Bristol Life - Issue 277

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

ISSUE 277 / LATE WINTER 2020 / AFTERNOON DE-LIGHT

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

ISSUE 277 / LATE WINTER 2020 / £3

SPRING, LOADED

LOVE WILL TEAR US APART (AGAIN)

NOW THE BRISTOL ARTS SCENE IS SUCKING DIESEL!

THE RETURN OF THE RED SHOES

GOOD LIBATIONS COCKTAILS TO WARM THE COCKLES

BRISTOL IS LIT!

OH MY BLUE

PANTONE’S COLOUR OF THE YEAR IS CLASSIC BLUE – AND IT’S SO BRISTOL

A DAZZLING NEW FESTIVAL FOR THE CITY

EDITOR’S LETTER

34 Easily LED: the Light Festival is good to glow

T

his probably looks like a standard Bristol Life to you. Same size, same loveliness; same feature sections celebrating the city; same mildly amusing captions, contrived popular culture references and occasionally (if you’re really lucky) a few drily amusing headers.

What makes it different is that this is our last-ever three-weekly issue, because 16 years after launching the magazine, almost to the day, we’re switching to fortnightly with immediate effect.

We know that this may not amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world, but for those of us who’ve worked on the magazine since it began, it’s the end of an era; the concluding episode in a favourite box set; the final dance at the school disco; the last choccie in the box.

But we’re ready for the change. Bristol has never been more exciting or enticing than it is right now; if we had the resources, we’d probably be able to take Bristol Life daily. But let’s not run before we can walk. Instead, look out for our next issue in just two weeks time, whether waiting for you in your favourite café, bar or arts venue or popping auspiciously through your letterbox; and join us on our journey on the good ship Bristol Life, as she sails into uncharted waters.

Meanwhile, get stuck into this (for us) historic issue, which includes a major preview of the best shows, gigs and exhibitions coming our way, as well as a look at the new Festival of Light. There’s even a bunch of cocktail recipes, in case you fancy toasting new beginnings.

And yes, I do need to update that ancient editor’s photo, before we’re sued for misrepresentation…

DERI ROBINS Follow us on Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram @BristolLifeMag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 3

Issue 277/ Late winter 2020 COVER How the Cheers Drive sign will look at the top of Cascade Steps; more on page 34

THE ARTS

© BEN ROBINS

11 12 18 28 32 34

9

40

ART PAGE Bristol Blues WHAT’S ON A smorgasbord of cultural delights ARTS PREVIEW The very best of the spring season DANCE Bourned again OPERA Nice and Bizet does it FESTIVAL First light: a new illuminated festival

for the city

36 BRISTOL HEROES That’s so Bristol…

FOOD & DRINK 40 42 45 48 51

RESTAURANT Bocabar at Finzels FOOD AND DRINK Bless your beautiful Hyde FOOD AND DRINK NEWS Edible snippets COCKTAILS Winter warmers STAN Surf ’s up

SHOPPING

58 ED’S CHOICE Blue: hue de jour 60 TRY 5 Staycations

EDUCATION

62 GENERATION GREEN he reta effect

BUSINESS

77 BRISTOLWORKS News, views and interviews

PROPERTY

84 SHOWCASE On the waterfront

REGULARS

SPOTLIGHT BRIZZOGRAM SOCIETY BRISTOL LIVES Feats of clay

© _ HUGOPOWELL

7 9 69 90

Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Meg Coast meg.coast@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Mal Rogers, Christian Annesley, Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore Advertising manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash. co.uk New business manager Craig Wallberg craig.wallberg@mediaclash.co.uk Advertising & sales executive Hayley Allwood hayley.allwood@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Jake Horwood jake.horwood@mediaclash.co.uk Production/distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager/ production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

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Green team: Marvin fourth from left

SPOTLIGHT @banksy on instagram

Environment

THE GREEN SCENE

ristol has become the first ma or city to declare an cological mergency. he declaration, made ointly between Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees and Ian Barrett, CEO of Avon and Wildlife Trust, comes in response to escalating threats to wildlife and ecosystems.

Emergency ecological priorities will include looking at ways to stop wildlife habitats from being destroyed, and managing land in a sustainable way; beyond that, it’s hoped that the announcement will be a wake-up call for the entire city.

Rees said: “It is not too late to start the recovery of our wildlife. We must work together to grasp this last chance, and put things right for nature and wildlife in our city. This declaration will provide a focus for the whole city to come together and take positive action.”

For more: news.bristol.gov.uk

Street art

SPRAY IT WITH FLOWERS Huge excitement across the city (and headlines in the nationals) when homeboy Banksy confirmed that the new piece that appeared overnight on Marsh Lane on the eve of Valentine’s Day, not far from the Barton Hill youth club where he first got into graf, was his work. It’s a typically sinister, satirical piece, and riffs on an ‘innocence and violence’ kind of theme, we guess; someone’s already made off with the poppies on the road sign, so expect to see those on eBay any day now.

Culture

MARKET RESEARCH From the mediaeval tales of the Stag and Hounds public house to the former abode of Britain’s most prolific serial killer, Bristol’s Old Market is home to an eclectic mix of historical landmarks and stories, many of which are unknown to many Bristol folk.

A new partnership between First Base property developer and Visit Bristol hopes to bring some of this little-known history to life, with a series of alternative walking tours that will get under the skin of Old Market’s abundant history, taking people on a fascinating journey of discovery over the course of a couple of hours.

Launching on 1 April 2020 to coincide with National Walking Day, the walking tours will begin outside the Bristol Marriott Hotel City Centre – where the entrance to Bristol Castle once stood – and end in the haunted canteen at Gardiner Haskins, where it’s believed a hungry poltergeist lives.

For more: www.firstbase.com

Culture

EMBRACE THE DARK SIDE

Bristol has recently gained a new cultural gem in the form of a new microsite. Haunt Bristol, which follows in the eerie footsteps of Haunt Manchester, was launched in response to a growing trend in travel dubbed ‘spooky tourism’. The plan is to bring the alternative, dark side of the city into the light, exploring its gothic history and uncovering secrets and hidden heritage. aunted tours, death caf s and sinister tourism experiences are all on offer, as well as weird secrets of the city’s churches and mysterious places. If you’ve got pals visiting from out of town and want to show them something a little different, try this.

For more: hauntbristol.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

NIGHT MOVES

Hey, don’t wish the last weeks of winter away – the darker evenings have a beauty all of their own.

Judging by the quality of photos on Instagram, you’re all inspired by the bright lights of Bristol, too

@jackbeal

@greenfieldgeorge

@trav_tography

@thisiscarrington

@mrbenadams

@craigderrick40

@bentiley

@keirgravil

@shoot.bangers

@thebristolnomad

@scrumpyphotos

@t0m.wright

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THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B R I S T O L’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

THE MAN WHO DREW SO MUCH Back in June 2014, we met a young artist called Gareth Wood, aka Fuller – a cartographer extraordinaire, whose latest project was an enormous, vastly detailed pictorial map of Bristol. We liked it so much we put it on our cover.

Gareth’s mission, we learned, was to explore the identity and culture of places through what he described as ‘maps of the mind’ – intricately hand-drawn artworks of the world we live in, based on his own personal wanderings.

Since we last spoke, Gareth’s prints have been acquired by the British Library, the Museum of London and Bristol Museum, while his repertoire of cities has expanded to Beijing, which he circumnavigated by foot.

He has also changed his surname back to his original family name of Fuller. “It was confusing having two second

names, so I opted for the one I felt closest to,” he says.

And now Gareth’s revisited his Bristol map – the original is currently on show at M Shed – as a farewell to the EU. “I created the Bristol Blues edition to celebrate the spirit of the city,” says Gareth. “Political opinions notwithstanding, we’ve left the European Union, and all we can do is look outward; whether it’s for new opportunities, or continuing as a welcoming place to work and settle.”

So why choose the Bristol map, as opposed to, say, London? “It felt natural to mark the moment with such a fiercely independent place, says areth. We ll take that.

Bristol Blues is available as a silkscreen print, limited edition of 50, signed by the artist; £600 at www.fullermaps.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 11

WHAT’S ON

Your cultural fix for the coming weeks. Want more deets? We hear you! Turn to page 18

© MANUEL HARL AN

21 February – 21 March

ART

Until 1 March

AFRICA STATE OF MIND/ REFUGE AND RENEWAL The exciting duo of exhibitions continue at RWA: one explores the work of an emergent generation of photographers from across Africa; the other is a timely exploration of the impact of artist refugees on art in Britain, taking a perspective across the last 150 years; shop.rwa.org.uk

Until 14 March

HANS EIJKELBOOM: STREET FUSION / BRISTOL IN 2019 he artist s first solo exhibition in the UK is getting up close and personal with series of snapshots showing Bristolians at a single point in time. At Martin Parr Foundation; martinparrfoundation.org

Until 22 March

PACITA ABAD: LIFE IN THE MARGINS The Filipino-American artist’s

first exhibition in the offers an informed and distinct global perspective on art-making as a cultural tradition rooted in many places at once. At Spike Island; spikeisland.org.uk ZANJIR Bristol-based Amak Mahmoodian’s series of photographs taken in Iran and the . t rnolfini; arnolfini.org.uk INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION 162 See page 18. At RPS; rps.org

Until 19 April

DO YOU BELIEVE IN MAGIC? From ancient uses of witchcraft to the role superstition plays in the modern mind, Bristol Museum explores how magic has been used to heal, hunt and harm down the ages; bristolmuseums.org.uk

Until 26 April

ANGELICA MESITI: ASSEMBLY

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ee page 1 . t rnolfini; arnolfini.org.uk

Until 4 May

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR EXHIBITION Wild things; we think we love you.

The world-renowned photography exhibition returns to M Shed. bristolmuseums.org.uk

21 – 26 February

CONTEMPORARY PAINTERS 2020 An inaugural exhibition of painters based in Bristol and beyond. Their common ground is painting itself, incorporating two and threedimensional interpretations.

At Centrespace Gallery; centrespacegallery.com

5 – 11 March

THAT’S HOW I SEE THE WORLD An exhibition showcasing artworks that represent the world view of each artist. At Centrespace Gallery; centrespacegallery.com

14 March – 24 May

WILHELMINA BARNSGRAHAM AND THE ARTISTS OF ST IVES See page 18. At RWA; rwa.org.uk

SHOWS

Until 29 February

LARAMIE PROJECT A play that challenges us to consider what it means to be human through an examination of the aftermath of the 1998 murder of Matthew hepard and its effect on his community. At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

Until 8 March

MID LIFE id ife pauses three fierce women at a significant moment in time the menopause. Join them as they find a way through the loss, despair, frustration, freedom, joy and possibility of the middle years.

At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

WHAT’S ON Armed only with a baguette and his questionable steed, join hot-headed D'Artagnan as he travels to become a Musketeer. Will things go to plan? It's unlikely. At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

10 – 21 March

FAUSTUS: THAT DAMNED WOMAN See page 18. At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

11, 13 March

© BEN ROBINS

CARMEN See page 32; At Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

ABOVE: Behind the scenes of the beautiful game in The Red Lion LEFT: Ashley Shaw is en pointe, as ever, in The Red Shoes

1 March

THE PAPER CINEMA CLUB The Paper Cinema are setting up at The Wardrobe this spring with a monthly series of scratch performances, inviting the audience you to find out more about their work and have a go; thewardrobetheatre.com

3 – 7 March

MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE RED SHOES See page 28. At Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

4 – 5 March Until 21 March

WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? See page 18. At TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com

23, 25, 27, 29 February, 1 March

25 – 26 February

CANDOCO DANCE COMPANY Candoco’s company of seven disabled and non-disabled actors are back at BOV with two gripping works by renowned choreographers; bristololdvic.org.uk

MACBETH Shakespearean tragedy, but not how (or where) you’d expect: performed in the tunnels of Temple Meads by Opera in a Box with the music of Verdi – with drinks and canapés; operainabox.com

25 – 29 February

24 February, 9 March, 23 March

28 February – 1 March

CLOSER EACH DAY The world’s longest improvised narrative. Unplanned. Unscripted.

Unconventional. Think EastEnders meets The League of Gentlemen via Love Island. At The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL The true story of the great singersongwriter’s incredible rise to fame comes to The Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

AKRAM KHAN: CHOTTO XENOS Shining light on our past, present and future, Chotto Xenos takes young audiences back in time, exploring the often forgotten and untold stories of World War 1 colonial soldiers; At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

AND SHE Armed with three armchairs, music and a bottle of prosecco, Bonnie & The Bonnettes explore motherhood, womanhood and femininity. At The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

5 – 6 March

NATALIE INSIDE OUT World-class hand-balancer Natalie Reckert and digital artist Mark Morreau team up, utilising video projection and technology to turn our ideas of circus upside down and inside out. Literally. At Circomedia; circomedia.com

11 – 28 March

THE RED LION A three hander exploring the passions and con ict that run deep in non-league, semi-pro football.

At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

12 March

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO It’s meant to be the best day of Figaro and Susanna’s lives, but will their wedding even go ahead?

A series of twists and turns will keep you guessing until the final scene, with Mozart’s sublime score bringing the action to life. At Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

12 – 13 March

LOLA A twisted exploration of trying to remember and not remembering, Lola brings humour and lightness to a serious subject, using the lens of black comedy and circus to explore themes of loneliness, social exclusion and dementia. At Circomedia; circomedia.com

12 – 14 March

THE SIX WIVES OF HENRY VIII A hysterical, self-referential romp through history from the legendary Living Spit that promises to be an ill-researched lesson in cross-dressing Tudor history. At The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

BOAR Lewis Doherty presents a one-man fantasy adventure tale at TFT; expect arrows to roll and heads to y in this action-packed comedy of swords, sorcery and swill; tobaccofactorytheatres.com

PEOPLE SHOW 137: GOD KNOWS HOW MANY From the troubadours of the Parisian boulevards of yesteryear to the dark global corporate domination of today this show will take you to precisely nowhere. But on the way, you will laugh and feel a sense of what it is we might all be doing here.

At The Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com

6 – 8 March

13 – 14 March

5 – 7 March

THE THREE MUSKETEERS

WHEN IN ROME: BRISTOL

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WHAT’S ON Wis, filled with the most popular routines, songs, sketches, and a musical guest. t edgrave heatre; redgravetheatre.com

plin is coming to ristol s W with her new album Dear Happy; seetickets.com

4 March

BRISTOL CHORAL SOCIETY AND BRISTOL ENSEMBLE WITH HILARY CAMPBELL concert of pure oy and spirituality with aure s Requiem, and travinsky s Symphony of Psalms on the programme. t ristol athedral; colstonhall.org

21 March

SUZI RUFFELL: DANCE LIKE EVERYONE’S WATCHING fter making a name for herself by turning tragedy and anxiety into big laughs, u i uffell is actually happy this year. he show uestions whether all stand-ups are at their best when they re miserable; t bristololdvic.org.uk

OTHER

5 March

ABOVE:

Swords, sorcery and swill in BOAR BELOW: Something to smile about: Joker’s coming to Redcliffe Caves as part of BFF

MARK WATSON: THE INFINITE SHOW uelled by the increasingly worrying state of the world and a sincere desire to do something about it, the ristol boy comes to with a show that centres around empathy delivered at the usual thousand-mile-a-minute pace; bristololdvic.org.uk

6 March

BRISTOL LIGHT FESTIVAL ee page . bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

1 March

WILDERLAND WILDLIFE FILM FESTIVAL must-see for lovers of wildlife, film, travel, conservation and adventure, back for its second year with short films offering exceptional insight into some of the world s most incredible wildlife. wilderlandfestival.com

MUSIC

29 February

yes will be deceived and minds boggled as eter lifford weaves his magic around stories of life, con uring and the wonders of the world in the intimate space of he Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

14 March

29 February

LES VEPRES SICILIENNES evenge and revolution set the scene as l ne seeks ustice for her murdered brother, and a dark secret comes to light. mid the confusion and betrayal, wedding bells ring out and signal the massacre that will destroy all; t ristol ippodrome; atgtickets.com

17 – 21 March

PETER CLIFFORD’S MAGICAL MYTHOLOGIES

COMEDY SARAH KEYWORTH: PACIFIC brand-new hour of comedy about the little things, the smallest details, the distinct aspects that make up what we are, how we expressly think and who we unambiguously love. t he Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

1 March

AN EVENING OF ERIC AND ERN loving tribute to orecambe and

THE WURZELS he legendary omerset band are back at adbury ouse, playing hits like Combine Harvester, Blackbird and I Am a Cider Drinker; cadburyhotelbristol. co.uk

HOLY MOLY MATRIMONY truly alternative wedding fair without a scrap of hessian in sight but everything else you need to plan your wedding or civil partnership. t ambalan; eventbrite.co.uk

8 March

KATHRYN ROBERTS AND SEAN LAKEMAN t ristol olk ouse for one night only, the pillars of the modern folk scene will revisit songs from their beginnings, their latest collaboration and all their musical adventures in between; colstonhall.org

12 March

6 March – July 4

BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL atch a variety of screenings at site-specific venues across the city, ranging from wine cellars to spooky caves. arious locations; ri olfil i al. o

STIFF LITTLE FINGERS he egendary orthern rish punk rock act are keeping the spirit of punk alive and stopping off at ristol s arena as part of their full headline tour; academymusicgroup.com

18 March

GABRIELLE APLIN ritish singer-songwriter abrielle

THE BRISTOL FOOD TOUR triple bill of foodie tours offering a taste of ristol s best indie businesses across the city ast to West, outh of the river and tokes roft.

Wherever you go, don t forget to bring your appetite; thebristolfoodtour.com

27 February – 1 March

SIMON EVANS: THE WORK OF THE DEVIL imon vans is raising the stakes in his latest show, with his usual scathing view of a world on fire, given an extra perspective shift by personal revelations that upturned his world. t edgrave heatre; redgravetheatre.com

IMPROV MARATHON ka the annual, 6-hour long improv marathon in which performers take to the stage and create an entirely unscripted play using nothing but their skill, imagination and stonking amounts of stamina. t he ristol mprov heatre; improvtheatre.co.uk

22, 29 February – 7, 14, 21 March

13 – 22 March

LYRA: BRISTOL POETRY FESTIVAL fter getting off to a roaring start last year, the ristol oetry estival is returning for the second edition, with promising to be even bigger with an array of local, national and international poets performing in venues around the city; lyrafest.com n

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Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

ISSUE 274 / WINTER 2019/20 / £3

CHRISTMAS 2019 / ISSUE 273 / £3

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

SAFETY IN NUMBERS

MANY A SLIP

PRATFALL CONFESSIONS FROM OUR SLAPSTICK HEROES

Witness the fitness: how to have a healthier new year

IT’S FRESH! EXCITING! 10 TOP TIPS TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME

BROTHER WHERE ART THOU? (HE’S IN THE KITCHEN!)

HOW JAMAICA STREET STORES BECAME A FAMILY AFFAIR

2020 VISION REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL (HONEST!)

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REFUGE AND RENEWAL AT RWA

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(Noel! LOL!)

ALSO INSIDE: OUR MEGA BRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE! STUFF TO DO OVER THE HOLIDAY! ARDAL O’HANLAN! BRISTMAS BOOZE!

2019: HOW WAS IT FOR YOU? AREA 404: WELCOME TO THE HOUSE OF FUN TUCK IN: CHEFS IN WINTER

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FROM KNOWLE* TO CHRISTMAS STEPS: MARK OLVER’S BRISTMAS ODYSSEY

ISSUE 275 / JANUARY 2020 / IT’S A NEW DAWN, IT’S A NEW DAY, IT’S A NEW DECADE, BRISTOL!

1 0 DAYS OF

B RISTM A S

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

ISSUE 274 / WINTER 2019/20 / MERRY TWIXTMAS

CHRISTMAS 2019 / ISSUE 273 / ROCKIN’ AROUND THE BRISTMAS TREE

O LV E R’ S

JANUARY 2020 / ISSUE 275 / £3

GOES FORTNIGHTLY Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

ISSUE 276 / FEBRUARY 2020 / £3

HOW TO HAVE THE BEST WEDDING EVER

BRISTOL PUBS USE ‘EM, OR LOSE ‘EM

Join us on the journey:

ISSUE 277 / LATE WINTER 2020 / AFTERNOON DE-LIGHT

ISSUE 276 / FEBRUARY 2020 / LOVE AND THE CITY

ALL THINGS BRIDE AND BEAUTIFUL

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

Deri for editorial

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(* We’re talking Westbury Park and Westbury-on-Trym – so good, even Freddy Bird’s up here!)

neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk

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NICE AND HENLEAZE DOES IT: THE DISCREET CHARM OF BS6

Neil for commercial

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GO WEST*

ISSUE 277 / LATE WINTER 2020 / £3

SPRING, LOADED

LOVE WILL TEAR US APART (AGAIN)

NOW THE BRISTOL ARTS SCENE IS SUCKING DIESEL!

THE RETURN OF THE RED SHOES

GOOD LIBATIONS COCKTAILS TO WARM THE COCKLES

deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk

SNAPPED! LIFE ON THE BRISTOL STREETS (YOU MAY EVEN SPOT YOURSELF, OR YOUR MUM!)

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

BRISTOL IS LIT!

OH MY BLUE

PANTONE’S COLOUR OF THE YEAR IS CLASSIC BLUE – AND IT’S SO BRISTOL

A DAZZLING NEW FESTIVAL FOR THE CITY

“OMG, so many fabulous images to choose from for our full-page opener! Where to even start?”

“Well, we have Frederic Aranda’s photo of Ian McKellen draped in a kind of toga, from the International Photography Exhibition at RPS...”

“CALL OFF THE SEARCH”

xxxxxx

18 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ARTS

IAN AT HOME © FREDERIC AR ANDA

SPRING, LOADED

ike the daffs and crocuses on randon ill, ristol s cultural scene is busting out all over, as theatre directors, gig promoters and gallery owners block out their calendars between now and late summer. ow we re sucking diesel ere s the intel; eyes on Words by Deri Robins www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 19

ARTS

SEE…

BRISTOL OLD VIC Faustus: That Damned Woman, 10-21 March It’s not Johann Faust, it’s Johanna; in other words, a radical retelling of the myth, with a female Faust striking an altogether more altruistic bargain with the devil than her male predecessors.

“If Pride and Prejudice*(*sort of) is too bright and breezy for your girls’ night out, Faustus is its devilish cousin – so come on in and experience the dark heart of female empowerment,” says comms boss Amanda Adams, as temptingly as Mephistopheles.

That said, P&P sort of is also back in April – and as its Norn Ironaccented Lizzie Bennet might say, the craic will be 90. Maybe even 95.

The Red Lion, 11-21 March A tale of blind ambition and misplaced loyalty between three men at the centre of a semi-pro football team, Patrick Marber’s gorgeously crafted story of the beautiful game stars Bristol favourites Joe Sims and David Lloyd, with Patchway local boy Thomas McGee making his stage début. “This has Bristolian passion running through its core like a stick of rock,” says Amanda. “Grab a pie and a pint, and watch the drama unfold on and off the pitch.

Oh, then and there’s the little matter of Semmelweis, 13 June-25 July, conceived by theatrical giant Sir Mark Rylance. Eyes right:

SEMMELWEIS

Take five with Bristol Old Vic head of comms, Amanda Adams The précis in one line, please Semmelweis celebrates the determination of one person to make a difference, and how it takes someone difficult to change the world.

So who was Semmelweis when he was at home?

Ignaz Semmelweis was a pioneering doctor in 1840s Vienna, who discovered that hand disinfection would lead to a dramatic decrease in postnatal deaths. He took on the entire European medical establishment to prove his theories, which caused widespread ridicule, eventually resulting in him being committed to an asylum.

Sounds dark! Why did this story pique the interest of one of our greatest actor-directors?

Mark has wanted to make this production ever since reading Semmelweis’ autobiography over 20 years ago. It’s the ultimate story of one man vs the system. What’s really fascinating is that it’s not a straightforward account of one heroic genius fighting against the establishment: Semmelweis was, by many accounts, a difficult, stubborn and tortured character, but also doggedly determined and charming – ultimately, he was a victim of his own refusal to compromise.

Mark Rylance – he’s a titan of English theatre, yes?

Mark is absolutely one of a kind. You may know him as the first artistic director of The Globe, or as Thomas Cromwell in the BBC’s Wolf Hall.

He has won Oscars, BAFTAS, Olivier Awards, Tony Awards and more; he’s widely regarded as the greatest stage actor of his generation. but it is up to you to come and see Semmelweis to see if this holds up!

Why is he creating this play at BOV? Bristol is the perfect place for artists to take a creative leap into the unknown, which is why theatre-makers from across the UK come here.

Mark wanted to work somewhere that championed risk-taking in theatre, that put the audience’s imagination right at the centre of the work. Semmelweis is going to be an experimental project in many ways – in the same way some of our previous productions have been: The Grinning Man and Touching the Void are recent examples of genrebusting theatre projects that audiences have taken to their hearts. So Bristol Old Vic (and particularly the world-famous Bristol audiences) felt like the perfect fit for Mark and this project.

© MANUEL HARL AN

G

et those box o ce numbers on speed dial the spring arts calendar has comprehensively sprung. This guide is, of course, selective; in order to cover the cultural waterfront we’d have had to hijack every page in the magazine. As this wasn’t an option, we made like a strict machine, and asked our friends at the city’s arts venues to recommend just one favourite show. Naturally most of them went right ahead and chose several, but here’s the edit…

“The Red Lion has Bristolian passion running through it like a stick of rock” OPPOSITE: If Faustus was a woman, what would she trade her soul for?; RIGHT: Eat football, drink football, act football: The Red Lion

WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?

Remind us: who wrote this play, and what’s it about?

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is Edward Albee’s landmark black comedy and allegory of American society. Written in 1962, it’s about married couple George and Martha, who are apparently living the American Dream. However, when Martha invites George’s colleague Nick and his wife Honey back to their house for late-night drinks after a party, the paper-thin illusion that all is well starts to peel away as George and Martha realise they have a captive audience for their toxic domestic games, and the playing out of their private hell of a marriage.

If we only know the movie, will there be any surprises when we see the original Albee play?

Well, the play is so much better! It’s definitely more epic, layered and nuanced.

But it’s hard not to think of the Burtons. Are Dick and Liz the elephants in the room?

My memory of seeing the film is much murkier than my unforgettable experience of seeing a student production of the play 20 years ago, so the Burtons are not George and Martha in my mind. However, the iconic nature of the film is probably an advantage in some ways, and its fans will not be disappointed, because they are going to see some equally talented actors delivering a familiar story in a more live, immersive form, that will take their breath away.

Why revive this now?

A masterpiece of this calibre is always relevant, with its profound insights and observations about human behaviour and relationships. This will be particularly the case in David Mercatali’s production, which will avoid feeling like a period piece, and be dedicated to breathing life into the story in a truly immediate and palpable form.

What makes it such a shoo-in for the Factory Theatre?

The visceral, raw nature of this story will be palpable in this intimate setting. And it will feel exhilarating! The actors are going to be so close to the audience that it will feel even more like an arena. With it being staged in the round, the impact of seeing the reactions of other audience members will make it all the more shocking, funny and moving.

Tell us in one line why we should come along…

It has all of human nature in one unforgettable story: heartbreaking, horrifying, charming, laugh-out-loud funny and stunningly well-written.

© BEN ROBINS

Take five with TFT artistic director, Mike Tweddle

TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRES Brace yourself, because one of literature’s most coruscating domestic dramas is taking over Factory Theatre, with a new production of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf: eyes left.

In total contrast, Beauty and the Beast will return this summer: “This mischievous, music-filled, marvel of a show proves that a fairytale is not just for Christmas,” says marketing manager Hilary Coleman.

THE WARDROBE Polly (The Heartbreak Opera): 14-25 April That’s Polly as in Peachum; in other words, we’re in John Gay territory here, in his sequel to The Beggar’s Opera. It’s helmed by rated Bristolbased director Steph Kempson, who’s added some very non-18thcentury techno, tracksuits and palm trees into the mix. The play was originally banned for being filthy and libellous , which naturally makes it ideal for an alternative Bristol theatre. Indeed, “we staged a packedout work-in-progress and it absolutely brought the house down,” says Matthew Whittle.

Oh, and send in the clowns (again…)

Coulrophobia: 30 March - 4 April “This show was so packed with gags and audience interaction madness that we had to get it back again. Whether you love or hate clowns, you have to see this bonkers show,” says Matthew.

BRISTOL OLD VIC THEATRE SCHOOL Far from the Madding Crowd, 28 May-20 June (various Bristol dates and venues) Whenever you look up, there they shall be: this new adaptation of Hardy’s most likeable novel tours 20 venues across the region, playing to audiences right across Wessex. Dealing with themes of love and betrayal among the 19th-century farming community, with a spirited heroine and the most fanciable bad boy in the whole of English literature; we’re seeing nothing not to love here.

BRISTOL HIPPODROME It’s hard to pick a single show when this theatre receives one big hitter after another, but Grace Hield is “really looking forward to welcoming Les Misérables in April”. Because? “It’s an enthralling story of broken dreams and unre uited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption, packed with amazing scenery and incredible songs,” says Grace.

Psst: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is coming here in May. More anon.

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© ROB LOUD

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ARTS Miloš: a treat for the ears, easy on the eye OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Belle, Sebastian

© MÉL ANIE GOMEZ PHOTOGR APHY

and pals have already picked our their favourite boat on Harbourside; indie rock’n’roll par excellence at the Gate; Noel must have liked playing The Downs, as he’s returning for Bristol Sounds

HEAR….

COLSTON HALL Belle and Sebastian, 17 July Is the Hall letting the small consideration of an auditorium currently closed for refurbishment going to hold them back? As if !

For example, “We’re bringing Belle and Sebastian, with special guests Django Django, to Lloyd’s Amphitheatre as part of our Colston Hall Presents programme,” says Heather Myatt. “Get ready for a bit of a dance and an epic singalong; these two bands are the perfect addition to a summer’s night on Bristol’s spectacular harbour.”

BRISTOL SOUNDS Various acts, 24-28 June We’re down at Lloyd’s again, for Bristol’s favourite summer music festival. With each gig as different as the other, from oel allagher s High Flying Birds to Supergrass, Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott, and Jack Savarotti, there’s no better place on a summer’s evening,” says Crosstown Concerts. “And now we have the added bonus of an all-day Saturday show headlined by The Levellers… it’s going to be a fantastic five days.

ST GEORGE’S BRISTOL 250 Years of Beethoven, March-May (various dates) “Ask anyone to name of their favourite classical music composer, and there’s a high chance it will be Beethoven,” says Suzanne Rolt.

“He was one of the greatest musical minds the world has ever seen, and this special anniversary year is a great time to hear some of the big moments in his music. Its great power is that it sweeps you along and transforms how you feel about yourself and about life; whether it’s the rousing notes of his Fifth Symphony, with fate knocking on the door, or the entrancing beauty of the opening of his Moonlight Sonata”. nd how could we not include classical guitarist ilo aradagli on 7 June? “Returning to the concert platform following a devastating hand injury, performing with clarinetist Andreas Ottensamer, Miloš is once again breaking down barriers and bringing joy to audiences across the globe.” Eyes up to see a photo of Miloš. We know, right? Maybe we should cross-reference him in the ‘gaze’ section…

ASHTON GATE The Killers, 9 June he first act coming out of the cage and doing ust fine at the ate this year; undoubtedly more will be added to the summer season in due course. We don’t really need to explain why this is the indie rock’n’roll event of 2020 announced thus far, do we?

JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL Various gigs and venues, 26 – 29 March he first big music fest of the year returns with a weekend packed with gigs, workshops, films and the late-night ambalan am. lare Teale and Denny Ilett front a big band that takes us back to the ’60s, when bossa nova was in full swing, and as we await the new ond film, conductor harles a lewood leads a first-class orchestra and singers for a night featuring every single Bond theme from Dr No to Spectre,” says Polly Eldridge. What’s your favourite? It has to be ol fing r, right?

LOVE SAVES THE DAY Eastville Park, 23-24 May It’s the end of an era, as Bristol’s beloved Love Saves invites you to One Last Dance in Eastville Park; the festival has grown in size and awesomeness over the years, with massive acts including Jessie Ware, onobo, kepta, torm y and ily llen. t s definitely the last festival at this site; there’s been no announcement about 2021 so far.

THE DOWNS BRISTOL How are Crosstown going to follow last year’s Grace Jones, Lauryn Hill, Idles and Madness? Absolutely no idea yet; watch this space.

GAZE…

BRISTOL MUSEUM & ART GALLERY Pre-Raphaelites: Dreaming of a Medieval Past, 16 May – 27 Sep One of the most romantic of all art movements, the Pre-Raphaelites were “fascinated by the stories, objects and colours of an imaginary medieval world,” explains Lauren MacCarthy.

“They rebelled against academic conventions, and searched for new means of artistic expression, by choosing entirely new subjects and

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ARTS portraying them in shockingly heightened realism. xpect the usual dreamy suspects, including urne- ones, orris and ossetti, and to immerse yourself in their world, go unplugged We re trying to encourage visitors to switch off, so the experience can be en oyed without outside interruption so phones in pockets, please.

M SHED ‘Vanguard’ Bristol Street Art: the Evolution of a Global Movement, 6 June – 1 November What do the ss GB, oncorde, ibena and street art have in common orrect they were all created in ristol. nd while ristol can t claim to have invented gra ti, it s fostered it like no other city; find out more at this landmark show, which celebrates they city s role as the birthplace of modern ritish street art.

RWA Wilhelmina Barns-Graham; The Artists of St Ives, 14 Mar–24 May hese shows take you on a visual ourney from the sparking tur uoise seas of t ves to the sun-baked volcanic sand of an arote, says director lison evan. hey range from on-the-spot, representational pencil drawings to bold and expressive abstract paintings a feast for the eyes that will uplift the spirit.

Streets Ahead: Bristol Street Art 2020 (6 June – 23 August). art of a citywide celebration of street art see also ‘Vanguard’ at hed , the W biggie for summer looks forward to the future of street art and the new directions it s heading in. he exhibition is curated by elix raun and uke almer who originated rimes of assion, an exhibition that took place at the W 1 years ago. Were you there

LEFT: Warhol who? Hajjaj at Arnolfini; BELOW: Pretty vacant: Killip’s punks at MPF

LIME TREE Art of Wales: 6-31 March Wales is home to some of the finest artists in the , many of whom have less recognition than they deserve outside their own country, says ue ean. ur rt of Wales exhibition showcases some of our favourites, from ary ri ths, ivienne Williams and atrin Williams to revor owden, elen inclair and isa arie ann.

ARNOLFINI rnolfini have three ma or exhibitions moving into spring and summer; we covered Zanjir in our last issue, so here are the others.

Angelica Mesiti: Assembly; until 26 April his has already connected with so many visitors, says head of comms ara lair. large-scale video installation across three screens, set in a luscious red-carpeted amphitheatre, Assembly translates poetry and protest into a series of music, dance and performance pieces. t s a truly immersive experience that grabs your attention in its entirety, and transports you directly to the chambers of taly and ustralia where it was filmed.

Hassan Hajjaj’s The Path; from 4 April he ath bursts into rnolfini s space with a series of vibrant photography showcasing the acclaimed oroccan- ritish photographer artist s diverse wealth of work. a a s work is characterised by an exuberant mel e of colours, patterns, brand logos and found ob ects, such as the prite cans and tomato soup tins he works into his picture frames, says ara. he work includes a a s My Rock Stars series, through which he is keen to connect with the myriad of rich musical wealth ristol has to offer.

MARTIN PARR FOUNDATION Chris Killip: The Station 25 March - 23 May hris illip s photos documenting the style, theatricality and raw energy of the anarcho-punk movement were taken at he tation, a music venue in ateshead in 1 , and capture the counter-culture movement which ourished under hatcher s government. t s a great privilege for the oundation to be able to show these lost images, says artin arr. We can look back at the whole punk movement with both awe and fascination and these raw and immediate images capture the whole punk scene brilliantly.

Chloe Dewe Matthews: Thames Log, summer/autumn 2020 We ve been following hloe s distinctive work for a few years now, says oundation director enni mith. he series charts how the course of the hames is intertwined with the lives that surround it; but it s also a wider document of contemporary ritain.

ROYAL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY International Photography Exhibition 162, 15 Feb-22 March he world s longest running photography exhibition returns, showcasing the contemporary work of photographers. elected from a worldwide open call, and curated by some of the most in uential people in photography today, this edition includes stark landscapes made during periods of extended solitude, alongside images created using pinhole cameras made from apples which celebrate community orchards, says arly eath. pirituality, family, identity, and inclusion are some of the powerful narratives explored this year.

UPFEST Greville Smyth Park, 30 May-1 June his year sees pfest s first ever greenfield festival, with the boards and canvases previously found across a multitude of venues brought together for a huge weekend-long celebration of street art, says fest director teve ayles. he walls and murals, traditionally painted over the festival weekend, will be created in the fortnight leading up to the festival, giving more people the chance to witness these spectacular creations come to life firsthand. n

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‘Miami Painting No 3’ by Steven Lindsay 84 Hotwell Road, Bristol, BS8 4UB Telephone : 0117 929 2527.

For more information visit: www.limetreegallery.com

DANCE

LOVE WILL TEAR US APART (AGAIN) New Adventures’ revival of The Red Shoes is heading back to Bristol: we just can’t wait to be Bourned again Words by Deri Robins; Photos by Johan Persson 28 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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n the prelude of Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes, a flame-haired ballerina emerges – solo, en pointe, en avant – through red velvet curtains. If you know and love the 1948 Powell and Pressburger movie from which the ballet’s adapted, your heart will skip a beat; it’s as if the ghost of Moira Shearer had materialised on the Hippodrome stage.

If you don’t know the film, here’s the précis. Young dancer Victoria Page is picked up and groomed for stardom by Diaghilevlike impresario Boris Lermontov, who commissions another of his protégées to compose the score for a new ballet for Vicky.

While working on the ballet – based on Hans Christian Andersen’s tale The Red Shoes – Vicky and the composer fall in love. Should she follow her heart, or pursue her dancing career? (Don’t say ‘why not both?’ – this is 1948, remember). And if she chooses art over love, as Lermontov urges her to do, will she suffer the same fate as the girl in the tale, whose shoes drive her to her death?

Unleashed onto a weary postwar British

public, the vivid Technicolour movie was a spectacular rejection of grey cinematic realism in favour of stylised expressiveness: saturated with colour, brimming with heightened emotion, with a dreamy, surreal ballet sequence at its heart. Swoon…

It’s not hard to imagine the effect it must have had on the teenage Matthew Bourne.

“The larger-than-life emotions of The Red Shoes are ideal for dance” “The Red Shoes is considered by many to be one of the most important and beautiful films ever made,” says Matthew. “I saw it when I was young, and I didn’t really know anything about that world at the time; I was more into musical theatre and film musicals, and my parents didn’t go to the ballet.

“It was an introduction to an extraordinary world, which was glamorous and eccentric and full of larger-than-life characters. It was also a wonderful story about people who spend their lives being creative, creating beautiful things, and the passion they have to do that.”

This bewitching, cinematic story, set in a world that Matthew came to inhabit and love, seems such a cinch for his New Adventures dance company that it’s quite surprising that he should have waited until 2016 – 20 years after his homoerotic, careermaking Swan Lake – to create the ballet.

There were, of course, a number of obstacles to overcome; not least, how to tell the story. The dialogue used in the film to convey Vicky’s complex professional and personal turmoil obviously wasn’t available to a choreographer.

“It was a challenge to tell the whole story of the human characters, and the central love story and conflict, without words,” says Matthew. “We had to convey all those things through dance. But the larger-thanlife emotions in The Red Shoes are ideal for

The Red Shoes ballet-within-aballet sequence, with the exquisite Ashley Shaw as Vicky Page

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DANCE

dance – you are already on to a winner, with those obsessive relationships and passion and conflict.

“You have three areas of storytelling in The Red Shoes. You have the ballets the company performs; you have the life of the company, and the life of the places they visit, and their atmosphere; and then you have the central triangle between the girl who wants to be a great dancer, the impresario who wants her to devote her whole life to dance, and the composer she falls in love with.”

Though love and passion drives the narrative, Matthew believes that The Red Shoes also tackles the theme about how a combination of ambition, hard work and talent is not enough by itself to be at the top of your profession.

“It’s also not just about being famous; it is about the passion for the work. For these characters, the work is more important than anything else in their lives. A lot of people have that conflict in their lives, between work and relationships; I think that is where people can relate to this story.

“In today’s culture, everyone is very interested in what it takes to become a great performer or artist, with the likes of TV and movies such as the X Factor and Black Swan highlighting this, and the question of what

sacrifices need to be made. Audiences also love a backstage story, particularly one that gives insight into the art form. We are all obsessed with what star quality is, and what it takes to become a star.”

“We’re all obsessed with what star quality is, and what it takes to become a star” The second major challenge was the score. The music of the ballet sequence in the movie won an Oscar, but it was just 15 minutes long; far too short to sustain the full ballet that Matthew wanted to create.

Instead, this most eclectic of theatremakers plunged back into his beloved movies, piecing together parts of scores by composer Bernard Hermann. Interestingly, some were originally written for such Hitchcock suspensers as Vertigo and Psycho; the tunes are lushly melodic, but the romance is bittersweet; danger for the heroine never lurks far beneath.

Ultimately, the ballet pays homage to the film while creating something quite different.

“We didn’t just want to ape something that came before,” says Matthew. “We wanted to capture the essence, the spirit and almost the perfume of this film. It is a spellbinding piece, that tells the story in a uniquely theatrical way.”

Theatrical innovations include a mobile proscenium arch, that swivels between front and backstage; sets and lighting that switch from grand parties on the Riviera to shabby East End music halls, and the extraordinary angular, monochrome set for the Red Shoes ballet-within-a-ballet itself.

The most audience-conscious of choreographers, Matthew Bourne has said that turning people onto dance is the achievement he’s most proud of. The Red Shoes is arguably the most accessible, personal and enthralling of all his ballets, with sophisticated storytelling, deeply-felt acting and the cream of his New Adventures dancers, including the brilliant Ashley Shaw.

Don’t tell us you don’t like dance until you’ve given this one a whirl; or indeed, a pirouette. n The Red Shoes plays Bristol Hippodrome 3-7 March; www.atgtickets.com

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BIZET LISTENING

Hold the castanets, close up the fans: WNO’s box-fresh new Carmen sees our girl relocated to 1970s Central America, in a production updated for the #MeToo generation

By Lissie Warren Photos by Bill Cooper

ARTS

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ex, murder, cracking tunes and opera’s most fatale of femmes: it’s not hard to fathom Carmen’s enduring popularity. n the W s new production, our girl s still a total minx, Habenera’s still a belter; but the opera has been transplanted from 19th-century Andalucia to 1970s Central America. There’s an enhanced dance element, and a woke interpretation rooted in social injustice and perceptions of gender, and – oh, let’s just have director Jo Davies explain it all…

the #MeToo movement; but I wouldn’t necessarily describe Carmen as a feminist. Her cause is always herself, rather than women’s rights per se.

She’s a survivor and an opportunist.

For inspiration, we looked at other strong women who use their sexual power and have wit and wildness in their spirit. Maybe Beyoncé for her strong female persona, and perhaps Villanelle, but without the violence. But there is only one Carmen…

Jo, what’s different about your Carmen?

find its enduring popularity particularly interesting, especially when you consider that when the opera first premi red it was a dismal failure.

Even if you have never seen Carmen, you will be surprised at how familiar the music is. It’s a staple of global popular culture. I think the early response in 1875 was actually a reaction to how unique the opera is. Audiences were not used to seeing a lead female character with such power and authority, despite her having no social standing. These audiences had never seen a heroine like Carmen before. The opera was very much ahead of its time.

Traditionally, Carmen is portrayed as overtly sexualised ; a dancer who behaves provocatively in order to seduce men. Our approach is to try to subvert this image in a contemporary sense, and rebel against this classic notion of the femme fatale. We ask, what would drive a woman to behave in this way towards men We re interested in looking at armen s economic status, and how her traditional wild spirit and energy is informed by a need to survive. She is operating within a patriarchal system that has trapped many young women of her age and class into a factory, working for a minimum wage with no prospects. She has no money, no education and no social standing – so she uses her looks and sex to improve her economic situation, and is unabashed by it.

Why did you move the setting to South America?

We felt that it was too easy to romanticise the traditional notion of sunny Spain, with oranges, fans and castanets. Instead we were keen to create a sense of community which would be at odds with the military presence traditionally depicted in the opera.

We started to explore the history of ra ilian favelas, that were overseen and controlled by the military during the 1970s, and felt that building our ideas around this setting would allow for the audience to connect with the hardships with which armen and her community wrestle. We wanted to highlight the tension between community and state, and re ect the truly hostile environment in which Carmen lives.

Can you tell us a bit about the character of ‘your’ Carmen?

She’s a woman who knows what she wants, and knows how to get it.

There are parallels between her forthright and determined energy with

Why is this such a popular opera?

Tell us about the dancing…

There’s always been a big focus on dance in this opera; it’s partly because of the bohemian gypsy energy within Carmen’s wild spirit.

Carmen dances in front of Don José, she also dances for the soldiers and there s the physicality of the bullfighting. We wanted this strong physicality to be an integral part of the story – we were keen that those moments didn’t feel isolated and were truly integrated into the piece and that they felt part of the world.

Will this appeal to both regular opera fans and those new to opera?

Carmen is arguably the best introduction to opera for newcomers, with iconic music and an engaging story. Our contemporary interpretation will also provide an intriguing update for those more familiar with the opera, while continuing to celebrate the strengths of its traditional elements, which have enjoyed a universal appeal for decades.

WNO’s Carmen plays Bristol Hippodrome on 11 and 13 March www.atgtickets.com; www.wno.org.uk

OH, AND ABOUT THAT NEW DANCE ELEMENT WE MENTIONED… Movement director Denni Sayers set out to create a fusion dance style, mixing such Latin American dance styles as tango, lambada and salsa. He found the perfect performers in Latin and ballroom champion Carmine de Amicis, and flamenco and contemporary dancer Josie Sinnadurai.

“Bizet’s score is not a Latin score, so it’s more about creating atmosphere than a particular dance,” says Denni. “In South America, you don’t have to be a professional dancer to know how to dance. You step up and you have your cultural rhythm and you just get on with it – it’s more a social thing.”

“There is something about the attack of flamenco which is shared with the Latin dances, even though the dance steps are very different,” says Josie.

“Moving the show to South America does give it another aspect – it’s saying this story could have happened anywhere, rather than pinning it down to Spain. Carmen is usually known as the ‘Spanish opera’ so the country becomes really important while other operas are known more for their story.

Moving it to another setting contributes to it feeling more like a real story with real people.”

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LIGHTBULB MOMENTS Well, this is exciting: a new Bristol festival designed to brighten the dark, cold last weekend of February. What’s it all about, and where’s it to, then? (PS score one point every time you read the word ‘immersive’…)

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he idea behind the Bristol Light Festival was to introduce light, colour and fun into the coldest, dreariest time of year.

It’s brought to you by the team at Bristol City Centre BID, working with local creatives Katherine Jewkes and Vashti Waite.

“Our aim was to create a new cultural experience for the city, while inspiring people to explore and enjoy different areas of Bristol to which they might not normally venture on a cold February evening,” says the BID’s project manager, Vicky Lee. “The installations have been carefully

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positioned to encourage visitors to navigate the city along routes which support local, independent businesses at a notoriously quiet time of the year.

“It’s taken us two years to develop plans for the festival, which is Intended to embody the playful and creative spirit of the city. Our ambition is to continue to grow it, in both size and duration, over the next couple of years.”

Set across the city centre over four days, the festival launches with a preview evening on 27 February, allowing everyone to experience the installations for the first time. They’ll light up from 5-11 pm, giving you the whole evening to follow the trail through the city, taking you down streets

and along paths which you might not usually travel. Be ready to interact and play with some of the pieces; they are there to create a fun and fresh new experience.

There are eight locations, each with its own site-specific installation. You can track them through several different routes, but the suggested trail starts in Quakers Friars and leads through Castle Park, the city centre, up and down Park Street, Millennium Square, Harbourside and Queen Square.

Oh, and it’s all free; as are the guided tours, bookable through the website below.

Bristol Light Festival runs 27 Feb-1 March www.bristollightfestival.org

FESTIVAL The team have now finalised the event programme, which features a range of internationally acclaimed artists alongside local Bristol talent. Here’s the intel: MILK BOTTLES CUBES BY JACK WIMPERIS; QUAKERS FRIARS AND CASTLE PARK A specially commissioned light sculpture in two variations, created to raise awareness about single-use plastics.

The installation in Quakers Friars consists of thousands of recycled milk bottles, each embedded with addressable LEDs to interact with visitors; meanwhile, Milk Bottles Screen on the bandstand in Castle Park will see a 4 x 2.5m screen of 600 one-pint hanging milk bottles.

PINK ENCHANTMENT BY TINE BECH; CASTLE BRIDGE International light artist Tina Bech is a former UWE graduate who originally designed this installation for Bristol; she’s showcased it internationally, but this will be the first time it will be exhibited in the city for which it was intended.

The interactive light installation will transform Castle Bridge, immersing those walking across it in an ethereal pink light as they cross the water. Bursts of fog are activated as you walk across the bridge, and lights illuminate the way, creating an intriguing immersive experience for both those walking and observers from afar.

OVERHEARD IN BRISTOL; CASCADE STEPS In celebration of the city and all its quirky little ways, a fourmetre neon sign will be installed close to Cascade Steps, shining a quintessentially Bristolian phrase into the heart of the city (the clue’s on our front cover).

The perfect backdrop for any Bristolian selfie, the installation will evolve over future years, with visitors being invited to submit their suggestions for a well-known Bristol saying for next year’s sign. We’re rooting for Proper Job. NEIGHBOURS No, its not Jason Donervan.

Celebrating Bristol’s graff culture, this specially commissioned light

artwork created by a collection of Bristol artists is designed to surprise us on opening night; (translation: we don’t know anything about it yet).

NIMBES & NEBULAE BY JOANIE LEMERCIER; PLANETARIUM A fulldome artwork, originally created in 2014 in partnership with composer James Ginzburg.

The immersive 15-minute show can be seen at the We The Curious Planetarium, and is immediately followed by Nebulae, Lemercier’s latest fulldome work, created in 2019.

Both artworks follow Lemercier’s artistic interpretation of a voyage into the cosmos and through time, exploring galaxies and constellations, and witnessing several mesmerising cosmic events.

FRAME PERSPECTIVE BY OLIVIER RATSI; MILLENNIUM SQUARE French visual artist Ratsi’s huge sound-and-light piece is a 32-metre luminous installation of repeating frames and LEDs, creating an impressive scale

piece that disrupts the space in which it is set. The interacting lights and sounds alter the surrounding environment, creating an immersive experience for visitors and, we’re told, ‘altering their experience of reality’.

WILDLIFE ON THE WATERFRONT BY LIMBIC CINEMA; ARNOLFINI Local charity Send a Cow have teamed up with Limbic for a bespoke projection on the Arnolfini, as part of the Living with Wildlife appeal to protect people and wildlife in Uganda.

WAVE-FIELD VARIATION Q

BY LATERAL OFFICE, WITH CS DESIGN WITH SOUNDSCAPE

BY MITCHELL AKIYAMA; QUEEN SQUARE Originating in Canada, the collection of eight giant, illuminated see-saws will create an ever-changing light installation.

As the see-saws are played on, lights and music are activated; visitors are invited to partner up and become a co-creator of their own piece of art. Inner child connection opportunity, non?

“Bursts of pink fog are activated by people walking across the bridge, creating an intriguing immersive experience ”

Bristol is easily LED: left to right, previous outings for Frame Perspective, Wave Field Variation and Milk Bottle Screen

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THAT’S SO BRISTOL…

Colin hits the reset button, and takes us on a journey through some memorable Bristol moments from the previous months Words and pictures by Colin Moody 36 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BRISTOL HEROES

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he moments I’ve chosen all have one thing in common: they are so typically the kind of thing that Bristol does so well. No one gave us permission to do these things, or sent us forms to fill in.

We just got on with it.

National media in the past has been amused by Bristol, and our funny little ways – adding ‘L’s to the end of words, for example – but we can hold our heads high.

This city has a big heart, and is often open to ideas that now, in rexit times, seem to catch fire and really offer hope. A bit of Bristol spirit that we all need, as we strike out dynamically for a bold future, the way we always do.

110% attitude. Nothing stops a Bristolian.

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Lion eats lettuce for good luck. We’ve had an amazing Chinese community here for generations, and with so many Bristol families bringing their children down to pet the lion, as it was drummed into action on Chinese New Year, my spirits soared.

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It’s so Bristol that our local Extinction Rebellion groups seem to find new ways to show us some of the fundamentals.When the last tree is gone, we will realise that we cannot eat money. I’m putting this one in here because, as far as I can see, a fundamental Bristol spirit is to call out any big issue it sees.

And we don’t hold back. Signing a petition on Facebook and then popping open a good bottle of wine is not gonna cut it. he world is on fire, and we want to say something about the way we are behaving. We hit the streets, we open our hearts and minds to issues in a direct way that London élites often don’t fully comprehend.

3

Another storm with a name blasts the city. Anyone else worried about how climate change means we are now getting what we used to associate with news coming out of Florida? But Bristol will keep running while the effects are still in their early stages.

Bristol Ferry ran its normal service, and the pilot brought the boat out from the city centre to carry me to Hotwells while the wind whipped in horizontally. The next day was even worse, and they had to cancel services, but this spirit you see here is strong.

It was also strong during the Blitz, I hear, when the power went out on the tram network, but all trams got back to the depot that night, pushed by the passengers all the way. Is that true? It doesn’t matter. The idea of it is born out of that same Bristol spirit. If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well in Bristol.

“This city has a big heart, and is often open to ideas that seem to a fir an r all o r o

4

Sophie Long here, painting a tiger on the hoardings while they make changes to an estate behind. One punter at the Masonic pub opposite hollered over their support of her work. It was terrible weather, and the drips, although part of her style, were, I felt, running a little freer than normal.

A lot of our street artists do paint on canvases at home, and on gallery and business walls, but they also brighten up some of our more traditional streets where communities have thrived for generations.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 37

To the numpties who shouted abuse at her that week while she was working, can offer this advice: there is a reason we are so known for being a great place to live and work; you can thrive here if you have a good spirit about you. Maybe it’s indigenous, or you’re a kindred spirit moving here, but don’t throw abuse until you know the bigger picture. We can make this city proud of its roots, and keep growing and adapting. I’m up for that. Are you?

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This year’s Bemmy Lantern parade.

Yes, I do spend a lot of time in BS3 at the moment; I love the mix of traditional communities and newcomers all in the mix.

Local schools were asked to make lanterns for animals that are endangered. Makes you humble to realise that it’s these species and this generation that will be faced with far more stresses to survive than we have faced before.

I can really sense the mood among the children, and maybe now is the time to act. Get your milk in glass bottles again, because we still, as a country, send huge amounts of plastic overseas, and they just bury it. Where does it end up? Some of it in the bellies of whales and seabirds. Let’s go as plastic-free as possible. If we demand it, then it comes true.

6

Stormzy turned up to sign his latest album, and lots of young people who love his message, his music, queued up from the early hours. Lots of good vibes and banter, especially here from those who’d just met the fella. I’ve focused the camera on the fan at the back dead centre, who despite being told that the places are sold out, waits and hopes.

If we want something, we can be tenacious.

5

38 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“We are a port city, and I think it’s in our DNA to adventure”

BRISTOL HEROES 6

8

7

urchins, I can see the fun. It’s the past, it’s now.

It’s both, and it’s us.

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Folk at the ss Great Britain were dressed up like a BBC Christmas special. That’s all fake, of course; as was the ‘snow’ they laid on later.

But the ship is so, so real, and what a legacy to have it back in the dock where it was made.

It’s so much realness that we can hang all this fakery around it so magnificently, and the dream comes to life.

On these very cobbles (somewhere under that

tarmac), people like this boarded or were part of the ship’s story. It’s a legacy to be proud of, and m also kind of chuffed that our own little press pack forms to grab shots that make them, and those who receive those photo Christmas cards, very happy.

I never used to like these historical ‘it may have looked like this’ events but as the photographers with their telephoto lenses congregate around dirty-faced Victorian

Layers of ideas at Ted X Bristol this year. If you didn’t go, you can hear the talks online.

It’s our own ensemble of often local, homegrown talent helping us shortcut our brains to some great ways of thinking.

This is in the foyer of Bristol Old Vic, as people queue to go in. In a few moments they will have experiences that could change the course of their lives forever.

The way the stairs rise and enter the wall reminds me of how people board ocean liners to travel to far-off lands. We are a port city, and I think it’s in our DNA to adventure. Often it seems without going too far; merely down to the oldest theatre in the land.

Colin is available as a ‘mini-mobile PR/marketing/ social media unit’, to shoot striking street-style photographs at live events: parties, launches, promos and performances, for impactful immediate social media.

Fees start at £100 for a two-hour package. email: mrcolinmoody@gmail.com Twitter: @moodycolin; Instagram @moodycolin319

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 39

BOCABAR

Sister to the popular flagship restaurant at Paintworks, Bocabar 2.0 has settled nicely into its new digs at Finzels Reach, and is taking the riverside by storm Words by Meg Coast Photos by Ben Robins www.benrobinsphoto.com

40 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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RESTAURANT

he redevelopment of Finzels Reach continues My fruity Frambamdelam was true to its description – ‘a whole load apace. Situated right in the heart of the city of raspberry and a whole load of delight’– striking a perfect balance centre, and now home to a thriving hub of between sour and sweet. My companion’s alarmingly-titled Amoxicillin, cafés, restaurants, shops and other businesses, a bright Nordic blend of mead and whiskey, was made with food-grade including the new Channel 4 hub, it’s rapidly citric acid, and tasted every bit as delicious without lemon or lime. become one of the most deirable places to place A not so-small-plate of piping hot, jerk-marinated chicken wings to live, work and play. were next on the table, and we tucked with reckless abandon, singeing The vibe is modem, urban and relaxed, our mouths in our greed. I initially found the wings a little delicately so it wasn’t too surprising when Bocabar’s seasoned for my liking, but discovered that missing something after co-owners Mel and Paul Eavis chose a prime giving them a generous roll around the vivid green coconut and spot in the historic Fermentation Buildings to coriander pistou. open a second site last year, Bocabar 2.0 serves Firm and satisfyingly chewy, the salt and up the familiar all-day offering, with a new menu pepper squid weren’t quite as crispy as the of small and big plates, 20 of the most loved menu promised, but were enjoyable all the DINING DETAILS Boca pizzas and a burger and salads menu. With same, with the subtle avour lifted by the Bocabar, Fermentation 1, Hawkins Lane, executive chef Jason McNeilly overseeing the smoky basil and piquillo pepper coulis.

Finzels Reach, Bristol BS1 6JQ; 0117 374 1898; menu, joined by head chef Jacob Norris and head bocabarfinzels@outlook.com The real show-stealers were the large plates; pizza chef Ben Sacree, it seemed pretty much a mine was an exquisitely spiced coconut and Opening Hours Mon9.30am-4pm; Tue-Thu 9:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9:30am-1-am (manager’s failsafe recipe for success for this established and tomato ra ilian fish stew crammed with discretion); Sunday 10am-5pm ) highly regarded team. prawns, mussels and crispy-skinned sea bream, We visited Tuesday dinner time A preliminary once-over of the interior as you cooked to tender perfection with a delicate walk in confirms that the in els each site is very Prices small plates £2.95-£5.95; big plates £11.50avour and meaty texture. ourgettes and £16.45; pizzas from £9.95-£14.95; burgers and much part of the Boca family. The décor has an potatoes made the perfect pairing, and vibrant wraps £7-£12; salads £6-£10.95; desserts £3.95eclectic feel; orange velvet drapes, tasselled lamps stalks of samphire grass sprinkled throughout £7; cocktails £7.75-£8.50; bottle of wine from £15 and cosy hesterfields team with reclaimed wood the dish added a satisfying salty crunch.

Veggie options Wide selection of vegetarian, and copper features. It’s stylish, yet reassuringly Meanwhile, my more carnivorously-inclined vegan and dairy-free dishes cosy – rustic and vintage, with a touch of luxury. partner was making decent headway on his Atmosphere and service Comfortable and They’ve also kept up the laudable tradition of cassoulet, a rich, meaty medley of confit duck relaxed ambience with charming, observant featuring local artists’ work – we were particularly leg, pancetta, pork belly, morteau sausage, knowledgeable staff taken with the anthropomorphised critters smoked morcilla, cannellini beans, and the king wearing tuxedos and top hats by Bristol artist of leafy greens, cavolo nero. A few mouthfuls Julian Quaye. proved enough for me, but this dish would undoubtedly be a sure-fire hit The place is designed with both drinkers and diners in mind – those with fans of well- avoured and hearty fare. ust coming in for a uick pint after work will find plenty of cosy nooks Defeated, we’d intended to swerve dessert, but had our arms twisted and long tables to suit any kind of revelry; if you’re looking to sample into sharing a baked lemon tart that came highly rated by Tess. We saw the menu, hold fast and one of the charming staff will have you whisked why; its sweet, sharp filling and crumbly base with the smooth cr me to your dining table pronto. fraiche was a perfect palate-cleansing denouement to the meal. fter settling into our spot by the bar, and brie y admiring the oral ocabar is the sort of place you go to for great, filling grub, and chalkboard-style backdrop, we turned our sights on the extensive drinks linger for the ambience. Whether you’re aged eight or 80, there’s the menu. Saving us from extended deliberation, our lovely waiter Tess ideal corner for you somewhere in the joint, and the chirpy, charismatic piqued our interest in Bocabar’s ‘closed-loop cocktails’, made with staff go out of their way to make you feel welcome, ensuring you have alternatives to the traditional, waste and emission-heavier ingredients. everything you need without any of the unnecessary uff.

We had faith that aquafaba (leftover juice from canned chickpeas that Come summer the outdoor terrace will absolutely be the place to be, mimics the properties of egg whites) would taste better than it sounded, but on this cold February night we’re very much at home inside, and and took Tess up on her recommendation with optimistic caution. happy to report that this Bocabar has found its feet in Finzels Reach. n

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 41

RAW HYDE If there’s one thing Bristol does well, it’s food and drink; and doing it better than most is that holy trinity of local hospitality, Nathan Lee, Jason Mead and Kevin Stokes, aka Hyde & Co. As the guys celebrate 10 years in the biz, we get the lowdown on how the idea of opening a speakeasy-style bar grew into a flourishing group of six food and drink businesses across the city

“I always remember a bouncer saying to me,“if you can make it in Bristol, you can make it anywhere” 42 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK THE STORY SO FAR… Hyde & Co (opened 2010) Bristol’s original speakeasy bar: all grown-up low lights and cool cocktails, in a secretive location on The Triangle.

Milk Thistle (opened 2011) Hyde & Co’s ‘flirty younger sister’ spreads seductively over a whole town house in Old City. The lounge bar, with its jewelcoloured leather upholstery, moody walls and taxidermy, has to be among the most instagrammable in the city.

The Ox (opened 2013) Hyde & Co’s first restaurant brought all the glamour of the bars to a transformed bank vault on Corn Street. Cocktails were still important, but the big attraction was the food, with some of the best steaks in town.

Pata Negra (opened 2014) The second Old City venture was an authentic Spanish tapas bar, with music bar Noche Negra upstairs bringing the late-nite party.

Bambalan (opened 2016) The guys swapped lowlit glamour for a huge room filled with sunshine colours, with Middle Eastern food on the menu.

The huge outdoor terrace soon became the city centre spot for al-frescoing.

Seven Lucky Gods (opened 2019) Hyde’s first Cargo gaff offers laidback all-day Japanese style food and drink, with top-quality Japanese tapas and sushi, icecold Asahi beer, and cocktails, named after the eponymous seven lucky gods.

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT: Kevin, Nathan and Jason;

BELOW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Seven Lucky Gods, inspired by the izakaya bars of Tokyo; sunshine on a rainy day at Bambalan; the crazily instagrammable lounge at Milk Thistle

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hat makes the three of us work so well as business partners is our diverse backgrounds,” begins Jason Mead.

“Nathan had 15 years of hospitality experience under his belt when we started, Kevin was the sales director for a global clothing brand, and I had owned my own bar in Ibiza, but had been a property developer prior to that, which really helped on the builds every time we refurbed a new premises....ie cost, budget, and design.”

Rewind to when it all began…

When I came back from Ibiza in 2010, I was approached by Nathan and Kev about a small premises on the Triangle that was trading as a Caribbean restaurant. Nathan had been to NYC and had visited some cool speakeasy style bars, and he thought something similar would work in Bristol.

After two bars, why did you decide to branch out into restaurants?

Because Bristol City Council wouldn’t give us a drinks-only licence for what is now The Ox. Good old BCC! It was a blessing really, as Nathan’s background had been in restaurants, and it was the obvious jump.

How much does the site and location influence the style of each restaurant?

That’s a really good question. It used to be that the building 100 per cent dictated to us what our concept would be; the difference now is that the concept comes first. his is because of the way the high street has changed over the last 10 years; everything is more challenging nowadays, with higher rents, rise in the minimum wage and business rates, and the cost of food and drink.

Why did you decide to make your four restaurants so different? don t think there was any definite decision

to be so different; it all evolved uite organically.

In hindsight, it would have been easier for us to knock out a chain of bars in Hyde & Co or Milk Thistle vein, but I think we would have become bored with that. I suppose that it’s a desire to be creative that’s at the core of what we do, that’s made us very diverse in an industry ooded with chains, and it’s our diversity that has helped us survive in pretty tough times in our sector.

While other restaurants are closing, a handful of local groups – you, the Loco boys, Eat Drink, Season +Taste – appear to be going from strength to strength. What’s your secret?

I think I’m right in saying that all of the aforementioned are all born and bred in Bristol; this has undoubtedly been one of the key things that has helped us. Being local means we have always had the support of our friends, family and local suppliers.

Another key thing is that all of the companies mentioned have diverse brands within their companies which gives their customers more choice.

I always remember a bouncer saying to me “if you can make it in Bristol you can make it anywhere . ristol is very fickle, and many have come and gone over the years.

What I hope we have brought to the city is a varied collection of restaurants and bars that complement each other, all based on the highest quality of service, atmosphere and product.

What advice would you give to anyone starting up in hospitality?

Get yourself a mentor, maybe someone you admire. Don’t be frightened to ask questions; most people are only too happy to share info for free. Start small, with a brand you’re passionate about, be clever about where you spend your money, and grow organically. If your product is strong, people will come!

For more: www.hydeand.co

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 43

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B R I S T O L’ S F O O D S C E N E

EAT DRINK BRISTOL FASHION – FIRST LOOK AT THE LINE-UP!

ow that we ve seen off ignored ry anuary, we can o cially say let the drinking be gin as we welcome a uicy new boo e oint to ristol. anding in a prime spot on ark treet this month, in uice will serve up healthy food and pressed uices in the day and transform into a bar at night. he ristol oint is one of five new locations being launched and builds on the highly successful sites in ardiff and heltenham, bringing the total number to 11. With over gins on offer, beginners and connoisseurs alike will easily find that certain gin ne suis quois… www.ginandjuice.com

SQUEEZED IS BACK! and bigger than ever. fter closing his tiny shop in argo , ristol s award-winning burger nin a lex ayes has moved into a new home at argo 1. t s twice the si e of the old digs (though still uite dinky , with more seating, an outdoor dining space, longer trading hours and exciting a larger menu. We re already salivating like the wolf in the Three Little Pigs at the thought of our next dirty burger www.bristolsqueezed.co.uk

For more: www.eatdrinkbristolfashion.co.uk

© JON CR AIG

SIPPIN’ ON GIN & JUICE

The tastiest foodie news so far this year is that Eat Drink Bristol Fashion is coming back, at a new, larger site at Castle Park between 2-3 May. Tickets are now on sale, and among those planning to part you from your hard-earned are Little French, The Pony & Trap, Root, Woky Ko, Bravas, Paco Tapas – and those are just the Bristol restaurants working the Bristol Taste Tent, where you can sample dishes for a fiver.

Meanwhile, over at The Banqueting Tent, Josh Eggleton, Romy Gill and Peter Sanchez-Iglesias will be collaborating with visiting guest chefs; Team Love are curating the music, and the fourth and final banquet of the weekend will see Bristol’s Futureboogie DJs providing the musical backdrop.

We’ll see familiar and new faces take to The Demo Stage to share their culinary skills over the weekend, and in addition to the food and feasting, there’s a host of live acts and DJs at The Band Stand, with Doreen Doreen, Red Ray & The Reprobates and Steve Rice on the Saturday line-up and Laid Blak, The 45s and Queen Bee on Sunday.

More in our next issue, if we can track Josh down.

FIRESTARTER f you re a hopeless at getting a fire going but love food over ames, this one s for you. ive fire and expert enevieve aylor has announced the launch of a new cookery school focusing on all aspects of live fire cooking. he ristol ire chool will open its doors this spring and has one aim; teaching people to o ire etter. nce you master the fire, it ust becomes cooking, says en. ll aspects of fire cooking will be covered in a range of day and evening classes and will be limited to small groups to allow for an intimate and friendly learning environment. eep a watchful eye out for the class schedule, coming this month. www.genevievetaylor.co.uk

A FEW OTHER TASTY BITES..

CAVE COMES TO GLO’ ROAD

Wine shop and deli by day and restaurant by night, ave is coming to loucester oad in early arch, offering up boo e, cheese, charcuterie, bread, chutneys and more.. www.cavebristol.co.uk

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GIRLS JUST WANNA ** HAVE RUM *

And indeed, guys Also other spirits

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**

46 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

COCKTAILS While we’re sure Dry January did us a world of good, we’re not ashamed to admit that we lunged for the booze as soon as the clock chimed 12 o’clock on the 31st. To be fair, we’d argue that a warming tipple is just what we need to see out the rest of the winter with good spirits Words by Meg Coast

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ith that in mind, we sounded the horn and sweet-talked some of Bristol’s finest bartenders into sharing some of their ultimate cosy, cold-weather cocktails with us. Pre-empting a penchant for obscure ingredients, we implored them to give us easy mixers that you whip up yourself at home. They mostly listened.

ALCHEMY 198

Gallery, bar and café combined, Alchemy 198 on Gloucester Road is the perfect spot to kick back and have a drink with the gang while enjoying anything from live music to women’s comedy nights and art workshops.

Witches’ Brew

A wickedly delicious potion guaranteed to warm you from head to toe.

BAR 44

Spit-Roast Negroni

A rich and warm roasted pineapple flavour balanced with the herbaceous depth of Campari and spice of Spanish Vermút. A perfect winter alternative to this timeless classic.

In the mix..

25ml spit-roast pineapple gin 25ml Campari 25ml La Copa Roja Vermút Shake all ingredients over ice in a Boston shaker and strain into a tumbler over ice. Garnish with a slice of orange peel. www.bar44.co.uk

HYDE & CO The Tattletale

Rich, warming and indulgent, The Tattletale is an equally delectable descendent of the Grand Tattletail from a Hyde & Co menu of days gone by. It called for Bruichladdich Black Art and Octomore whiskies and tasted incredible - but at a combined value of £430, well.. let’s stick with this one, shall we?

In the mix…

1 barspoon local honey 2 dash orange bitters 2 dash angostura bitters

35ml Highland scotch 15ml peated scotch

Stir all together in a mixing glass to dissolve the honey and then add ice, stir until cold and strain over fresh ice in an old-fashioned glass. Finish with a twist of lemon and orange. www.hydeand.co

In the mix…

Double shot of coconut and dark chocolate infused in-house dark rum Dash of Tia Maria Pinch of cinnamon Milk or milk alternative Add the coconut and dark chocolate-infused rum and a dash of Tia Maria to a glass piled high with ice. Pour milk (or milk alternative) over the ice to the top of the glass to create wisps of white through the dark spirits below.

Finish with a pinch of cinnamon. www.alchemy198.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 47

KINKAJOU BAR

Ironsides Cart

Tucked away at the top of Whiteladies Road, Kinkajou Bar gave us a winter warmer for the adventurous, inspired by the raids of 9th-century Viking Bjorn Ironside.

In the mix…

25 ml Cointreau, 25 ml Remy VSOP 25 ml Highland Park Stir everything together, strain into a martini glass and enjoy.

Love and Death

Could we stretch the truth and claim that this is an excellent way of getting in one of your five-a-day? Probably not, but we’ll go with it anyway.

In the mix…

40ml vodka 20ml elderflower liqueur 20ml Crème De Mure (or any dark berry or cherry liqueur/syrup) Shake the vodka, elderflower liqueur and Crème De Mure, and serve up in a long stem glass. Hold the ice – it’s cold out there. www.kinkajoubar.co.uk

SPOKE & STRINGER

Whisky Almond Chai Latte

Perfect for cold winter nights, this sweet, spicy and frothy whiskey almond chai latte is guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. Serve in a warm mug with a dusting of cinnamon and a slice of orange for an extra special treat.

In the mix…

25ml Woodford Reserve whiskey 50ml chai syrup 50ml fresh orange juice 100ml almond milk 1. Combine the Woodford Reserve Whiskey and fresh orange juice in a large warmed-up mug.

2. Place the almond milk and chai syrup into a pan and warm through, letting the chai syrup infuse the milk with its delicious flavour.

3. Add the steamed, chai-infused almond milk to your mug.

4. Serve with a dusting of cinnamon on the top and a slice of orange on the side. www.spokeandstringer.com

48 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

COCKTAILS

BRISTOL AND BATH RUM DISTILLERY Hot Buttered Rum

Girls (and guys) just wanna have rum and, luckily for us there’s a joint dedicated to the stuff on Park Street. The Bristol and Bath Rum Distillery’s take on this classic cocktail is a perfect way to melt through the seasonal malaise. Gentle, hearty spices pair perfectly with the sweetness of homemade apple syrup to warm the cockles of your heart.

In the mix…

50ml Jamaican rum 20ml apple syrup 150ml hot water 1 teaspoon butter

Finishing touches: Slice of apple Grated nutmeg Cinnamon stick

Pour rum and syrup in a mug and top up with hot water.

Add butter and stir in. Garnish with apple slice, grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

Boozy Hot Chocolate

This boozy hot chocolate is a heavenly answer to the favourite winter drink of your childhood. The Aber Falls salted toffee liqueur brings a hint of burnt sugar lightness, while the coffee and dark chocolate liqueur gives it a decadent richness. Will you choose the light side or the dark side?

In the mix:

150ml rich hot chocolate (ground dark chocolate is recommended) 50ml Aber Falls salted toffee liqueur

OR 50 ml Aber Falls dark chocolate liqueur Mix hot chocolate and the Aber Falls liqueur of your choice (salted toffee or dark chocolate) in a mug, then top with grated chocolate.

All liqueurs available from Bristol and Bath Distillery’s on-site bottle shop. www.bristolrumschool.com

TELL US THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT COCKTAIL YOU’VE EVER SEEN/ MADE..

“We are not sure that anything will ever top the absurd beverages of Del-Boy in Only Fools and Horses; we’ve got a lot of love for any drink that comes with a curly straw, a sparkler, an umbrella and half a pineapple in it!”

Ben at Kinkajou “The most ridiculous cocktail we have been asked to make is a ‘Jelly Baby’ - a three layered mix of grenadine, Malibu, Archers, pineapple juice, vodka and blue curacao. It took ages to make, and when you mixed it all together it just turned grey and tasted of nothing but sugar, but the customer had a few of them!”

Ben at Kinkajou “The most extravagant cocktail from Spoke & Stringer’s menu is a Bloody Maria; essentially a Bloody Mary with tequila, it comes garnished with cucumber, cider and honey-glazed chorizo, boquerone, lemon, giant gordal olive and guindilla pepper.”

Ellie at Spoke & Stringer

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CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Water world

In which Stan catches more than a perfect wave at Bristol’s newest attraction. Akaw!

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on t know about you, but do like to be beside the seaside. What I’m less keen on is having to drive for hours and hours to get there. owever, these days it s hardly any distance at all. In fact, it only took me about ten minutes, door to door. ou can t miss it; slightly north of Bristol, just past Wild Place, in Easter Compton, where

there is now a massive great surfing lagoon called he Wave.

Admittedly, it’s not your actual seaside; but when you re lying on a surfboard, having ust caught a wave, and the sun comes out over your shoulder, it comes close enough for me. ow, before you ask what all this has to do on a af ociety page, let me explain. I was there for a surf lesson. A try-out session for all ages; in this case, my

granddaughter, my son-in-law, and me.

We went, we surfed (sort of, we re only beginners and we had a pretty amazing time. Refreshing, exciting and soul-boosting, all in one glorious hit.

After which, we naturally needed a spot of refuelling; the sort that only hot food and coffee can provide. ne of the oys of wave-hopping is the hunger that builds up inside you afterwards, so expected there to be a caf on site; and there it was, right next to the water.

What I was not expecting was to find a gorgeous little eatery, halfway between surf shack and ski lodge. Not only did it look good, it also had a menu to match.

Although they had a tempting range of cakes, pastries and sweet surprises on offer, someone whispered in my ear that they did a fine line in burgers and pies. Now, if there is one thing guaranteed to fill the heart with gladness, it is a hot meal on a cool day; especially if it comes with chips. So we went ahead and ordered enough burgers to blast away the biggest wave.

While we were waiting for them to arrive, we did the only decent thing to do on a day when the afternoon air is almost as fresh as the waves we ordered a round of hot chocolate, which arrived, as advertised, with all the

marshmallowy toppings that you could wish for.

My companions, dad and daughter, were content to cuddle up, watch the world go surfing by while slurping their way through cups of chocolatey perfection, and just when we thought things couldn t get any better, the burgers arrived; including a spicy ackfruit burger that was worth the entire ourney all by itself.

So, whether you fancy a go on a surfboard, or ust a pleasant snack

“If there is one thing that gladdens the heart on a cool day, it’s a hot meal; especially if it comes with chips” with a view to a wavy wet world, I can thoroughly recommend taking a trip to the wild side of Bristol. You know what the surf set say surfing is life; the rest is burgers. r something like that. n Former Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer www.stancullimore.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 51

ADVERTISING FEATURE

LEARN SOMETHING NEW FOR 2020 If you want this year to be all about expanding your world, skilling up, getting creative or simply having a bit of fun, take a peek and get inspired by these Bristol-based courses and workshops...

THE MAKERSHED

ST. PAULS LEARNING CENTRE, 94 GROSVENOR ROAD, ST PAULS, BRISTOL BS2 8XJ TEL: 07599 670365 WWW.THEMAKERSHEDBRISTOL.CO.UK

BRISTOL COOKERY SCHOOL VARIOUS LOCATIONS TEL: 0117 330 8439 WWW.BRISTOLCOOKERYSCHOOL.COM

The Makershed is a creative space for doing, making and learning new skills. The workshop is situated within the St Pauls Learning Centre in the city centre and whatever your level of experience, you’re assured a friendly welcome within a supportive learning and making environment. Go take part in workshops and courses in traditional hand-tool woodworking, furniture making, tool maintenance, pallet wood workshops, upholstery or DIY. The Makershed welcomes complete beginners and more seasoned makers alike. There are courses on weekdays, evenings and weekends, with concession rates available for weekday classes if you are in receipt of income-related benefits. Course dates for 2020 are available now for booking through their website.

Providing bespoke cookery solutions for all your culinary needs.

Whether you are a complete beginner or a competent cook we pride ourselves on structuring a program that will best suit your ability whilst providing comprehensive support along the way.

If you are looking for a one-off cookery class in the comfort of your own home, arranging an event or party, corporate team building days or something more specialised, BCS is able to tailor classes to individual requirements and expertise.

Please get in touch for your free initial consultation.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 53

ADVERTISING FEATURE

THE PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT

UNDERFALL YARD, BALTIC WHARF, BRISTOL, BS1 6XG TEL: 01275 394558 WWW.THEPHOTOGRAPHYPROJECT.CO.UK The Photography Project offers a range of exciting, inspiring and fun photography workshops and projects for all abilities. Based from our Bristol Harbourside studio we run both classroom and on-location tuition. Workshops include; introduction and improvers, low light & night, travel and landscape photography and our unique ‘Splashes & Flashes’ high speed flash photography workshop. Our small group workshops are led by an experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructor. Whatever your level, we’ll teach you the skills and techniques necessary to help you improve and develop your photography, enabling you to create inspiring images of your own.

BRISTOL SWING RIOT

CLASSES IN CLIFTON & EASTON EMAIL: INFO@BRISTOLSWINGRIOT.COM WWW.BRISTOLSWINGRIOT.CO.UK Are you looking for a fun and sociable way to get active this year? Try swing dancing! Learning to swing dance is much more than just being taught steps - here at Bristol Swing Riot we’re passionate about sharing the fun and joy that lies at the heart of the dance and makes it so addictive. You can either try our Clifton beginners class on Thursdays at 8.40pm, or a beginners weekend course in Easton (see website for details). The classes are suitable for anyone and you don’t need to bring a partner, just comfy shoes!

CLIFTON WINE SCHOOL

CLASSES IN BATH AND BRISTOL TEL: 0117 3706576 WWW.CLIFTONWINESCHOOL.COM Clifton Wine School is run by Ruth Wiles (DipWSET) who has over a decade of experience teaching about wine. With courses running in Bristol and Bath, Clifton Wine School is the perfect destination for anyone with an interest in the world’s best drink. Ruth runs everything from one off ‘just for fun’ events to internationally recognised professional qualifications. Wine education is endlessly fascinating; incorporating tasting skills, history, biology, geography, tradition, food and wine matching, and everything in between. It’s also great fun! We especially love the cheese and wine evenings.

SEW EASY BRISTOL – BRA MAKING WEEKEND WORKSHOP 138 CLOUDS HILL ROAD, BRISTOL, BS5 7LQ TEL: 07946 176982 WWW.SEWEASYBRISTOL.COM

Come along on Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2020 and learn how to make a beautiful bra for yourself using delicate fabrics and laces, stretch powernet and elastics. On this course you will learn how to use a bra pattern and adapt your pattern (if necessary) to fit your shape. You will work with specialist bra-making components and learn to identify suitable fabrics and trims. I will provide you with one of my Bra Kits and a pair of underwires, which are all included in the course cost of £135. Suitable for those with some sewing experience, our small classes ensure you will always receive plenty of tuition.

54 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

DANCE FACTORY BRISTOL VARIOUS LOCATIONS TEL: 077111 97288 WWW.DANCEFACTORYBRISTOL.COM

If you or your family are a fan of Strictly Come Dancing then here is your chance to learn the moves! There is a wide choice of fun informal ballroom and Latin classes for adults, a strictly kids class for 7-12 yr olds, Strictly Corporate team building workshops for organisations/charities and first dance private tuition for Wedding couples. Same-sex dancing couples can also attend the Strictly Pink classes.

“My wife and I absolutely love our dance classes! We’ve learnt loads of different dances already and we laugh our way through the class each week!” Robert, Horfield

BRISTOL GUITAR MAKING SCHOOL

UNIT 11, CIRCUIT 32, EASTON ROAD, BRISTOL, BS5 0DB TEL: 07515440071 WWW.GUITARMAKINGSCHOOL.CO.UK At the Bristol Guitar Making school we guide students through hand-building their own steel string guitar in just 12 days, with direction from master luthier Alex Bishop. Focusing predominantly on the use of hand tools and simple jigs, students will choose from a variety of timbers and select one of three different guitar shapes to build. We cover every aspect of guitar making including bending the sides, hand planing the top, carving braces, cutting the sound hole, fretting, set ups and much more.

Courses are running May 5th-21st and September 7th-24th. New weekly Wednesday evening class starts 26th February.

BRISTOL ADULT LEARNING

STOKE LODGE, SHIREHAMPTON RD, BRISTOL BS9 1BN TEL: 0117 903 8844 WWW.BRISTOLCOURSES.COM If you are looking for a wide range of courses all under one roof you will find plenty of choice at Bristol Adult Learning. Part of Bristol City Council, Adult Learning offers courses from its base, Stoke Lodge. The grade 2 listed building has been home to Adult Learning for 50 years and has classrooms, art and craft rooms, an IT suite and teaching kitchen.

Driving into the centre with its free car park, surrounding gardens and greenery is like stepping into a calming space where you can take a deep breath, relax and enjoy some ‘you time’. The staff and tutors are welcoming, friendly and the classes seem to contain almost as much laughter as they do learning. There are hundreds of courses, from one day workshops to term long programmes. You can learn history, philosophy, film studies, gardening and five different languages. There are practical courses in computers, cookery, as well as health and wellbeing activities. They also offer a huge range of creative courses in painting, drawing, floristry, sewing and upholstery, stained glass and creative writing.

If you are looking to get creative, learn something new and make some new friends along the way, Adult Learning certainly has lots to offer.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

It’s time for wild balance in Bristol Only a stone’s throw away from Clifton, THE BELMONT ESTATE is Bristol’s newest venue for all things wild and wonderful...

B

elmont is opening her doors to the public for the first time this spring with an array of away days and courses designed to get you and your team out of the office for a range of experiences - all guaranteed to recharge and reinspire.

WANT TO VISIT? A sample of courses on offer at The Belmont Estate this spring: Butchery & Beer with Darren Broom 10am – 4pm. Tuesday 21st April 2020 Foraging & Fire with Darren Broom 10am – 4pm. Thursday 23rd April 2020 Wellbeing X Belmont with Rebecca Hiscutt 10am – 4pm. Friday 1st May 2020 Art of the Land with Gil Martin & Jayne Morris 10am – 4pm. Tuesday 5th May 2020

Comprising of hundreds of acres of historic parkland and heritage woodland, the Estate is peppered with snowdrops at the start of the year and bluebells in the spring. Simply stunning scenery, rare breed animals and wildlife can be experienced from the very first moment you enter the Estate. Once through the gates you are welcomed along an impressive tree-lined drive where owls, buzzards, kestrels and sparrow hawks can frequently be spotted swooping down from the trees. The drive continues up through the woods, revealing a magnificent manor house, next to which stand a selection of beautiful buildings, creatively converted into spaces for cookery classes, butchery, craft beer tasting, biodynamic wine sampling, art and music.

Activities at Belmont are however, far from confined to the indoors. Although the Carriage House boasts three beautifully decorated seminar rooms, the Belmont team are passionate about taking guests outside to reconnect with nature, improve their wellbeing and learn more about environmental sustainability.

Whether you fancy foraging, historienteering (a term they have newly coined for their guided walks to places where poet Hannah More wrote some of her famous verses) or a spot of forest bathing, your desires will be well catered

for. Up in the forest, the Belmont team are developing incredible provisions for outdoor feasting, meetings, yoga, meditation and other bespoke gatherings.

Perhaps one of the most endearing features of the estate is the elliptical walled garden amphitheatre, which offers an incredible setting for shared experiences. It is south west facing, looking out down to the Bristol channel. The 18th century garden has several graceful grass tiers built into the slope of the hill, with a multitude of growing boxes situated at the bottom. It was originally created to grow fresh vegetables for the estate kitchen and continues to be used in this way today, in addition to providing an amazing space for live open-air musical and theatrical entertainment. The team will be announcing some magical events taking place in the garden very soon. ■

Email: events@belmont.estate Tel: 0117 970 6335. www.belmont.estate www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 57

TABLE LAMP, £119 How much better would your desk look with this endearing metal lamp in matt cobalt blue? Maybe tidy up a bit first though, hey From Fox + Feather 43 Gloucester Road www.foxandfeather.co.uk

BRISTOL BLUE CLASS Bristol Blue Glass, Bristol Rovers, 6 O’Clock Gin, that lush Bristol Blues map on page 11: we’re way ahead of you, Pantone Colour of the Year, with your ‘Classic Blue’

CLUB SHIRT, £95 Classic Peregrine heritage style: smart yet casual, sharp yet cosy, and made from soft, brushed cotton imported from Portugal From Peregrine Clothing Montpelier Central Trading Estate www.peregrineclothing.co.uk

SAPPHIRE RING, £3,550 limpid corn ower blue gem set in gold bezel, in Diana’s classic contemporary style. *Sighs with cupidity* From Diana Porter 33 Park Street www.dianaporter.co.uk

PAPERWEIGHT, £30 You’re probably familiar with BBG’s elegant goblets and vases; but for peak Bristol, it has to be one of their paperweights From Bristol Blue Glass 357-359 Bath Road www.bristol-glass.co.uk

ADELAIDE CHAIR, £786 Comfy, elegant and swivelly, with curves in all the right places From BoConcept 51, 53 Merchant Street www.boconcept.com ROB RYAN PRINT, £250 The lines “PS please don’t ever let me have too much” may sound a bit Morrissey, but Rob Ryan’s intricate papercut work is an altogether more romantic prospect From Soma Gallery www.somagallery.co.uk

58 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S ED S CHOICE ROBERTS REVIVAL I STREAM3, RRP £199.99 Looks adorably retro, but the thoroughly modern technology has Bluetooth connectivity and built-in access to all the essential streaming services From Springer Vision 69 High Street Keynsham 0117 986 5637 MANOLA BLAHNIK SILK SHOES, £775 Yes, an eye-watering three-digit price tag – but then nobody does regal, luxe decadence quite like Manola From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com 6 O’CLOCK GIN, FROM £20 Psycho’s original, multiaward-winning London Dry, perfected from an old family gin recipe, with a soft and citrusy avour.

Also, that bottle…

From www.6oclockgin.com

BLUE NOTES OCTAEVO, £6.30 Billed as ‘a handy pocket notebook of Mediterranean cleverness for everyday moments’, screenprinted on blue linen From Papersmiths 6A Boyce’s Avenue www.papersmiths.co.uk

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD SCARF, £85 Elegant, unisex and 100% wool, in that exact royal blue hue that Pantone seems to think it’s only just invented From Garment Quarter, 23-25 Penn Street www.garmentquarter.com IZIPIZI SUNGLASSES, £35 Your sunglasses collection cannot be truly described as complete unless you have a pair in classic blue From Pod Company 24 The Mall, Clifton www.thepodcompany.co.uk

TANGO SOFA, £POA With more than a nod to mid-century design, the dynamic and dramatic shape is inspired, we’re told, by movement and dance From Archer + Co, 24 Alma Vale Road www.archerandcompany.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 59

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

Bristol Life team 01225 475800

TRY FIVE 2

3 1

t s cold out there. is making you, well, sad. What you need is a soothing staycation in a luxurious West ountry hotel. here are five top suggestions below we even found one hotel named ristol ARTIST RESIDENCE Where’s it to, then? en ance What’s the style and vibe? A charmingly arty and eccentric, rustic-chic town house set in a winding back lane in shipshape en ance.

What can we do in the area? and s nd, he ate, t ves, t ichael s ount, he inack heatre and some of ornwall s best beaches are all a short motor away.

What’s on the menu? he relaxed ornish arn smokehouse serves a menu created from locally sourced produce, focusing on fresh ornish meat and fish.

Can we bring the kids and/or the dog? Yep; there s a selection of dog-friendly rooms, and the whole hotel is child- friendly.

What’s the cost? ooms range from for room only. www.artistresidence.co.uk

2

HOTEL BRISTOL

Where’s it to, then? Newquay What’s the style and vibe? A modern-classic

establishment with panoramic sea views over olcarne each. he rt eco style includes a newly renovated bar area, evocative of s aris.

What can we do in the area? As well as the seven town beaches, the hotel is an ideal umpingoff point to explore the best of ornwall, from the ardens of eligan to the den ro ect.

What’s on the menu? he rebranded cocktail bar serves drinks and informal food in a space of sleek and anti-traditional elegance ; there s modern classic dining in the restaurant .

Can we bring the kids and/or the dog? Both

will be treated like royalty.

What’s the cost? rom

www.hotelbristol.co.uk

5

a night.

3

MOONFLEET MANOR Where’s it to, then? Chesil Beach What’s the style and vibe? A great, big, friendly eorgian manor house, behind the beach on the dramatic urassic oast.

What can we do in the area? Head to Weymouth or Lyme Regis beaches to ply rock pools and find fossils the staff have all the inside info on where to find the best trilobites.

What’s on the menu? From sharing platters to the oon eet urger, the menus draw on fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Can we bring the kids and/or the dog?

ot merely tolerated, but positively welcomed.

What’s the cost? £109-£509 per night b&b

. oon

anor o l. o.uk

4

MULLION COVE

Where’s it to, then? Well, Mullion Cove What’s the style and vibe? A traditional

historic hotel, built in 1 on a clifftop with dramatic views across the Atlantic, with a brandnew multi-million pound spa.

What can we do in the area? Its location on the outh West oast ath makes it perfect for walkers; the oldark mine and many of the beaches used in the series are a short drive away.

What’s on the menu? ead chef ames eath is inspired by the bounties of the local area, and

© MARK BENNET T

1

4

his daily changing menus have an emphasis on locally caught fish and seafood.

Can we bring the kids and/or the dog? Both the hotel and lovely new apartments nearby are perfect for both.

What’s the cost? rom 1 - 1 per room. www.mullion-cove.co.uk

5

FOWEY HALL

Where’s it to, then? Unsurprisingly, Fowey What’s the style and vibe? A relaxed coastal

mansion with beautiful sea views.

What can we do in the area? Go kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddle-boarding; take boat trips, go crabbing, rock-pooling, sandcastlebuilding or clifftop-walking; visit the den ro ect.

What’s on the menu? Classic, simple dishes, served in a relaxed manner.

Can we bring the kids and/or the dog? Both!

What’s the cost? rom 1 .n www.foweyhallhotel.co.uk

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EDUCATION

GENERATION GREEN “I want you to act as if our house is on fire, because it is

G

By Meg Coast

reta hunberg, ust 16 when she delivered those powerful lines at the 1 World conomic orum, is a testament to the fact that kids nowadays have a lot on their plates. We all recall the struggle of scraping passable grades, making friends and saving enough pocket money to buy the next shiny new thing; but then throw in a climate crisis, and you ve got a generation with some heavy stuff on their shoulders. ut far from buckling under the pressure, the kids have proven their ability to take the wheel and become a ma or driving force for environmental activism, leaving aby oomers and en far behind.

We were curious to know what schools are doing to nurture these eco-warriors of the future, and approached some of the best in ristol for their take on eneration reen.

BADMINTON SCHOOL Independent, boarding and day school for girls aged 3 to 18 years in Westbury-on-Trym Do you consider yourself to be a ‘green’ school?

BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Independent day school for girls and boys aged 3 to 11 Do you consider yourself to be a ‘green’ school?

rom our school premises in the leafy suburbs of edland, we promote socially conscious values that enable our children to appreciate the natural environment.

We believe that if we teach children how to appreciate, respect and en oy the environment at a young age then it will embed itself as part of their lifestyle. ur pupils take their food waste out to the composter in our extensive garden, later to be used on the vegetable patches that the pupils tend as part of their science classes. We source supplies from sustainable businesses and when items break they are repaired for reuse.

“When you think you’re too small to make a i rn r r last night you spent in a room with a mosquito”

We are constantly working to become a greener school. tudents are encouraging multiple initiatives, from weighing and monitoring food waste to reach ambitious reduction targets, through to encouraging teachers to put resources online to reduce printing. ur nvironment ommittee members have been involved in the ristol ducation artnership limate hange ro ect this year, looking at ways to become a more energy e cient and sustainable school.

Has the ‘Greta Effect’ had an influence on your students?

reta has definitely raised the profile of issues around climate change and sustainability. reta s impact has highlighted to students the difference an individual can make, even if you are still at school.

Do your students have the opportunity to take part in any outdoor or vocational pursuits to engage them with nature?

rom gardening club and forest school to uke of dinburgh and our lanet arth art exhibition this term, we are encouraging

62 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

our students to understand and engage with nature. s part of our inspiring evenings lecture, the former cience echnology reporter, racey ogan, visited us in anuary. er message to the girls was powerful when you think you re too small to make a difference, remember the last night you spent in a room with a mos uito. www.badmintonschool.co.uk

Do your students have the opportunity to engage in any outdoor pursuits to engage them with nature?

xperiential learning is a cornerstone of our approach to teaching. cientific skills are taught in a variety of different ways. ctivities such as growing vegetables and fruits in our own garden, understanding the impact of seasons on plant growth and measuring air uality enable our pupils to absorb knowledge through experiential learning. orest school excursions provide our pupils with the life skills that allow them to understand where the wood that they use at woodworking class originates from. www.bristolsteinerschool.org CLOCKWISE: Tockington Manor School digging the Great Outdoors, Cotham School leading the scene and keeping it green, forest forays at Clifton College

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 63

EDUCATION CLIFTON COLLEGE Co-educational independent school in Clifton, for pupils aged 3-18

Do you consider yourself to be a ‘green’ school? Do you have further plans for improvement?

We are committed as a school to developing green initiatives across a variety of areas. We have a number of recycling schemes across the upper and preparatory schools, for example, including initiatives which are run by students. We have also made a number of changes recently in terms of food use, and reducing single-use plastics, as well as a reduction in minibus and coach usage by way of a reorganisation of our programme. There is plenty more to do but we are making positive progress.

Has the ‘Greta Effect’ had an influence on your students, and if so how?

Our students are really passionate about change and climate activism and the reta ffect has increased their motivation and activity. ur student body is quite proactive about climate issues generally and as part of this, there is an active student council who meet regularly and raise environmental concerns. We also have a Clifton Environmental ction roup, as part of the lifton in the ommunity programme.

How does your school prepare its students for life outside the classroom?

Preparing students for life beyond the classroom is an important part of the education we offer. We aim to build our students resilience, confidence and strength of character through a supportive and nurturing school environment, with a strong pastoral network provided

“Eco-issues are of great concern to us all” by our house system. We also look to challenge students, and enable them to build responsibility, self-esteem and leadership skills through a wide range of co-curricular activities, such as the Business Enterprise Programme, the Outdoor Pursuits Programme, the Combined Cadet Force, and Ten Tors and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. www.cliftoncollege.com

COTHAM SCHOOL State secondary school in Cotham

Do you consider yourself to be a ‘green’ school?

We have many eco-centred projects in school which were planned and implemented when we attended the Bristol Education Partnership Climate Challenge event. These have included a friendly garden, the collection and recycling of crisp packets and a newly installed collection point for unwanted clothes at the front of our school for the community to use. We have also put in place the reduction of single-use plastic.

Has the ‘Greta Effect’ had an influence on your students?

ABOVE: Crafting at Bristol Steiner School;

TOP RIGHT: Clifton College students tuck into a forest school alfresco lunch

ll students and staff at otham are aware of reta and the impact she is making, ensuring people are talking and raising awareness of the issues surrounding the environment that we live in, discussing our carbon footprint and how we can take individual and collective responsibility to make changes that will make a difference.

The student voice is strong and consistent on the need to do this and to act now. Through our student council the student body is considering a number of ways that we can take responsibility and play our part to be more environmentally aware.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 65

EDUCATION Wearing red but thinking green at Red Maids High

Is eco-anxiety prevalent among your students?

Our students are conscious of the changing environment and the world in which they live. They are concerned about the future in many ways; ecological disaster and the natural environment is another worry for them in a world that is changing on a daily basis.

As a school, we are very aware of the mental health and well-being of all our students. We have regular drop-in sessions with our wellbeing team. Tutor time and assemblies are times where issues are raised and professionals regularly visit the school to talk to our students about these issues. A weekly positivity and wellbeing session is run in our school library for all students, and anyone that wishes to can attend. www.cotham.bristol.sch.uk

REDMAIDS HIGH – An independent School in Bristol for girls aged 4-18

Do you consider yourself to be a ‘green’ school?

Our attention to sustainability and the environment has increased substantially in the past few years: we have sixth form environment captains who lead ‘green reps’ in each year group; we reduce energy wastage wherever we can; we facilitate recycling with boxes and bins in almost every classroom across our schools; we have switched to meatfree each Monday lunchtime; students run an ‘eco-thrift’ clothes swap shop; and we tend our beautiful 12-acre grounds with self-generated wood chippings and mulch.

We are planning to install beehives onto our site and have already fitted bird and bat boxes to attract more wildlife. We also want to build in electric vehicle charging points across our three main sites including our new sports ground near Cribbs Causeway. We already hold the bronze Eco-Schools award and are now working towards the silver.

Is ‘eco-anxiety’ prevalent among your students?

Eco-issues are of great concern to us all, and particularly for the younger generation. Our aim is to ensure they are properly educated about the causes and measures that are needed to save the planet.

We supported the global day of action in September by asking everyone to adopt a healthier way of travelling to school, and invited an Extinction Rebellion speaker to our whole school assembly to give a clear explanation of the scientific facts behind climate change.

There have been calls for a GCSE in natural history to be added to the syllabus. What’s your stance on this?

The proposals for a natural history GCSE are timely and should be of great interest to schools who are looking to keep their curriculum broad, balanced and relevant. We see increasing numbers of students choosing GCSE and A Level geography, and believe this is in part due to heightened awareness of the fragility of our planet. It is crucial we harness the interest and passion of our students to ensure that we protect it for future generations. www.redmaidshigh.co.uk

“It is crucial we harness the interest and passion of our students to ensure that we protect it for future generations”

TOCKINGTON MANOR SCHOOL An independent prep school, for children aged 2 to 13 years Do you consider yourself to be a ‘green’ school? Do you have further plans for improvement?

Green activities are integrated into the existing curricula in science, art, humanities, mathematics, and languages. Pupils can undertake study of themes such as energy, water, forests, toxic pollution, and waste.

The school is presently taking part in the Wastebuster Plastic Challenge 2020 which gives schools the chance to teach children about plastic waste, and how they can recycle plastics more easily and care for the environment.

Has the ‘Greta Effect’ had an influence on your students, and if so how?

The children know about Greta and some children have been researching her. We encourage our children to think about the wider world as well as their own. Many of our pupils have taken this thinking further and have chosen to adopt animals, and one pupil was rewarded with a Blue Peter badge for her letter about how to protect the environment. Interestingly, no one has suggested a school strike!

Do your students have the opportunity to engage in any outdoor or vocational pursuits that deepen their understanding of nature?

Understanding the environment is an integral part of our school and this is taught from nursery upwards. Children in our nursery learn about the importance of nature by growing fresh vegetables in their own kitchen garden. They plant seeds, tend to their plants, learn about the importance of watering, how birds insects affect crops and then get to pick and eat what they’ve grown. n www.tockingtonmanorschool.com

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SNAPPED AC ROSS BR IS TO L , O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E

Kat Haylock, Chris Goodfellow, Emma Durkin and Shalin Pather

NEW PHASE

Matthew Robinson, Lynda Brown and Mark Botha

Origin Workspace recently celebrated the launch of its Phase 2 building, housing a range of coworking and private o ces dedicated to entrepreneurs, start-ups and scale-up businesses.

The launch completes the m renovation of the award-winning coworking space that provides a home for ‘grow on’ businesses needing premium space.

Photos by Millard Photography

Ed Schofield, Lindy Campbell, Sandy Hore-Ruthven, Heather Frankham and Richard Anthony

EMPOWERED

Neath Raisbeck Golding Law have established a supportive networking group celebrating women in business, connecting their strengths, interests and needs to create their own success. The next event will be hosted held at their o ce in lifton on Wednesday 20 May 2020.

Pauline Cox, Ruthie Johnson, Xxx Natasha Poole and Leanne Lolley

Yasmine Collins, Megan Taylor and Helen Snell

Emily Herberston, Sally Coulden, Louise Poole, Susi Titchener, Alice Peacock, Louise Higham, Pauline Cox, Trish Johnson and Yasmine Collins

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 69

Email: amy@pinnaclerecruitingspecialists.com Telephone: 07734 928 327

INVEST IN YOUR BIGGEST ASSET – PEOPLE WWW.PINNACLERECRUITINGSPECIALISTS.COM

Providing specialist permanent recruiting services along the M4 corridor Aspiring to change the perception of the recruitment industry.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the Accountant

When it comes to money matters, these experts really know their stuff EDWARD CORRIGAN

LISA WHITE

CORRIGAN ACCOUNTANTS 0117 928 1970; www.corrigan.co.uk Who are you?

Corrigan Accountants are a Bristol accountancy firm with independent spirit and positive energy, supporting growth in Bristol businesses by providing a broad range of accounting, tax and advisory services, delivered by an experienced, flexible team. As a growing business ourselves, we understand the demands of meeting ambitious growth plans – whether that is staying ahead of industry innovation, scaling up, business planning or tax efficient strategies to name but a few.

What challenges do you predict businesses facing in 2020/2021?

Whilst it is helpful that we have a little more certainty around the Brexit issue, most would agree that this next transition period will be vital to understand the impacts and opportunities for business. We can help mitigate some of these risks by planning for these changes using sophisticated financial modelling tools which can show outcomes based on various scenarios. We have our ear to the ground and are ready to advise our clients on the impacts of Brexit as soon as they become clear.

Do you specialize in a specific area of expertise?

We are ready to help start-up businesses from day one, with an expertise in the tech sector and with fast-growing tech business including experience of R&D tax credits and EMI share incentives, through to support in debt funding to eventual management buyout or sale.

DUNKLEY’S CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS 01454 619900; www.dunkleys.accountants

Edward Corrigan

Lisa White

ANDREW JORDAN

DAMIAN EVANS

MILSTED LANGDON 0117 945 2500; www.milsted-langdon.co.uk What changes to the tax and investment systems are coming up in 2020?

The change affecting many of my clients is the potential reform to Entrepreneurs’ Relief. The Conservative Party Manifesto, released prior to the December 2019 election, stated that Entrepreneurs’ Relief would be reviewed. It has since been reported that Boris Johnson has suggested that the tax break for entrepreneurs in its current form is likely to be scrapped. The Budget is scheduled to take place on 11 March 2020, and whilst nothing is certain, it is likely that we will see significant reform of the relief, if not its complete abolition.

Do you specialize in a specific area of expertise?

I work across a wide range of sectors, but I have particular expertise and experience working with owner managed or private equity backed businesses, especially those who are fast growing, scaling up, changing or preparing for an exit. Whilst I work with a broad range of businesses, it’s not just about me. I couldn’t do my job without my specialist colleagues. As a team, we have corporate tax, R&D, VAT, corporate finance, intervention, insolvency and restructuring, forensic accountancy and business innovation specialists who work with me to help my clients thrive.

What challenges do you predict businesses will face in 2020/2021?

For me, the biggest challenge that businesses will face in 2020/21 is the fall out of Brexit and the implications that come with it. Hopefully we will know more when the budget is revealed on 11th March. Aside from this, I believe the enforcement of Making Tax Digital on businesses by the Government is also a key challenge.

As specialists in this area, we can help you to realise the potential of Cloud Accounting software and show you how it can truly benefit your business.

What’s the best advice you would give at the start of the tax year?

Speak to your advisors before you engage in transactions. Receiving proactive advice from professionals will help you have a prosperous 2020/21.

What preparations can you and your business make as the end of the financial year approaches?

My recommendation is to take advantage of the tax reliefs available. If you are an individual, make sure you are aware of your ISA and pension contribution allowances. I would also take this time to look forward and think about your budgets and forecasting for 2020/21. If you need support with any pre-year planning, please feel free to get in touch.

EVANS ENTWISTLE 0117 301 8607; www.evansentwistle.co.uk

Andrew Jordan

Damian Evans

What should be your clients’ priorities at the start of the financial year?

We like to conduct a strategic review with our clients every year, enabling them to ascertain what their priorities should be for the forthcoming financial year. We can then advise on the most tax efficient means of delivering achieving those goals.

All of our practice principals have worked in business at senior level, so we hope that our practical advice and management experience adds value to the client year round.

What is the most frequent problem you encounter this time of year?

At this time of year, I’m pleased to say our “problems” are minimal! January is always a challenge as our intention is to ensure that 100% of our clients’ self assessment returns are filed on time. Now that deadline has passed, we’re focusing on reviewing our clients’ current position and helping them strengthen and grow their businesses.

What first attracted you to the industry?

Aside from a fascination with numbers and a penchant for creating Excel models, I relished the opportunity to work with business owners and make a real difference. Sound advice can make all the difference between being in the black versus being in the red, and nothing spurs us on more than seeing our clients succeed. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 73

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Marketing matters If you want your business to thrive in 2020 and beyond, here are 5 marketing mistakes you will want to avoid.

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hat does 2020 look like for your business?

Essentially one of three things could happen; it will thrive by smashing growth targets, you could see it sailing through with consistent year-onyear results, or possibly, your business could struggle and underperform.

The strength of a business’s marketing will have an influence on this outcome. It is no surprise then that marketing, especially online marketing, is the go-to strategy for growing businesses. Here are 5 marketing mistakes you’ll want to avoid in 2020...

1. LEAVE YOUR WEBSITE TO IT Keep your website updated. It sounds simple, but many businesses build their site then leave it for months, sometimes years. It is important to keep it up-to-date; technically so it is secure and performing well, and by adding new content and functionality that help you to grow your business.

If you have invested money into getting potential customers to visit your website then don’t leave them disappointed when they get there. Give them a good experience by ensuring your site is attractive, mobile-friendly, easy to read, loads quickly and there are no broken elements. Provide them with the information they are expecting, so it is easy for them to take the next action in your sales process, such as contacting your company or purchasing a product.

2. IGNORE SEO Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is the process of increasing your company’s visibility on search engines such as Google or Bing.

There is no magic wand when it comes to SEO, and successful SEO happens when a business is getting the rest of its marketing

communications strategy right, with content marketing and online PR playing important roles in demonstrating Google’s E - A - T guidelines: Expertise, Authoritativeness and Trustworthiness.

Reviews play an important role in building trust, *90% of consumers will read online reviews before visiting or contacting a business.

3. RELY ON JUST ONE CHANNEL A channel, put simply, is a way to reach your customers with your marketing message. The rise of social media and other digital platforms over the last 20 years has given way to a huge increase in the number of marketing channels available. The decision making process facing today’s marketers about which channels to use, how and when, can feel overwhelming.

Rather than asking, ‘What channels should we use for our business?’ Ask yourself these three questions: ‘Who are my customers?’ ‘Where do they spend their time?’ ‘What channels shall I start with to reach them?’

As the largest search engine, Google provides a big opportunity to businesses looking to reach customers searching for their products and services online. With 49%** of all clicks coming from Google Ads campaigns this channel should be a key part of your marketing strategy if you are looking to drive traffic to your website.

4. DON’T KEEP UP WITH COMPETITORS To gain the edge over competitors, you should review where you sit in the market relative to the competition and define why a customer should choose you over them.

The digital world moves fast and throws up new opportunities but the fundamentals of marketing research, strategy and planning haven’t changed for decades, only the technology that we use.

As such, competitor research and positioning remain critical in planning for success. Using

time-tested tools such as the 7 Ps (product, price, place, promotion, people, physical evidence and processes) will help you when reviewing your place in the market. Take each in turn and compare yourselves with your competitors. It will help you to uncover your business’s strengths and weaknesses and enable you to go on and communicate your unique selling points (USPs) to your customers, i.e. why they should choose you over the competition.

5. TAKE NO NOTICE OF YOUR DATA Data is essential for good marketing planning.

Relying on your instinct or what you think you know about your market is not enough.

We all have questions about how we should move our businesses forward. The answers are in the data and advances in digital marketing means that it is more accessible than ever.

Google Analytics, your social media accounts and online tools such as Ahrefs and MOZ provide a plethora of data about your audience. This will uncover opportunities such as potential new markets for your product or service. It will also help to guide you in terms of where you spend your time and efforts promoting your business. n

Nivo Digital, based near Temple Meads in Bristol, helps business owners and marketers get results on search engines (SEO, PPC) and via social platforms as well as designing customerfocused websites. Find out how to get more customers and beat the competition, visit www.nivo.co.uk/thrive for a free marketing and website review or call 0117 251 0115.

Email: hello@nivo.co.uk *Forbes **Search Engine Land www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 75

It’s the city’s business

BRISTOLWORKS THIS ISSUE >>FUTURE LEAP ALAN BAILEY (78) >> TEMPLE ISLAND (81) >> BRISTOL AIRPORT (83)

Awards noms close 5 March

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© WHITE VILL A PHOTOGR APHY & FILM

ook lively! You can still win a prestigious Bristol Life Award – but you’ll need to get your nomination in before the cut-off date of arch. nd tickets look set to sell out once more. nyone can enter it s free via the wards website.

Winners gain marketing benefits, a magnificent trophy and the oy of being endorsed via ristol s biggest business ceremony.

Write your nomination, share your story and then you, your team and your business might be a finalist or even winner at the Bristol Life wards, says event director, teph odd. here are massive benefits in being associated with the wards but please don t leave it until too late.

Companies can enter as many of the categories as are relevant to them rts, ar, usiness ervices, af , harity, ivic, reative, ducation, vent, inancial, ood rink roducer, oodie ub, air eauty, ealth Wellbeing, omes nteriors, egal, eisure ourism, ew usiness, roperty, estaurant, etailer and echnology nnovation.

Just over two months remain until the Awards night on 23 April at loyd s mphitheatre. t has sold out in each of the last few years, with many on the waiting list. ickets are strictly first come, first served via the site. nly a limited number of silver sponsorships with a table of 1 now remain. inalists and sponsors will also be invited to a special reception event on 1 pril at eepers itchen ar. erfect for business networking before the big night!

For more: www.bristollifeawards.co.uk @BristolLifeAwds Stories & ideas to share?

KEY DAYS FOR THE DIARY: Now: Nominations open and tickets on sale 11 March: Finalists revealed 1 April: Finalists’ & Sponsors’ Reception 23 April: Bristol Life Awards, Lloyd’s Amphitheatre

This could be you (but only if you enter)

Get in touch with our business editor, the experienced business writer and event host Christian Annesley at christian.annesley@ mediaclash.co.uk

THE BRISTOLWORKS INTERVIEW

Green dream If 2019’s extreme weather events taught us one thing, it is that the climate emergency is here, and urgent. CHRISTIAN ANNESLEY met with Alan Bailey to investigate how his years as a champion of all things low carbon has led him to develop a sustainable coworking hub on the Gloucester Road – and with ambitions to take his Future Leap model well beyond Bristol 78 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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ow green are you? Sure, these days most of us recycle diligently and some are cutting back on eating meat and trying to y and drive less.

But where does more profound change come from when it comes to sustainability and to working in harmony with the planet? And just how do companies emerge that really move the dial on the environment and usher in gamechanging transformation?

One Bristol businessman who has been getting to the heart of this

question for more than a decade now is Alan Bailey. As the head of the Low Carbon South West network before it was mothballed, and with involvement on many organising committees and boards down the years, Bailey was for more than a decade a figurehead for the low carbon movement in the city and the wider region. ut now he has taken a different tack. It was, he tells me, time to move on from the cheerleading and network-building and to embrace doing something more tangible.

“All my years talking and learning and being a consultant and a voice for sustainability and low carbon hasn’t been time wasted,” he

BRISTOLWORKS

clarifies. t is ust that things move on and lots of low-carbon practices are mainstream now. elivery is where things are at, and can see a clear way to drive it.

This Art Deco building on Glo Road is getting a new lease of life from the Future Economy Group

A NEW HUB What s ailey doing is uture conomy roup was until uite recently a community interest company, providing a platform and network for more than green-minded corporations and smaller companies. ut he is now running it as a limited company and is ramping up aspects of the proposition with a 1.6m investment in a , s ft sustainable community coworking hub based on loucester oad, on the site of the old aplin store near the rches railway viaduct.

What s the idea behind it t s a multifaceted offer. he hub we are creating incorporates a co-working space for environmental start-ups, businesses and not-forprofits, an event space for hire, an exhibition and retail space showcasing green technologies and services, a highly sustainable catering service and a walk-in cafe. lus we can also offer consultancy and recruitment services to help companies grow more sustainably. he space is nearly ready to open its doors, being set for completion and first occupation in arch, while the cafe is already up and running. ailey is planning for a ribboncutting event sometime in pril. t is a big, versatile space, and we know there is great interest from companies of all shapes and si es, says ailey as he gives me the hardhat tour of what remains a busy building site for now. ot-desking for will be available, as well as some small o ce suites and meeting rooms. With the company having bought the freehold on the site,

is even building in the capability to add an extra oor later on by investing in the necessary support and foundations in this first phase. t s a uni ue business model and proposition, and it s developed out of the work going on in the city. emember, ristol was the s uropean reen apital in 1 and there is a marvellous ecosystem and spirit here. ailey emphasises, indeed, that loucester oad is a particular hotspot for green-minded entrepreneurship, with the site being at the intersection of t ndrews, ishopston, edland and ontpelier. t feels like we are at the heart of two communities the wider, environmentally focused city and the immediate community around us. here are vegan restaurants on our doorstep and even an environmental funeral services business immediately opposite.

“GLOUCESTER ROAD IS A PARTICULAR HOTSPOT FOR THE GREEN-MINDED ENTREPRENEURSHIP” WIDER AMBITION f ailey s enthusiasm for this ristol pro ect is palpable, he s also thinking bigger.

We have branded this hub as uture eap, which is one of three brands under the uture conomy roup. here s the uture conomy etwork community and the estival of ustainable usiness event offer that both sit alongside uture eap. he three complement each other, even if there is still some work for us to do to tidy up the relationship between

FUTURE LEAP – THE NUMBERS • £1.6m investment • 8,500 sq ft of space at the site on Gloucester Road • 200 individuals can use the hot-desking • 300 organisations are in the network already • Dozens of events will run every month • 12 other UK cities have been identified for similar hubs

the brands and their respective websites.

What ailey is emphasising is that the physical space and the knowledge networks and mutual support that will plug into it offers a model can be carried far beyond ristol. here are more than ten other locations in the where the same proposition would thrive, and it s an obvious next step once the doors are open in . ooking further out, uropean expansion is also a real prospect, reckons ailey. here is a -wide network in low carbon and sustainability, and it needs support. emember, sustainability is not really a sector as such but a cross-cutting theme and that creates some challenges around engagement and community that we are well able to overcome. pening hubs like this one, and developing the communities around those hubs, makes a great deal of sense, and the idea is to demonstrate it works commercially.

BRISTOLWORKS

The sustainable community co-working hub will open its doors in March

BRISTOL’S ‘CLIMATE EMERGENCY’ As Future Leap gets ready to open, it’s worth reminding ourselves about the bigger picture in the city

The Future Economy team keeping it green

THE MONEY QUESTION The question of funding for low carbon is an important point, in fact. There was a time, ten years ago, when there was more funding available for sustainability projects and the low carbon economy, but the years of austerity and cuts have taken a toll so that today’s projects often need to be viable without grants or subsidies.

“At the same time,” adds Bailey, “investors are very interested and there is more potential than ever to deliver economically sustainable technologies, as the hub here will demonstrate. Yes, public intervention is sometimes needed to prove a concept before it can y but longevity and profitability has to be the aim.”

To stand up this belief, the hub itself is Bailey’s exhibit A. The investment he has made in making the space as sustainable and carbonneutral as possible costs more up front in some respects compared with conventional building practices, but the difference isn t that marked.

“Yes, our investment in items like air-source heat pumps is a big capital investment, but it is the right thing to do and will repay over time. Next to this, there are plenty of immediate benefits that ow from the reuse and recycling of materials on site, and from buying eco-products like recycled ooring, that don t cost more and often actually deliver a saving.”

For more: www.thefutureeconomynetwork. co.uk

80 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A year ago Bristol City Council declared a “climate emergency”, with the council unanimously backing a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030 in an effort to avoid catastrophic climate breakdown.

The motion, which was put forward by Green party councillor Carla Denyer and passed in a council session, means the city has the most ambitious emissions targets of the UK’s core cities group – with radical policy implications in the coming years.

The move was triggered by a UN report last year which said the world has just 12 years left to avoid catastrophic climate breakdown.

Denyer said at the time: “This is a fantastic day for Bristol and I’m delighted the council will be bringing forward its target for making the city carbon neutral by 2030.

“We can’t wait for the UN or national governments to negotiate when we have just 12 years to act –

we have to show how it’s done and commit to ambitious action at the level of cities.”

The target is much more radical than the UK government’s national target of an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050 and comes amid growing concern about interlinked ecological crises, from climate breakdown to extinction.

Denyer said that the Bristol declaration would likely see a focus on renewable electricity, carbon neutral buildings, congestion charges and investment in clean transport infrastructure, with the council’s subsequent decision to clamp down on diesel vehicles in the city standing as one example.

It could also have far-reaching implications for big-ticket projects like the proposed expansion of Bristol airport, with the latest submission being turned down just this month.

The move has been inspired

by US cities such as Berkeley and Hoboken, and the global C40 cities which have all set ambitious emissions targets.

Jonathan Bartley, the co-leader of the Green party, said Bristol’s decision – which won cross-party support on the council – had set “a gold standard on climate action”.

“With the UN warning we have just 12 years to limit climate catastrophe this is the commonsense policymaking we need to face the future.”

BRISTOLWORKS

“THIS IS A FANTASTIC CHANCE TO BRING A REDUNDANT PIECE OF LAND BACK TO LIFE AND PROVIDE JOBS, HOMES AND AN ECONOMIC BOOST IN THE HEART OF THE CITY THAT ALL BRISTOL CITIZENS WILL BENEFIT FROM”

A projection of whatTemple Island could look like with a mixed development

Council unveils Temple Island redevelopment plans

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lans for the longdebated Temple Island site in the centre of the city have been published, with the council promoting a regeneration plan that creates 500 homes and an estimated 1,500 new jobs.

The site by Temple Meads had been earmarked for an arena project, but the YTL project at Brabazon near Filton, which includes a 17,000-seater arena, is now progressing instead.

Alongside an investment from Legal and General, £32m of public money will be invested to achieve

the plans, which also include o ce space to bring in annual rental revenue of £1.69m, and over £1m annually in business rates and council tax rates.

Bristol mayor Marvin Rees is strongly supportive and said the scheme is a win-win for Bristol citizens by tackling four problems in one.

“This is a fantastic chance to bring a redundant piece of land back to life and provide jobs, homes and an economic boost in the heart of the city that all Bristol citizens will benefit from. With these plans we can continue to develop a vibrant Temple Quarter, close to the city

centre, where homes, work and leisure combine to be a place that Bristol can be proud of.”

Rees said the council will work with Legal and General to deliver the scheme and offset any risk to the public purse.

“L&G bring with them investment, financial backing and a wealth of experience and have a track record of delivering similar schemes in ewcastle, eeds and ardiff which have reaped rewards for those cities.”

The Temple Island development proposal includes: • Up to 500 homes to rent and buy, with a target of affordable housing

• A conference centre • A 350-bed hotel with potential for a rooftop sky bar with views across the city igh-standard o ce space • New public spaces, shops and restaurants Temple Island sits alongside the Temple Quarter and St Philip’s regeneration areas.

While the current mayor is supportive, the former mayor George Ferguson responded to the new annoucement by arguing the project was too heavily weighted in favour of L&G, and the fact Legal & General has not had to compete with any other bidder was “outrageous”.

He said: “The city council is underwriting this deal. It’s underwritten to the extent that the purchaser is taking no risk – as far as I know – for decades at our expense.”

Proposals for an arena project next to emple eads were first mooted in 2003 but were beset by delays and rising costs and then dropped.

For more: news.bristol.gov.uk

BRISTOLWORKS

Airport’s expansion plan is turned down

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ristol Airport’s latest expansion plan, which it said would boost its passenger capacity by two million a year, has been rejected by North Somerset councillors.

Ten million people a year can travel from the airport and the airport put in a proposal to build a new car park and transport hub to boost that figure to 1 million.

Bristol Airport argued the expansion would stop millions of people from Bristol and the South West driving to London airports.

But North Somerset councillors said it would be harmful to the environment.

Passenger numbers at the airport are currently 8.9m a year, but it has a capacity of 1 m. he application had about , objections from members of the public and , messages of support. ouncillors voted 1 - , with one abstention, to re ect it.

Bristol Airport chief executive Dave Lees said the decision risked “putting the brakes”

NEWS IN BRIEF The Bristol Hoteliers Association, which represents 40 major hotels in the city, has named Raphael Herzog as its new permanent chair – a role he has been fulfilling in an acting capacity since July 2019. Herzog has been general manager of the De Vere Tortworth Court, in South Gloucestershire, for nearly two years. He has more than 25 years’ experience in the hotel industry, the last 18 of which have been in the UK. He said the main focus as chair is to “help raise the profile of the industry and work hard with all the general managers of hotels” within the BHA. In particular, Herzog wants to work with organisations like City of Bristol College and Springboard to showcase the industry to youngsters, to encourage them to consider a career in hospitality.

Bristol and London-based law firm Gregg Latchams has confirmed three new appointments.

Melissa Toney will head

At the helm of the the ss Great Britain

on the future growth of the region.

He said the airport’s leadership would re ect and consider whether to appeal or submit fresh plans.

North Somerset councillors rejected the plans in a meeting at Weston- uper- are. t the four-hour meeting, councillors spoke out against the plan which had been recommended for approval by planning o cers. ouncillor ohn ey- organ said ow can we achieve our ambition for carbon neutrality by if we approve this decision?”

Supporting the application, Unite representative ark utchison said the expansion would create thousands of jobs and bring a huge boost to the economy. ut iaran ronnelly said that while he supported economic growth, it should not be at “any cost”.

For more: www.bristolairport.co.uk

up the regulatory and licensing team based at the firm’s Queen Square office, while the firm has also strengthened its dispute resolution team with solicitor Holly Snook. Added to this, the commercial property department welcomes a new solicitor, Sammy Macdermid.

The commercial law firm TLT is growing its corporate team in Bristol again with the appointment of an investment specialist as a legal director. Dan Whitewood joins from Simmons & Simmons in Bristol and has experience of early-stage and fast-growth investments. TLT partner and UK head of corporate Andrew Webber said Whitewood’s appointment added “senior expertise” to the mid-market transactional team, and would give the firm strong private equity capability, too.

Bristol-based science and tech hub Future Space has appointed Laura Crocken Stevens as its new centre director. She is moving from a role as Future Space’s innovation director – a position she has held since she joined in

May 2019. Originally from the US, Crocken Stevens has 30 years’ experience as an international start-up specialist, commercial director, and SME strategy consultant. The innovation centre, which is managed

by Oxford Innovation (OI) on behalf of the University of the West of England (UWE), has just posted record results, contributing over £9m to the regional economy since opening its doors in 2016.

Professional services firm Smith & Williamson has unveiled the latest group of new faces in its Bristol office – bringing to 30 the number of new joiners over the past six months.

Approaching half of the new recruits, who range from graduates and trainees through to directors, are in the firm’s business tax and private client tax services teams. The recruitment drive follows a raft of senior appointments at Smith & Williamson in Bristol, including Zoe Thomas as head of business tax, Louise Thornhill as head of investment management and Nigel Hardy as head of assurance and business services.

APPOINTMENTS ss Great Britain expands leadership The senior management team at Brunel’s ss Great Britain has been beefed up substantially to drive the trust’s expansion plans. Patsy Conner has joined as director of creative services, Nerys Watts as director of external affairs and Tim Bryan as director of the Brunel Institute.

Connor joins from the BBC, where she was most recently director of BBC South West and head of development and events for the UK. On her radar from the start is the charitable trust’s campaign to mark the 50th anniversary of the ssGB’s extraordinary homecoming to Bristol from The Falklands in 2020.

Watts, in heading up external affairs, will develop opportunities for funding and partnerships, including for the Albion Dry Dock Project – an expansion of the heritage and visitor experience that will double the footprint and boost the region’s tourism offer significantly over the next five years.

She worked previously in senior roles at the National Heritage Lottery Fund.

Bryan, who joins from the British Motor Museum where he was head of collections, is stepping into a new position that will drive expansion of the ss Great Britain Trust’s education and research programmes and oversee the conservation of the nationally Designated Brunel collections.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 83

PROPERTY

ON THE WATERFRONT

Homes at the second phase of Wapping Wharf are selling like hot Pinkmans doughnuts; but there’s still time to become a part of Bristol’s most desirable waterside community

By Lissie Warren 84 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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ocation, location, location: so crucial a consideration for home-buyers that they repeated it twice. And as locations go, it’s very hard to improve on Wapping Wharf.

True, if your ideal lifestyle involves green fields and birdsong, with nothing more pulse-quickening on the horizon than the village am-dram’s spring production of ou a ifi , the Wharf may not be for you. That’s what Chew Magna’s for.

But if you’re a true Bristol urbanite, hellbent on maxing to the limit all that the most exciting city in the mild, mild West has to offer, it s hard to think of a more desirable place to lay your head. ou re never more than five minutes away from hed, rnolfini, Watershed and sundry other Harbourside delights. You’ll never have to buy tickets to gigs at Lloyd’s again; you just need to open the window.

Oh, and there’s the little matter of Cargo; you could

HOUSE NUMBERS Bedrooms

1-3

Open-plan living space Price Where

£255k-£499,950k Wapping Wharf

What else?

You’re basically buying into Bristol’s most desirable harbourside community sales@wappingwharfliving. co.uk 0117 363 7839 www.wappingwharfliving. co.uk

dine out every night for several weeks, without visiting the same brilliant indie restaurant or caf twice; ideal for those with a low-boredom threshold.

What s more, the actual apartments are among the best-looking new-builds in the city. oused in two blocks, bel ard and ope uay, with their five and six oors respectively, have been designed by architect lec rench, who also created the first phase of homes at Wapping Wharf. n keeping with the historic dockside location and the phase one design, the new phase has an industrial, wharf-like character. any apartments have balconies, either overlooking the street or the internal garden courtyard; inside, airy vaulted ceilings and terraces enhance many of the top- oor apartments. earby, the restored early 1 th-century, radeaol ate is set to become an impressive new public entrance to the Wharf. he aim of developers mberslade and use was

always to create a mixed community of people from different walks of life, and at different stages of their lives, so across the whole development, the homes are being made available with a range of tenures, including open-market sales and rent, shared ownership, affordable rent and social rent. n the current phase of construction, there are 6 homes in total 16 for open-market sale, shared ownership and for private rent. nd a note to the dilatory and or indecisive nearly one third of the new homes have already been sold, sub ect to contract, with of the 16 one, two and three-bedroom apartments being bought off-plan. f, like so many first-time buyers, you have a perfectly well-paid ob but are nonetheless struggling to get a foot on the pernicious property ladder, know this elp to uy has ust launched at Wapping Wharf iving on selected properties, with both first time buyers and existing homeowners able to benefit.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 85

Bristol & Clifton's premier Commercial Property Agents Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk

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BRISTOL LIVES

“I actually hate the feel of dry clay on my hands – ironic? ” crows. y style is much more clean and stylised now, but think you can still see the same kind of characters as there were in my degree show work. am still very proud of my peacocks I look at all sorts of areas for inspiration. love mid-century

HANNAH TURNER Her ever so slightly retro ceramics have made Hannah one of the most successful makers in Bristol; after all, nobody can resist a canine salt-and- pepper set, right?

Even if you don’t recognise the name (though you probably do), we bet you’ll recognise Hannah’s ceramic bestiary of perky, funny, cute (but never twee) birds and animals.

It all began with a sell-out art degree show at UWE; Hannah promptly took orders to make more of the designs sold in the show, found herself a local studio, and the business was born.

In 1992 I was awarded a grant to buy my first kiln. continued

creating sculptural creatures, mostly birds, sometimes fish; even wall-mounted moose heads Humour has always been evident in my work, and

probably helped me ride the storm of two recessions. gradually got my ceramics on display in

galleries and shops, and gained loyal collectors along the way.

I took a break in 1999 to have children, then started working

part-time. also decided to change the way worked, and started slip-casting; after much experimenting, oined forces with a small, family-run pottery in ri anka, and launched my first ranges of tableware in 11.

Using slipcasting and moulds

has enabled me to outsource production, so am now able to do the initial designs and prototypes here, but don t have to worry about making all the pieces and can focus much more on new product development.

My degree show was inspired by taxidermy, and among the

favourites were the little black

90 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ceramics for their surface pattern and form, especially idwinter. also look at textiles, and lots of different printmakers.

I’ve recently re-joined Spike Island printmakers, doing some

can, and also offset what we do by tree planting. We don t use plastics in our packaging, except for the odd bit of recycled bubble-wrap; all of our boxes are made from recycled card.

screenprinting, and working in that way helps me solve problems when doing new artwork to go on my ceramics.

Bristol is where I trained and started my business; it s a city that really nurtures creatives.

I have a Jack Russell called Betty who features on my new

I live on Dongola Road, Bishopston. work in a studio in

arklife dog-themed tableware and is also the inspiration for my new cruffy og salt and peppers.

My most exciting career moment was the day had an

order from iberty; nthropolgie ordering from me was another very proud moment, as was seeing my designs on s The Great Pottery Throwdown. was asked to supply a peacock coffee breakfast set; this was a challenge as they wanted a toast rack and coffee pot, neither of which we make. o our brilliant ri ankan pottery made some one-off samples for me, which decorated here and sent to the production company.

We are doing everything we can to make the business sustainable. We have stopped

ying, and are trying to limit our carbon produced as much as we

my back garden, so have an easy commute. his neighbourhood has everything need, to the extent that sometimes don t leave the area for days at a time.

My most regrettable habit?

ra y schemes; get very faddy and bore people to tears with my latest obsessions.

I listen to Radio 4, as prefer background voices to music at work, and get to learn things at the same time.

Immediately after answering these questions, ll be finishing

modelling a penguin egg cup. actually have clay on my hands that s now all over this keyboard. actually hate the feel of dried clay on my hands ironic

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