Large Manchester Issue 20 by Large Publishing Ltd

Manchester

The Perfect Guide to the Perfect City

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magic & sparkle Issue 20 December 2010

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t. 0161 831 9937 w. ericaandedwards.co.uk e. sales@ericaandedwards.co.uk

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Christmas Gift Guide Festive Theatre Round-Up I Blame Coco Live Manchester’s Magical Markets Frankophilia! Issue 20 December 2010

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The Perfect Guide to the Perfect City

Contemporary and classic jewellery from around the globe Stocking well known brands such as Thomas Sabo, Alex Monroe and Spinning. Specialising in bespoke made diamond rings where the customer can specify the diamond size, cut, style of band and material used to match their budget. The Erica and Edwards experience is designed to be unique and personal with fantastic customer service.

Issue 20 December 2010

Hello Fine Folk Ahhh, the end of the year is in sight. I honestly can’t believe that 2010 is nearly over but what I can believe is how much I love Manchester in December. It’s just a joyous place to be and this year it seems there will be more on display that ever with extra markets dotted about the city plus more Alpine-themed bars to glug back mulled wine and hot cider in! We’ve got a fantastic gift guide in this issue to try and help ease a little bit of the stress from your Christmas shopping. Also, if you’re anything like my family, a festive trip to the theatre is on the cards so we’ve highlighted the best Christmas theatre productions to see before the year is through. A massive Happy Christmas to all of our fantastic readers, supporters and clients, we wish you all the very best for 2011 and hope the big man is good to you on 25th December. Until next time,

Sending Large Love.

Editor: Kelly Byrne Contributors: Francesca Raphael, Claire Sanderson, Vicky Connett, Rachel Richards Snail mail: Large Publishing, 60 Port Street, Manchester M1 2EQ Website: www.largemanchester.com Email: editor@largepublishing.com, advertising@largepublishing.com Main Office: 0161 235 7270 Advertising: Contact Claire or Francesca on 0161 235 7270 Editor: Contact Kelly on 0161 235 7278 Distribution: tadtu 0161 839 3083 Disclaimer: ©2010. Large Manchester is published by Large Publishing Ltd. Large Manchester retains copyright. All rights recognised. We cannot accept responsibility for any unsolicited text, photographs or illustrations. Views expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.

Manchester’s Retail Boom Figures just released from Cityco, the city centre management company, have revealed that Manchester is bucking the national retail trend and is enjoying a boom whilst most other British retailers are experiencing weak sales figures.

City Sounds

Figures compiled from more than 100 stores in the city centre in September show nearly a 5% increase in monthly like-for-like

sales compared to the same time in 2009. The overall picture for the UK is just 0.5% so we’re leading the way, Manchester! Cityco said it’s probably a lot to do with the fantastic mix of high street and independent retailers in the city centre plus larger department stores such as House of Fraser and Debenhams having major facelifts recently and enticing more customers. L

Dirty Dancing comes to Manchester Forget the hysteria for Take That tickets, have you got your tickets for Dirty Dancing - The Musical? Guilty pleasure Dirty Dancing is coming to the Palace Theatre on its national tour.

Christmas 2010 at The Castlefield Hotel 10%F OF

Bookings now being taken for • Private Lunches • Private Dinners • Stunning Marquee Party Nights

Join us for one of our legendary marquee party nights, which includes a three course meal in our gorgeous, newly refurbished marquee, with entertainment from our seven piece Motown band ‘24hr Motown People’ How to book:

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Call 0161 832 7073 Or email Kayleigh@castlefield-hotel.co.uk

Thursday 9th December Friday 10th December Saturday 11th December Thursday 16th December Friday 17th December Saturday 18th December

*Don’t forget to quote ‘Large’ to ensure your 10% discount today!

After wowing the West End for the last five years, the musical comes to the Palace until Saturday 7th January. Tickets are on sale now so snap them up today before they’re all gone, and don’t miss the opportunity to sing-a-long to all those classic hits you know and love. 06

www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk for tickets. L

Liverpool Road, Manchester M3 4JR www.castlefield-hotel.co.uk

City Sounds

Manchesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Christmas So, Manchester is in full Christmas glow now but did you know that the city is being dazzled by low energy bulbs in a bid to make the city a greener place to be.? Polystyrene has even been banned on the markets and more recycling is being done than in any other year. The new lights use just a tenth of the power of normal Christmas lights so not 08

only are they environmentally friendly, they are also more cost-effective. The city is being illuminated by nearly 400,000 LEDs and it took a team of 25 people more than 2,500 hours to fully decorate the city centre. The lights will, of course, be joining Albert Square Santa who already sets a good example. His 100,000 bulbs take up less energy than boiling two kettles a day! L

The Lodge

Purl City Yarns Purl City Yarns is Manchester’s vibrant new yarn and fibre shop, capturing the spirit of the UK-wide revival of knitting, crochet and yarn-based crafts. There are actually 15 different knitting groups in Greater Manchester but until now there wasn’t a dedicated shop where local knitters and crocheters could get a wide quality of choice and exotic yarns and fibres. The shop is the brain child of Charlotte Bacci, who was herself frustrated having to constantly go online or travel to different cities to get her yarn so she decided to open the venture to cater to the growing need in Manchester.

Based on Port Street in the heart of the Northern Quarter, customers will be spoiled for

choice with the range on offer in a kaleidoscope of colours by exciting international brands including Misti Alpaca and Lorna’s Laces from the US, Noro from Japan, Mirasol from Peru and Malabrigo from Uruguay. It also stocks gorgeous, luxury hand-dyed yarns produced by local independent dyers.

The whole of The Avenue has been transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland for the festive season with the return of the ice rink and a brand new, two floor cabin bar, The Lodge. The Lodge offers space for private parties plus a medley of seasonal beverages and warming winter food.

The delicious menu has been hand-crafted by none other than award-winning chef – Robert Owen Brown of The Mark Addy, offering gastronomic delights such as rich claret and ginger, local venison with red cabbage and an exclusive menu of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including 17 different flavours of hot chocolate and mulled beer with essences of honey and cinnamon. For more information visit www.thelodgebarmanchester.co.uk L

New to Manchester

You’d be hard pushed to find someone in the city who doesn’t love Manchester’s pop-up Christmas bars and this year there is The Lodge down at Spinningfields.

Purl City Yarns is not just a place to buy yarn. Charlotte explains: “Our motto is ‘shop, learn, create’ and we wanted very much to make Purl City Yarns a social hub for crafty people. We have a sofa and chairs in the shop, so knitters and crocheters can come in and craft together.” For more information visit www.purlcityyarns.com 62 Port Street, Manchester, M1 2EQ

Utopia

Luke Men of Manchester have another retailer to add to their favourites with the opening of Luke in the Arndale Centre. Luke is an independently owned label known for its edgy and contemporary collections. Luke has a legion of celeb fans including very well-dressed men Rio Ferdinand, George Lamb and Brandon Block. The store stocks a wide range of shirts, polos, jackets, knitwear, denim, footwear and accessories.

Local lads will love Luke’s edgy designs mixed with classic tailoring and its signature embroidered lion logo. The price point is reasonable too, starting from £30 for T-shirts. L

Being held at the spectacular Vermilion and Cinnabar, Utopia has the perfect back drop to bring to life that Balearic feel. It’s being held on the last Friday of the month so make note of it in your diary. It’s going to be an entertainment extravaganza with a host of DJs, burlesque dancers and guest singers. With two rooms playing different music (one classic Ibiza anthems, the other the very best funk and commercial R & B), clubbers will be spoiled for choice as there’s something for everyone.

New to Manchester

Manchester is set for a new exciting club night filled with inspiration from the white isles; Utopia will deliver a whole new clubbing experience, brightening up dark, damp nights with a touch of glamour.

Tickets are available from www.skiddle.com or Vermilion and Cinnabar. L

Frankophilia! An exhibition of artwork of Frank Sidebottom Chapman Gallery, University of Salford - until 18th December

The gallery will become a multi-media ode to the much-loved character, famous for his oversized cartoon head and unique mix of comedy, performance, music and art. Chris Sievey’s death earlier this year sparked a heartfelt response from fans with resulted in an online campaign raising over £20,000 for ‘Frank’s Fantastic Funeral Fund’.

Elsewhere, fans responded to the tragic news with some touchingly creative mourning – resulting in a plethora of images of all kinds of Frank-inspired objects and artwork created out of sheer love for Frank. ‘Frankophilia!’ brings all the tributes together. Fans have submitted everything from doodles and papier-mâché heads to full-blown animation and scarecrows. The show has been described as “hilarious and touching in equal measures”. The exhibition is free to enter. Opening hours are Wednesday to Saturday 12-5pm.

For further information see www.salford.ac.uk/frankophilia L

Weekend Wandering

Wistful Wondering

The Chapman Gallery at the University of Salford has been given over to ‘Frankophilia!’ – an exhibition of fan’s artwork celebrating Frank Sidebottom.

Salford Ice Rink – 3rd December to 9th January

Weekend Wandering

It’s not only Manchester that has its own ice rink, now Salford residents can get in on the action too with their very own ice rink over at The Quays. Budding Torvill and Deans can head along and show off their skating skills. It’s

the perfect place to make a full day of doing a spot of Christmas shopping around The Quays then having an hour on the ice after. For full details, prices and information go to www.visitsalford.info L

Tutankhamun – His Tomb and His Treasures New museum on the block, the Museum of Museums (near to The Trafford Centre), has just opened its exhibition on archaeological sensation Tutankhamun. The exhibition features a spectacular reconstruction of the Pharaoh’s tomb and his treasures The 4,000 square metre exhibition space brings to life the story of Tutankhamun and the fascinating world of ancient Egypt; its funerary cults, gods and mysterious hieroglyphics.

Visitors will see the tomb in three-dimensions at the moment it was discovered with 1000 precious burial artefacts all elaborately replicated down to the smallest detail.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.tutankhamunmanchester.com or call 0844 249 1000. L

Top tips for keeping your car and valuables safe • Remove all valuables when you leave your car especially Sat Navs and their mounting cradles, remembering to wipe away any ‘sucker marks’ • Consider leaving your glove box open to show that it is empty • Use an immobiliser, alarm or tracking device • Always keep your vehicle locked, even if you only leave it for a few seconds

Message from the Police

Get Your Skates On!

Best of... Christmas Gifts

Men Women Children

Airkix Indoor Skydiving

Purl City Yarns

For the ultimate gift this festive season, treat your action hero to an adrenalin pumping experience at Airkix Indoor Skydiving over at Trafford Quays. What could be better than giving the gift of flight? It beats the predictable presents – woolly jumper for Dad, perfume for mum or DVDs for the kids.

You might think that knitting is just for old ladies but it’s the new hobby craze that’s sweeping the nation. Purl City Yarns stock great starter knitting packs perfect for all – young and old plus if your loved one is the crafty type, one of their knitting courses would be the ideal gift this festive season.

The Air Kix experience starts from just £29.99. Log onto www.airkix.com or call 0845 331 6549 for more details. L

Get your loved one an AirKix gift voucher which allows them to experience freefalling in winds of up to 130mph.

If you know a lady who struggles to tame her not-so-luscious locks, then look no further than this beautiful smoothing treatment to get tresses looking amazing.

Den Interiors

The Brazilian blow dry treatment available at barn//it hairdressing at Urban Retreat, Harvey Nichols has been the talk of the celebs recently and the results are fantastic.

If you’re buying for someone keen on their interiors then head along to Den on Oldham Street as they’ve just relaunched their new interiors gallery.

Purl City Yarns, 62 Port Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 2EQ - www purlcityyarns.com L

Brazilian Blow Dry

Men Women Children

The place is an Aladdin’s cave of unusual and quirky pieces so if you’re buying a gift for a guy who has a penchant for all things good-looking then head along to Den. We love these clocks that they stock.

If you’re unsure what to actually buy when it comes to knitting then just pop into see them and their friendly staff can advise you on what the best gift would be.

Den Interiors, Oldham Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1LE, 0161 236 1112, www.denfurniture.co.uk L

Whether hair is long, short, wavy or straight, this smoothing treatment will give girls gorgeous, sleeker hair, perfect for all of those Christmas and New Year parties. The treatment takes approximately 25 minutes and within days, hair will need less blow drying and heated products – the ladies will love it and boys, what a perfect gift for the missus!

Also available this Christmas are the barn//it boxes which are £85 for a consultation and a cut or £135 for a consultation, cut and colour. With the barn//it box you also receive complimentary skincare samples, a £10 Urban Retreat Voucher, drinks and refreshments during your visit plus save money on bookings at The Lowry Hotel – can’t be bad!

Before

Best of... Christmas Gifts

Men Women Children

After 21

Men Women Children

One for Young Wannabe Drivers

Best of... Christmas Gifts

Struggling to find the perfect Christmas present for that hard to buy for 11-16 year old? Give them something they can really get excited about – their first driving lesson! This is the perfect gift for 11-16 year olds. During their lesson, they’ll get behind the wheel of a brand new, dual-control SEAT Ibiza and learn road manoeuvres such as steering, changing gear and reversing, on a purpose-built road system complete with roundabouts, road signs, junctions and a special beginners’ area.

They’ll also be given a drive diary to record and assess their performance with their driving instructor. It’s the perfect gift they’ll never forget!

NEW COCKTAIL LIST

Lessons cost £29 for 30 minutes and £55 for one hour. ‘Taster’ lessons are available on selected dates at just £19 for 30 minutes.

Out Now! Ask for our Little Black Book. .......

Lessons are taken at Manchester Sportcity. Contact Young Driver on 0844 371 9010, email info@youngdriver.eu or visit www.youngdriver.eu to book a lesson for a loved one today. L

Arrival bubbly & cocktails. Fantastic 5 course menu. Cool sounds from our DJ’s. Bar open late, late, late! .......

NEW YEARS EVE

OBSIDIAN CHRISTMAS Filling up fast for the festive season. Book early to avoid disappointment. .......

COCKTAIL SCHOOL Christmas cocktail schools now available. Book now to learn how to mix, muddle & shake like a pro.

24 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 4LY 0161 238 4348 www.obsidianmanchester.co.uk

Opus One Radisson Edwardian Hotel, Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5GP Large rating 7/10

Desserts 8/10

Opus One, extravagantly decorated and opulently dressed in reds and dark wood, has just appointed new head chef Neil Armstrong and introduced a new menu. We visited on a Tuesday night and the place was fairly empty apart from a few hotel guests dining alone and the after-work drinks crowd huddled in the bar area.

To start, we tried the Veloute of Celeriac served with Wild Mushroom and Tarragon Croquettes (£5.95). From here on, it must be said that attention to detail with every dish was second to none, with the celeriac soup being served in a small teapot that you then poured into a cup and used the croquettes to dip in. The dish was lovely, very simple, but a good base to start from.

The new menu is based around classic British food, taking modern dishes and putting their own twist on them.

We also tried the Soufflé of Appleby’s Cheese with Terrine of baby leek and sweet potato and house-dried Tomato Hollandaise

For mains, fish lovers would be in their element with Oven Roasted Cod and Wild Sea Bass plus quintessentially British dishes such as Venison Loin with Cracked Juniper and Clementine Crust and Pan-Fried Local Pheasant but we tried the highly recommended Fillet of Cheshire Beef served with Purple Potato, Olive Gallette and Bourginonne Garnish (£24.95). It was a beautiful cut of meat and the bourginonne sauce added a rich depth to the dish. Accompanying the beef were huge chunks of ham off the bone, baby mushrooms and onions adding a smoky warmth to the whole ensemble. We also tried the Roast Organic Chicken with Onion Purée, Buttered Cabbage, Sage Creamed Potato and Cepes (£17.25). The chicken was cooked exceptionally and the onion broth with the dish was a nice accompaniment; the dish just lacked any kind of outstanding flavour.

in a tiny frying basket, scrumpy cider jelly which had a real intensity to it with the cider coming through, a delicious green apple mousse (a first for me) and a ginger and apple flapjack, the dish was really unusual. The White Chocolate and Olive Oil Parfait (£6.50) also comes highly recommended, served with a rich and creamy chocolate torte and home-made raspberry shortbread. The service is excellent at the Radisson Edwardian, the dishes just lack a little flavour. All of the dishes are beautifully presented; I just feel the menu tries perhaps a little too hard to offer unique and unusual dishes meaning that the flavours of the dish are often secondary to the presentation.

Tummy Rumbles

sauce (£7.50). The soufflé was extremely ‘eggy’ and a little overpowering but the sauce really dressed the dish up and the terrine was an unusual touch.

Desserts are really where Opus One excels. My dining partner would be described as not a dessert person but still found the Apple Fritter (£6.50) delicious. Comprised of apple fritters served 25

Tummy Rumbles

Shallot Pie served with Chantenay Carrots, French Beans and Mash (£8.95), Guacamole and Bacon Burger (£8.95) and Salmon and Smocked Haddock Fishcake served on a bed of French Beans, Baby Potatoes, Sun-blushed Tomatoes and Roast Peppers (£8.95). Given that it was lunch time, we opted for a Mexican Chicken Wrap (£5.95). The spicy chicken was mixed with a colourful assortment of peppers and red onions, mozzarella and topped with a vodka chilli salsa. It certainly had a kick to it but was really tasty and filling. A side order of chips didn’t hurt either!

Revolution – Deansgate Locks www.revolution-bars.co.uk/deansgate Large rating 8/10

Revolution is a firm city favourite come lunch, dinner, after work drinks or a night on the tiles. It pretty much is a one-stop-shop for all occasions, and their food is worth a try too!

Ever the leaders at trendy marketing ploys, with their late night pizza deals for hungry partiers, loyalty card discounts and special mid-week deals, Revolution is never going to win awards for gourmet food. However, if you want tasty and

more often than not fast cooked (not fast-food, don’t be confused!) food then Revolution is a good place to head. We stopped by for lunch and were suitably impressed. The menu covers a real variety from stone-baked pizzas and burgers (try the Revolution Vodka Burger with speciality vodka infused chilli salsa) but they’ve just launched a new menu for Autumn/Winter complete with some delicious mains such as Steak and Roasted

We also tried the Revolution Salad (£8.95) which was chicken breast, bacon and goat’s cheese served on a mixed bed of salad. My guest described it as delicious; however, there were a LOT of flavours going on. My guest described herself as a ‘saucy kind of girl’, loving lashings of balsamic which this dish had in abundance. However, it maybe too much for some palates. There is so much to choose from and it was difficult to narrow down our choices but we left full to the brim. At lunch time you are easily in and out within the hour so it’s a great spot for meeting up with mates during your break and it’s really reasonably priced so it won’t break the bank. L

Offering great value holidays and exclusive flight only packages to a vast selection of airports across Europe and the World. Trained specialists are on hand to book your holidays, business trips and city breaks. Only a 5 minute walk from Piccadilly, come in and see what Miss Ellie's can do for you. Whatever your requirements we can offer you the best in service and price.

ABTA 83465

72-86 Oldham Road Manchester M4 5EB 0844 209 4155 www.misselliestravel.co.uk

Manchester unwraps a magical Christmas Christmas has become yet another event that Manchester excels at. This year the celebrations will be the most festive yet. Cityco, the city centre management company, Manchester City Council, Marketing Manchester and the Piccadilly Partnership have joined forces to present a full range of events across the city centre.

Piccadilly Gardens Family Fair – 9 December – 3 January Piccadilly Gardens is going back in time to be transformed into a world of Christmas curiosities including a helter-skelter, galloping horse carousels, chairplanes and swingboats, plus chalet style stalls and a Big Top Bar with festive refreshments and Christmas carols. There’s plenty for all the family to do and don’t miss their hearty food offerings of hot soups, stews, roasted meats, handmade pies and mash and lovely desserts. The Big Top Bar (operated by Kro Piccadilly) is also open in the gardens for the adults to have a tipple. Try out their traditional ales, hot cider, mulled wine and winter cakes.

The French Market on King Street Manchester’s newest market to arrive in town, the French market will feature around a dozen stalls selling French fancies plus a pop-up bar serving coffee liquors, Vin Chaud (the French version of Gluwein), cocktails, crepes, cassoulet and authentic French cheeses and pâtés. If you want to escape the crowds then don’t forget this little market.

Goings on in the City

You won’t be able to miss the events across the city centre but here are a few of our recommendations.

For more information on Manchester city centre Christmas activities and to download more information visit www.visitmanchester.com

Goings on in the City

The Simpsons come to town You’ll have to be quick to catch the new Simpsons Art Exhibition at Generation Pop Art Gallery on New York Street (behind Piccadilly). The gallery is hosting this exclusive exhibition paying homage to the world’s favourite family.

and ale house menu New John Willie’s pie

Come and see our new first floor Champagne bar ay at 7.30pm Quiz every Wednesd The best outdoor are a in Manchester*

The art work on display includes storyboards and illustrations as well as pieces signed by Simpsons creator Matt Groening that have been flown over by 20th Century Fox especially for the exhibition.

Sticking with the cartoon link, there are also pieces in the exhibition from Futurama, American Dad and Family Guy so any fans of modern animation need to get along quick to view these amazing pieces of work.

RD AWANING N WI R & BA RANT TAU S E R

private hire Available for *Well we think so anyway

80 Great Bridgewater Street Castlefield Manchester 0161 235 6500

Until 4th December. The exhibition is free to attend. L

rain@jwless.co.uk

www.rainbar.co.uk

Iconic illustrator Si Scott is holding a special exhibition at Manchester Photographic Gallery with all the proceeds going to Forever Manchester. The exhibition comprises of a series of 11 specially commissioned posters focusing on lyrics from Manchester bands including Elbow, Oasis, The Stone Roses, The Fall, The Doves and Joy Division. The unique typeface used in the pieces has been specially created by Si for the series. For those unaware, Si is ranked in the Top 200 Illustrators in the World. His unique style has won him a prestigious and ever-expanding client list, including Vogue, Nike, Guinness, MTV, Absolut, Tiffany & Co and American Express.

Top: The Stone Roses Right: Oasis Bottom: The Fall

Goings on in the City

Forever Manchester and Si Scott Link Up

The exhibition will appeal to anyone who loves Manchester, from art lovers to music lovers.

Si Scott for Forever Manchester, Manchester Photographic Gallery, 3B Tariff Street, Manchester M1 2FF

Large went along to the Trafford Centre Christmas lights switch-on a few weeks back. There were a raft of stars in attendance including Jamie ‘Afro’ Archer, Brian Capron (Richard Hillman in Coronation Street) who stars as Captain Hook and Thomas Law (Peter Beale in EastE nders) and the delectable Olly Murs. We managed to grab five minutes with Mr Murs and were wondering if the down to earth,boy-next-door we all fell in love with during X-Factor was still there. We weren’t disappointed! He apologises for signing all his photos, and says he promises he’s not ignoring me but soon he stops and we begin having a nice chat... So Olly, when did you arrive in Manchester? Literally got in today, I travelled up from London, well Essex, as I stayed home last night and I did Celebrity Juice which was a lot of fun – Keith Lemon is just outrageous! So it’s been a full-on year for you since the X-Factor, your single then album, how have you managed to get it all done?

My new single’s coming out soon as well. It’s been crazy, an amazing year and there’s still lots coming up. I’ve got my documentary coming up on ITV soon just before my single comes out then a DS advert with Alexandra Burke which will be out over Christmas – that was a lot of fun. Then my tour next year, (Large asks when the tour would be) we haven’t had a confirmation of dates yet but will be early next year. So the fans will be able to see that soon. You collaborated with Robbie Williams on the X-Factor, if you could choose to work with any artist now who would it be? Well I almost had Professor Green on the next single but it was unfortunate it didn’t work out in terms of record companies and stuff like that, but Professor Green, I love his work and what he’s doing. Also Eliza Doolittle, they are the kind of people I’d like to work with. I think it’s important as a new artist to collaborate with other new artists, if you did it with an artist who’s been around a while it kinda becomes about them not you, where as if it’s two artists on equal fields then it works so I’d love to work with both of them. Continued on next page.

Live Lyrics

Olly Murs

Continued from previous page.

Live Lyrics

You’re probably one of the quickest from X-Factor to get everything out there, how did you do it? Yeah, bosh bosh bosh, done. I’m on the same record company as JLS so we’ve kept the same schedule as what they did last year and it’s worked really, really well. So fingers crossed. I’ve enjoyed every minute of the last year and I have my album coming out, I just hope it does well.

So after things like this, events, and being in the studio all day, what do you do to relax? What do you get up to in your down time? Sleeping in the car! I try to get at least 8 hours. If I don’t, I get really cranky. As long as I get 8 hours in I’m ok. I play football with my mates. I think it’s important to keep things as normal as possible. If you start living in a bubble, you lose sense of reality and who you are as a person, so it’s good to be around your mates and your family as they’re the ones who will give you a kick up the backside when you need it! So have you been to Manchester before? Oh, loads of times. I’ve only ever really been up to play football at Old Trafford though, in United Relief Soccer Aid, and it was brilliant. I’ve performed up here a couple of times too, I love it up here.

What kind of sound can we expect to hear from your album? The album’s actually got a few reggae tracks but it’s got a lot of variety. Got loads of different sounds, couple of similar Robbie tracks, the reggae sound that I’ve created, well not created but put my own stamp on. It’s out November 29th. And have you been watching the X-Factor? Yeah, I love it, love the show. People don’t realise what you have to do in the week to get to Saturday and I watch it and think, oh they look so tired and run down and they have so much going on in their heads and what they have to do. I am a massive fan of Matt, being from Essex, I just hope the media don’t ruin it for him (we then mention Wagner still being in). For me I like him still being there, he typifies what the show should be about, he doesn’t have the singing voice but it’s about enjoying yourself as well. I feel a lot of them are playing safe and are too afraid to enjoy it. So look out for all things Olly in the upcoming months! His single and album are out now with a tour planned in the New Year. Phew…busy man! L Vicky Connett

Due to popular demand The Lowry Hotel has launched a brand new Sunday night Festive Party night on Sunday 19th December priced at only £29.95 per person. The evening starts with a sparkling wine reception, followed by a sumptuous festive buffet, then dance the night away until 1am. For your special Christmas lunch or dinner with friends and colleagues, celebrate in style in The River Restaurant where we will be serving our Christmas menu throughout December. Three courses for only £25 per person. For further details on the Art of the Festive Season please contact The Lowry Hotel’s Christmas Coordinator on 0161 827 4000 or e-mail christmas.lowry@roccofortecollection.com for further details and options.

Coco has a sting in her tail

Dressed like a boy and wearing a bowtie, Coco’s husky voice marks her out as a cool cat. Her fingerclicking dancing is jerky and echoes her dad, as king of the mods, in Quadrophenia. As the group storms through a set that includes her three singles, Caesar, Self Machine and In Spirit Golden, it’s clear that this project is very much Coco, with her band acting as wallpaper.

Coco’s at her best when singing electro tunes rather than ballads. Her unusual vocal style means she sings from the back of her throat; this stops her very danceable set from being too cheesy. Whipping the crowd into a frenzy, there’s a knowing irony at play here though. She’s found a niche. Her reggae/ pop direction, that dare I say it sounds like The Police, is just a lot of fun… and it happens to be trendy too. As the crowd go Coco loco for her brooding, bass-heavy pop, it’s clear she’ll escaped the shackles of her parentage and be judged as the coolest kid on the block. I Blame Coco Manchester Academy 3 Tuesday 26 October L

Live Lyrics

The hype has been mounting this year, with style magazines, blogs and the paparazzi all wanting a piece of the Coco action. But now it’s time to judge her on her music. With the ever-present reminder that Sting is her father, the lights go low as we prepare for darkness before it goes ‘pop’.

Words by Rachel Richards.

With an array of low-fi keyboards, the 80’s influence burns bright. In fact, most of the set sounds like a collection of retro theme tunes. At its worst this inspiration goes into overload. On It's About to Get Worse I’m reminded of a slushy version of Burning Heart from the Rocky IV soundtrack. Her stand out single Caesar featuring Robyn is left till last. The production values may be high and the tune is very catchy but it’s missing the Swedish pop star’s presence. 40

Snow White at The Opera House

Coronation Street and Strictly Come Dancing favourite Tina O’Brien (Sarah-Lou in Corrie) will take the role as the beautiful Snow White this year (Tina played Cinderella back in 2007 so is getting the hang of these types of roles!) Tina is joined by another soap favourite Deena Payne, who most of us know as the larger-than-life Viv Hope from Emmerdale. Deena plays the Wicked Queen in the production.

Manchester Library Theatre Company presents A Christmas Carol at The Lowry Friday 3rd December to Saturday 8th January

Keeping with the traditional Christmas vibe, if you want to indulge in a timeless favourite then A Christmas Carol is on at The Lowry, Salford.

Ebenezer Scrooge, the meanest man in Victorian England, who has to confront the error of his ways when three ghosts come to visit him.

Directed by Rachel O’ Riordan, who directed the Library Theatre Company Christmas production Grimm Tales last year, this highlyacclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is headed up by the miserable

If you fancy a big dollop of heartwarming, Christmas theatre then don’t miss this. Tickets are priced from £12.50 and can be bought from www.librarytheatre.com or 0843 208 6010. L

Key 103’s Mike Toolan plays Snow White’s saviour, the Prince, and then it’s soap stars galore as the cast is rounded off by none other than Shadrach Dingle (Andy Devine) playing the Queen’s Henchman. It will be a production filled with ‘oh no he didn’t’ and lots of ‘he’s behind you!’ fun, fun, fun for all the family. Tickets start from £10.50 and are available from www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk L

Live Entertainment – Christmas Theatre

Saturday 4th December to Sunday 2nd January

Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure

Live Entertainment

The Lowry Wednesday 8th December to Saturday 1st January It’s an all-star cast for Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure with EastEnders’ Peter Beale making his stage debut as Peter Pan (don’t be confused, this is the young Peter Beale not his Granddad Pete Beale!). The Street’s love-to-hate villain Richard Hillman (Brian Capron) will add to his baddie credentials playing Captain Hook and Manchester-born favourite John Henshaw will be taking to the stage as Captain Hook’s right-hand man Smee. It’s one for the kids (and young at-heart-adults) as J.M. Barrie’s beloved story Peter Pan is magically brought to the stage in this special adaptation of the 100-year-old classic tale. Tickets start from £21 and can be purchased from www.thelowry.com L

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Not For Ponies

The shop has become synonymous for its quirky T-shirt graphics and use of bold, statement prints and bright colours.

The label is the brain-child of local lady Beckie Andrew’s, who launched the label in 2009 after working for a high street supplier. Quickly growing tired of churning out the same mass-produced, commercial fashion, she set out to create a fashion brand with an edge. We sat down with Beckie to have a little chat about the label. Beckie, what influenced you to launch an ethical fashion label? I spent some time overseeing production in Chinese clothing factories last year, and although the workers were not ill–treated, their working conditions were still really tough. It was then I made the decision to source Fair Trade materials wherever possible. This helps to ensure that the people who have made your garments have not only been paid a fair wage, but have been working in safe and hygienic working conditions. How would you describe Not For Ponies to a person who has never heard of it before? It is a range of casual clothing that’s been designed to make you smile and feel good. I like to use big T-shirt graphics, bright colours and quirky prints. I think it’s really

In terms of style icons, I love anyone that mixes up different trends, eras and fashions, to create their own individual style

important, more than ever to support the UK’s economy and back UK designers. What sparked the move into Affleck’s? Mainly because it’s affordable and achievable for a small business. It’s also a prominent, well known location. For many small businesses, opening their own retail outlet, is not an option financially for at least the first couple of years. Affleck’s provides independent retailers with a solution to this problem.

What are your opinions on Manchester’s style? Manchester's street style is pretty hot. You only have to spend five minutes in the Northern Quarter to see all kinds of weird and wonderful fashion crazes. Of course, vintage is booming right now, particularly within the student market. But it's also getting kind of tiresome! The vintage scene has been dominating the independent fashion market for many seasons now and it seems as though vintage retailers are ten a penny. As much as I love all things retro, I'd like to see something new...! L

Fashion Forward

One of Manchester’s legendary fashion caverns, Affleck’s Palace, has a new addition with Not For Ponies setting up shop there. The ethical clothing shop is based on the third floor of the building and specialises in sustainable street wear and organic, made-in-Britain fashion for men, women and children.

recently established icons La Roux, The Gossip, and Marina and the Diamonds.

Who inspires you? I take inspiration from many creatives of the past and present. I particularly love artists who have a naive but comical handwriting, including Edward Monkton and David Shiel. In terms of style icons, I love anyone that mixes up different trends, eras and fashions, to create their own individual style. One of my all time greatest icons, has to be Gwen Stefani, but I also love more

Fashion Forward

Young Designer of the Year Crowned at The Triangle

Liverpudlian graduate fashion designer, Michelle Pevie, was crowned this year’s Young Designer of the Year at the grand finale at The Triangle Shopping Centre. Judged by a panel of industry experts, Michelle’s beautifully crafted collection wowed the judges, with all seven unanimously hailing her as the winner.

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Michelle not only walked away with the prestigious title, but in addition will have her collection on display at The Triangle Shopping Centre, allowing her to opportunity to launch her designs to the Manchester public. Michelle beat off stiff competition from 10 other young designers from the North West after being whittled down from the hundreds of entries received. The inspiration for Michelle’s collection is Ancient Egypt, and in particular gods and goddesses, Egyptian lifestyle, and history. Her full range of ladies wear and accessories can be viewed on her website www.michellepevie.co.uk or at the Triangle Shopping Centre. L

We carefully select the finest quality yarn brands that we know our customers will be 100% satisfied with. From the stunning and immensely popular Japanese Noro Yarn to German Schoppel Wolle we hope that you will find our range of yarns perfect for your knitting & crochet projects. Ask about our exciting program of events in the shop including workshops, exhibitions and yarn taster evenings.

62 Port Street | Manchester | M1 2EQ | 0161 425 3864

Stand-Up For The City

Sam Gore It’s always nice to be grounded, I feel. The life of a stand-up is one that’s full of peaks and troughs – you can be on a real roll of great gigs but there’s always a nagging thought at the back of your mind that the one gig where it all goes wrong can’t be far off. We all die every now and then. The better you are the less frequent it is, but it happens to us all. Up until a few minutes ago I’d had a pretty brilliant week. I’d made my TV debut doing stand-up comedy (shut up, ITV4 still counts) and I’d got a credit on a big BBC3 show for some ideas I’d contributed. I was, for want of a better phrase, feeling a bit pleased with myself. However, I’ve just checked the viewing figures for the show I was in. It was a 9pm slot – there’s bound to be a fair bit of

I’ve just checked the viewing figures for the show I was in. It was beaten in the ratings by The Only Way Is Essex! 52

competition, but it was a good show and I was proud of it. It was beaten in the ratings by The Only Way Is Essex. And there we go. There’s the bump back to earth that I needed. The knowledge that three years’ work going into my performance and material is appreciated by some, but that ultimately more people want to watch top-heavy orange monstrosities squawk and honk at each other while brawling over diamante stilettos. I’m alright with it. Keeps me grounded, after all. Sam Gore regularly performs at the Frog & Bucket on Oldham St in the Northern Quarter, Manchester. L

Bored of the gym?

Sweat It Up

Habitual Fitness offers a less threatening approach to exercise. Its unique and personal approach allows you to have fun and socialise whilst getting a good work out. They offer one-on-one sessions, group classes or classes at your work place or home. Regular fitness Pilates classes are on throughout the week meaning there are no excuses to tone up. By doing regular pilates, many factors can be improved, from posture correction to core and pelvic floor strengthening. Many of the exercises can also be placed into your normal daily routine. Fitness Pilates also allows you to become more flexible and helps prevent or reduce back and neck pain. Habitual Fitness also hold regular running groups to help burn those unwanted calories. ‘Running The Easy Way’ is a beginners course which helps build up your running techniques and fitness levels. The course allows

you to take the fear out of running and shows you how to build up to a 5k standard. They do run intermediate running groups to help stay focused on personal goals for more experienced runners. This group is for those who want to maintain a level of fitness and stay motivated. The best bit is that they do a pay as you go service so you aren’t locked into any nasty year agreements making it miles more affordable. Visit www.habitualfitness.co.uk to see what else they offer. Email Kirsty at 247wellness@googlemail.com or call on 07756435407 for more information. L

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Message from the Police

Top tips to avoid becoming a victim of burglary • Install an alarm and make sure it’s activated when you leave your home empty and before you go to bed at night • Make sure your home looks occupied when leaving by either turning a light on or setting a timer to turn lamps and radios on and off • Install sensor lights that switch on automatically when movement is detected around your property • Do not leave a spare key concealed anywhere near the front door – burglars know all the hiding places. Store keys away from the front door and out of sight • Do not leave doors and windows open or unlocked and fit window locks on ground floor windows

• Do not leave gates, sheds and garages open or unlocked

This is one of my favourite questions I ask all my clients and it is almost always followed by a long pause. The truth, I believe is that most people don’t know what they really want and many people go through their whole lives settling for second best...or worse. The truth is, unless you know where you are going in your life, you will just become part of somebody else’s plans. Nobody else knows what you really want, they don’t know the answers because the answers must come from within. Other people can offer their suggestions, their advice and their support but getting what you really want in life has to come from within. It took me several years to discover what I really wanted in my life and it continues to evolve and change along the way but I keep on track with my true desires with one key practice. This practice has been used by thousands of the World’s greatest achievers from Einstein to Barack Obama. This practise is self reflection. Asking yourself questions and spending quality time thinking about the answers to those questions. Whether it is about choosing a career, working out solutions to current challenges, getting the most out of your week at work or

planning a wedding! The best possible thing you can do is to spend some quality time with yourself, a pen and some paper to scribble down your thoughts. Maybe add a cup of tea and some music to that mix but that’s all! If you want to move forward in your life with more clarity, focus and purpose then you should make this a daily habit. Martin Robert Hall runs his own Inspirational Training Consultancy which specialises in helping people to be the best they can be. He has also recently written his first book called Optimize Yourself. You can learn more about Martin at www.martinroberthall.com L

SAD

Case Seasonal Affective Disorder As the cold nights close in, many of us can start to feel a bit low, want to eat more and maybe put on a bit of weight. Is this just the winter blues or could you be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD)? Up to 1 in 50 people in the UK are thought to have this form of depression. Symptoms tend to start between September and November and often clear up quickly in the spring. It is not only about feeling depressed. Low energy, poor concentration, lack of motivation and loss of enjoyment (including sexual desire) are all typical symptoms that you may experience. These have to be persistent for at least two weeks to be significant. We are still not entirely sure why this happens but it is likely that it is due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. Diagnosis can often be delayed, sometimes for years, as the pattern of

symptoms is recognised. A useful questionnaire that GP’s often use in suspected SAD cases is the PHQ 9, this can be done at home and easily accessed on the web. Depending on the severity, various treatments are available. Getting out and about more in the day and regular exercise can help release those happy hormones. Light therapy can be beneficial, with special light boxes that are at least 10 times stronger than the average light bulb and low in UVB. Unfortunately, these are not available on the NHS. Antidepressants and talking therapies are also useful.

Stay healthy this Christmas

Optimize Yourself – Lifestyle design for people on the up

What is it that you REALLY want?

Come and talk to a health care professional or take a look at www.sad.org.uk if you think you could have SAD, as there are treatments out there that could make your winter a whole lot brighter. L Dr Luke Wookey 59

Dedicated to my brother James – 1986-2010

Fran about town

There’s little point writing about anything else this month and I wouldn’t pretend otherwise; on October 18th my little brother James died in a freak accident in Nepal. He was 24.

New to the City? Fancy a girly night out? Or looking for a more natural kind of networking?

James was both brave and reckless and he was having the time of his life. I flew out to Nepal to bring him home. For those who have travelled Asia the realities of living in a world without precious commodities such as electricity are bewildering to even the most experienced traveller. Indeed, Nepal is crippled by the serious plight of street children and drug abuse; those who suffer do so in poor living conditions without the fundamental services and infrastructure we are provided with here. I thought of Manchester, our amazing city and immediately regretted my constant whinging that buses never run on time and how much I pay in council tax. I never anticipated the experience bringing me anything other than sadness and despair but I found innate beauty amongst the chaos.

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I walked the roads my brother had walked, ate in the same restaurants and street shacks, drank in the bar

Sign today up get y to 1st evour e FREEnt he hung out in with his friends. I went there to bring my brother home but I found his spirit and brought that home too. On November 5th I threw the most important party of my life, one to celebrate his, and James was there, dancing amongst us. L

Our next events Tuesday 7th December Burlseque Fun at the KiKu Boutique, Tib Street from 6pm.

Francesca Raphael

Monday 13th December

I never anticipated the experience bringing me anything other than sadness and despair but I found innate beauty amongst the chaos.

Ice Skating and Mulled Wine at The Ice Rink on The Avenue at Spinningfields from 6pm. Follow us on twitter @thirstythursman and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thirstythursdaymanchester Register at www.thirstythursday.co.uk and get entrance into your first Social totally free. Come and see what you’ve been missing!

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Dealers in fine jewellery for over 30 years. Jenny Jones are a family run business stocking the largest range of Pandora jewellery in Manchester. Selling a vast range from handmade silver pieces from around the world to exquisite vintage jewellery specialising in art deco and engagement rings. Our fully trained staff are on hand to offer expert advice and help t. 0161 839 0102

Manchester’s Finest Traditional Tobacconist The Royal Exchange houses Manchester’s finest traditional tobacconist. Established over 30 years ago offering all leading brands of tobaccos, cigarettes and a wide range of handmade cigars kept in a humidified room. C.Aston stock a large variety of lighters including St Dupont, Dunhill and Zippo as well as pipes from Peterson, Falcon and Dunhill to name just a few and also provide a comprehensive range of shaving requisites, hip flasks and Swiss Army Knives – the perfect gift for Christmas

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