InMadrid June 2011 Issue

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JUNE 2011

W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY


features arts &culture

7 SHAPE UP FOR THINGS TO COME Fun ways to get fit for the summer

ad index AIRLINES RYANAIR, back cover

BARS

14 Month Ahead

8 CHARITY SHOP BLUES

Art & theatre listings

Pining for the UK High Street shopping culture

PICNIC, p19 TABERNA CHICA, p9 TEMPLO DEL GATO, p19 TERRA NOVA, p16 TUPPERWARE, p19

18 Concerts

8 MOON DANCE HAS ITS STARS

Our pick of this month’s gigs

A Madrid theatre group for the disabled

18 Album reviews

9 SAVED FROM A DOG’S LIFE

The best new music releases

Madrid’s home for abandoned four-legged friends

19 Nightlife

10 MEN IN WHITE

The most up-to-date clubbing guide

Cricket? In Madrid?

CAFÉS ANGLET CAFÉ, p21

CINEMAS YELMO CINES IDEAL , inside front cover

DENTISTS AZUARA DENTAL, p9 CISNE DENTAL, ENGLISH DENTIST, p9

20 Movie reviews New releases on the big screen

11 MADE IN MADRID

20 Book Buzz

The city behind the film—Dracula versus Frankenstein

New titles for your shelf

FAIRS INDONESIAN EMBASSY CHARITY BAZAAR, p13

GESTORIA RICHARD HARRISON, p21

11 THE OTHERS Anglos working beyond the realms of English teaching

JOB OFFERS See Service Guide for job offers, p22-25

11 LOOK WHAT YOU’VE SAID

outandabout

The origin of “Bob’s your Uncle”

13 RESTAURANT REVIEW TGI Friday’s

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Scene WHAT’S NEW IN TOWN

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Mad World MADRID

LANGUAGE SCHOOLS Idioma Punto de Encuentro, p13

LANGUAGE SERVICES See Service Guide, p22-25

RANDOMNESS!

15 ON THE WORD GAME 6

Poetry Brothels—from New York to Madrid?

Another Fine Mes

MUSIC FESTIVALS BILBAO BBK LIVE, p17

THE MONTH’S NEWS DIGESTED

16 WILD BEASTS NEVER TAME

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Interview with the UK’s hot indie pop band

5 Great Places...

ONLINE NIGHTLIFE GUIDE LAS NOCHES DE MADRID, p16

TO DISCOVER PEDAL-POWER!

21 ANXIOUS MOMENTS & PSYCHOPATHIC TENDENCIES Jon Ronson speaks about his latest book

11 Streetwise WHAT’S IN A NAME?

PUBS DUBLINERS, p21 IRISH ROVER, p5 O’CONNELL ST, p13 O’NEILL’S, inside front cover

12 Food & Drink FOOD REVIEW, POUR FAVOR

adly, the only poem I know by heart starts with editor’s note the line “There was a young girl from Peru”, but for those of you who like to take verse, and perhaps vice, a little more seriously, this month we have Raven Keller’s tel: 91 523 30 91 wonderfully risqué article about a potential poetry email: brothel in Madrid (P15). If a den of words isn’t enough, editor@in-madrid.com Tom Garton quizzes author Jon Ronson about testing for psychopaths (P21), and our kind, caring side is shown by Paula Altares Serrano’s article about a city dogs’ home (P9), along with Andrea Maltman’s visit to a theatre group for the disabled (P8). For music fans, Alexander Fleming chats with UK indie group Wild Beasts (P16), in addition to which there’s the cricket, concerts, news, humour, food, films, books and wine. We hope you enjoy everything that you read, and we hope we’ve provided all that you need. (My God, that rhymes—right, I’m off to the poetry brothel!)

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InMadrid

regulars 19 RESTAURANT GUIDE 20 SERVICE GUIDE 23 CLASSIFIEDS COVER PHOTO: CHRIS CARDINALE

Want to contribute to InMadrid? Or how about being an intern? If you’re interested in collaborating, send your CV, samples of journalistic writing and ideas for articles to editor@in-madrid.com

RESTAURANTS ARTEMISA, p9 EL ESTRAGÓN, p12 MIL Y UNA NOCHES, p12 TGI FRIDAYS, inside front cover See Restaurant Guide, p22

WEB SERVICES JAN JAEGER, p21

Want to advertise in InMadrid? Quieres anunciar en InMadrid? Email us! ¡Escribenos! marketing@in-madrid.com Call us! ¡Llamanos! 91 523 30 91

PUBLISHED BY: CITYSCOPE S.L. (UNIPERSONAL) MANAGING DIRECTOR: NICK HAUGHTON • EDITOR: JEFF WISEMAN • DESIGN: KNIC • MARKETING AND SALES: marketing@in-madrid.com • ADMIN: ELENA ORTIZ • ART: ELENA RODEMANN • MUSIC (REVIEWS): RUSSELL PARTON • MUSIC (GIGS): OLIVIA WATERS • NEWS: MARTIN DELFIN • NIGHTLIFE: ALEXANDER FLEMING • SCENE: LAURA EDGECUMBE-ANSDELL • THEATRE: MATTEA CUSSEL • INTERNS: TESSA WHITE, VICKY KNILL, MIKE SWAIN, MACKENZIE ELMER, MATT UNHJEM, ALEXANDER FLEMING, KAYLA CALDWELL, MATTEA CUSSEL, TOM GARTON, GUILLERMO ULIBARRI, LUCY WILLIAMS, NANCY CLEVELAND • THANKS TO: LAURA EDGECUMBE-ANDSELL, NICK FUNNELL, RAVEN KELLER • WEBMASTER: KNIC • PRINT: IMCODAVILA

STAFF

Views expressed in InMadrid are the opinions of the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. Although we make every effort to quote the correct prices and opening hours for establishments mentioned in the magazine, it is possible some may have changed since we went to press. All advertisements are published in good faith. InMadrid cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions in individual ads or accept responsibility for work, service or goods. InMadrid is published by CityScope SL (unipersonal), c/Marqués de Valdeiglesias, 6-4ºA — 28004 Madrid. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artwork will not be returned unless accompanied by sufficient postage. D.L.: M-11696-96.

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W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

JUNE 2011

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■ BY LAURA EDGECUMBE-ANSDELL Photo (CC) flickr: felix388

scene

2011 PHotoEspaña, Madrid The fourteenth edition of PHotoEspaña will include the work of 370 international artists such as Cindy Sherman, Thomas Ruff, Ron Galella and Nancy Burson. Activities include photography workshops, portfolio reviews, debates, lectures, guided tours, educational programmes, family events and screenings. There will also be an opportunity for aspiring photographers to get in on the action with the Mahou PhotoMarathon. On Saturday 11 June at 12.30pm photo enthusiasts can register to take part in the marathon and snap their best shots around the streets of Madrid. The most brilliant images will be projected onto a giant screen and participants will get a complimentary print of their masterpiece. PHotoEspaña 2011, Various locations, 1 Jun24 July. Free for most venues. See www.phe.es

PHotoespaña, lAngulo

Fado Festival, Madrid Fado is a renowned form of soulful and nostalgic Portuguese music. Whether you are already a fan or keen to discover this artform for the first time, you shouldn’t miss this festival. There will be shows by major Fado performers, as well as film screenings and an exhibition from artist Amália Rodrigues, plus the chance to sample Portuguese cuisine. Festival Internacional de Fado, various locations, 1719 June. Tickets: From 25. See www.teatroscanal.com

Gay Pride Madrid 2011 Madrid’s legendary Gay Pride festival, recently voted by MTV viewers the best gay event in the world, kicks off on 27 June. For a week the capital becomes a hotbed of 24/7 parties, club nights, events, protests and cultural activities with Chueca at its epicentre. The main parade, predicted to attract over two million people, will take place on 2 July and promises to enthral with flamboyant floats and frolics. Tied in with the festivities is the “Visible Festival 2011” which will include 24 exhibitions, 24 theatre and dance performances and much more. Gay Pride Madrid, Chueca and various locations (Metro: Chueca). 27 Jun-3 July. Free. Tel: 91 522 45 17. See www.orgullogay.org

Go to Madrid’s Temple de Debod on 11 June, from 11am-1.30pm. There’s a breakfast picnic for World Knit in Public Day. Needles at the ready!

Suma Flamenca In 2010 the art of Flamenco was recognised by UNESCO as “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”. So if you are in Madrid between 9 June and 2 July it would be inconcievable not to enjoy this flamenco fest which brings together over 80 artists for a spectacular showcase of dance, music, film and poetry. Acts include flamenco stars such as Diego ‘El Cigala’, Niño Josele, Rocio Molina, Jerez Festival winner Rafaela Carrasco and acclaimed dancer Angel Rojas. Suma Flamenca, various venues, 9 Jun-2 July. See www.madrid.org/sumaflamenca

ares e los Lun El Taller d n market, ig es d t en Independ

Art Barter, Madrid As part of the DCode festival, the groundbreaking art project Art Barter, which encourages the trade of art for goods and services, not money, is coming to Madrid. Artists taking part will include Miquel Barceló, Angela de la Cruz (finalist for the Turner Prize 2010), and Ouka Leele. How does it work? Artworks on display will be unnamed so you won’t know who the artists are, but if you like any item you can fill out a barter form offering goods or services in exchange (one assumes illegal services and substances are not allowed!). Then the artist will choose their prize and one lucky barterer will find out whose art they have acquired. Tracey Emin bartered one of her works for 30 hours of French tuition. Perhaps you can bag a masterpiece for Spanish lessons! Art Barter Madrid, Centro Arte Complutense, Avenida Juan de Herrera, 2 (Metro: Ciudad Universitaria/Moncloa), 10-25 Jun. Free. See www.artbarter.co.uk & www.dcodefest.com

English Speaking Corner Following the article in our February issue, there’s been a lot of activity at the English Speaking Corner (ESC). Their objective is to provide a care home in Madrid for native English-speaking senior citizens, and they selected the Reina Victoria Residential Home, with its professional English-speaking care staff, as the best venue to develop the project. The ESC team are now receiving a number of enquiries about temporary placements, especially for the summer months. The short term arrangements mean the Home looks after elderly family members, allowing their usual carers an often much-needed rest or holiday. Further ESC presentations will take place at the Home on Tues 14 June at 11am, and Tues 21 June at 6pm. See www.englishspeakingcorner.com, email info@englishspeakingcorner.com or tel. 630 705 645.

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Independent Design Market The independent design market in La Plaza Dos de Mayo takes place every Saturday in June. With stalls from 40 independent designers exhibiting and selling clothing, furniture, accessories, artwork and jewellery, there will be plenty of great craftwork on offer. Independent Design Market, Plaza Dos de Mayo (Metro: Bilbao/Tribunal). Every Sat in June, 12.30-9pm. Free. See http://dosdeproject.blogspot.com/

SonarKids, Barcelona The summer holidays are just around the corner so if you’re looking for a weekend away to keep the little ones entertained, head to the SonarKids festival in Barcelona. The event promises oodles of fun for families with music shows from DJs including BBC Radio 1 presenter Gilles Peterson; and activities such as master classes in music composition and street dance, plus DJ workshops and musical stories. SonarKids, Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona and Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona. 19 June, 11am-7pm. Tickets: From 12 (Kids under 3 years free). See www.sonarkids.com

Blue Identity—book launch The Madrid-based blues band Blue Identity (see InMadrid, Oct 2010) are to play at a hi-tech book launch on 30 June. Blue Identity form part of an innovative artistic collective known as “The Scotsmen’s Tavern” which has produced songs, cartoons, stories, plays, a film and videos. The book, Los cuentos de La Taberna del Escocés reproduces the tales of 12 dark and mysterious characters who drink in the Tavern. A concert and the book launch will be streamed live on the Internet (www.ustream.tv/), and is due to include video-conference interviews with the authors. Several stories from the book have also been translated into English to help teach students at the Madrid college IES Santamarca. Book launch, C/de Maldonado, 53 (Metro: Núñez de Balboa). 7.30pm. 30 June. Free. Contact paulrigg@blueidentity.org or see www.blueidentity.org.

Indian Fun Fair The Indian Sindhi Association presents an Indian Fun Fair where you can indulge your passion for all things Indian, from foods and handicrafts to fashion accessories. There will plenty of activities too for both adults and kids including a tombola and bingo. Indian Fun Fair, ISAOM Cultural Centre, Avenida De Gumersindo Llorente, 39 (Ctra. Zaragoza, Salida 11, Via de Servicio-Coslada, San Fernando) (Buses: 77, 223, 281). 26 June, 1-6pm. Entrance: 3 (Children under 5 years free). W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

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mwoarldd

Top ten things you wouldn’t want to hear on a plane Summer is here and with it the mass exodus from Madrid. For many madrileños, this means a journey by plane. Air travel can sometimes be a little stressful, but we hope you never hear any of these announcements on board:

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We are now arriving at our destination, just outside Málaga. Or, as it’s otherwise known, Preston.

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We will now serve a hot meal. Remember, no one will be allowed to leave the plane until you’ve all finished!

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If you look out of your window on the right you will see… oh wait, no! That can’t be right!

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Our in-flight entertainment today will be Sharon, our stewardess, who will be singing a selection of Celine Dion’s greatest hits.

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This is your captain speaking. We are just finishing our preflight checks and this bottle of rum, and then we’ll be on our way.

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We’re approaching our destination, and just for passenger information, many planes have landed successfully without the undercarriage working.

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The air traffic controllers are still on strike but don’t worry, it’s also “Bring your daughter to work day” and there’s a 10year-old in the control tower who loves computer games.

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There’s no need to panic, but would everyone mind looking under their seat for a Black Mamba.

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We encountered a lot of turbulence on the way in, and due to a quick turn-around please would all passengers check that their sick bag is empty.

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Ladies and gentleman, we are losing altitude, but the good news is that the co-pilot has some legal experience, and apparently the person sitting next to you can witness your last will and testament, even if you don’t know them at all!

CINEMA TICKETS COMPETITION

Photo (CC) flickr: bobosh_t

Every month InMadrid is giving away FREE PASSES for two people to the Ideal Cinema in Plaza Benavente, Madrid’s premier VO cinema where you can see all the latest flicks in English. To claim yours simply send us a photo of somebody reading InMadrid in an unusual place. Happy snapping! Note: Winners will not be notified. Get in touch if you win to claim your passes! Send entries to competitions@in-madrid.com. Here are this month’s winners:

Maria sent us this photo from Paris. Dig those 2CVs! Shame about that nasty telephone antenna though.

Also in Paris this month, Floriana sent us this shot of her friend Chadini being dwarfed by Anish Kapoor’s installation “Leviathan” in the Grand Palais. Just goes to show that size isn’t everything! Nice aubergines though (that’s eggplants in US-English)

Fairy Tales By Jerome Apolda

Romance is dead — Part II A balding William said “I do” to a nervous commoner and the world cheered. As our future King and Queen made their way to the palace, everything seemed right with the world: Libyan rebels shared cake with Gaddafi, Tunisian refugees hummed “God save the Queen” on the boats bringing them back home, and even the planet took a break from obliterating every last human. Love had conquered all. All was good. On witnessing what can only be described as The Wedding of the Century, I could not help but think back to 1981 when our beloved Princess Di got out of her fairy tale carriage and made her way down the aisle. All was good, or so we thought. Looking back, we now know it was a farce. Charles was almost certainly banging Camilla. We had been blatantly lied to! So was this charade another cunning plan to fool us all? Is William banging someone else? Is Kate trapped in a loveless marriage? Wrapped in my Union Jack, overwhelmed by questions, I missed my friend kneeling down and proposing to his boyfriend. All of a sudden the pub erupted in applause snapping me back into reality. Their embrace, their love for one another: it was a truly magical moment, or it would have been if I hadn’t slept with the groom-to-be mere hours beforehand. Ashamed, I wanted to make myself scarce but my friend grabbed me by the waist and asked me to be his best man. Could things get any worse? They generally do; I braced myself for what was to come next. That’s when my slime-ball of an ex (see Romance is dead—Part One, last month, at www.jerome-apolda.com or www.in-madrid.com) made his entrance, arm in arm with—wait for it—my mother! The wedding was turning into the family reunion from hell. Aghast, I sat back down, shaking my head in disbelief and on the verge of an anxiety attack. My mum hugged me, radiant in her bright pink dress, and whispered in my ear how much she liked my new boyfriend. Breathing heavily, I begged my future sovereigns for help. As if they’d heard me, William kissed Kate. Everybody’s attention turned to the royal balcony; it was my time to flee. But like the Queen Mother in WWII, I had to stay put and fight. My mum held tight onto my hand and told me all about her Facebook relationship with my ex. Turns out, he had friended her and they had been having long meaningful chats for months. As the jets roared over Buckingham Palace, I realised that—stuck between my mother, her new best friend (my ex), my last shag and his husband-to-be—my life had officially become an episode of EastEnders. I wondered what Peggy Mitchell would do. Following her example, I stood up and told my ex to get out of my pub, threw a drink in his face and dared him to fight back. My mum slapped me. Shaken, my friend’s fiancé stood up and blurted out his love for me; his husband-not-to-be-anymore fainted. And I was booed out of the pub. Oh, how I envied the Royal Family! At least they can keep up appearances. For Fairy Tales and more: check out www.jerome-apolda.com

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Another fine mes

Check out the events of El Día E, Spanish Language Day, on 18 June. Organised by the Instituto de Cervantes, see www.eldiae.es for full details.

Marty Delfín dissects the past month’s news headlines Aguirre and Mayor Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon. After their win, Aguirre told supporters at a rally that the Zapatero government should call early elections. PP leader Mariano Rajoy downplayed the call but said that the Socialist government’s days were numbered. Buoyed by the overwhelming victories, Rajoy said that his party wasn’t going to actively seek coalition partnerships with other parties in the regions but said that he was willing to talk to representatives of all the political forces except Bildu.

The spring of discontent As the campaigning was entering its final leg, unprecedented protests and demonstrations exploded across the country when a grass roots platform called Real Democracy Now organised a march that attracted a few thousand people on 15 May but

Photo: (CC) flickr: esperanza_aguirre

Sweeping changes The political landscape across Spain changed on 22 May when voters gave the Popular Party sweeping victories in regional and local elections that were seen as a referendum on Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero’s struggling government. The Socialists lost their traditional strongholds in Castilla-La Mancha and Extremadura, and the mayoral offices in Barcelona and Seville. In the Basque Country and Navarre, voters overwhelmingly voted for candidates from the controversial Bildu coalition, putting the Basque radical abertzale left, whose members have often been linked to ETA, in a number of town councils for the first time in 10 years. Bildu, a partnership between the abertzale and the legitimate Eusko Alkartasuna (EA) and Alternatiba parties, fielded candidates that had no known connection to illegal Basque groups. Its members have come out and renounced terrorism and violence. They say want to solve the independence issue through political means. Many in the Basque Country see Bildu as a genuine step designed to eliminate ETA once and for all. It has become the second largest political force in the region after the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV). In Madrid, the Socialists took a heavy beating when voters re-elected the top PP candidates; regional premier Esperanza

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Opinions on the protest differed, with the following comments being made to InMadrid: “I think it’s a radical minority political movement. The political situation of the country is bad. We have to complain but not in this way.” (Cesar, Madrid). “I think it’s very interesting that people from different social classes and different groups are joining together. Everyone’s hoping this is not going to disappear; that it’s the spark for change.” Juan (USA). “I’m Photo: (CC) flickr: Sventine_Eye really proud of all of us. There are lots of people, young and old. And a kindergarten! They are already calling it “the City of Sol”. I think it’s needed. Democracy is really bad here. There are two parties but no one really likes either one.” Bernarda (Madrid). “It’s fine to protest but I think that you need to propose more ideas to go along with your argument. I don’t think you can just say there is a problem and not suggest a solution.” Matthew (Madrid).

Tragedy in Lorca

Photo: (CC) flickr: gaelx

soon snowballed into a major movement. Tens of thousands of people converged on Puerta del Sol and set up camps to demand that Spain look for another alternative system of government, one that is not controlled by the two traditional political parties. The protests, albeit peaceful, took the government and party leaders by surprise. A fierce legal debate ensued when election authorities ruled that the demonstrations had to stop for the 24 hours before balloting. The demonstrators, nestling and sleeping amongst makeshift tents in Sol, were mostly young people, demanding fair housing, jobs and changes to the current political structure. Similar demonstrations mushroomed across Spain in more than 160 cities and towns.

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Spain’s worst earthquake in more than 55 years hit the town of Lorca in Murcia on 12 May, taking 10 lives and causing an incredible amount of damage to historical buildings and homes. Hundreds of people had to find refuge in temporary shelters after engineers determined that more than half the buildings in the town were unsafe. Although dozens were reported injured in the twin tremors that measured 4.5 and 5.2 magnitudes on the Richter scale, the quick action by many residents who raced out of their homes when the first quake struck kept the loss of lives and injuries to a minimum. Lorca is built on a bed of sand and gravel near where the Eusasian tectonic plate meets the African plate. Some experts say that earthquakes in the area produce a resonance effect underground that can move the soft bed at any point in the future when the earth finally settles. Any such abrupt movements could jolt the already weakened structures above. The government is employing hundreds of construction workers, brick layers and teams of engineers to inspect and help reinforce the buildings, but it is a slow task.

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Shape up for things to come Summer is approaching. Temperatures are rising, but for many of us so too are worries about exposing our pasty flesh on a sun-drenched beach. To ease concerns, Vicky Knill and MacKenzie Elmer find some fun ways to get fit in the city

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K, as a practice run you’ve squeezed into your bikini or swimming trunks from last year, and are just having a short panic attack because the gear is so tight that it’s beginning to cut blood circulation. There’s an urgent need to shape up. You don’t want a diet of lettuce for the weeks ahead, and whilst a good work-out in the gym or the park is rewarding, you wonder if there are other pursuits that might grab your attention. Thankfully, our short guide to alternative get-fit options will help. (But first get some scissors and cut yourself out of that swimwear. Your legs are turning blue.)

Kayaking—Vallehermoso-Retiro Kayaking Club What? Practice a sport while sitting on your bum! There are three different kayaking clubs in Madrid offering a range of arm-pumping experiences. Maybe try a class in the surprisingly physical sport of kayak-polo! Where and when? Vallehermoso-Retiro, Monday to Thursday, 67.30pm or 7.30-9pm. How much? 60 for 4 courses, each 1 hour 30 minutes. Why? Because, club member Aitor says, “You’re not jailed within four walls and can enjoy the great outdoors.” Website: www.vallehermosoretiro.com

Photo (CC) flickr: jemingway

When and where? Madrid Patina offers classes most days in different places around the city (see website for details). Roller Madrid holds classes in El Retiro. General practice (all welcome) Fridays from 8-9pm. Also Mondays to Fridays 7-9pm and Saturdays 10am-1pm, depending on your level. How much? Madrid Patina: 26 membership plus 21-28 a month for classes (depending on location). Roller Madrid 35 a month for 8 classes (4 classes for your level and 4 general practices) Website: www.madridpatina.com and www.rollermadrid.com. Why? Oscar Igartua of Madrid Patina points to roller-blading’s toning effects on the lower body, adding “Fundamentally, what makes it different to most sports is that it allows you to move from one place to another, and you can do it as a family.” Juan M Angel of Roller Madrid says “A big advantage of skating is that it burns more calories than running. On skates you can burn up to 350 cal roughly every half hour.”

Cycling—Alucheros del Pedal What? This group of Alucheros (from Aluche) get together to enjoy their shared passions of cycling, culture and food. You can get a better idea about them from their website video, Via podensis. Where and where? Club members suggest the routes, which always contain elements of sport and culture. Contact the club for details about when the next ride will take place. How much? Free—but bring your own bike. Why? “A gym allows you to practice sports only while indoors,” says Club President, Patxi Ortiz. “We are trying to unite sport, travel and culture.” Website: www.alucherosdelpedal.com

An ultimate gravity-defying frisbee

Photo (CC) flickr: scmikeburton

Ultimate (aka Ultimate Frisbee)—Los Quijotes

Suffering a hot summer and the world’s worst paper hat

Photo (CC) flickr: mattJP

Running—Hash House Harriers What? This “drinking club with a running problem” meets most weekends to run 7 or 8 km tracks. They also give each other nicknames and sing “colourful” songs. When and where? Every Sunday, and the first and third Friday of the month. Meet at Larry’s Bar, C/Alberto Alcocer, 7 (Metro: Cuzco) at 11.45am or, if you have transport, at the start of the run. How much? 4 run fee Why? Committee member “King Sir Sir James” says “The Hash is better for many reasons; mainly you are outdoors (rain or shine, or snow) with the fresh air. Nobody pushes you—it is a fun run.” “Hashers” run pretty much anywhere, but are only rarely chased by bulls. Website: www.madridhhh.com

What? A cross between football, basketball and rugby, with a small plastic disc instead of a ball. Los Quijotes describe themselves as a friendly club with members from many different countries. When and where? Saturdays in La Almudena (Metro: Metropolitano) from 4-6.30pm, and Wednesdays in Aluche from 8-10pm (Metro:Empalme/Aluche.) But times occasionally change. Check the website. How much? Membership 50 per year or 30 per semester, but free for people who just want to come on Saturdays. Why? “Everyone sees people throwing Frisbees on the beach so they think it’s a walk in the park, but some of the throws are actually a bit tricky to master,” says Ultimate player Justin Palmer. “It’s outdoors with a fun group of people. We work hard to get better on the field, and even harder to have fun off it.” Website: www.losquijotes.es

Roller-blading—Madrid Patina and Roller Madrid What? Two schools in the city that provide classes in groups or individually, and for all levels, ages and styles.

Summer disappointments: white water watching

Photo (CC) flickr: Bengt_E_Nyman

Five great places... to discover the wonder of pedal-power Unicycle? Bicycle? Tricycle? We think you’ll find the following stores “wheely” fantastic

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By Bike City. Situated close to Retiro Park, this place houses countless different types of bicycles, including folding, urban, electric, modern and classic Dutch bikes. They also sell trekking bikes, which are good to go to the office everyday or to escape the city at the weekend. In addition, By Bike City has bags, helmets, saddles and lights and they also offer a service to repair broken bikes or even to convert a normal cycle into an electric one! C/Ibiza, 2 (Metro: Ibiza). Tel: 91 129 27 61. www.bybikecity.com. Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm, 5pm-9pm; Sat, 10am-2pm.

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El Caballo de Acero. This is one of the oldest and most famous bicycle shops in Madrid. El Caballo de Acero opened in 1920, just in front of the wonderful Retiro Park. Since then, this establishment has had a large selection of bicycles: town bikes, mountain bikes, tricycles and tandems, and a wide range of brands and sizes (for adults and kids). In addition, they offer accessories for cycling and also operate as a bicycle repair shop. C/O’Donnell, 7 (Metro: Principe de Vergara). Tel: 91 435 89 71. Mon-Fri, 10am-1.30pm, 4.30-8.30pm; Sat, 10am-2pm. T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY

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Chopper Monster. In the very heart of Malasaña, in what was an old jewellery establishment, this shop has been trading since 2005. There’s an authentic Rock & Roll atmosphere, created because this store specialises not only in eye-catching classic ‘70s chopper bicycles, but also in custom, lowrider and cruiser bikes to parade around the city. They sell clothes, shoes, accessories (for bikes and for people), miniatures, and rock and punk vinyls too. C/Corredera Alta de San Pablo, 21 (Metro: Tribunal). Tel: 91 445 84 34. www.choppermonster.com. Mon-Sat, 11am-2pm, 5pm-9pm. W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

By Camino Martínez

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In Bicycle We Trust. A centre where people can find a wide range of electric bicycles (which have a small motor incorporated so that you don’t have to make a big effort pedalling). They have electric mountain bikes, folding bikes and even tandems, but all of them are environmentally-friendly. Before buying, the customer can test ride the bike in the nearby Retiro Park, to be confident about his/her selection. Downstairs, they have all kinds of accessories to customise and personalise your bike. C/Antonio Acuña, 12 (Metro: Principe de Vergara). Tel: 91 435 01 40. www.inbicyclewetrust.com. Mon-Fri, 9.30am-2pm, 4.30-8.30pm; Sat, 10am-2pm.

5

Mammoth. One of the most comprehensive bicycle shops in Madrid. In addition to many types of bikes—mountain, city, for women, for children, etc.—they sell absolutely everything for the needs of cyclists: clothes, footwear, sunglasses, food, bike accessories and even books and DVDs related to cycling. Don’t overlook the shop’s outlet area which contains lots of interesting bargains. C/Fuente del Berro, 9 (Metro: Manuel Becerra). Tel: 91 309 32 59. www.mammoth.es. Mon-Wed, Fri, 10.30am-8.30pm; Thurs, 10.30am-9.30pm; Sat: 10.30am-2pm. JUNE 2011

7


Charity shop blues The UK boasts a buoyant second-hand market sector, led by charity shops. Lauren Moment-Walker wonders if the same can be found in Madrid

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ver fancy a good old rummage, but El Rastro just doesn’t quite work for you? Or perhaps you want to look for something a bit “different”, at a very competitive price, but the high street shops in Madrid don’t hit the mark? Under those circumstances, you’re probably used to the charity shops (or thrift stores as they’re often known in the USA) that fill many UK town centres. Having become such an integral part of the UK’s shopping culture, it’s noticeable that there seems to be a

furnishings, ornaments, and bric-a-brac. In fact, almost anything, but nearly all stock is second-hand, donated by people who no longer want or need the items. All donations have to be in good condition and suitable for re-sale. The shops are extremely popular, and have more or less eradicated the stigma that was once attached to buying second-hand goods. In Madrid, the situation isn’t remotely similar. There are a few “second-hand” stores, but these invariably translate into “vintage” or “fair trade”, and products carry appropriate price tags. Also, with vintage clothes shops, the money does not usually go to a good cause.

Not keen When I bring up the topic with some madrileños, it becomes clear that the stigma that once existed in the UK is still very much attached to the second-hand goods culture here. Responses vary from “Why would you want to buy something which someone else has already used?” to “Second-hand clothes? No way, I would never be able to wear something someone else has worn before me!” “What if it’s for a charity?” is my next question, the answers to which tell me that madrileños would rather give a donation directly instead of actually buying anything from a shop. It quickly becomes apparent that people in Madrid aren’t exactly mad about secondhand goods. It seems more than acceptable to share with generations of cousins and family members, but definitely not with strangers. Charity is also often seen as a matter for the Church and the State, rather than the individual. It looks like charity shops, as we nonmadrileños know them, would have a tough time here.

Now open distinct lack of them around the streets of Madrid. For those unfamiliar with British shopping, any main street in any city or town is usually home to numerous charity shops run by charitable organizations. The most popular include Oxfam, the British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research, and Help the Aged. These shops sell clothing, books, CDs, DVDs,

In order to find out more, I meet with Evanina Makow, the manager of DEBRA (Asociación de Epidermolisis Bullosa de España), which opened a charity shop in Madrid’s Alcala Norté shopping centre last year. (See www.debra.es or www.midesvan.org). Following her experience with DEBRA’s other shop in Marbella, Evanina states that the biggest challenge is to change

the Spanish mentality. “It’s about making them [charity shops] part of the Spanish culture. And not just buying in charity shops but also volunteering to help in them. Madrileños need to see that the goods are not dirty or in poor condition, in fact the majority are actually almost new. Also, if they really don’t want to buy anything then hopefully people will start to think of the shops as a place to donate things.”

Away with you You may be wondering what people do in the city with the things which they no longer require. According to Evanina, “It is common in Spain to donate the things you no longer need to the Church in order to recycle them. However, recently churches have been unable to accept more donations as they are completely overloaded with goods. Therefore, there is a serious need for charity and second-hand stores in Madrid and all over Spain.” Another option, but only for clothes, is to leave them in the contenedores (large, sealed, official skips) which are located throughout the city, although there currently seems to be a lot of debate about where these second-hand goods actually end up, and if they do benefit people in need. Moreover, leaving clothes in a metal container doesn’t quite leave you with the same feeling of “doing good” as taking them to a registered charity shop, where you know the funds will go to a good cause.

Welcome ladies Of course, if you’re really missing your charity shop buzz, then the British Ladies Association can always be relied upon. They operate a small charity warehouse, located at Nave 8, C/Bruselas, 21, (distinguished by a turquoise door) in the Europolis shopping area in Las Rosas. It’s open every Thursday, and the first Saturday of the month, from 11am to 3pm. Not an easy find, but buses 625, 627 and 629 from Moncloa all stop nearby. You can always donate too. Clothes, DVDs, books, and maybe at last a chance to find a new home for that enormous woolly scarf your Aunt Gladys knitted for you.

Moon Dance has its stars The Compañía de Danza Luna is a special performance group in Madrid, as Andrea Maltman discovers when she experiences one of its shows

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hen the opportunity to visit a dance company presents itself, I jump at the chance and indulge my mind in a little session of free association: dance equals supple bodies, grace, poise and perfection. So, when the interview with Almudena Santos, the company director and choreographer, kicks off with the line “I don’t believe in perfection, I believe in imperfection”, I’m sure I’ll be forgiven for thinking that either the woman is in the wrong job, or I am in the wrong place. But judging by the knowing smile and altruistic energy that crackles around Almudena, she isn’t in the wrong job at all. After all, this isn’t the salacious world of dance as we have seen through films like Black Swan and its like, but rather a dance company whose performers all suffer from mental disabilities and their associated symptoms. Those notions of symmetry, grace and perfection take second place to the realities of psychosis, Downs syndrome and autism.

Emotional steps Compañía de Danza Luna (Moon Dance Company) is director Amludena’s project and passion, one that was born from her day job as an occupational therapist with Enabling Services. Its very existence serves to smash many of the misconceptions that surround people with mental disabilities: the idea that life’s sensory pleasures are beyond their reach and they don’t enjoy intimacy, sex, romance or, in this case, the ability to create and appreciate art. “You have to realise that we’re dealing with people who are not encouraged to be in touch with emotions and fluid social

8

JUNE 2011

interaction on a daily basis,” Almudena reveals, “when I work with these dancers the stage becomes a metaphor for their lives and the skills or emotions that they learn there can provide them with a minimal level of acceptance outside.”

Action and reaction Acceptance really is a key word because, in all honesty, the challenge of being able to inspire performers with mental disabilities pales in comparison with that of having them accepted by the viewing public. People can be cruel, people can be ignorant, and people can be afraid of anything with which they’re unfamiliar, so the success of Almudena’s shows is as much in the public’s hands as it is her own. This fact makes for a nervous atmosphere as I settle in with the other theatre-goers to see exactly how well this fantastic idea translates into the reality of a flesh-and-blood audience. What if someone laughs? Or gets up and leaves mid-performance? It’s one of those situations where there is a hysterical weight of politically correct expectation that can impede natural behaviour and reactions.

In the spotlight Fortunately, the dancers don’t have any such hang ups. When they take to the stage they are the epitome of calm and it’s ironic that the audience is the only place where there are any signs of tension. The performers move their imperfect bodies to music, in a shambolic yet inspirational show of separate

W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

Photo: Aydee G Moreno

togetherness. You have to really work hard to concentrate on the variety of emotions on display, as each person isn’t dancing so much as expelling a lifetime of frustrations. At one point, the leader forgets his steps and gives himself a thorough whack on the head as if to say “How could you get that wrong!” and we laugh, not to be cruel but because it’s genuinely funny and that’s what we should be doing. When the lights come up I have to take my hat off to Almudena and recognise her two big successes: the ability to put on a damn good show and helping her performers to be defined by something other than their disability, even if it is just for one night. Next production: Compañia de Danza Luna will present Cabaret...y otras cosas, on Sunday 5 June, 6.30pm, at the Espacio EducArte, Camino de las Huertas, 19, Pozuelo de Alarcón. Tickets 8 from the theatre box office, or book ahead on 91 799 13 02 or 619 200 417. T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY


Saved from a dog’s life Have you ever wondered what happens if a four-legged friend is abandoned in Madrid? Paula Altares Serrano visits a charity that tries to take care of cast-out canines

e Turín

Photo: Paula Altares Serrano

very weekend in a secret location close to a village in the south of Madrid, PROA (an abbreviation, hugely appreciated, of Asociacion para la Defensa y Proteccion de Animales, Plantas y Medio Ambiente) comes to life as it welcomes volunteers to help with tasks and chores such as taking sponsored pets for a walk, cleaning and maintenance. The secrecy is necessary for security, and not even the website for this independent non-governmental association details its whereabouts. The objective, however, is clear—to look after dogs and cats that have been abandoned in and around Madrid. Behind PROA’s walls and fences you’ll find not just the animals, but the stories they carry with them, which can encompass startling acts of human cruelty and remarkable animal survival and recuperation. There’s Turín, abandoned as a puppy with his five brothers, all of whom were found living in a canal pipe, or Kenzo, who was rescued on the M40, where his canine colleague had been hit and killed by a car just a few metres in front of his eyes. Both dogs are now fit, healthy and loved.

Following leads The Association was created in 1982, and has been in its current location since 1996. Due to its humble size and financing, throughout its existence PROA has always faced difficult times, particularly when it received more abandoned animals than it could cope with. As a result of publicising the problem, the situation was eased by several animal associations from the rest of Europe, especially

Germany and Switzerland, which started a collaboration that has lasted until today. The agreement involves help with materials and finance, and the transfer of dogs and cats, if the need arises, from PROA to these other associations, where the animals have more opportunities to find a better future and a family to care for them long term. The charity feels lucky to have this collaboration, but even so it’s still modest.

Money matters PROA only rents its current premises. There’s a limited water supply each week, and it depends on the generosity of pet food manufacturers to feed its animals. It receives a small amount of help from the authorities, but the most important assistance comes from its members and partners—people who donate money every month in order to help keep the project operating. In addition to weekend volunteers, PROA also welcomes people interested in adoption, who come to see the animals and discuss the responsibilities with the coordinator. Twice a year markets and group walks are held for fundraising,, enjoyed by people and animals alike. The necessity has always been to make sure the animals live comfortably and offer them a second opportunity. It’s just one of many charities, big and small, in the Madrid region, which looks to cater for the needs of discarded, homeless pets. For further details, check out the website www.proaweb.org.

This is a great world; I just can’t let it pass me by, wherever I am.”

VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT WHOLE FOOD

To get a real picture of life with PROA, what better than to chat to one of its residents—Enka, a female mongrel awaiting adoption. “But dogs can’t talk!” you cry. True, but there’s an art to interpreting those canine eyes and facial expressions and, including Enka’s opening comment above, Paula Altares Serrano thinks she’s got the words about right.

Ventura de la Vega, 4 (In front of “las Cortes”) Tel: 91 429 50 92 Tres Cruces, 4 (Metro: Sol) Tel: 91 521 87 21

You have part of one ear missing—what’s the story? Actually, it’s not my favourite story: I was bitten by another dog—totally took me by surprise! But that’s life! Now I see it as something that belongs to me: makes me unique!

LA TABERNA CHICA

So what’s your daily life like in PROA? Well, during the week there’s always a worker taking care of us. It’s calmer. But Saturdays and Sundays are the best—all excitement and action. It’s really cool to get friends to visit and have some fun with them. Do you get along well with your dog mates? Just between you and me, obviously by being a female dog, I’m a bitch, but I’m also the boss! I get along well with most of the males, as long as they don’t try to dominate. Of course, as a born leader, I always try to take care of my partners, to be an example to them, and they usually follow my lead. And the females? I don’t trust them that much—I always want to rule!

VINOS, TAPAS, COCKTAILS & LOUNGE MUSIC FABULOUS CAIPIRINHAS

Favourite things? To be honest—cats. They’re so funny. They think they’re superior. Ha! I also enjoy high jumping, so don’t be surprised if you see me leaping over a two metre fence. It’s not very normal, but that’s me, I’m original. And there’s a third thing: I like to be aware of everything that happens around me. If something is going on, I must know. That way, I’m ready for anything. How well do you get on with people? I love people! In PROA they are all nice to me, always taking care of me and my mates and giving us attention—they make me feel good. But I’m concerned about people outside who don’t feel the same about us, and I have some mates who could tell you terrifying stories. But do you know what I tell them? They’re better off without people like that. I think it’s better to live here or alone than to suffer with a bad owner. I’m everyone’s best friend, I deserve a good life. Hey, we all do. T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY

Enka

Photo: Paula Altares Serrano

Would you like to say something to the world? We must all enjoy life, and enjoy it with dignity and care; there’s so much to live for. But a few quick words of advice—think before having puppies! I had 11 and the weeks before they were born I ate almost nothing. I couldn’t rest until I saw them born fit and healthy. Eleven! That’s a football team! I love my offspring and I loved being rescued. So, take life as a great prize, don’t get messed up, and my thanks to PROA. W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

c/Costanilla de San Pedro, 7 (Metro: La Latina) JUNE 2011

9


sport

Men in white

Can a traditional English sport flourish on Spanish soil? Mike Swain steps up to the crease for a chat with Madrid Cricket Club

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Photo: (c) Miriam dC.Martin

otwithstanding rain, if you think about a typical British summer you might picture cold cider, strawberries and cream, and cricket. The same thought for Madrid may bring to mind lazy days in the Retiro, siestas—and cricket. Cricket? In Madrid? Innings, overs and lbw may not be vocabulary that you immediately associate with the capital city, but Madrid boasts the oldest cricket club in Spain, and it’s currently pursuing a very active policy to develop the sport throughout the country.

League of nations

Spaniards to take up the sport is one of the club’s main objectives, according to its President, Jonathan Woodward. The club was founded back in 1975, but Woodward was one of three people who gave it a kick-start in 2001, as they looked to build a future for cricket in Spain. “The club has a good social aspect which we hope will encourage the Spanish to take up the sport,” he tells me. “We see the involvement of Spaniards in our club as key to our future and the future of cricket here.” This year, Spanish interest has already grown. One or two Spaniards have participated in the past, but now four are on its books and the league includes an entirely Spanish team, Puerta de Hierro, from the north-west of Madrid.

Madrid Cricket Club’s membership is made up of players from twelve nations. England, Pakistan and India are all represented, and even Italy and Scotland, but encouraging

The way ahead The numbers may seem small, but the overall growth here recently speaks for itself. The league in which Madrid CC compete had eight teams in 2001; now 80 clubs are playing cricket around the country. The Club has 45 members, with a second team underway to accommodate the numbers who want to play, and in addition four new Madrid clubs have been founded in the last 18 months—Alcorcón, Madrid United, Triskels, and Puerta de Hierro. These are big steps in the right direction. As Woodward suggests, the partnership with cricket could have a long and successful innings: “The Spanish National team has some very promising players to follow in the future.” With one eye on building for the years ahead, Madrid CC is beginning to establish its own youth development. This started with a Youth Open Day which was held last month. “This will then progress into a weekly youth programme, by which we hope to nurture and train.” The challenge that the Club faces in making cricket as popular as in England, India or Australia is similar to a big runchase, but it’s something to which the Club is wholly committed, with every member interested in its future.

FIXTURE FIX ■ Compiled by Keith Miles

Football Internationals European Championship 4 June 5.45pm—England v Switzerland 4 June 9.30pm—FYR Macedonia v Rep. Ireland 11-25 June European Under-21 Championship, Denmark 26 June-17 July Women’s World Cup, Germany Friendlies 4 June 10.30pm—USA v Spain 7 June Venezuela v Spain 7 June 8.45pm—Italy v Rep. of Ireland

Culture and change

Tennis

Adam Langhans is an Australian player who had expected to be giving up cricket when he moved to Madrid. “For a noncricket-playing nation there is good growth and the matches

22 May-5 June French Open, Roland Garros 20 June-3 July Wimbledon

F1

Liga Tercera de Aficionados, Grupo 7 Table

12 June 7pm—Canadian GP, Montreal 26 June 2pm—European GP, Valencia

Teams

Bowled over? So how do you become part of the Club, and part of one of Spain’s fastest growing sports? “You simply check our website—www.cricketinmadrid.com—for the next training session, and turn up at 10am!” says Jonathan. There is no consideration of ability, age or gender, so as to make the Club as inviting and enjoyable as possible. Anyone can train and play. “To join the club you need no experience whatsoever. This year alone we have four Spanish nationals that have picked up a bat for the very first time. We can sell whites [playing clothes] to players at a very cheap price but we provide all equipment, so unless you wish to have your own there is no need to purchase anything.” But can cricket really make it over the boundary to become a mainstream sport? “Definitely,” answers the ambitious President, “this is the second most played sport in the world—you can’t pretend a sport like this doesn’t exist. I believe by 2015 the Spanish government will seriously have to contemplate federating cricket in Spain.”

For further details see www.cricketinmadrid.com. The Club is also looking for sponsors; if you or your company are interested, please contact Club President jonathan.woodward@cricketinmadrid.com.

EFL League Table

Matches

Goals

25

2

4

108

34

Atlético Cero

18

52

Golf

2

A.D. COSMOS HURACAN

70 31

22

4

5

84

60

Santana

19

52

16-19 June U.S. Open, Congressional CC

3

SPORTING VALDEBERNARDO-EL BRILLANTE

69 31

22

3

6

78

43

O’Neills United

19

52

4

SPARTAK MADRID C.F.

65 31

20

5

6

85

49

Finbars Celtic

20

40

5

CLUB RIVER VALLECAS

62 30

19

5

6

70

34

FC Copenbadly

20

35

6

C.D. NUEVAS PALOMERAS

58 31

18

4

9

94

55

Atlético Retiro

19

27

7

A.D. VILLAVERDE BAJO

49 31

15

4

12

65

52

8

F C BRITANICO DE MADRID

45 31

13

6

12

64

74

Madrid Reds

20

22

Triathlon

9

C.D. RACING DE MORATALAZ

45 31

14

3

14

64

65

Finbars 67

19

21

4-5 June World Championship Series, Madrid

10

CLUB JUVENTUD ELIPA

44 31

12

8

11

70

59

11

C.D. PALESTRA ATENEA

37 31

10

7

14

67

81

Triskels Tavern

18

24

Kickboxing

12

C.D. AUTOLAVADO DELUXE

31 31

9

4

18

62

66

Madrid Villains

17

21

A.J.D.C. LA MANCHA "B"

30 31

9

3

19

62

99

19

21

18 June 8pm—It’s Showtime, Madrid

13

Studio Banana

14

ESC. FUT. A.V. LA CHIMENEA "B"

28 31

7

7

17

60

95

Barones de la Birra

16

20

15

ABSOLUT SPORT “A”

27 31

7

6

18

61

83

FC Británico

19

19

16

AA.VV. LOS ROSALES

20 31

7

5

19

45

73

Los Lobos

19

17

17

A.D. ESC. BALONMANO VILLAVERDE

10 31

5

5

21

40

94

Moores Tribunal

18

13

18

C.D. SAN CRISTOBAL ANGELES "B"

10 30

3

1

26

32

95

Dirty Sanchez

20

6

10

JUNE 2011

W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

F

C

Pts

77 31

P

Played

G

E.M.F. AGUILAS MORATALAZ "B"

31 May-16 June NBA Finals

E

1st division

J

1

Basketball

Pts

are played in a good spirit and taken seriously,” he says. Whilst the standard is not as high as back in Oz, he admits, “There is a good culture at the club. We’re establishing kids coaching sessions to promote the sport to a new generation of expat youngsters along with local Spanish children.” The first obstacle which has to be overcome is the lack of a cricket ground in Madrid. Currently, the side trains on a rugby pitch and plays its matches in La Manga, on Spain’s south coast. However, it hopes to change this arrangement soon, so that it can play tour matches and host tournaments, much like the Madrid Solidarity Torneo, which was held by Madrid CC in April. This attracted teams from Estonia, the Canary Islands, Britain and Spain, and raised 1,500 for Fundación Theodora (a charity to help children in hospital), as well as raising funds for cricket development in Madrid.

FC Británico Recent Results: 8 May FC Británico 5 CD Racing de Moratalaz 1 15 May Club River Vallecas 1 FC Británico 2

2nd Division

Note re EFL League: EFL Madrid is always recruiting new players to join existing teams. Send an email with the subject “EFL Bosman Board” to lewis.carroll@honeywell.com

T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY


Why did you decide to move to Madrid? I moved to Madrid primarily for work. I had qualified as a lawyer in Ireland during the middle of the recession and so opportunities for newly qualified lawyers were relatively limited. My background from university was Law and Spanish and nd Irela 28, ns, Colli Paul so I decided to Lawyer look to Spain. I concentrated mainly on Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia and was fortunate enough to be offered a job in Madrid. What do you do here? I work as a corporate and commercial lawyer. Our head office is based in London and so there tends to be an international feel to a lot of our work. I generally help advise English-speaking clients looking to invest in Spain or Spanish clients seeking to carry out business overseas whereby English tends to be the language used. How did you get the job? I applied directly to a number of different international firms in Spain, along with some of the larger Spanish firms. I had interviews with a couple of them before being offered a job at my current firm in July 2009. I started in the middle of August 2009 and the past 20 months or so have flown by!

What’s been difficult about moving to/living in Madrid? Madrid is by and large a very easy city to live in. The people are generally very warm and friendly and the city itself is easily navigable. I spoke Spanish before moving over which is obviously a big help when looking for somewhere to live, settling in at work, making new friends, etc. I also knew Madrid fairly well as my brother lived here before and I had visited quite a few times. I would say that the most taxing thing that I’ve faced (outside of work) is the annual declaración de la renta (tax return). Has it worked out as you planned? Yes. I was looking for a new challenge when I moved here and I’ve certainly had that. Outside of work, I’ve made some fantastic friends (and a wonderful girlfriend!) and have really got to know Madrid much better. What are the major differences in work environment/culture compared to home? The working hours are obviously different. Coming from Ireland, I had been used to starting earlier and finishing earlier (unless it was a hectic day in the office). I was also used to having about 30 minutes to grab a sandwich at lunch. Here, the day starts later, can include a two-hour lunch break and then doesn’t tend to finish until after 9pm. It took a while to adapt at the beginning but now it seems completely normal. What are your long term plans? I’m very happy in Madrid for the moment and have no long-term plans as such. Provided that I continue to enjoy the city and there is a role for me in my current firm, I am more than happy to stay put. ■ INTERVIEW BY TOM BURGESS

Welcome to the jungle—in Madrid. This narrow street is found running between Calle del Prado and Antón Martín metro station on Calle de Atocha. It cuts across Calle de las Huertas in Madrid’s Barrio de las Letras, an area brimming with bars and hostels. The name, Lion Street, comes from—wait for it—a lion! That’s right, way back when, an Indian turned up in Madrid with a handsome lion. Decked out in a feathered crest and huge earrings (the lion, that is, not the Indian), he kept it in a wooden cage and made his living charging passers-by to enter his establishment and see his improvised shows with his feline friend. Did this make it a “mane” road, we wonder? The lion and his trainer have long since vanished, and Calle del León is now filled with bars and restaurants ranging from Mexican to Turkish. Not all is lost, however—one or two exotic animals are still digging their claws into the ground. A sports shop named Koala is situated here, complete with windows picturing rugged up koalas in trekking gear, and the elegant blue and white exterior tiles of the Farmacia León show a charming ■ GABRIELLE EASTER King of the Jungle too.

T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY

W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

In conjunction with www.silver-screenspain.com, each month we focus on an English language movie made in the comunidad. Whether you want to follow in the footsteps of the stars or play scene-spotting with a DVD, the clues start here. And...action!

Dracula versus Frankenstein (Los Monstruos del Terror) Release date: 1970 Director: Tulio Demicheli, Hugo Fregonese Stars: Michael Rennie, Karin Dor Long before there was Alien vs Predator or Megashark vs Giant Octopus, there was the original badboy showdown of Dracula vs Frankenstein. However, before getting too excited about the idea of the king of the undead going toe to toe with mankind’s most monstrous creation, be warned that the Spanish title—The Monsters of Terror—is actually more appropriate because, believe it or not, Dracula doesn’t actually battle Frankenstein in this movie at all. In fact, the plot involves aliens invading earth and trying to dominate the human race. They manage to bring a mummy to life, and a werewolf, but the title characters seem pretty elusive. This really has “B-movie” written all over it, and a clearer product of the late sixties/early seventies would be hard to find, with not only mini-skirts and music but lighting so freaky Photo (CC) flickr: aturkus that you become part of the sixties drug culture whether you like it or not. The acting is wooden, the dubbing is bad, the monster make-up looks as though it was bought over a shop counter, and the plot is nonsense. Madrid sadly can’t escape a connection—the current late night goings-on in the Casa de Campo may be scary enough, but in this movie the 1,700 hectares that make up the city’s biggest park feature as one of the battlegrounds for some of the creatures, even if not the named protagonists. San Martín de Valdeiglesias, a town 69km west of Madrid, right at the edge of the Comunidad, was also used to add some Transylvanian flair. In fact, with the exception of a brief stint in Bavaria the majority of the film was shot in locations across Spain, including Barcelona, Segovia and Alicante. In a best case scenario this might add up to a “so bad it’s good” movie, but actually “so bad it’s dull” would be a better description. For film buffs, the movie was written by and starred Paul Naschy, a madrileño actor who portrayed numerous horror film characters throughout his career, to the extent that he was a Spanish Boris Karloff. It was also English actor Michael Rennie’s last film, but he is much better remembered as the man who played Klaatu, an alien, in the classic 1951 sci-fi movie The Day The Earth Stood Still.

JUNE 2011

11


food&drink

From Paneer to Pappadums With a Bollywood festival hitting Lavapiés from 3-5 June, Janel Torkington seeks some vital Indian cooking ingredients in Madrid and relishes some Indian cuisine

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arm up your palate with crunchy pappadums sprinkled with a few drops of the innocentlooking raita, alternately setting your tongue aflame with chili essence and dousing the fire with minced mint. Continue your calisthenics with cubes of salty paneer cheese nestled in a bed of creamy spinach, accompanied by piping hot garlic naan. Are you going to want that Rogan Josh curry picante or muy muy picante? Live a little, and know that relief will soon come in the form of sticky-sweet mango flesh blended smooth into the cool tang of a fresh yoghurt lassi. Today, we talk Indian eats.

locating the right combination of complex elements is also going to be essential. As usual, InMadrid has been on the case—you can thank us later—and has compiled a series of strategies for putting together the Indian feast you’ve been craving.

Photo (CC) flickr: kirti_poddar

Cheese please

A favourite Indian element is the ubiquitous fresh white cheese, often found crumbled or cubed throughout dishes like the creamy spinach palak paneer. Its sponge-like texture and mildly salty taste are unmistakable, and we haven’t as yet been able to locate it in any madrileño market. There are two options here; the first is to pour buttermilk into twice as much boiling whole milk, separating the curds from the whey in an acidic reaction, squeezing out the liquid, and refrigerating your homemade cheese overnight to paneer perfection. Should being up to your ears in curds sound appealing—hey, different strokes for different folks—we highly recommend this do-it-yourself option. However, a second secret alternative for the shortcut-inclined: tubs of queso burgos, available at absolutely any mercado. It’s far from authentic, but the textural character is quite similar to true paneer, and will save you hours should you not feel up to the boiling/straining/cooling process.

Spice of life The best area of the city to go trawling for Indian ingredients is Lavapiés, bar none. This well-known bohemian barrio is home to

Regional differences The expanse of Indian cuisine matches the size of the country itself; dishes foreigners might lump together under a single heading are actually particular to specific regions, their variety often dependent on what ingredients are most available locally. A wellknown schism is between the school of vegetarianism versus non-vegetarianism, a variation both in terms of region and individual choice. Conveniently, for dinner parties including both veggie

Hot Spot

BollyMadrid

Photo (CC) flickr: kimubert

and non-veggie guests, both meat- and vegetable-based dishes are well-represented and legitimate. What denotes a dish as “Indian” to the palate usually has to do with specific spice blends, of which there is an almost infinite variety. The presentation of dishes is often a multi-step process as well, frequently including an impressive array of sides, sauces, and accompaniments. For the aspiring chutney chef here in Madrid,

¡Pour favor! What’s that? A Spanish table white not made from viura, verdejo, or albariño? Indeed, though given that Penedés is 45 minutes outside Barcelona, the use of all foreign varietals shouldn’t come as too much of a shock. The Penedés is largely known for cava, Spain’s famous sparkling wine. However, several producers also make fine still wines, as does Gramona, one of the last family-owned cava producers. Existing among coastal foothills and protected from continental winds by the Montserrat mountains, the mediterranean air forms a multitude of microclimates within the region, where limestone, sand, and clay soils are all present. In Saint Sadurní D’Anoia the people at Gramona seemed to find their vineyards suitable for making a very interesting blend of

Photo: Sikta Devi

one of the city’s highest concentrations of Indian immigrants; little wonder that almost any alimentación you might duck into here stocks a curry powder or two. Alimentación Euro Asia (C/Argumosa, 3) is one of the best, offering an excellent selection of garam masalas, a spice mix used to flavour curries that includes a combination of spices like cumin, cinnamon, peppercorns, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, star anise, mace, and coriander seeds. These pre-made mixes are marvellous for the sake of convenience, but if you’ve got a mortar and pestle handy, picking up unground cinnamon sticks and peppercorns and getting your grind on will inevitably result in a much stronger spice bang for your money. Just up the road, the descriptively-named Frutas y Verduras (C/Lavapiés, 29) stocks ripe-and-ready mangoes alongside heaps of cilantro and glistening chilies, all awaiting the saucepan and just a touch of tamarind to be transformed into the best chutney you’ve ever had. Of course, should you run short on prep time for your Indian shindig, pre-made spiced sauce glory is also available here in varied glass jars lining the walls. Basmati rice makes an appearance too; its long dry grains are perfect for soaking up the cumin-coconut milk-tomato sauce of your next aloo gobi.

What to drink this month some pretty disparate grapes. Here’s what we found: Appearance Light, straw-coloured yellow like most fresh, unoaked whites. Aroma An intense, fruits-dominant bouquet: peaches, apples, pineapples. The sweeter fruits come from the muscat grapes, while a tart, Granny Smith aroma is surely from the sauvignon. There’s a warmer sweetness beneath, like macadamia nut cookies, and there is a certain floral aroma like magnolia. The bouquet, then, suggests a detectable sweetness... Taste ...which, if your threshold for sugar is low enough, is there. But it’s so minute that it may just be the ripe fruit flavours sought by this particular wine making style. Indeed, the varietals alone tell you that the winemakers wanted to marry the bright, sweet fruit

Naan, the beloved bubbly grilled flatbread best employed as an edible utensil for hot curries, can also be constructed in your kitchen. Putting together the dough itself requires little more than normal flour and yeast found just about anywhere, plus a little time to let it rise and develop texture and flavour. However, those charred bubbles so characteristic of the bread are a result of exposure to some seriously high temperatures in a tandoor, the Indian oven also famous for extended roasting of the chicken dish bearing its name. A tandoor you may lack, but fear not—you don’t even need an oven. Your stovetop will do here; crank the heat on your thickestbottomed dish, slap down a dough disc, and get ready for your house to smell like heaven. Naan made this way won’t reach quite the crispiness that an 800°C tandoor can inspire, but it’s a more than acceptable alternative.

Fill your cupboards Those looking for an even more immersive Indian experience should pay a visit to BollyMadrid 2011, the annual weekend festival celebrating Bollywood and Indian culture. The event is free, and takes place in Lavapiés over the course of 3-5 June. In addition to what will no doubt be spectacular dance shows including well over 150 performers, the Jornadas Gastronomias will descend upon the area, offering an enormous variety of Indian specialities from just one euro apiece. In Plaza de La Corrala, the Mercado de la India will offer imported ingredients alongside special clothes and handmade goods, as well as workshops and dance lessons. See www.bollymadrid.com for details.

2009 Gessamí Gramona DO: Penedés. 50% Muscat d’Alexandria, 20% Muscat Frontignan, 25% Sauvignon Blanc and 5% Gewurztraminer. 11.5% ABV. Available from Vinarium: €6.50

flavours of muscat grapes with the tart acidity of sauvignon blanc. And they succeeded. On the palate this wine is dry, fruity, crisp, and refreshing. It’s medium to full bodied, and has a welcome long mineral finish down the throat with white pepper and dried herb flavours. But those come on only after fruits like apple and kiwi fill your mouth by a wine that can be described as broad on the tongue. The acidity is high and the flavours are quite well-balanced, preventing it from tasting too fruity, minerally, or herbaceous. Try it with Lots of things! While not a medal winner on its own, this wine goes surprisingly well with most food. The sweet fruit flavours perfectly match most spicy dishes (and so would go swimmingly with asian cuisine) while the acidity enables it to stand up to meats and fatty fish, cutting through grease and generally heartier fare to cleanse and refresh the

palate. We poured it with spicy chicken and sausage pizza and were thrilled, then imagined it with all forms of seafood, as well as fresh cheeses like chevre. Final thoughts For €6.50, this bottle is great value. It’s interesting blend of flavours and textures keep you entertained without confounding and tiring. You can taste like a sommelier or sip like you’re on a terraza at 1am with your friends. It’s a welcome break from the proliferation of domestic varietals, and as stated above, it soars with food. Full of texture, flavour, and structure this has what wines ought to have— character. And we suspect it could even weather several years of cellaring if one were so inclined. It’s a fruit forward wine in keeping with the general trend of contemporary wine styles, and with a taste one can see just why that is. ■ THOMAS SPAETH

(Yes, this ad is upside down on purpose!M)

Oriental tea house Arabic cuisine and cakes –Delicious Couscous– Tues-Sat, evenings: belly dancing Classes: belly dancing Arabic percussion Poetry circle– –P c/Martín de los Heros, 28. Tel: 91 559 57 85

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food&drink

Thank God it’s here! TGI Friday’s is celebrating 45 years in the restaurant business. Tim Inkling samples its latest delights at its newest Madrid branch

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t has been a very long morning. You know the ones. One phone call after another, emails arriving like confetti from the heavens, and paperwork stacking up like a gate post. Relaxation is needed, and not every lunch break finds it. However, as my partner and I are seated at TGI Friday’s, there is an immediate release from the stress of work, primarily due to our waitress. She’s wearing a

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wonderful hat, which looks like a large tucan sitting on her head, with its spindly woollen legs dangling down over her shoulders. She smiles. We smile. And suddenly work is forgotten. It turns out that all the staff are wearing hats as part of a team-building exercise. The emphasis is on fun, and it’s a business policy that has served Friday’s well throughout its 45 years in what’s known to be one of the most difficult and competitive business sectors. Cheerful and attentive staff invariably make for happy and loyal customers, and are as much a part of an eating experience as the food. We opt to share starters—Sesame Jack Daniel’s Strips (chicken coated with Japanese bread and glazed with Friday’s special Jack Daniel’s sauce), and a Nacho Combination—each of the nachos individually topped with either cheese, chicken or meat, with jalapeno chillies, guacamole and sour cream. What becomes apparent is that the pride here is flavour and presentation, and it dispels our expectations about franchise fare only being standard. The Strips are crisp, yet melt with ease in the mouth, whilst the chillies and sauces with the nachos have just the right balance of “kick” and “calm”. The Friday’s branch, in Azca, is the newest addition to its Madrid expansion. The decor is very much Friday’s American style, but not overdone, with many items apparently serving a purpose. Rowing paraphernalia is key to the afore-mentioned teamwork, and in every Friday’s you’ll find a propeller over the bar, as the area is considered the engine for keeping any branch flying high. A wall of 70s and 80s album covers has a great curiosity value, and scanning it derives a pleasure rather like going through someone else’s record collection. For the main course I opt for Lemon Chicken, a succulent breast macerated in lemon, and served with puréed potato and fresh broccoli. The reward is that not only does the chicken hold a fine flavour, but the vegetables equally carry the same. My partner, having been entranced by the Jack Daniel’s Strips, chooses the Jack Daniel’s Glazed Ribs. There’s a unique Cajunstyle taste to these also, as satisfying as the ease with which the meat separates from the bone. Although we are here for lunch, Friday’s have taken initiatives to draw in the evening and weekend clients. Happy Hour

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is in place Monday to Friday from 5pm to 9pm, an hour later than most other bars, when there’s 50 per cent off cocktails, beers, smoothies and flings, and from 9pm on Saturdays in June the Azca restaurant will host live music. Upstairs, a smaller seating area, equally adorned with Americana, can host private parties or business meetings alike. Even though we’re visiting outside Happy Hour, glancing at the cocktail menu we decide two classic mojitos (bacardi, lime, fresh mint, brown sugar and soda) would prepare us well for the afternoon ahead. We also have some fun with the menu facts—do you know that tequila is distilled from the aloe plant, and takes eight years to reach the necessary level of maturity? You do now! To finish, we’ve just left enough room for dessert; “Oreo Madness” is my choice—Oreo cookies, but much bigger, filled with ice cream and covered in a rich hot caramel sauce. My only criticism is that “Oreo Heaven” might be a better name. For my partner, it’s a “Pie in the Sky”—white and dark chocolate cake with nuts, on a bed of vanilla ice cream, hot chocolate and caramel, with whipped cream. We indulge; there is no other appropriate verb. Overall, the meal is outstanding, and is combined with an attentive service that’s sometimes not easy to find in the capital. It’s also an escape, where the decor, the food and the ambience are enough to free your mind from the rigours of the day. Friday’s has clearly been doing something right for the last 45 years, and from our experience it still is.

TGI Friday’s, Plaza Carlos Trías Bertrñan, s/n, off Avenida de General Perón (Metro: Santiago Bernabéu). Mon-Sun, 1pm-3am. Three course lunch menu (Mon-Fri, 1-4.30pm) 12.95 or 13.95. A la carte averages 30-40 per person. Branches also at C/Concha Espina, 2 and GranVía, 76.

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Month Ahead art

Pi CK

■ BY ELENA RODEMANN

o’ the month

Antonio López Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza Po del Prado, 8 (Metro: Banco de España). Tel: 91 369 01 51. Tues-Sun 10am-7pm. General admission €8, students €5.50. The essence of the ordinary is what this pioneer in the Spanish realist movement seeks to capture through his paintings. A local artist, López painted images of Madrid during the 1960s and 70s, and this exhibition shows a variety of drawings, sculptures and oil paintings reflecting his favourite themes: the human figure, landscapes, urban life (of Madrid) and still life compositions of fruit. The majority of López’s work depicts everyday people and objects, capturing detail and finesse, and his devotion to the mundane enables him to bring the viewer’s attention to simple forms. As he is not prolific, he has had few sole exhibitions, but he can claim several successful shows in New York. López has won numerous awards, such as the Medalla de Oro from Castilla-La Mancha and Comunidad de Madrid (1986 and 1990 respectively) and the Velazquez prize for Fine Arts (2006). In 2004 he was made an honorary member of the Academy of Arts and Letters, New York. His panoramic views of Madrid, such as Gran Via (1974-81), are particularly noteworthy. From 28 Jun-25 Sept. Madrid desde Torres Blancas, 1976-1982

Centro de Arte Reina Sofía C/Santa Isabel, 52 (Metro: Atocha). Tel: 91 774 10 00. Mon-Sat, 10am-9pm; Tue, closed; Sun, 10am-2.30pm. General admission €6, temporary exhibition €3. Free Mon; Wed-Fri, 7-9pm; Sat, 2.309pm; Sun, 10am-2.30pm. Leon Golub. Blurring the lines between guilt and innocence, Golub forces the viewer to witness violence and assume some type of active reaction to it. The problem with contemporary art, he believed, was that it eliminated the spectator’s sense of accountability and responsibility in the face of horrific instances such as the Vietnam War, corporate imperialism, and apartheid. He stated that his work is “an invitation to a place where no one wants to be.” Until 12 Sept.

working anonymously and producing so-called “documents for artists”: landscapes, portraits or generic scenes which were then later used by others. It was only when Atget began to focus his work on Paris that institutions such as the Musée Carnavalet started to appreciate his talent. This exhibition has 228 images which portray the city of Paris and its suburbs between 1889 and 1924, and which as a whole illustrate the clear evolution of the French photographer’s career. The exhibition is made up of 12 sections which follow different themes including trades, streets, ornaments, interiors, cars and gardens. Until 27 Aug.

Other galleries Cannes Cinema. This exhibition is organized by Fnac España, Phaidon and Cahiers du Cinéma, and traces the history of the famous festival as seen by four generations of photographers. The artists are all members of the Traverso family, known for socialising with people such as Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, and Robert de Niro. Fnac Plaza Norte. Av. del Juncal 15-17, San Sebastián de los Reyes. Tel: 902 100 632. Mon-Sat, 10am-10pm. Free. Until 14 Jun.

Joan Crisol: Blind. Part of the Madrid Gay Pride festival, which supports and raises awareness for the LGBT community, Joan Crisol is one of the best photographers of homoerotic themes and has been published in magazines such as Rolling Stone, ZERO, and Interviú. These photographs show the extremely intimate and sensual sides of the gymnast David Pereira and will certainly heat up the room. Galería Dionis Bennassar, C/San Lorenzo, 15 (Metro: Tribunal/Chueca). Tel: 91 319 69 72. Tues-Fri, 10am-2pm, 4-8pm; Sat, 10am-2pm. Free. 28 Jun-2 Jul.

Antonio López

and perceived. New emerging artists join forces to expend on this singular theme, both in its physical and philosophical form. Due to its tight links to connection or connectivity, they explore the intricacy of touch and contact, and how it always changes and travels, obliterating frontiers and somehow never truly returning to its point of origin. Participating artists include Alfonso Aguirre, Marta Beltrán, Soledad Fernandez, Daniel Garba and Marta Morales. (Jerome Apolda) Galería La Cajita del Arte, C/Valverde, 41 (Metro: Gran Vía). Tel: 622 736 147. From 16 Jun until 9 Jul.

Desnudes With an eye-catching title (Nudes), this is the first exhibition for English artist Holly Albert, showing both her drawings and sculptures. Holly has been living in Madrid since 2003, and her work is an exciting mix of fine lines and bold shadows. She has a keen eye for capturing the human form, whether created with pen and ink or crafted from copper wire. El Cuarto de Invitados, Galería Rina Bouwen, C/Augusto Figueroa, 17, 3° (Metro: Chueca). Tel: 91 522 29 89. Tues-Fri, 11am-8.30pm; Sat, 12am-2pm. From 3 Jun until 15 Jul.

Cosmos Handcrafted jewellery by designers Ana and Natalia Arambarri and stunning hats by Candela Cort have been photographed by Ricardo Santoja. It’s a great match since the photographer’s technique is described as “drawing with a camera”, which blends perfectly with the work of both designers. The cosmos is the inspiration for this exhibition, playing on the idea of an endless universe, the mystery of which makes us dream. Atelier Arambarri, C/Arrieta, 11, Bajo I (Metro: Ópera). Tel: 91 541 90 19. Until 30 Sept.

Fundación Mapfre Paseo de Recoletos, 23 (Metro: Colón/Banco de España) Tel: 91 581 61 00. Mon, 2-8pm; Tue-Sat, 10am-8pm; Sun, 10am2.30pm. Free. Eugéne Atget, El Viejo París In his early years Eugene Atget was a commercial photographer,

New Art: Contact Discovering new talent is always a thrill, and this exhibition brings together not one, not two, but nine talented artists. Contact invites visitors to wonder about all the different ways that touch can be interpreted Arnold Schwarzenegger

theatre

■ BY MATTEA CUSSEL

dance

■ BY MATTEA CUSSEL

Corral de la Morería Titirimundi The Centro Dramático Nacional brings a handpicked selection of puppet shows from Titirimundi, the International Festival of Puppet Theatre in Segovia. This year the festival turns 25 and over the last quarter century it has become one of the foremost international gatherings for puppet, shadow, object and circus theatre. Our pick of the picks is L’école des ventriloques (School of the Ventriloquists), a montage which borders on laughter and human tragedy, spiraling into the grotesque. Teatro Valle-Inclán, Plaza de Lavapiés (Metro: Lavapiés). Tel: 91 505 88 01. Tickets (www.servicaixa.com) 17. See cdn.mcu.es/index for full programme. Until 19 Jun.

Ya Llegan los Personajes Humour, among other things, is a social and cultural tool, a creator of new realities; it can shatter expectations and transform situations. This is the latest theme of In-Presentables at La Casa Encendida, where performer, choreographer and director Juan Dominguez presents concept and performance in Ya Llegan los Personajes (The Characters are Arriving). La Casa Encendida, Ronda de Valencia, 2 (Metro: Embajadores). Tel: 91 523 57 71. Fri-Sat, 10pm. 10-11 Jun.

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Enric Magoo

Magia Potagia Professor of magic, Juan Tamariz takes to the stage for a limited season with Magia Potagia, promising to baffle even the most sceptical of audiences. If you think that you have seen every trick in the world of illusions, hold your tongue until you catch this world famous Spanish magician in the act. He is the esteemed creator of a mnemonic shuffle, an ordination of a deck of cards which is considered by many in his field to be the finest in existence. The show is part of the Madrid Mágico festival, from the 20 June to 3 July, which includes stars such as David Kaplan and Enric Magoo. Teatro Marquina, C/Prim, 11 (Metro: Banco de España/Chueca). Tel: 91 532 31 86. Tickets (entradas.com) from 25. Thur-Sat, 8.30pm; Sun, 7.30pm. 2-19 Jun. For magic festival see www.madridmagico.es

Festival la Suma Flamenca turns six years old; it’s a brilliant child, bestowing glory on flamenco. Madrid’s streets come to life with the sound of castanets, handclapping and gypsy guitar. Corral de la Morería, the most famous tablao flamenco in the world, hosts a nightly programme of established and up-and-coming flamenco singers, dancers and guitarists. Corral de la Morería, C/Morería, 17 (Metro: Ópera/Sol). Tel: 91 365 84 46. Tickets (www.corraldelamoreria.com) 40-43. MonSun, 10pm and 12pm. 9 Jun-2 Jul.

Plaza de Colón. Flamenco, classical ballet and contemporary dance coexist, and look out for the Koresh Dance Company from Philidelphia, a fundamental driving force in the dance universe, famous for its scenic presence and energetic style. Teatro Fernán Gómez, Plaza de Colón, 4 (Metro: Colón). Tel: 91 436 25 40. Tickets (telentrada.com) 8-16. See teatrofernangomez.esmadrid.com for full programme. 1 Jun-3 Jul.

El Cascanueces The Nutcracker, one of Tchaikosky’s most popular ballets, takes us pirouetting back to our childhood, that unforgettable time when toys were an indispensible fact of life. Written and directed by María Graciani, one of the founders of Ballet Madrid, this version introduces two elements bound to spark revolution in classical dance circles: the spoken word and animation. Teatro Nuevo Apolo, Plaza Tirso de Molina, 1 (Metro: Tirso de Molina). Tel: 913 690 637. Tickets (entradas.com) 16. WedThur, 8.30 pm; Fri, 9pm; Sat, 7pm and 10.30pm; Sun, 7pm. 1-26 Jun.

Danza en la Villa During the month of June, Teatro Fernán Gómez becomes the summer residence of assorted choreographic expressions, both home grown and from abroad. The programme also offers Descubriendo la danza (Discovering Dance), under the sun and free of charge in neighbouring W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

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On the word game Just how seductive is poetry? Would you pay for the pleasure of voluptuous vocabulary? Raven Keller ventures into a New York Poetry Brothel, and wonders if Madrid is ready for the same thrill

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ight is upon the city and the chaos of daytime commuting has been replaced by the banter of bar-hopping and post-dinner taxi jams. You duck out of the damp and crowded streets and into a bar called The Back Door. A plump man in a cutaway and a top hat smiles at you through his round Victorian spectacles and makes you an offer—a fixed price for admission to the Poetry Brothel. It seems a small fee for the pleasure of limitless opportunities to engage privately with the venue’s poetic whores. You accept.

Meeting The Madame Sauntering across the room, clutching a gin and tonic, you feed on flirtatious glances from men in coat tails and women in deep-necked dresses who are fanning themselves with bound leaves of rhymes and rhythms. You are especially intrigued by the curly-haired gentleman with the tuxedo and the black eye patch who they call Tennessee Pink. He tells you that he was one of the founders of this establishment and leads you by the hand to meet The Madame. Under a canopy of velvet sits a blue-eyed redhead with thin eyebrows and an upturned chin. She leans confidently towards an attentive young couple and allows metaphoric language to flow like nectar from her tongue. The Madame, as she is known on dreamy evenings in pop-up New York City brothels such as this one, was born Stephanie Berger. While in a graduate creative writing programme at New York University she befriended a Mr. Nicholas Adamski, who shared her fondness for poetry and old-time aesthetics. In early 2007, while Berger was in her second year of graduate school, they began imagining ways to increase the allure of poetry reading in New York City. They wanted something beautiful and strange that would reflect their poetry and they wanted something intimate so that listeners would develop a personal affection for their words. Berger’s father, who was born in New York City in 1926, had recently passed away, yet Stephanie found inspiration in coming to terms with his death. “The mysteries left behind about his life, his writing, his music, sent me into the past to make sense of it all. I became intensely fascinated by the history of New York [and] the history of Jazz, which ultimately sent me into brothels.” Together, she and Adamski re-imagined the early 20th century brothels by replacing the

The Opium Eater

Photo: Chris Cardinale

draw of fornication with the pull of poetry recitation; a place where physical intimacy would be replaced with the emotional intimacy of poetic language.

Opening lines The pair developed the idea and organised their first event at The Living Theatre, where Berger had been doing volunteer work. They took out an ad in one of New York’s independent news magazines, the Village Voice, that made a promise of a free whisky shot with purchase of admission. However, upon seeing the ad, The Living Theatre became fearful that its lack of a liquor license would cause legal problems, so within 48 hours of the show, the venue cancelled. Berger and Adamski scrambled to reorganize the event, but there was little time to confirm a location and advertise the changes. On the night for which the original show had been scheduled, they stood outside The Living Theatre and collected people who hadn’t heard about the cancellation. The pair then led their guests to a nearby bar that was fortunately willing to accommodate the show at such short notice. When the brothel group arrived, however, the bar was packed with dancing patrons and its host knew nothing of the poetry event. Berger remembers, “There was a DJ spinning funky, soulful house music and we basically convinced him—without the help of the management—to introduce us to the crowd and let us read poems in between songs, or over songs. It was ridiculous. People loved it though!” In response to the show’s incredible success, Berger and Adamski began hosting regular events.

Rhyme and reason Their Poetry Brothel has been very successful, not just because it is an original and scandalous idea, but because it has been implemented so well. At Brothel events, guests purchase admission to the host bar or lounge. Once inside, a guest finds the “whores” slinking around in lace and satin, waiting to be selected for a private poetry session. laPetite

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When a guest selects a whore, the whore names his or her price in tokens. A patron may barter, but a whore will not perform for less than ten dollars-a-pop. Once a price is decided upon and the fee is paid, the patron is led into a semi-private space—a corner of the room or a canopy-covered seating area—to be wowed and dazzled by iambic pentameter. Clients may put in requests for certain themes and since the whores are professional poets who are using the brothel for income on their writing, all sessions feature original work. That is, every poem that a patron hears has been written by the poet who reads or recites it.

Coming soon In four short years The Poetry Brothel has developed into a robust collection of “whores” and expanded to numerous venues in New York City. The organisation now also includes branches in Los Angeles, Chicago, Barcelona, and, excitingly, Madrid will soon be the latest city to be seduced by the lure of the bordello. Andrea Maltman is the writer turned Madame who is assembling a team of poets who plan to sweet-talk their way around town from late 2011. For her, The Poetry Brothel is a new and exciting way to inject fresh blood into Madrid’s cultural and artistic circles “This city has talent and art oozing out of every pore,” she says “but even in a place like Madrid, poetry has struggled to break away from the image of tortured scribblings that can only excite small groups of intellectuals. This project is going to be sexy, accessible, and fun for everyone involved.”

strut your stuf f Writer? Poet? Artistically inclined? Get in touch with Andrea if you would like to be involved in the evolution of The Poetry Brothel here in Madrid. Email: prostibulopoetico.madrid@gmail.com.

Photo: Chris Cardinale

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Wild Beasts never tame Playing in Madrid as part of the Día de la Música Heineken, Alexander Fleming tracks down the UK’s Wild Beasts to talk about roots and rhythms

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lot of expectations come with a name like Wild Beasts, and so far this Cumbrian quartet has done a pretty good job living up to them. The band has become known for its vocal acrobatics and rambunctious melodies, with critics celebrating their exotic and wholly experimental blend of indie and pop. Much has been made of the gargantuan voice of lead singer Hayden Thorpe—an instrument in itself that swerves between an extravagant falsetto and a violent growl. After making their boisterous debut with 2008’s Limbo Panto, the Beasts earned a reputation for their uncompromising sexuality and near vaudevillian style. This was followed with Two Dancers—a critically acclaimed album that would bring them a Mercury Award nomination in 2010.

For Fleming, the success of the music has been a result of its ability to connect with people on their own level. “We are four guys from Kendal and there is this feeling that we are the perennial underdogs, like we’ve done things the old-fashioned way,” he remarks, “it’s all very organic and we don’t feel as though it’s come from a machine in London, I think it has a feel of ‘come along with us.’” He cites their experiences growing up in a small English town as one the biggest factors shaping the development of their music. “We were bored as hell growing up, and when I say bored I don’t mean like ‘slacker’ bored I mean bored as in angry, bored as in ‘is this all there is?’ I think we’ve definitely taken that feeling with us.”

Intimate whispers

Through all this success, however, Fleming insists that they refuse to allow themselves to become complacent. “We’ve known each other for a very long time, so no one is really allowed to get away with acting like an asshole, for want of a better phrase,” he says, “we do still consider ourselves working musicians first, and I think its all about retaining that idea of your teenage self and why you wanted to do it in the first place.” But it would be disingenuous to say that things haven’t changed for the Beasts, and for someone who had never boarded a plane until the age of 19, Fleming is now able to tour and play to fans from all over the world. “The amount and the variety of people that come to our shows is just astonishing,” he says, describing the opportunity to meet and connect with fans as the best part of touring. “It’s incredible just meeting people that will speak to us and actually have a proper relationship with our music, the realisation that people are listening—seeing just how far your music travels is amazing.”

From such humble beginnings these four boys from Kendal, England, found themselves staring out at an entire industry waiting for their next offering, which they finally delivered last month with their third album, Smother. “I always considered this album to be a logical step,” says bassist and singer Tom Fleming, “playing the same songs faster and harder every night. It’s all very loud, and I think we just really wanted to quieten it down, to make something a bit more comforting and a bit more whispered.” Gone are the crashing crescendos and voluptuous sensuality of the first two albums, replaced with a subtle and intricate intimacy that draws you in before you even realise. This is exemplified in the album’s first single, “Albatross”; carried by an acoustic guitar and sparkling piano while the sounds of Thorpe, crooning seductively, overlay the track. “It’s a more grown up record,” Fleming insists, “We didn’t really want to make ‘that definitive’ Wild Beasts album, we just wanted to settle things down a little.” He considers the album to be a reflection of where the band was at during production—a theme that the band believes holds true of all their albums. “The development of a band is a continuum and each record is a kind of snapshot of where you are at a particular moment in time, like slices out of the timeline,” says Fleming. “I’m very proud of the records we’ve done because I remember the time, I remember what was being reflected.”

Smothered with success and anger Clearly other people have been pretty happy with them too. Already, Smother has received an overwhelmingly glowing response, with critics hailing the melodic evolution of the band. Mike Diver, in his album review for the BBC, declared Wild Beasts to be “right now, the most inspirational, intriguing, effortlessly enrapturing band at work on these shores. And Smother might well prove to be the album of 2011.” It is a position that is unlikely to find him many opponents, with music hub Pitchfork marvelling at their rhythmic control and elocution, describing the track “Plaything” as “a new age sex jam if there ever was one.”

16

JUNE 2011

W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

Flying high

A día to remember Before all this, however, the band will be playing dates across Europe including the Heineken Día de la Musica Festival here in Madrid. The festival takes places over two days on the 18 (when Wild Beasts play) and 19 June at the Matadero. “We are definitely very excited to get over for it, there are some absolutely great bands playing,” Fleming says. The lineup boasts an array of amazing acts, including Glasvegas and Vetusta Morla. “I’m trying to not make this sound dirty but we really wanted to properly ‘get into’ Europe, we always felt as though we focused too heavily on America and the UK,” he admits, “and Madrid—I’m so excited even just to visit the galleries.” It has clearly been a successful few years for the Beasts, however Fleming insists that the success has not—and never will—come quickly or easily. He maintains that despite the accolades and ever-growing popularity they will always be just four boys from small town England trying to defy expectations. “We’ll always be the underdogs,” he laughs, “we’ll always find someway to keep that chip on our shoulder – as we should, as we should!”

T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY



for the record

Russell Parton gets out his olives and tells us what we should, or shouldn’t, be listening to

concerts

See top Indian classical dancer Rama Vaidyanathan, on 7 June at 8.30pm, Teatro Galileo. Check www.ramavaidyanathan. com for full details.

■ BY OLIVIA WATERS

Julian Marley: A Tribute to Bob Marley

Aidan Moffat and Bill Wells Everything’s Getting Older Chemikal Underground

Wed, 15 June. Sala Penélope, C/ Hilarión Eslava, 36 (Metro: Moncloa). Tel: 91 550 28 14. penelopemadrid.com. €20 from www.ticketmaster.es

Aidan Moffat, formerly of 90s spoken-word group Arab Strap, has released, with fellow Scot and jazz musician Bill Wells, an album of vitriolic beauty and contemptful everyman observations. Everything’s Getting Older reaches into the seamy side of life, lustful and licencious, weary and resigned that, where once life was “hair of the dog and pills on Saturday”, it’s now “shopping lists and school runs … dish washer tablets and CBeebies.” The title, fatalistic, or at least negative, expresses the kind of uneasy truth that Moffat challenges you to confront in his monologues. “The Copper Top” tells the story of a man who’s been to a funeral escaping to the pub. Alone with his thoughts and a pint, and dressed in a suit he reflects: “Birth, love and death ... the only reasons to get dressed up.” But rather than inducing suicidal tendencies, the album strikes a delicate balance by way of the brilliantly pitched Wells accompaniments—a lazy-sounding brush on the snare with a picked double bass or simple piano chords given the freedom to resonate. They say there’s beauty in the dirt, truth in decay and hint towards some kind of redemption. While Moffat’s lyrics dare you to react with repulsion (the smutty scorn of “Glasgow Jubilee” may do just that), Wells’ compositions implore you to embrace it. All together it’s a striking and highly original combination and the album a cynic’s delight!

To mark the 30th anniversary of his father’s death, Bob Marley’s son Julian will be performing a tribute to the great man himself as part of his Spanish tour. Born in the UK, Julian is a successful keyboardist, bassist and guitarist in his own right, with three reggae albums under his belt. The third of those albums, Awake, was released in Spain in 2009 and was wellreceived by both the public and critics. His style combines elements of hip hop and is peppered with the diverse languages of modern reggae. On the 15th he will be joined by other guest artists to commemorate his father’s hits and to relish the sound of reggae.

Fleet Foxes Helplessness Blues Sub pop The stunning self-titled debut album from Fleet Foxes gave the Seattle sextet instant prominence back in ’08, and newly released follow-up Helplessness Blues proves it was no fluke. Fortunately, the group’s trademark vocal harmonies are as sublime as ever, with the omnipresent finger-picked acoustic guitar impressive in its virtuosity. While no radical departure (at least stylistically) from the band’s previous material, Helplessness Blues sees the group’s songwriter and lead singer Robin Pecknold push into new territory. Lyrically, expect a lot of bucolic imagery (by the by I noted a high number of references to apples and orchards), but the group also tap into that rich lyrical seam of male vulnerability. Oh yes. “If to borrow is to take and not return I have borrowed all my lonesome life,” sings Pecknold in “Bedouin Dress”. Instead of catchy hooks and choruses, Helplessness Blues builds musical narratives, changing course unexpectedly or seguing into the next song, so that when you get to the end you feel like you’ve been somewhere. As Fleet Foxes songs go, “Montezuma” and “Grown Ocean” are as good as any, with the latter a fitting finale to the album—a creeping blanket of sound that builds, augmented by harmonies, gaining urgency and potency before culminating with the trill of a flute.

Fuel Fandango

Ricky Martin

Fri 10 June. Joy Eslava, C/Arenal, 11 (Metro: Sol). Tel. 91 366 37 33. www.joyeslava.com. €13 from www.ticketmaster.es

Tues 28 June. Palacio de Deportes de la Comunidad de Madrid, C/Jorge Juan, 99 (Metro: Goya/O’Donnell). Tel: 91 258 60 16. www.palaciodeportes.com. €42.10 from www.entradas.com

Having released their debut album earlier this year, Madridbased Fuel Fandango are most certainly on the up. Although most of their songs are in English, they have managed to avoid that slightly embarrassing cheesy effect that previous Spanish bands have produced when deciding to sing in a language that is not their own. Fuel Fandango are good—and they are more than good in a live setting. If you want to check out one of Spain’s upand-coming groups, you can’t really go wrong with a Friday night spent in Joy with these guys. One to watch. Photo: M Fleitas

Melendi

Cosmonauta Cosmonauta Machaculana Society

Thurs 2 June. Palacio de Deportes de la Comunidad de Madrid, C/Jorge Juan, 99 (Metro: Goya/O Donnell) Tel: 91 258 60 16. www.palaciodedeportes.com. €25.30 from www.entradas.com

Winning Spain’s 2010 Rock is Roll competition gave Cosmonauta the break they were looking for, and after recording their first full-length album, the Madrid five-piece hope to further beguile our ear drums with ten songs that blend melodic guitar rock with subtle rhythms and playful pop touches. And for the most part, this eponymous debut album does just that—the pounding finale to “Instantes Animales” or the rumbling toms of album opener “En este Lado” proving they can hack it with the rock purists, while the confidential delivery of vocalist Miguel Suarez (who makes each song sound like a personal epiphany) and the use of less “serious” instruments like the glockenspiel and melodica, catering for indie fans. While the originality of its sound won’t win it any prizes, the album contains some strong material that only slightly tails off towards the end. “Vamos a acceptar que siempre fuiste espectacular” sings an aweinspired Suarez on “Desde el Observatorio”, backed up by stomping guitars and parping Tom Jones “It’s not Unusual”-style brass. With the festival season almost here, Cosmonauta may be having a busy summer, and if so it’d be no more than they deserve.

After going solo in 2003, ex-footballer and one-time classmate of Fernando Alonso, Ramón Melendi Espina (or simply Melendi) has found nothing but success here in Spain. The Asturian star fuses catchy Spanish pop with elements of rock, rap, rumba and flamenco, and his tough guy image keeps him from being relegated to the ranks of mainstream cheesy pop. After releasing his fifth studio album last November, Melendi has been touring the country—you can catch him at Palacio de Deportes on the 2 June.

booking ahead

Sara Lowes Back to Creation Unsigned Proof that Manchester’s music scene is still burgeoning comes in the form of songwriting starlet Sara Lowes, whose lushly produced debut album Back to Creation blends impeccable instrumentation with a breezy sixties jazz-pop style. The ambitious production includes a deluge of brass, rich harmonies and a ubiquitous organ, but essentially these are compositions that are piano-based, and the album’s best moments are when that instrument is at the core of the action. Bursting into life following a slightly self-important introduction, the album’s title track and opening number lulls you into a false sense of security with its slow, drum-roll laden groove, before changing into an urgent brass driven section, sounding not too disimilar to the song “Geno” by Dexys Midnight Runners. But after such a promising opening number, the album quickly runs out of puff, at least in the songwriting stakes, with the character of Lowes’ voice lost in the maelstrom of over-instrumentation, be it dirty sax and trumpets (“Single Girl”), or over-dominant bass guitar (“I Wish”). The end result is an album frequently engaging and interesting, but one that, to paraphrase Elvis, don’t move you.

18

JUNE 2011

Ah, Ricky Martin. Where have you been? Do you even make music anymore? After (not really) shocking the world by coming out of the closet and fathering twin baby boys, we thought you had hung up your dancing shoes, abandoned La Vida Loca, settled down and decided to enjoy time as a dad. But it seems not! As part of your 2011 European tour you will be packing out the Palacio de Deportes in our fair city with tweenies and middleaged mothers who should know better, and bringing the house down with your unique blend of camp latino disco pop. Brilliant.

otraNation Thurs 16 June. The Hard Rock Café, Paseo de la Castellana. 2 (Metro: Colon). Tel: 91 436 43 40. www.myspace.com/otranation Madrid-based groups with English-speaking connections are always worth checking out, and with members hailing from Spain, Colombia, the USA and Scotland, multinational five-piece otraNation, formed in 2009, fit the bill. With a style best described as commercial pop/rock, with overtones of reggae and funk, they’re playing three gigs this month, so if you can’t make the Hard Rock Café on the 16th, check out Soul Station, Cuesta de Santo Domingo, 22 (Metro: Callao ) on Sat 4 June, or Sala Juglar, C/Lavapiés, 37 (Metro: Lavapies) on Wed 22 June.

W W W. I N M A D R I D . C O M

This month: Shakira Fri 3 Jun, Estadio Vicente Calderón, P° Virgen del Puerto, 67 (Metro: Pirámides). €45 from www.ticketmaster.es The Raveonettes Sun 5 June, Sala Heineken, C/Princesa, 1 (Metro: Plaza de España). Tel: 91 547 57 11. www.salaheineken.com. €21 from www.ticketmaster.es Día de la Música Heineken inc Janelle Monae, Lykke Lei, Vetusta Morla and Wild Beasts Sat 18/Sun 19 Jun, El Matadero Madrid, Paseo de la Chopera, 14 (Metro: Legazpi). Tel: 91 517 73 09. www.mataderomadrid.org. €25 (two days) from www.entradas.com DCode Festival Sat 24/Sun 25 Jun, CD Cantarranas, Universidad Complutense. www.dcodefest.com. €60 (two days), €45 (one day) from www.ticketmaster.es And beyond: Foo Fighters Wed 6 Jul, Palacio de Deportes de la Comunidad de Madrid, C/Jorge Juan, 99 (Metro: Goya/O´Donnell). Tel: 91 258 60 16. www.palaciodeportes.com. €40 from www.ticketmaster.es ZZ Top, Thurs 14 Jul, La Riviera, P° Bajo de La Virgen, s/n (Metro: Puerta del Ángel/Príncipe Pio). Tel: 91 365 24 15. www.salariviera.com. €50 from www.ticketmaster.es Wilco Tues 1 Nov, Teatro Circo Price, C/Ronda de Atocha, 35 (Metro: Embajadores). Tel: 91 528 81 22. www.teatrocircoprice.es. €45 from www.entradas.com Rihanna Thurs 15 Dec, Palacio de Deportes de la Comunidad de Madrid, C/Jorge Juan, 99 (Metro: Goya/O Donnell). Tel: 91 258 60 16. www.palaciodedeportes.com. €45 from www.ticketmaster.es T H E E N G L I S H - L A N G U A G E M O N T H LY


live listings COMPILED BY OLIVIA WATERS

Rock/pop, BOITE, c/Tetuán, 27 (Metro: Sol). Tel: 91 522 96 20. www.boitemadrid.com 2 June: Chinasky + Mario Fernández 8 June: The Chinese Bird Watchers

CAFÉ LA PALMA, c/Palma, 62 (Metro: Noviciado). Tel: 91 522 50 31. www.cafelapalma.com 2 June: Fon Roman + Aerostato 3 June: About A Girl Festival: Gatonieve + His haircut 9 June: A Shy Boy 10 June: Ultima Experiencia 11 June: Groovin Flamingos 16 June: Javier Alia 17 June: Psychofusion 18 June: Hermanas Sister 22 June: Nubla 23 June: Rafa Russo 24 June: Cincuenta mil Unidades 25 June: Lam Rim 30 June: Perversions

COSTELLO CLUB, c/Caballero de Gracia, 10 (Metro: Gran Vía). Tel: 91 522 18 15. www.costelloclub.com 4 June: Inocua + Rain Bailiff 9 June: La Locura del Zuerdo 10 June: Nutopia 11 June: Insanity Wave 15 June: Eric Bonafonte 16 June: Sweet Oblivion 17 June: Alberto Goicoechea 18 June: The Chandals + The Checkers 22 June: Summer in the City 23 June: J.F Sebastian 24 June: John Tirado 25 June: Allfits + Bikes & Girls 27 June: Jaime Anglada

SALA GALILEO GALILEI, c/de Galileo, 100 (Metro: Islas Filipinas/Canal). Tel: 91 534 75 57/58. www.salagalileogalilei.com 1 June: Manuel Cuesta 2 June: L-Kan 3 June: Helena Blanco y los Mismos 4 June: Inlogic 5 June: Alkasaba 7 June: Banda de Pajaros 8 June: Coque Malla y Lipa 9 June: Los Madison 10 June: Rafa Pons 11 June: Pajaro Sunrise 14 June: 84 15 June: Alberto Perez 16 June: Mala Suerte 17 June: Patxi Andion 18 June: Laurabruja 19 June: Alessandra D'Ambra 20 June: Javier Castrillo y los Dispersos 22 June: Noche Sabinera 23 June: Ea! 24 June: Pablo Carbonell y los Toreros Muertos 25 June: Tontxu 26 June: Metrópolis 27 June: Tokalo 28 June: Los Garcia 29 June: Javier Krahe 30 June: Marwan

GRUTA 77, c/Cuclillo, 6 (Metro: Oporto). Tel: 91 471 23 70. www.gruta77.com 1 June: The Delegators 2 June: Alex Caporuscio + The Riders + Violante Blues 3 June: Barrio Tomillo + William Foster tiene un fusil 4 June: Chacal Clik 5 June: Seisymedia + Macarrones 7 June: Martes loco de Rastro y Gramola 8 June: Government + June Mack 9 June: El Tío Calambres + Dario Ke! 10 June: Sonotones + Luter + Marky Ramone 11 June: Five Horse Jonhson + T-Sex 12 June: Mikel Urdangarin 14 June: Rastro y Gramola 15 June: Supersimios + Etopic + El

Primer Hombre 16 June: The Hard-Ons 17 June: Mamá Ladilla + Juako Malavirgen 18 June: Bummer + Dragsters 19 June: Dwarves + Vigilante Gitano 21 June: Martes Loco de Rastro y Gramola 22 June: US Bombs + Suizo 13 23 June: Market Garden + Boss & Over 24 June: Potato 25 June: Gizmo + Círculo Polar 26 June: Wicked Article 28 June: Martes loco de Rastro y Gramola 29 June: Swadeshi + Eskorbutando Cicatriz 20 June: Widow Makers + Los Espirituosos

JOY ESLAVA, c/Arenal, 8 (Metro: Sol). Tel: 91 366 54 39. www.joy-eslava.com 3 Jun: Iam 9 June: David Demaria 10 June: Fuel Fandango 15 June: Hooverphonic 16 June: Stryper 18 June: OBK

PALACIO DE DEPORTES DE LA COMUNIDAD DE MADRID, c/Jorge Juan 99 (Metro: Goya/O Donnell). Tel. 91 4 01 91 04. www.palaciodedeportes.com 2 June: Melendi 16 June: Raphael 22 June: Coca Cola Music Experience: Maldita Nerea 28 June: Ricky Martin

LA RIVIERA, P° Bajo de La Virgen, s/n (Metro: Puerta del Ángel/Príncipe Pio). Tel: 91 365 24 15. www.salariviera.com 9 June: Cinderella 14 June: Asia 17 June: Molotove 18 June: John Mayall 19 June: Disturbed 22 June: 1001 Madrid

SALA HEINEKEN, c/Princesa, 1 (Metro: Plaza de España). Tel: 91 547 57 11. www.salaheineken.com 5 June: The Raveonettes 9 June: James Taylor Quartet 11 June: Emergenza Music Fest. Final 14 June: O.M.D 15 June: The Damned Things 17 June: Buckcherry 18 June: Los Lobos 19 June: Duo Kie 20 June: Alter Bridge 23 June: Dredg 25 June: Leo 037

SEGUNDO JAZZ, c/Comandante Zorita, 8 (Metro: Nuevos Ministerios). Tel: 91 554 94 37. www.segundojazz.es 23 June: Blue Identity (9pm; entrance free)

Flamenco LAS TABLAS, Plaza de España, 9 (Metro: Plaza de España). Tel: 91 542 05 20. www.lastablasmadrid.com CARDAMOMO, C/Echegaray, 15 (Metro: Sol). Tel: 91 369 07 57. www.cardamomo.es CASA PATAS, C/ Cañizares, 10 (Metro: Antón Martín). Tel: 91 369 04 96. www.casapatas.com

Celtic/folk The Irish Rover. Tel: 91 597 48 11 Taberna Elisa. Tel: 91 369 74 263

We do our best to keep these listings up to date but clubs come and go so if you see anything incorrect in here, please let us know by sending an email to editor@inmadrid.com. You’ll automatically be entered in a draw to win a free pair of cinema tickets

nightlife

■ COMPILED BY ALEXANDER FLEMING AND LUCY WILLIAMS

dance & mixed CLUB COLORS, Laydown, Plaza de los Mostenses, 9 (Plaza de España). First & third Fri of the month, 12.30am-3am. www.myspace.com/clubcolors Dance, sit, or even lie down while listening to the beats inspired by different electronic and dance genres at this “sexy groove session”. COPOLACLUB, c/San Hermenegildo, 7 (San Bernardo/Noviciado). Wed-Sun 11pm-3.30am. www.copolaclub.com Funky disco-bar with jazz, soul, pop and chilled house upstairs and electronica and techno downstairs. Test out your DJ skills on weeknights. € FOROCIO.COM FIESTA DE INTERCAMBIO, Sala Torero, c/Cruz, 26 (Sevilla). Wed. www.forocio.com. Meet people from all over the world at this awesome international party. € JOY ESLAVA, c/Arenal, 11 (Sol). Daily 11.30pm-6am. www.joyeslava.com. Hosting lots of guest bands and DJs, Joy attracts a mixed

: Cheap,

5.30am. www.taboo-madrid.com. Hosting both concerts and DJs, this Malasaña venue has it all, from funky electronica to punk-rock to trip-hop by upcoming artists. Watch out for its indie night, Dots Club, on Thursdays. €€ TRANSMISSION CLUB, Sala Star Studio 54, Plaza del Carmen, 3, lower floor (Sol). Fri 11pm-3am. myspace.com/transmission_club. Here’s a bar with a heavy musical focus, even mixing up the styles— post-punk, gothic, 80s and more—depending on the night. € TUPPERWARE, c/Corredera Alto de San Pablo, 26 (Tribunal). Wed-Sun 10pm-3am. myspace.com/tupperwarebar. Super-kitsch design and an indie-pop vibe that gets everyone dancing. € WILD THING BAR, c/Martín Machio, 2 (corner Padre Claret) (Alfonso XIII). Sun-Thur 9pm-close, Fri-Sat 10pm-close. www.wildthing.es. DJs rock this artsy bar with 90s and indie greats every night of the week. Make sure you take advantage of its happy hour on Thursdays from 9pm to 1am, when beers are only €2! €

: Damn! That’s expensive!

69 PÉTALOS, Avda Alberto de Alcocer, 32 (Cuzco/Colombia). Fri 11pm-6am. www.grupo69petalos.com With a shake-up of funk, RnB and popular house, plus cabaret, ludicrous outfits and general debauchery, the totally fabulous 69 Pétalos will leave you begging for more. €€ SUPERKLUB, Sala COOL, Isabel la Católica, 6 (Santo Domingo). Sun midnight-6am. Sunday evenings just got better than ever, with Superklub spilling non-stop house music into your Monday morning as if the weekend was never going to end. €€€ TWIST CLUB, @ Sala Pirandello, c/ Martin de los Heros 14 (Plaza de España) With the new year, a new chapter unfolds for Twist Club, Madrid´s N*1 weekly drum&bass night: the club moves to a new venue, still in the centre of Madrid though with more capacity and a bigger sound-system! The music policy stays true to its roots, with a selection of (inter) national dj’s playing across the full dnb spectrum. €€

reggae, funk, jazz & world music

Nightlife Costello Jam Session: Summer in the City@Costello Club Spotlight c/Caballero de Gracia, 10 (Metro: Gran Vía). Tel: 91 522 18 15. Wed 22 June, from 11pm. www.costelloclub.com. FREE! Ah summer, that time of year when we truly resent Barcelona for their beachside location. Oh well, you can’t win them all, so better off making use of what Madrid does have in spades—great music. Every Wednesday Costello is putting on a series of summer jam sessions featuring some of the best rock available anywhere in the country. A long time ago four of this country’s biggest musicians came together in the name of Rock Josu Garcia Photo: InMadrid and Roll, and on the 22 you can see them play some of the most popular rock songs in both English and Spanish. The opening night brings you Jose Bruno, Mac, Josu Garcia and César Pop, with a set list that includes the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and The Ramones. And it’s completely free! crowd who get all dolled up to dance to an eclectic mix of music. €€ KAPITAL, c/Atocha, 125 (Atocha). Thur-Sat midnight-6am. Overthe-top seven-floor macro-club playing everything from house to hip hop to Spanish pop. €€€ NEU!CLUB, Sala Galileo Galilei, c/Galileo, 100 (Islas Filipinas). Sat 9.30pm-5.30am. myspace.com/neuclub. Electronica, bluegrass, Motown, 60s, rock and pop during the musical, cultural and audiovisual nights, plus live music and DJ sessions. €€ OCHO Y MEDIO, c/Mesonero Romanos, 13, corner of Gran Vía, 34 (Callao). Fri 1-6am. myspace.com/ochoymedio. Popular night featuring electro-disco, bastard-pop, punk-rock, new wave and post-punk. €€ OUI MADRID, c/Jorge Juan, 99 (Goya). Thur-Sat midnight-3am. www.ouimad.com. Start the night off right at this chic restaurant which turns into a nightclub around midnight. Take the elevator to the top floor and dive into the crush of people. Don’t forget to dress to the nines! €€€ PACHA, c/Barcelo, 11 (Tribunal). Thur-Sat midnight-6am. www.pacha-madrid.com. Ultra-classy Pacha, a major force in Madrid since the 80s, now plays house, hip hop and commercial music on three floors. Worth a try, but leave those Converse at home! €€€ REINA BRUJA, c/Jacometrezo, 6 (Callao/Santo Domingo). Fri-Sat 11pm-5.30am. www.reinabruja.com. Well-mixed, popular hip hop and R&B for the fashionable youth of Madrid. €€ YA’STA, c/Valverde, 10 (Gran Vía). Thur-Sat midnight-6am. www.yastaclub.net. Thursdays are jazz, funk and soul, Fridays are dirty rock and electro, and Saturdays are techno and psychedelic trance. Talk about a complete weekend! €€

indie pop & rock ESPIRAL POP, c/San Andrés, 23 (Tribunal/Bilbao). Wed-Sun 11pm-3am. myspace.com/espiralpop. Pop and electro pop at this funky café with featured DJs. € INDEPENDANCE CLUB, c/Santa Engracia, 26 (Alonso Martínez). Thur-Fri-Sat midnight-6am. www.independanceclub.com. Enjoy popular, danceable indie-pop and rock at this excellent indie club. Email info@independanceclub.com with your full name, number of people and day attending for free entry! € SALA TABOO, c/San Vicente Ferrer, 23 (Tribunal). Thur-Sat 11pm-

electro, house, techno & drum’n’bass CAPOTE, c/Santa Teresa, 3 (Alonso Martínez). Tues-Sat 10pm-5am. This little gem of a bar puts on a good show with resident DJs Timo and Roberto Jean. Enjoy some tasty house music to whet your appetite. €€ CASSETTE CLUB, Sala Boite, c/Tetuan, 27 (Sol). Sun midnight6am. myspace.com/clubcassette. Electro to help ease you into the working week with a smile on your face. A cool night for a cool crowd. €€ DARK HOLE, Sala Flamingo, c/Mesonero Romanos, 13 (Callao/Gran Vía). Sat 1-6am. myspace.com/darkholegothicclub. Madrid’s unofficial gothic headquarters. Listen to dark ambient, electro and goth music until dawn. €€ DOMINION CLUB, Sala Jala Jala, c/la Puebla, 6 (Callao/Gran Vía). Fri 10.30pm-3am. www.myspace.com/dominionclubmadrid DJs Fran Raven and guests spin a dark mix of EBM, dark electro, synth pop, industrial electro and future pop. FREE DU:OM, Sala Heineken, c/Princesa, 1 (Plaza de España). Fri-Sat midnight-6am. www.duomclub.com. Dress to impress and dance the night away to house and progressive house provided by some truly talented DJs: Hugo Serra, Iván Pica and Pombo. €€€ ELIXIR, Changó, c/Luchana (corner of Covarrubias) (Iglesia/Bilbao). Sat midnight-6am. A classy venue with good-looking people, hot go-gos, decadent design and dance music till dawn. €€€ LOW CLUB, Sala Pirandello 1, c/Princesa, 3 (Plaza de España). Fri-Sat midnight-6am. www.intromusica.com. Spend your weekends dancing away to resident and international DJs spinning the latest electro and techno beats. €€€ MOMA 56, c/José Abascal, 56 (Gregorio Marañon). Wed-Sat midnight-6am. www.moma56.com. Dance to resident DJ Koke’s tunes at this disco bar. €€ MONDO, Sala Stella, c/Arlabán, 7 (Sevilla). Thur-Sat 0.30-6am. www.web-mondo.com. Funk and electronica feature in this fantastic venue located smack dab in the centre of town. Fridays lean more towards house, techno and electro under the night’s pseudonym, The Room. This is a place you night-owls won’t want to miss! €€ OHM, Plaza Callao, 4 (Callao). Fri-Sat midnight-6am. myspace.com/ohmclub. Great house DJs, great people and a great vibe. And don’t miss Weekend on Sundays, which features funky house. €€

BERLÍN CABARET, c/Costanilla de San Pedro, 11. Mon, Tue, Wed: shows 1.30am; Thur: shows 1.30am & 3.30am; Fri, Sat: shows 1.30am, 2.30am & 3.30am. www.berlincabaret.com Located in La Latina, Berlín Cabaret attracts a diverse audience spilling out from the many bars in the area. It offers a lively, funky atmosphere with eclectic music ranging from the Jackson 5 to “La Lambada” and live cabaret shows, such as Psicosis Gonsales and In Drag. €€ LA BOCA DEL LOBO, c/Echegaray, 11 (Sevilla). Wed-Sat 10.30pm3.30am. www.labocadellobo.com Rock, funk, electronic jazz and rare groove served up four nights a week, plus live music. €€ COSTELLO, c/Caballero de Gracia, 10 (Gran Vía). Daily 6pm-3am. www.costelloclub.com. Everything from funk and electronic jazz to pop, rare groove and rock music. €€ EL JUGLAR, c/Lavapiés, 37 (Lavapiés). Daily midnight-3am. www.salajuglar.com. Get your daily dose of funk, house, reggae and breaks at this neighbourhood hotspot. € EL JUNCO, Plaza Santa Bárbara, 10 (Alonso Martínez). Daily 11pm-6am. www.eljunco.com. Late-night funk and electronic jazz. €€ MARULA CAFÉ, c/Caños Viejos, 3 (La Latina). Daily 10.30pm6am. www.marulacafe.com. Come and get your funk on at the palace of funk, also known as Marula Café. € SWEET FUNK CLUB, c/Doctor Cortezo, 1 (Sol/Tirso de Molina). Thur-Sat midnight-6am. sweetfunkclub.com. Feel free to get a little dirty at this hip-hop club near Sol. €

special nights GOA CLOSIN’ PARTY @ FABRIK “JAQUE AL REY” (Cercanías: Fuenlabrada), Sun 26 Jun, from 1pm. www.goaclub.es/goamadrid/. Free bus from Plaza de España. The summer is coming, and with it comes the end of season fiesta of Goa Electronica Parties. With four different music rooms to choose from, you really are spoilt for choice. With no more nights until September, they are making sure to go out leaving absolutely nothing to the imagination. The main room offers two heavyweights of minimaltech in M_nus-Magda and Troy Pierce, joined by the resident DJ Marcos in Dub and up and comer Marc Maya. Playing the upper floor will be the good people of the club Mondo along with Maceo Plex and two classics Alvaro Cabana and Pilas. Before the summer kicks off with its long hot days, come take the chance to say goodbye. Go on—you know you want to! THURSDAY SESSIONS, MADRID ES NEGRO@MADERFAKER CLUB, C/San Vicente Ferrer, 17 (Metro:Tribunal). Thursday 2, 9, 16 and 23 June. 11pm-3am. www.maderfaker.com. Get yourself down to Malasana every Thursday this month and check out a new DJ every week. DavidDJ gets the vinyl spinning on 2 June, followed by Pedro Galiano, Pedro Garcia and Miguel A. Sutil on the 9, 16 and 30 respectively. These sessions present a great mix of funk, jazz, latin and disco boogie, and the fact that this venue has been filling Madrid with the best sounds for 15 years speaks for itself. NEW ADVENTURES IN POP PARTY@ POP & DANCE, Sala Yasta, C/Valverde, 10 (Metro: Gran Vía). Fri 17 June. From 9pm-3am. www.popandance.com. Never far from the centre of the dance music scene in Madrid, Elefant Records is putting on a full night of music at Sala Yasta, for only €14. With two drinks included you can be sure of value for money. Headlining the night is Spanish group Papa Topo with support from their eclectic compatriots Band á Part, along with Capitán Sunrise. DJ Luis Elefant will oversee affairs, and if you need any more persuading, the first 200 ticket buyers will get a free vinyl single. LOW CLUB DAY 8@SALA RIVIERA, P° Bajo de La Virgen, s/n (Metro: Puerta del Ángel/Príncipe Pio). Tel: 91 365 24 15. Fri 10 June. From 12pm. www.salariviera.com. Sala Riviera is known for bringing fantastic electronic acts to Madrid and Low Club Day 8 promises to boldly follow that tradition. Leading the charge is Crookers, the progressive Italian duo of Bot and Phra. Don’t let their ridiculous names deceive you, these two mean serious business and are sure to bring the heat to Sala Riviera quicker than a similarly ridiculously named Icelandic volcano. Buy your ticket in advance for entry and two copas for €16, or if you like to live dangerously you can wait til the night and grab the same deal on the door for €20.

Tue-Thu 21:00-3:00 Fri-Sat 21:00-3:30

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: A bit more pricey,

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moviereviews

Gabrielle Easter previews the big-screen releases heading to Madrid this month

Conviction (Betty Anne Waters)

bookbuzz The Afrika Reich Guy Saville Hodder It’s 1952 and the world is very, very different to the one we know. After the debacle of Dunkirk, Germany and Britain have made peace and now the Nazis are in charge of large chunks of Europe and Africa. It is here that retired British mercenary Burton Cole is sent, against his own better judgement and the wishes of the woman he loves, to take on one final job to assassinate his old nemesis Walter Hochburg. But Cole’s mission fails and he and his comrade Patrick Whaler have to fight their way across the continent, against impossible odds, whilst overcoming double- or even triple-crossing colleagues. Without doubt this is a rollercoaster read, never letting up for a minute, as our hero escapes from one near-death escapade straight into the arms of another. If there’s a flaw, it’s that the pace allows very little time to digest the information we have been given and at times stereotypical characters emerge. Nevertheless, it’s a confidently written debut novel with a sharp, snappy style and the second book in the series is already in the works. Elizabeth Ellis

22 Britannia Road Amanda Hodgkinson Fig Tree All expats know the feeling of being an outsider, of living amongst strangers in a new country. But imagine if one of those strangers was actually your husband, someone from whom a war has separated you for six years. And then imagine that during that war, both of you lived lives you now need to

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Also out

■ BY NICK FUNNELL

Based on the true story of a woman who put herself through law school in order to free her wrongfully convicted brother from a lifetime in prison, Conviction traces the life of Betty Anne Waters. In 1983 her brother Kenny (Sam Rockwell) is convicted of murdering Katharina Brow. Convinced that he is innocent, Betty Anne (Hilary Swank) embarks on a long journey, managing to get by with a bar job, while also studying and raising two boys. For 18 years she struggles to balance her life with her determination to free her brother, losing her husband and friends along the way. With the help of another mature law student, Abra (Minnie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides Driver), Betty Anne puts everything she has advice. Directed by Luke Greenfield (The Girl Next on the belief that through a re-examination of DNA Door), this is a romantic comedy about a love trianshe can get her innocent brother out of prison. With gle with a slight twist that ought to set it apart from a talented cast including Juliette Lewis and Peter predecessors. However, the script isn’t brimming Gallagher, the film proves once again that truth is with originality and proves too lack-lustre to lift the stranger than fiction. If it wasn’t based on a real life movie above average fare. Out 17 June story, the twists in the tale and Betty Anne’s pure luck would be inconceivable. Directed by Tony Goldwyn, best known for his involvement in television Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides series such as Dexter, this film fits into the “fighting (Piratas del Caribe: the system” genre alongside Erin Brockovich, En Mareas Misteriosas) although it fails to create sustained dramatic tenJohnny Depp is back for the fourth time as the iconic sion. Out 15 Jul Captain Jack Sparrow, dealing with mermaids, zombies and the notorious Blackbeard (Ian McShane). Something Borrowed This time, he sets sail to find the Fountain of Youth, (Algo Prestado) and since the first Pirates movie was released in Staring Kate Hudson, Ginnifer Goodwin, Colin 2003 and another is still on the cards, perhaps it’s Egglesfield and John Krasinski, Something Borrowed an appropriate objective. However in order to do this is a rom-com based on the book of the same name he needs to race not only against Blackbeard, but by Emily Giffin. Good girl also Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), and the and successful lawyer Spanish navy. Much of the action takes Rachel White (Goodwin) place in London, on dry land, where finds herself in an awksword-fights and chase scenes fill the ward situation when her streets. The rest is left for the jungle as best friend Darcy they battle it out to discover the secret (Hudson) announces her of eternal youth. Sparrow has a love engagement to Dex interest in the enigmatic Angelica, (Egglesfield), who hapBlackbeard’s daughter (Penélope Cruz), pens to be Rachel’s but is it love, or is she just a cruel con crush from law school. artist, using him to find the desired Tired of being single and Fountain? When she forces him onto unhappy about living in Blackbeard’s ship, Queen Anne’s the shadow of go-getter Revenge, Jack is unsure who to fear— Darcy, Rachel goes out Blackbeard, or this fiery woman, with on the town for her 30th whom he shares a mysterious past. With birthday and, lo and director Gore Verbinski and old behold, wakes up next to favourites Keira Knightley and Orlando Dex. Her attempts to Bloom all tossed overboard, it’s the first ignore the situation fail of the series to be directed by Rob when Dex reveals he’s Marshall (Chicago, Nine). He brings a fallen for her. Stuck new darkness to the film, but the old between choosing a treacomedy, action and adventure are still sured friendship and the intact. At 136 minutes this is the shortpotential love of her life, est of the series so far, and—shiver our she turns to good friend timbers—it’s also in 3D. (Lucy Williams) Out now Ethan (Krasinski) for life Something Borrowed

The Strange Case of Angelica (El Extraño Caso de Angélica/O Estranho Caso de Angélica) At 103 years old, Portuguese filmmaker Manoel de Oliveira has the distinction of being the world’s oldest working director. Having made his first film in the silent era, he also acted in the second Portuguese sound film and, in the 1930s, was a Grand Prix racing driver. This latest effort stars Spanish actress Pilar López de Ayala as a deceased young bride who comes to life when seen through a lens by the photographer sent to take her final picture. Out now Senna And speaking of racing drivers, there were fewer better than Ayrton Senna. British filmmaker Asif Kapadia directs this featurelength documentary about the life and death of the legendary Brazilian Formula One champ, who was killed in a crash at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994. Out now The Beaver (El Castor) A former toy company executive and family guy, Walter Black, played by Mel Gibson, is a man stuck in a deep, dark depression until he starts using a beaver hand-puppet to communicate with those around him— in a dubious Dick Van Dyke-style cockney accent. This eyebrow-raising comedy-drama tale is directed by Jodie Foster, who also stars as Walter’s wife. Dam strange. Out now The Beaver X-Men: First Class (X-Men: Primera Generación) Set in 1962 during the Cuban Missile crisis, this X-Men prequel, the fifth instalment in the Marvel superhero series, finds a young Professor X (James McAvoy) and Magneto (Michael Fassbender) discovering their powers together as friends until a rift pulls them apart. Directed by Kick Ass’s Matthew Vaughn, it also features Kevin Bacon, January Jones and Rose Byrne. 3 June The Dilemma (¡Qué Dilema!) What would you do if you saw your best friend’s wife with another guy? Give ’em a slap? Jump for joy? When Ronny (Vince Vaughn) sees the missus of his buddy and business partner, Nick, (Kevin James) kissing another man, he starts an investigation—and worries about how to break

keep secret. This is the basis of Amanda Hodgkinson’s page-turning debut novel, 22 Britannia Road. Silvana and Jarek are separated when the Germans invade their homeland of Poland, and while her husband goes off to fight for his country, Silvana and their baby son, Aurek, are left to fight for survival in the forests. Six years later, having both committed acts of which they are ashamed, the couple are reunited and relocated in Britain, where they try to make a new life together. Jarek wants to turn his home at 22 Britannia Road into the English ideal, complete with English garden, and forget his past, but Silvana finds reminders of hers everywhere and their new life quickly falls apart. Switching from present to past in order to reveal all that has happened and is happening to the couple and their child, Hodgkinson unravels a web of secrets around these shattered lives in a heart-wrenching tale. This is not light reading—the author never shies away from the horrors of war—but it is a powerful story of acceptance, survival and love. Elizabeth Ellis

Untold Story Monica Ali Doubleday Untold Story is the latest offering from Monica Ali, the British author whose debut novel, Brick Lane, was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize. Inspired by the life and death of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, this novel follows the fate of a fictional princess. She stages her own death and is living under the alias of Lydia Snaresbrook in small-town America, having undergone plastic surgery, but is being stalked by struggling middle-aged paparazzo Grabowski, who believes he may have stumbled upon the story of his career. Ali was captivated by the trials and tribulations of Princess Diana, who was the subject of countless front-page

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Stick your finger in your ear and say the word “refridgerator”.

the news to him ahead of a vital company presentation. Ron Howard’s comedy drama also stars Winona Ryder, Jennifer Connelly, Queen Latifah and Channing Tatum. A delayed release, originally scheduled for 25 March. 3 June My Soul to Take (Almas Condenadas) Arriving on the heels of Scream 4 – presumably waving a big carving knife—is this new movie from horror maestro Wes Craven. A 3D slasher fest, it’s set in the sleepy Massachusetts town of Riverton, where a ghost story tells of a serial killer with seven personalities who swore he’d return to murder the seven children born the night he died. Sure enough, on the seven’s 16th birthdays, they each start winding up slaughtered—and we’re not talking calimocho. 10 June Hanna Brought up by her ex-CIA agent father (Eric Bana) in the forests of northern Finland, Hanna (Saoirse Ronan) is a teenage assassin heading out into the world for the first time and dodging agents sent by a ruthless intelligence operative (Cate Blanchett). Joe Wright’s (Atonement) action flick features an original score by The Chemical Brothers. 10 June Kung Fu Panda 2 Jack Black’s back as the voice of Po the panda, now living his kung-fu dream protecting the valley of peace alongside his buddies The Furious Five. That is, until the evil Lord Shen arrives threatening to conquer China and—dahn dahn dahn—destroy kung-fu itself. Featuring 3-D animation, the film’s all-star voice cast includes Dustin Hoffman, Jackie Chan, Angelina Jolie, Lucy Liu, Gary Oldman, Seth Rogen and Jean-Claude Van Damme. 17 June White Material (Una Mujer en África) French filmmaker Claire Denis’ (Beau Travail) movie stars Isabelle Huppert as a white farmer refusing to abandon the failing coffee plantation she runs with husband (Christopher Lambert) in an unnamed Civil War-wracked African country, despite the danger from advancing rebels. Jim Jarmusch favourite Isaach De Bankolé (The Limits of Control) also appears. 17 June

headlines recounting her marriage, divorce, bulimia, motherhood and humanitarian efforts in Third World. The novel, however, reads like an episode of popular American sitcom Desperate Housewives with skeletons in the closet and characters chatting around the kitchen table about messy divorces and affairs. One imagines heroic yet sensitive boyfriends waiting in the wings to catch their damsel’s when they tottle over in their high heels. One too many coincidences weaken the credibility of the plot but by tying her latest novel to the late Diana, Ali is guaranteed a storm in a teacup at the very least. Tessa White

The Sixth Man David Baldacci Macmillan David Baldacci returns with his fifth thriller featuring Sean King and Michelle Maxwell. The private detectives head this time for Maine to investigate heavily guarded serial killer Edgar Roy, as a favour for Sean’s former Law teacher, Ted Bergin. What seems like a routine investigation soon transforms into a wild multiple murder adventure, when just before they are due to meet him, they find the unfortunate Mr Bergin murdered inside his car. Following the murder, and a potential connection with the imprisoned serial killer, the plot progresses at a rate of knots. The link between the victim and the prisoner unleash a series of events and characters that attract and conflict with powerful forces in Washington. What should King and Maxwell investigate first? Who is this serial killer and why is he so dangerous? Finding the solution takes all of the hunches, whims, moves and wits of the protagonists. This thriller delivers everything you expect from a casual read: guns, bullets flying everywhere, kicks and punches thrown by an almighty Michelle Maxwell (who also knows exactly where to place them on the bad guys), secret meetings with the President of the United States of America, and the great American Intelligence Agencies, always fighting for the greater good. Guillermo Ulibarri

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Anxious moments and psychopathic tendencies Having investigated men who stare at goats, author Jon Rons on’s new book is about testing for psychopaths in positions of power. Tom Garton asks, very politely, if the experience affected him Jon Ronson

i

t’s rather disturbing that as a society we’re fascinated by psychopaths. We flock to our cinemas and to our bookshops and greedily gobble up our fill of sickening and atrocious criminals with distressed delight. We avidly read our sensationalist media’s alliterated epithets for insane killers with fearful, fascinated shock. And we almost cherish these lunatics for posterity’s sake, allowing inherently evil people access into the hallowed annals of our popular history. But, disturbing as it may be, psychopaths are fascinating and they provide for fascinating literature; which is why Jon Ronson’s new book, The Psychopath Test, is set to become yet another major success for the already acclaimed author of The Men Who Stare At Goats.

Weird trip The Psychopath Test is a journey into the madness industry; a journey on which he uncovers a world of strange social experimentation, cold-hearted corporate high-flyers, transvestite conspiracy theorists, scientologists, and of course a mandatory serial killer or two. Ronson is known for delving into odd or bizarre topics—The Men Who Stare At Goats was about the US Army’s exploration of New Age concepts and the military potential of the paranormal, its title a reference to their attempts to kill goats by staring at them, and Ronson does not stray from his winning formula in his new book. Why does he find himself drawn to such topics? “Well it’s never for the sake of it. I never think, lets go and interview this crazy person. It’s just that you need stories which give you a bounce in your step and more often than not those stories are the ones about crazy people doing crazy things.”

the book are going to be annoyed [about how they’re portrayed]. I got really worried about that because I want the people I write about to be happy. So I got totally stressed out with anxiety. To the extent that I could barely function.” It’s an easy anxiety to have; potential psychopaths don’t often lend themselves to be described in a favourable light, and one would assume if you try to keep psychopaths happy then you run the risk of humanising essentially inhuman people. Ronson disagrees: “Fine, it’s naive to be nice about people who don’t deserve it but at the same time I still want to try and do that [be nice to people] as much as I possibly can.”

Ticking all the right boxes Luckily Ronson doesn’t have anything to worry about. He does not “humanise” his psychopathic interviewees, but shows them for what they are—psychopaths. But how do you define a psychopath? As one might expect from the book’s title, identification revolves around the idea of a checklist, a universally accepted set of criteria. Ronson’s discovery of this checklist takes him on an adventure into the corridors of power, an adventure which ultimately leads him to the controversial hypothesis that the people who run our world are, in fact, psychopaths.

Mind games For a man who seems so willing to venture into the lions’ den of lunatics and nutjobs, he is surprisingly anxious; an anxiety which he refers to constantly throughout the book. “I get completely stupid thoughts in my head. Intrusive thoughts, like, in the old days, if I couldn’t get hold of my wife on the phone, I’d immediately think she was dead.” He tells me that his anxiety has even extended to how he sees the book, explaining that: “A couple of days ago I got it into my head, again with ‘zero evidence’ that some people in A man in charge?

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As a test, he interviews and examines Wall Street’s darlings, meeting with secretive investment bankers and controversial industrialist Al Dunlap. Does he still believe his hypothesis after his encounters with the guys at the top? “You know what, I do, even with all the moral ambiguities in the book. But that chapter does show that psychopathic character traits are loved by Wall Street.” These kinds of theories are only a short way away from falling into the former BBC Sports’ presenter David Icke’s trap of believing the world is run by lizards, and Ronson of all people should be aware of this after his famous Channel 4 interview with Mr. Icke. In fact, Ronson tells me that he recently bumped into Icke again in Heathrow airport, where they greeted each other like “battle-hardened warriors.”

Who’s who? Given this unremitting contact with the bizarre, I wonder whether he begins to lose a sense of reality on his adventures. “Yes!” he answers, “It doesn’t always happen, and it didn’t happen that much in The Men Who Stare At Goats. I never really started to believe that was possible, I was always more rational and sceptical on that one. But with this book very much so, when I left the Bob Hare course [where he discovers the psychopath checklist], and thought Bob Hare is right, it totally warped me. It made me drunk with power. I was convinced that everyone who had ever crossed me was a psychopath. A surreal twilight world!” As you follow Ronson’s journey on the psychopath trail, you start to understand his feelings. It’s a testament to his writing that it’s easy to believe that everyone around you is a psychopath, or even that you might be a psychopath. His hypotheses are enlightening, his neuroses infectious, and his words are like a literary espresso. As soon as you start reading he picks you up, gives you a shot of intrigue and then won’t let you get away. He keeps you gripped from the outset, with strange tales of mysterious packages in the pigeonholes of the world’s leading academics, with reality TV’s dark, secret relationship with the mentally ill, and Scientology’s campaign to get the criminally insane out of prison. So if you’re looking for escapism in your pool-side reading this summer, but have become fed up with the yearly load of conspiratorial drivel about the Catholic Church or “The Illuminati” then The Psychopath Test is for you. You can finally believe an unbelievable story.

Photo (CC) flickr: carbonNYC

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Eating & Drinking great ideas for eating out in Madrid

VEGAVIANA Vegetarian restaurant in the heart of Madrid Daily Menu 9,70

c/Pelayo, 35 (Metro: Chueca) Tel: 91 308 03 81. Open Tues-Sun 1:30-4pm. Tues-Sat 9-midnight. Closed Sunday & Monday

Bangkok Excellent Thai Cuisine c/Arenal, 15 (esquina Bordadores, 13) Tel: 915 591 696. Metros Sol or Ópera.

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Beer & brewing

Thai Restaurant The authentic taste of Thailand in Madrid c/San Bernardino, 6. Metro: Plaza de España. Tel: 91 559 83 15

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Computer Services

Need help with your computer? ! Effective and professional staff ! Secure and reliable service ! YOU are in control Whether you need some help with a program or have a problem with your Windows or Mac system, we can help you remotely or come to where you are.

902 24 64 24 www.benn.es

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Find out how you can reach our 66,000 readers Call marketing on 91 523 30 91 Obstetrics & Gynecology

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Counselling

David Hugener MSW US Trained/Licensed

Help in relationships, emotional distress, problem solving. Brief or longer-term therapy for individuals and couples. Sliding Scale Free Consultation Tel: 91 594 22 08 or 626 16 00 24 Argüelles area

US Trained & Licensed

Psychotherapist

Mediation

Therapies

Maite Martinez MSW

Individual, couples and family therapy. Solution-focused therapy. EMDR. Therapy in English, French and Spanish.

Phone: 637 753 264 Care for the Elderly

Dr. Anne Suárez OFFERS YOU A FULL WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE SERVICE Family Planning, Menopause, Pre-natal care Centro Clínico Betanzos Avda Betanzos, 60 91 730 42 02 or 91 730 26 84 www.centroclinicobetanzos60.es

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Language Services

C.E.E. -Idiomas Spanish Language School - All levels - Preparation for DELE Exam - Cultural activities

Also ENGLISH - FRENCH GERMAN - ITALIAN

89E 20 HOURS MONTHLY

148E 40 HOURS MONTHLY * Groups or private classes * Special classes for companies c/Carmen, 6 — 28013 Madrid 91 522 04 72 - 91 521 10 04 91 522 18 57 - 91 531 38 56 e-mail: info@cee-idiomas.com

Spanish for foreigners 1 Small groups 1 All levels (D.E.L.E. Official Exam) c/Fuencarral, 13-2º, 28004 Madrid Tel: 91 522 31 22. Fax: 91 532 85 09. e-mail: info@carpemadrid.com www.carpemadrid.com

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Professional Development

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We build mutually beneficial relationships between people in the UK and other countries and increase appreciation of the UK’s creative ideas and achievements. In Spain, the British Council undertakes a wide variety of cultural activities and exchanges and manages a large examinations programme, a school and over a dozen teaching centres. The teaching centres in Madrid and the surrounding area wish to appoint teachers of English as a foreign language for summer intensive courses in July, August and September. The post holders will teach young learners (between the ages of 7 and 18) and/or adults. Our minimum requirements are: ● ● ● ●

native speaker of English or equivalent ability education to degree level or equivalent a recognised, relevant teaching qualification two years’ relevant experience post-qualification

Letters of application, together with an up-to-date curriculum vitae in English, should be emailed to: Recruitment.Madrid@britishcouncil.es or mailed to EFL Teacher Recruitment Pº del General Martinez Campos, 31 28010 Madrid

We will not normally respond to applications that do not clearly meet our minimum requirements. The British Council is committed to a policy of equal opportunity and diversity. www.britishcouncil.es The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. We are registered in England as a charity.

Madrid School of Languages is looking for native English, French, German and Italian teachers with teaching qualification and experience for the academic year 2010-2011. Please send CV to: coordinador@madridschool.com or call at 91 554 01 63.

Teacher (QTS) and an NVQ3 Required native English female to work with 1 to 6 year old children in a British Nursery School in Pozuelo. School Holidays paid. Possibility of full day job (9.00h a 17.30h) or half day job (9.00h a 14.30h).The Nursery is very well communicated with Madrid centre by train or bus or metro ligero.

metalwork services

CERRAJERÍA ORBAMA

Please send your CV to britishnursery@britishnursery.com. www.britishnursery.com

Cerrajería Artística Escaleras, Rejas, Barandillas Puertas de Comunidades Cerramiento Vallas Estructuras metálicas Mobiliario Urbano

Travel

C/Batres, 21 Local - Getafe 91 681 54 45 - 667 545 101 - 649 930 112

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The InMadrid classifieds section is the perfect way to reach the English-speaking international community. To place an ad, visit inmadrid.com and click on classifieds. Obtain the best response from your ad in the shortest time by choosing one of our economical, combined print&online packages,

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Visit inmadrid.com and click on classifieds to create your account. DEADLINE FOR NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE IS 22ND OF THIS MONTH. Ads received after this date will be published in the following issue. NOTE: InMadrid is not responsible for the contents of its classified ads. It is the reader’s responsibility to investigate the authenticity of advertisers.

accommodation accommodation-offered SMALL STUDIO ACCOMMODATION FREE AS FROM 15TH JUNE Small Studio accommodation ideal for student, recently completely refurbished, available for short or long term rental as from 15th of June. Own bathroom with shower, fitted wardrobe with safe, Kitchennette, Washing machine, desk, Internet connection, TV, Air conditioning, weekly cleaning with change of bedlinen, Top floor, very quiet, very light.Quality building, day concierge. Contact: wengerbarbara@gmail.com, tel. 660 389 221. BIG ROOMS CENTRO MADRID Big rooms for rent in a house, Centro Madrid easy walking distance to 2 metro stations cercanias,bus,free parking rooms are bright and airy as there are lots of windows,All mod cons in huge kitchen and an outside patio,internet,musical thread,Soils radiant 290€ .680653202 carlosgasanz@yahoo.es. NICE AND COMFORTABLE TWO BEDROOM FLAT IN CHAMBERI 800 euros, 60 m2 two bedrooms flat, living area with a balcony, american kitchen, all refubished, appliances: washig machine, fridge. to rent unfurnished. Close to all ammenities. rentals@innovate.es. phone: 670681435. ROOM IN SHARED FLAT FOR SHORT/LONG LETS - MONCLOA Room to let in shared flat for short or long term lets. Perfect location five minutes walk from Arguelles metro and ten minutes from Moncloa transport hub. €450 Tel: 670681435 Email: rentals@innovate.es. BRIGHT STUDIO FLAT IN CHAMBERI FOR SHORT/LONG LETS 30m2 bright furnished or unfurnished studio flat with balcony overlooking an enormous patio. Kitchenette with glass hob, modern fridge and washing machine. Flat with a/c & central heating. 5 mins walk from Alonso Cano & Rios Rosas metro station. 10 mins walk from the Canal Isabel II public pool, running track, football field, tennis and padel courts. €650 Tel: 670681435 Email: rentals@innovate.es. NEWLY REFURBISHED 25M2 LOFT STUDIO/DUPLEX-TRIBUNAL For short or long term lets we have this top floor newly refurbished 25m2 loft studio duplex with or without furniture and appliances. In the very sought after area of Tribunal close to an abundance of bars, restaurants, nightlife and clubs. €730 Tel: 670681435 Email: rentals@innovate.es. LIGHT, AIRY AND TRANQUIL FLAT IN LA LATINA Modern, recently refurbished twobedroom, two-bathroom flat on third floor of apartment block in La Latina for rent - €1,000 a month. Large combined living/dining room. Lift. Tel: 627 01 4647 or email suzanne_mccullagh@hotmail.com. 90M2 LUXURY ONE BED FLAT CHAMBERIGREGORIO MARAÑON Luxury 90m2 bright one bedroom exterior facing furnished flat with two bathrooms. Professionally Refurbished By Interior Designer. Kitchen fitted with all mod cons including Washer / Dryer, Dishwasher, Built In Deep Fat Fryer etc. Air conditioning. Central Heating included in the price. €1400 Tel: 670681435 Email: rentals@innovate.es. ALQUILER APARTAMENTO, EN CENTRO:TRIBUNAL Bonito apartamento, 1 dormitorio, salon, comedor, cocina y baño. 60m, amplio. Reformado totalmente, y bien amueblado. Ascensor, calefacion, aire acondicionado. precio:850 euros/mes. Telf 630168019. COZY STUDIO SHORT OR LONG RENTALS: TIRSO DE MOLINA Lovely 30m2 fully furnished refurbished studio for long or short term lets with separate bedroom area, a/c & heating. Separate kitchen with washing machine. Well designed flat with optional internet and flat screen TV. In the sought after area of La Latina & Tirso De Molina. Ideal location for long or short term stays, 10 mins walk from Sol. €760 Tel: 670681435 Email: rentals@innovate.es.

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SPANISH CLASSES IN CENTRAL MADRID Learn Spanish easily with experienced teacher, graduate of International House. One to one or groups. Materials provided. Grammar and conversation for all levels. DELE exam. From 15 euros negotiable. Contact Javier: 661 871 239. Email: javiersanjoseespeso@hotmail.com. Web: http://javiersanjoseespeso.jimdo.com.

english EMILY’S ENGLISH EXPERIENCE will improve your communication skills in English. Lively interesting conversation and language tuition with Madrid-based journalist and writer. Oneto-one residential weekly courses in peaceful rural village near Zamora. English TV, radio, books, newspapers, films, music and typically English home-cooked food. Continuing tuition hourly in Madrid also available. Tel: Emily 915348984/609048846. PROFESORA BRITÁNICA TITULADA DA CLASES DE INGLÉS Profesora nativa de inglés titulada (TEFL CELTA). Inglés general; inglés de negocio; inglés jurídico; inglés técnico (seguros, construcción, publicidad, marketing, inmobiliaria, energía, medicina, etc.); Business English Certificates; International Certificate in Financial English; International Legal English Certificate (ILEC); preparación a los exámenes de Cambridge (First Certificate, Advanced, Proficiency). 13 años de experiencia en empresas del IBEX35. Particulares 20€; dos personas 30€; grupos 40€. Llamar al 91 459 12 60/626 065 482 o escribir a profesoresnativosdeingles@yahoo.es.

clubs clubs-general-social

holiday-accommodation LUXURY MINI STUDIO FOR SHORT TERM LET Beautiful Studio Acc. with dbl bed , top floor, very light, very quiet, great views. Ind. Shower, WC,basic kitchen faciities. TV, Internet, weekly cleaning with change of bedlinen. Quality building with day Concierge.Location: Metro Guzman el Bueno. Minimum stay 1 week, max. 1 month 300 per week, longer stay negociable. Contact: wengerbarbara@gmail.com , tel. 660 389 221.

classes art-classes FURNITURE DECO & RESTORATION STUDIO MADRID Furniture restoration & decorative painting. Come and learn to restore old furniture and transform it with different techniques. Discover a new world of decorative painting. No previous skills required. Classes in English, Spanish, French and German. Contact Paloma on 620 362 842. STUDIO: C/San Hermenigildo 18. Metro San Bernardo. Email: palodesell@gmail.com.

music-classes GUITAR LESSONS - JAZZ, BLUES, BOSSANOVA, FOLK... American graduate of Madrid’s Conservatorio Superior with lots of professional experience playing jazz, blues, bossa-nova, folk, etc. offers classes in all of these styles as well as all levels of classical guitar. Classes are in the Retiro area and all levels and ages are welcome. I’ve got lots of teaching experience. Please e-mail: cywilliams@telefonica.net. SPANISH GUITAR LESSONS Teacher, graduated (high degree), gives lessons of Spanish guitar (every musical stile). Students of any age. Classes in English or Spanish. Lessons are 1 hour each, costing 25 euros. Metro: Iglesia (línea 1) Canal (líneas 2 y 7) Telephone: 650672356 Email: astur_kirichian@yahoo.es.

language-classes spanish SPANISH CLASSES I am a Spanish teacher with 25 years experience. I am looking for “One to one “ classes (All levels).Role- play conversation, grammar, business,DELE examination. Also there are Openings for a shared class at any level FOR FIRST MONTH YOU PAY FOR ONLY 3 WEEKS. Maria : 699331505 91.7736471 gretachic@yahoo.es. SPANISH CLASSES Qualified native teacher with experience. One to one or groups. Grammar, conversation. DELE.Revision text. Zone: Moncloa or in your place. From 15 euros negotiable. Cristina 656 634 343. Email: cristina_dom@hotmail.com. TAILOR-MADE SPANISH Have little time but are eager to learn Spanish? Are a bit worried about slow progress in a language school and want to explore the one-to-one approach? Your availability is far from being ordinary?. Weekends are frequently your sole possibility? Please call or write. Sure I can help you. 626 169 229 — mailto: spanish_1to1@yahoo.es.

EL CAMINO DE SANTIAGO Thinking of doing the Camino this year? Come and listen to Paul Hevicon and Andrew Knight, novice and veteran, share their experiences of doing and preparing for the walk with lots of handy hints & practical advice. @ Irish Rover, 10th June, 20:00 to 22:00 (Avenida de Brasil, 7). Event promoted by englishwarehouse.com + Look out for our next events: 24th June Britpop band at Triskel Tavern in Malsaña and 16th July cricket tournament. Check out our events on facebook englishwarehouse.com. KEEP RIGHT ON - THERE WILL BE JOYS AND SOROWS TOO Calling all Birmingham City fans in Madrid. Do you watch the Blues on TV in the various Irish bars in Madrid. Are you interested in a more co-ordinated approach ? If you are interested in gathering in a central location (ie a specific Irish bar) to watch the games please let me know. If there is a genuine interest we could also form an official supporters club backed by BCFC. Please email me at bcfcsupportersmadrid@hotmail.co.uk KRO !!!. PARENT AND CHILD GROUP Parent and Child Group in Madrid. If you are new in town or a single parent looking to meet other parents with kids or simply want to expand your child’s network of friends then join us for walks and outings with the kids. All nationalities welcome. Write to roseantrobus@yahoo.es or call 626 065 482. Thanks!.

professionals has vast clinical experience helping adults and children in the Englishspeaking community in Madrid with depression, anxiety, cultural adaptation, couples/relationship problems, sensory impairments, language disorders and more. www.sinews.es.

desperately-seeking ANGLOPHONE FAMILY IN BRITAIN OR IRELAND If you know of an Anglophone family in Britain or Ireland willing to receive an Spanish au-pair girl this Summer, please get in touch:m.jaldon@bei.org.

for-sale This section and many more classified ads on-line at inmadrid.com

health-and-fitness ASHTANGA YOGA ,THAI MASSAGE &THAI COOKING CLASS My name is Amorn from Thailand. I live in Madrid almost two years now. I am Ashtanga Yoga teacher and also offer Thai Massage (certified from Wat Pho Traditional Medical School in Bangkok Thailand) and Thai cooking classes at home and outside. My place is located in the center of Madrid, metro Goya and Principe de Vergara. For more information about me and price for Yoga, Thai massage and cooking class, please kindly check at my website: www.BAAN-AMORN.COM or write me at: BRIESELANG70@YAHOO.DE. CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY Craniosacral Therapy is a subtle and profound healing form. It was developed by an American osteopath, Dr William Sutherland, whose research revealed certain rhythms in the body were linked with mental and emotional health and when these were restricted, the body’s natural capacity to self-heal was reduced. I am a qualified craniosacral therapist registered with the Craniosacral Therapy Association in the UK and I offer treatments at my home near Cuatro Caminos. If you would like to find out more or book a treatment call me on 676 323 495 or email me on clodaghsbeaty@gmail.com.

heart-to-heart hetero LOOKING FOR FOREIGNER GIRL, INTELIGENTE, LECTORA, agréable et tranquille, para amistad y quizá más. J’ aime... los gatos, consultar a las nubes, los horizontes, el viento helado, el abrazo de la noche, el olor de la piel tostada al sol, el filo mordiente de los cuchillos y el de los adolescentes en pavo (I am French teacher), los ángulos irreales de los lugares comunes, regalar, sorprender, la luz de las sonrisas, el fuego dominado, devorar paisaje, enfrentarme a otras inteligencias, el tacto de la piel amada, las manualidades, volar y navegar, hacer pensar... Gustavo - c/ Nogal, 7 - 1ºB / 28039 Madrid (eM@il luego).

intercambios

clubs-sports

groups

FIELD HOCKEY - MIXED SOCIAL TEAM Los Naranjas is a mixed social club with all level of players on the team, from complete beginners to seasoned veterans. We play every weekend between September and June. If interested please contact los.naranjas.hockey@gmail.com. MADRID LIONS RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB, EST. 1997 Madrid Lions Rugby Football Club welcomes new players of all levels and nationalities. Pub night Thursdays from 8.30pm at Finnegan’s, Plaza de las Salesas (Metro Alonso Martínez or Chueca) where you can find out why we are Madrid’s most popular and successful social rugby club. Check out www.madridlionsrfc.com, email info@madridlionsrfc.com or ring Charlie on 636 067 716 or Paul on 679 225 067. MADRID CRICKET CLUB Madrid Cricket Club is always looking for new players of all levels and nationalities. We hold regular training sessions and friendly matches in Madrid from March to November and we have two teams in the Spanish Cricket League. For more info contact Joss (663 395 058) or Jon (655 069 9 11), send an E-mail to cricketinmadrid@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.cricketinmadrid.com.

MADRIDBABEL: INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN MADRID!!! Meet people from all over the world, practise languages absolutely FREE & make new friends through our wide range of international activities: EVERY WEDNESDAY > International Evening from 20:30 at The Quiet Man (Valverde 44 metro Tribunal or Gran Vía). EVERY SUNDAY > International Afternoon from 19:00 at The Quiet Man (Valverde 44 - metro Tribunal or Gran Vía). EVERY WEEK-END > Films in o.v., international dinners, tapas evenings, excursions, sports, wine tastings, cultural visits, parties & many other activities!! For more info contact Fran (madridbabel@yahoo.es) or visit www.madridbabel.es.

counselling COUNSELLING MADRID Counselling Madrid is devoted to the international community in Madrid. We provide confidential counselling services to students, expats and spouses. Visit our website for more details: www.counsellingmadrid.org. PSYCHOLOGY/PSYCHIATRY/SPEECH& OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Counselling, Psychology, Psychiatry, Speech and Occupational therapy services in English and Spanish (some services also available in other languages) for all ages. Our staff of

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jobs jobs-offered FINANCIAL ADVISOR SEEKS PERSONAL ASSISTANT This is to work in our busy central Madrid office You would be making telephone calls to clients and new contacts, as well as general office duties. Full time position, but would consider part time / job share. You must be highly motivated, have a happy disposition, and be a fluent English speaker. Salary with bonus scheme available to the right candidate. Possibilities for promotion, which may suit graduate entrants. Please reply with a copy of your CV (in English) to: hr@amaliawealth.com. OFFICE MANAGER WANTED Looking for responsible person w/ Office manager experience. Excel, Word and Powerpoint essential. Strong people and communication skills. Must be bilingual in English and Spanish speaking and writing, organized and detail oriented. Flexible schedule, some weekends. Travel Experience helpful and good knowledge of Spain. Send us CV at info@letango.com.

SPONSORED TEFL COURSE WITH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIE Oxbridge is based in Barcelona and Madrid. We teach English to hundreds of clients. We offer 1 month (120 hr) intensive TEFL courses in English teaching in Madrid. Participants are trained in an oral-based, innovative and modern methodology of language teaching. The curriculum is extensive; we cover everything needed to teach effectively including teaching theory, teaching techniques, grammar, practical skills, lesson and material preparation, teaching different ages and testing. We employ a large number of teachers and are constantly looking for new, dedicated teachers. FOOD AND WINE LOVER IN MADRID Looking for individual with excellent communication skills to orientate our clients and teach them about the spanish culinary traditions while showing them bars and restaurants that we recommend in Madrid. Flexible and occasional schedule, work some weekends and evenings. Working with international clients. English essential, some spanish desired. Send us your CV at info@letango.com. FREE WORKER TO IMPROV MY ENGLISHANYWHERE IN SPAIN I work for FREE in order to live with a speak English family IN ANY SPANISH TOWN. I offer child-elderly care, housework, Spanish tutoring, computing, yoga. I love children. I am a qualified COMPUTER (unemployed now), a qualified swimming instructor, free-time teacher and interested in diving & all sports. I am 48 years old, woman with a 7-year old daughter. AIM: take advantage of my daughter’s summer holidays for both of us to improve our English (for 1 week to 3 months). Other option:I would also be interested in a house or family swap. I study English-Level 6(2 Advan.)Official Sch699419695.

services ENGLISH HAIRDRESSER Top London stylist worked whith Trevor Sorbie and Vidal Sassoon trained. Available for HOME visits in and around Madrid. for more info, and prices check out: http://englishhairdressermadrid.squarespace.c om or call Sally at: 651481916. LIVELY CELTIC MUSIC Irish musicians available for concerts, functions, weddings and parties. Tel: 654 225 305. LIVE MUSIC Duet of classical guitar + flute / jazz guitar + saxophone will give a touch of class to receptions, parties, weddings, etc. We’re serious musicians with an ample repertoire and lots of professional experience in the jazz and classical fields. There is the option of solo guitar (jazz + classical), duet, trio with double-bass, quartet with double-bass and drums, and formations with singers, trumpet players, etc. Please email: cywilliams@telefonica.net. COMPUTERS / NETWORKS / WEBSITES System administrator offers professional service. Computer / laptop repair, data recovery, password recovery, IT infrastructure planning, software installation and maintenance, network administration, resolving email problems, IT security, backup solutions, web pages. Windows, Linux/UNIX supported. I speak English and German. email: info@jjaeger.fastmail.fm or Mobile: +34 65 335 11 36.

tertulias MADSHORTS LITERATURE GROUP MAGAZINE We discuss three previously read texts in English: prose fiction mainly, but also poems, translations and papers. We have monthly two-hour meetings in a congenial venue. Social events include restaurants, theatre, film and literary visits. Contact madshortsmadrid@gmail.com.

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