The Musical and has also starred in Love Never Dies, Never Forget, Evita, and The Woman In White.

They will star opposite Sean Jones who will once again portray Mickey, a role he played in the West End as well as during the show’s previous visit to Norwich Theatre Royal in 2012.

John Bultitude, of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: “The return of Blood Brothers to Norwich is proving to be one of the autumn’s must-see productions with ticket sales very buoyant.

Come along and see why this show still remains as popular as ever thirty years on from its first performance.”

Listing: Blood Brothers, Tuesday 19-Saturday 23 September at 7.30pm, and Wed, Thurs and Sat matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets £8-£38. Discounts for Over-60s, Under-18s, Groups and Friends.

Taking on the role of Mrs Johnstone is Lyn Paul who reprises a role she first played in 1997 as

To book, log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000 PAGE

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Issue 53 2017

A World Beyond The Waves With Northern Ballet

The Little Mermaid

September 26-30, 2017 Northern Ballet’s new adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale The Little Mermaid will bring a mystical and beautiful underwater world to Norwich Theatre Royal this September.

Telling the story of a young mermaid who is willing to give up her life below the waves in a search for love and the desire to gain a human soul, the ballet will be performed in the city from September 26 to 30 as part of its world première tour.

This new ballet is the third of an unprecedented three new full-length productions to be created by the Leeds-based company in 2017. It follows on from Casanova which was seen on the Norwich stage in April, and an adaptation of John Boyne’s bestselling novel The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas which is touring other cities throughout the summer.

Norwich will be The Little Mermaid’s first stop-off after it premieres in Southampton on

September 21 and it then sets off on a nationwide tour throughout the autumn and into next year.

It is choreographed and directed by Northern Ballet’s artistic director David Nixon OBE whose most recent creations for the company include Cinderella, The Great Gatsby and Beauty & the Beast.

He said: “The Little Mermaid is an enchanting story and the fantastical underwater world of the mermaids evokes such beautiful imagery that it will be an excellent addition to our repertoire. So many people have grown up with an awareness of this classic tale and so I am looking forward to introducing audiences to the world beyond the waves.”

Aware of the opportunities and challenges in creating a beautiful underwater world which would contrast with the human world on land above, he explained: “I look at the first part of the ballet as almost a ballet in its own right – it’s like a dance of the sea with the mermaids and fish.

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Issue 53 2017

It’s about watching movement, what it might be like to be a mermaid and understanding her world so that you can understand the sacrifice she makes for this love she has.”

David Nixon designed the costumes himself, creating shimmering tails for the mermaids and a Scottish kilt look for the land-dwelling human characters. “The music has a slight Scottish influence to it and I have taken a slight Scottish influence to the costume - something like a kilt which is a little different. We always have the dilemma that men are either in tights or trousers, but with kilts there is a freedom of movement there.”

Sally Beamish, who recently wrote the music for Birmingham Royal Ballet’s The Tempest, was commissioned to write the score for The Little Mermaid while the sets have been given a modern, stylish and contemporary look by Japanese designer Kimie Nakano. Lighting is

by Tim Mitchell who has also designed lighting Photo Credit: Justin Slee

for Northern Ballet’s The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, Beauty & the Beast, Cinderella, Cleopatra, Hamlet and The Great Gatsby.

David Nixon said: “It will look different to how our productions normally look. It’s made up of plastic and mirror so I’m hoping it will have a phenomenal water look to it.”

He is immensely proud of the company’s creative output this year and believes that “2017 will be an exemplary example of Northern Ballet’s commitment to continuing to create new work and contributing to the dynamic UK dance scene.

“With an unprecedented three new full-length ballets in one year, I am delighted that we are presenting audiences with such a diverse range of new productions. As a company of talented dance actors, Northern Ballet is in a privileged position to be able to adapt so many different works and continue to challenge the idea of what stories can be told through dance.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be booked at www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

or by contacting the Box Office on 01603 630000.

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ICENI - HOROSCOPES

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Issue 53 2017

Horoscopes For September Aries 21 March - 20 April This month is going to require

Libra 24 September - 23 October You may find your

a degree of subtlety in your approach. Although the planets are asking you to grapple with everyday practicalities and the detail of things, at times you may find your focus gets skewed by the demands of others, or from the occasional jab of self-doubt or even low energy. However, relationships are given a superb boost from the 23rd and 30th.

efforts slightly conflicted this month due to a number of planets forging oppositions with the dreamy Neptune which is in your sector of sacrifice. It may feel that however much effort you put in, it's never enough to please some people. Yet your powers of diplomacy are not going to be dimmed, and if there is someone tricky you encounter, lay on the charm Libra.

Taurus 21 April - 21 May Fact can be stranger than fiction

Scorpio 24 October - 22 November Your social situation

this month, which for a practical person like you may sound a little daunting. Actually, see this as an opportunity to think outside the box. Your creativity is going to be exceptionally high, as can your imagination. There's likely going to be opportunities in your love life as well, but in an existing relationship, do listen to your inner voice to guide you.

is going to throw up a lot of rich possibilities this month, and this could see you meeting some new people or moving in fresh circles. Whether you make a new friend or are drawn to someone in a romantic context, perhaps the best way to approach this is on a step-by-step basis. In spite of this, there is a possibility that the reality of one person can fall short of your expectations.

Gemini 22 May - 21 June Mercury ends its retrograde

Sagittarius 23 November - 21 December

on the 5th, and with Mars moving on the same day, you could find yourself busy around your immediate family or siblings. The Full Moon on the 6th however, can see you unsure about professional possibilities. This can almost feel like you may have too many options. Balancing home and professional life is going to be key to countering this.

This can be a fabulous month for career, goals, promotions and key objectives. Your desire to gain greater recognition can prove to be successful, but it is going to be important to ensure that the people who provide your everyday support systems, feel very much part of what you're trying to achieve. If not, this could lead to you being less productive in the areas that you wish.

Cancer 22 June - 23 July Communications are going to

Capricorn 22 December - 20 January Although you are

need quite a lot of care this month. In the first week it can be your finances that you're grappling with, but for the rest of the month what you mean to say, may not necessarily be how people receive the information. Your imagination can also be very vivid, but if you're exchanging facts and figures, it's going to be vital to be really precise in all you say.

someone who takes everyday responsibilities very seriously, this can be a month when you really feel in the mood to break out and do something much more spontaneous. If you're travelling, it can prove to be a very vivid and uplifting experience. Some Goats may even consider a course of higher education. Details will though need carefully checking Capricorn.

Leo 24 July - 23 August If it's been a case of one step

Aquarius 21 January - 19 February With Venus remaining

forwards and one step back, preceding the start of this month, it wouldn't be a surprise. Greater traction is possible from the end of the first week and you can be determined to improve your lot when it comes to your financial position.

If you've been waiting for some money, the 19th can be a key date. Communications sparkle as the month ends Leo.

in the most sensational part of your 'scope through to the 20th, this month continues to offer rich potential for improvements around your love life. The more passionate side of your personality can also be aroused. Keeping discipline around a strict diet or financial plan may though prove a little more challenging. You could feel much more liberated in the last week.

Virgo 24 August - 23 September You're given an awful

Pisces 20 February - 20 March In the first four days of

lot of astrological tools to make progress this month and particularly between the 5th and the 12th, when the Sun in Virgo shares a brilliant angle to Pluto, the planet of transformation.

But as much as you can feel fired up and purposeful, other people may not share your enthusiasm, and it's going to be how you deal with them that's key. Do stay single minded.

September, a practical matter could prove frustrating. But stick at it as progress can be made. But you need to be really engaged both emotionally and creatively to enjoy this month, and any lack of sensitivity in close relationships can make you think about whether to stick or twist. Despite this, by the 19th you may get the reassurances you have been seeking.

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Astrologer Patrick Arundell provides a unique take on Horoscopes and Astrology. Join him daily for your Daily Horoscope and his penetrating insight into this fascinating subject. Also FREE Horoscope Videos.

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