It’s incredible to see our city in full festive sparkle once again. Cardiff does Christmas so well; it’s such a privilege to have so many joyous events on our doorstep – from a huge outdoor market that’s been running for nearly 30 years, to a Winter Wonderland spreading its magic across two central locations, as well as Santa’s grottos galore, plus myriad shows, pantos, sing-alongs, choir services and an all-new Christmas Festival.
Find out more on the latter over on page 32 where we chat to ‘The Flying Man’ Joe Keeley, who is part of the eclectic ensemble at Castellana – a spectacle of cabaret, circus, burlesque and comedy. And turn to page 22 for our packed What’s On guide; yule be sorry if you miss that one.
And we’re not stopping there with the guides; we also bring you one that’s dedicated to gifts – for foodies, fashionistas, fun-lovers and more –all from local businesses, on page 11; and there’s one full of divine decorations on page 47 too.
Elsewhere, we have the Llandaff-born voice of an angel Charlotte Church talking about how all good things must come to an end with the finale tour of Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon (page 31). And there’s plenty more too – from arts, property and real lives, to education, new businesses and society.
Enjoy!
#CardiffTogether, always
Mae’n anhygoel gweld ein dinas yn llawn o fwrlwm yr ŵyl unwaith yn rhagor. Mae Caerdydd yn gwybod sut mae dathlu’r Nadolig; mae’n fraint fawr cael cymaint o ddigwyddiadau mor wych ar stepen ein drws – o farchnad awyr agored enfawr a gynhelir ers 30 mlynedd i Ŵyl y Gaeaf y mae ei hud yn ymestyn ar draws dau leoliad canolog, cynifer o grotos Siôn Corn, y llu o sioeau, pantomeimiau, cyfleoedd i gyd-ganu a gwasanaethau corawl, a’r Ŵyl Nadolig newydd sbon.
Gallwch gael gwybod mwy am yr ŵyl arbennig honno ar dudalen 32 lle’r ydym yn sgwrsio â Joe Keeley, y dyn sy’n hedfan ac sy’n aelod o griw eclectig Castellana – sioe sy’n cynnwys elfennau o gabaret, syrcas, bwrlésg a chomedi. A throwch i dudalen 22 i weld ein canllaw gorlawn i ddigwyddiadau; byddai’n drueni mawr pe baech yn colli’r cyfle i fwrw golwg arno.
Ac nid dyna’r unig ganllaw chwaith; mae gennym ganllaw pwrpasol ar gyfer anrhegion hefyd – i’r sawl sy’n dwlu ar fwyd, ar ffasiwn, ar gael hwyl, a llawer mwy – ac mae’r cyfan ar gael o fusnesau lleol, ar dudalen 11. At hynny, mae gennym ganllaw ar gyfer addurniadau bendigedig, ar dudalen 47.
Fel arall, mae Charlotte Church a anwyd yn Llandaf yn sôn am y ffaith bod yn rhaid i bopeth da ddod i ben ac yn sôn am daith olaf ‘Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon’ (ar dudalen 31). Ac mae digon o bethau eraill i’ch difyrru hefyd, o erthyglau am y celfyddydau ac am eiddo i rai am addysg a chymdeithas.
Mwynhewch!
#CaerdyddYnghyd, bob amser
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The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD) has launched a new annual Shakespeare Prize, judged by Sir Ian McKellen. This award celebrates actors’ technical ability with verse, and connection with character and situation.
Sir Ian McKellen recently spent two days with RWCMD’s second year acting students. The students performed a Shakespeare speech and a sonnet in front of the acclaimed actor, who then gave a masterclass to each of the five finalists – Nathan Kirby, Alyson Handley, Mya Pennicott, Saskia West and ames ilson – as part of their pri e. The final will take place in January at a London theatre.
“The Royal Welsh College has impressive premises close to Cardiff Castle in the city’s centre, surrounded by parkland, says Sir Ian. “Working diligently under Jonathan Munby’s inspiring direction, every student I met was aware of their good fortune. I am more than grateful for a chance to share our love of drama with the ne t generation of professional actors.
The RWCMD Shakespeare prize encourages the students to engage and work with language in a way that is natural, personal and truthful.
f you can speak hakespeare, you can tackle any te t, says director of drama performance Jonathan Munby. “Speaking Shakespeare’s verse is certainly challenging, but it makes you a better actor, more observant, dextrous, and ultimately more robust. t also teaches us the fundamental value of language. For more: www.rwcmd.ac.uk
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has launched its first ever sustainability strategy, ‘Cymru, well-being and the world’, outlining its vision for a global, local Cymru , using the power of football to improve the nation’s well-being.
With the men’s national team qualifying for their first orld Cup in years, chief executive Noel Mooney says the organisation will put sustainability at the heart of all its decisions and encourage the whole football ecosystem – and the rest of the nation – to follow its lead.
The strategy has been developed with the support of the Future Generations of Wales Commissioner, using the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act as its cornerstone.
n , ales became the first country in the world to enshrine a duty to protect future generations into law. This means that any policy decisions made today must consider the impact on the generations of tomorrow.
Now the country’s football association is taking on that pioneering spirit with the vision to become a leader in sustainability in the world of sports, showcasing the example football can play in a small nation to inspire others to follow their journey.
The report provides a clear plan of action for the FAW to develop sustainable and stronger clubs, leagues and initiatives across seven focus areas – team, health, structures, facilities, partnerships, decarbonisation and croeso (welcome).
Steps include everything from swap shop schemes for kit and equipment, creating a fund to install EV charging points at clubs and identifying locally sourced, plasticfree, food packaging.
The FAW is also urging fans to play their part in My Tree, Our Forest – the Welsh Government and Coed Cadw oodland Trust initiative, which offers every household in Cymru a tree, free of charge.
“While The Red Wall will be cheering us on at home and overseas, so many supporters never got the opportunity to share in this truly special moment, says Noel. That’s why we’re
asking fans to plant a tree for someone no longer with us through the My Tree, Our Forest initiative which will contribute to the National Forest for Wales. Those trees will help tackle the climate crisis and be around for many more orld Cups to come.
For more: www.faw.cymru
Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to this; beautifully wrapped gifts nestled under the most colourfully decorated Christmas tree in town.
From John Lewis & Partners, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com
Part two of our local gift guide has landed! Let’s hope you’re on the nice list…
CHRISTMAS PICKLE, £5.50
From Glory Stores, Upper Kincraig treet Cardiff r st res m
GIN LOVER HAMPER, FEATURING LONDON DRY-STYLE GIN, TWO GLASSES AND REUSABLE STRAWS, £24.99
Grounds For Good, Penarth; www. groundsforgood.co.uk
THE BOTTLED BAKING CO KITS, £10.90 EACH
LUMPS OF COAL CHOCOLATE HONEYCOMB, £8.50
From Let Them See Cake, i t ria ar Cardiff www.letthemseecake.com
BIALETTI VENUS INDUCTION STOVE-TOP COFFEE MAKER, £54
From John Lewis & art ers t a id s Cardiff www.johnlewis.com
SALT AND PEPPER POTS IN MARBLE AND GRANITE, £16
From Lisa Valentine Home, Penylan; www.lisavalentinehome.co.uk
DARK CHOCOLATE FESTIVE WREATH, £20
From Hotel Chocolate, t a id s Cardiff www.hotelchocolat.com
BARRY ISLAND SPIRITS MINIATURES GIFT BOX, £24.95
From Barry Island Spirits, High Street, Barry; arr is a ds irits
THE SWIFT APRON, £59 r m ird it he Cardiff ird it he thi u
FARMHOUSE PÂTÉ GIFT BOX, £21.95 r m a s M r a uarter Cardiff www.wallysdeli.co.uk
HANNAH TURNER FISH SPOONS, £36
r m C er s eu ah ad Cardiff www.hannahturner.co.uk
AFTERNOON TEA IN THE CASTLE EXPERIENCE, £30
From Hensol Castle Park, Vale of Glamorgan; www.hensolcastle.com
HENSOL CASTLE GINS, FROM £30
From Hensol Castle Distillery, Hensol; www.hensolcastledistillery.com
LAN Y MÔR PREMIXED COCKTAIL CREATED BY MATTHEW ‘WELLY’ JONES OF LAB 22 IN CARDIFF, £28
From Silver Circle Distillery; www. silvercircledistillery.com
EROSION BROOCH, £295
From Anne Morgan Jewellery, Glebe Street, Penarth; www. annemorganjewellery.com
I AM ME
RANGE: ORGANIC COTTON SCRUNCHIE, £9, AND EYE PILLOW, £17
From Eliza Eliza, Pentyrch; www.elizaelizauk.com
DUBARRY GALWAY WATERPROOF BOOTS, £379 r m Ia M r a r ade Cardiff www.jonian.shop
ACRYLIC HOUSE PLANT NECKLACE, £32
From In Rainbows, Barry; www.inrainbows.co.uk
QUILTED TOTE BAG, £40
From Annie and Lolo, Goodsheds Barry, and Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna; www.annieandlolo.com
FLORAL EARRINGS, £35
From Matico Studio, Whitchurch; www.maticostudio.etsy.com
VEGAN BLACK LIGHTNING GLOVES, £49
From Kiti, Pontcanna treet Cardiff www.kiticymru.com
KESTIN NEIST WOOL OVERSHIRT, £165; USKEES SWEATSHIRT, £65; RED WING CHUKKA WEEKENDER, £229; AND EDWIN RED LISTED SELVEDGE JEANS, £170 r m it t re M r a r ade Cardiff www.unit17store.com
LONGLINE PADDED COAT WITH SHERPA LINING, £695
From Perverse Demand, Penarth; www.perversedemand.co.uk
GOLD PEARL THROUGH THREAD EARRINGS, £99
From Emma-Kate Jewellery, he ai a arde s Cardiff www.emmakatefrancis.com
METALLIC PUFFA, £125, AND SCARF £32
From Oliver Bonas, St David’s Cardiff oliverbonas.com
LONGINES LA GRAND CLASSIQUE UNISEX WATCH, £1,300
From Laings, St a id s Cardiff www.laingsuk.com
TARTAN CLUTCH BAG, £410
From Vivienne Westwood, The Hayes, St a id s Cardiff i ie e est d m
PEARL WATERFALL EARRINGS, £55
From Kate Dumbleton Jewellery, Penarth; www. katedumbleton.com
CARDIFF COASTERS, FEATURING THE LIKES OF ROATH PARK LAKE AND CITY HALL, £8.99 FOR A SET OF FOUR r m I L es the iff Cardiff i esthediff m
READ MORE MUG, £8.99 r m L er ifts Ca t Cardiff er ifts m
TI A FI FRAMED ARTWORK, £35 r m a dhead esi s mi Cres e t t a a a dheaddesi s m
VEGAN WOOD WICK SOY WAX CANDLES, £18.49 EACH r m arma a Caer hi arma e a m
101 USES FOR A TRADITIONAL WELSH HAT BOOK, £5.99 r m L frau r a s hit hur h Cardiff r a mru
FAUX TAXIDERMY CALF, £595 r m r e are Cardiff r e hare u
HEXAGON LAMPSHADE, FROM £65 r m Mati tudi hit hur h mati studi ets m
CHANEL CAPSULES NO.5 ARTWORK, BY EMMA GIBBONS, £345 r m dam a er M r a r ade adam a er u
MIRRORED TRAY, £39.50 r m M uee treet t a id s Cardiff mar sa ds e er m
CHARLES FARRIS WINTER’S TALE PILLAR CANDLE, £24.99 r m est am t e La e C rid e estham t u
SMART GARDEN GONKERT CUSHION, £14.99 r m Lee es e rt ad Cardiff ee es u
TWIG HEART DÉCOR, £45 r m the a I teri rs C m ra athe ai teri rs u
PRINCIPALITY STADIUM ARTWORK, £3 – £125 r m ia Che s i e rt M r a r ade Cardiff ia he s eart ets m
QUENTIN ALPHABET INITIAL MUGS, FROM £12.50 r m i er as t a id s Cardiff i er as m
SPORTS WASH (SEBON SYDYN), £16.50 r m he d ash Company, Goodsheds, arr goodwash.co.uk
CHRISTMAS SNOW COLOGNE INTENSE COLLECTION, £105
From Jo Malone, t a id s Cardiff www.jomalone.co.uk
PEACHY BODY CRACKER, FEATURING BODY BUTTER, SCRUB AND SHOWER GEL, £20 r m Ma s eaut t a id s Cardiff www.mallowsbeauty.co.uk
FEET TREATS FOR HIM GIFT SET, £20 r m hite tuff he a es Cardiff hitestuff m
BALA BANGLES WRIST AND ANKLE WEIGHTS, £49.95
From John Lewis & Partners, St a id s Cardiff www.johnlewis.com
HAPPY HANDS BUNDLE, FEATURING HAND SALVE AND BARRIER CREAM, £9.99 r m a i e L a daff www.thehappyhive.co.uk
NATURAL SMALL-BATCH PERFUME, FROM £20 A BOTTLE, OR A TWO-HOUR CONSULTATION TO MAKE YOUR OWN BLEND IS £80 r m he erfume hed mi Cres e t Cardiff the erfumeshed u
GREAT BALLS OF FIZZ BATH BOMBS, £20 r m Miss atisserie Cardiff www.miss-patisserie.com
REUSABLE MENSTRUAL PADS, FROM £6.47 r m a itha e t ridd www.tabithaeve.co.uk
COSMIC WONDERS PAMPERING GIFT SET, FEATURING COSY SOCKS, A CANDLE, A SCRUNCHIE AND A MUG, £25 r m a er hase t a id s Cardiff www.paperchase.com
AUTHENTIC BEAUTY CONCEPT GIFT BOX, FEATURING SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER AND CLAW CLIP, £45.88 r m Create a t a a www.createsalon.co.uk
SPA EXPERIENCE DAY, FROM £90
From Vale Spa, e s a e f am r a www.valeresort.com
A FOR CARDIFF GIFT CARD, ACCEPTED AT BIG NAMES
LIKE JOHN LEWIS AND M&S AND INDEPENDENT FAVOURITES
LIKE BAR 44, HOBO’S VINTAGE AND WALLY’S DELI IN CARDIFF CITY CENTRE, £10 – £500 r m ardiff ift ard m
TINTED MOISTURISER, £23, AND CONCEALER, £20, FOR MEN r m f r Me C m ra u f rme m
CASTELL VEST, £62, AND CASTELL BONNET, £38 r m Ma i Cardiff www.mabli.co.uk
PHOTO BY LEONIE FREEMAN
WOODEN CITY BUS, £24.99 r m i erside Cardiff www.ecotoyco.com
TENDER LEAF TOYS KITCHENETTE, £49.95
From The Honeycomb Toys and Books, ra et Cardiff www.thehoneycombtoys.com
BUNNY EARMUFFS, £10
HANNAH TURNER TIGER MONEY BOX, £38.50 r m C er s eu ah ad Cardiff www.hannahturner.co.uk
NOAH’S ARK PLAY SET, £74.99
From Eco Toy, i erside Cardiff www.ecotoyco.com
PINK QUILTED POM POM BAG GIFT SET, £35
From River Island, St David’s Cardiff ri eris a d m
FLUFFY NOTEBOOK DUO, £14 r m a er hase t a id s Cardiff www.paperchase.com
From Accessorize, St David’s Cardiff a ess ri e m
WELSH TEACHING CLOCK, £26
From Mwnci, L a daff rth www.mwnci.co
BIG BEAR PYJAMAS, £16.99
r m ree e i e Cardiff www.greeneandolive.co.uk
BI-PO! PRINT, £10 r m h s Cardiff a ai a e i h Le is www.shnwcs.etsy.com
FOX PLUSH TOY, £38
From Victoria Fearn a er e eri www.victoriafearngallery.wales
WELSH WONDERS BOOKS, A PICTURE-BOOK SERIES OF HEROES FROM WALES, £5.99
r m L frau r a s hit hur h Cardiff www.broga.cymru
MAGNETIC PICASSO TILES, 46.99
From Little People Store, hi i a Cardiff www.littlepeoplestore.co.uk
ASTRONAUT BED SET, £20 r m M uee treet t a id s Cardiff www.marksandspencer.com
www.mediaclash.co.uk
When Pontcanna-based artist Rich Appleby – AKA Baldhead Designs –made a collection of retro toy-themed centrepieces for his wedding, he had no idea he would soon be creating too many to count, such was the demand.
“The wedding table centres were themed on mine and my husband Andy’s childhood favourites,” says Rich. “We’ve got the dioramas all over the house. So many people loved them, so I made more.
“Inside the domes and boxes, I placed objects such as beans tins, coke cans, cassette tapes and original retro toys. I then constructed scenes around these objects using ‘tiny people’, some of which had to be painted by hand to complete the set-ups that I had in my head.
’ve always been obsessed with miniatures; when finished making them they take so long to complete it felt like ’d finally emptied my head. t’s great to have space in the shop to display these items.”
See Rich’s artwork at Baldhead Designs X Annie & Lolo pop-up shop on 7 Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna, running until Christmas Eve; www.baldheaddesigns.com
Tr m 2 e em er onwards
On now, until 24 December
THE FESTIVE QUARTER
Cardiff’s avarian themed estive uarter has been a popular fi ture for many a year, an atmospheric haven amidst the traditional hustle and bustle. The cosy cabins offer a welcome respite on those chilly evenings. r i treet Cardiff isit ardiff m
On now, until 1 January
CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK ales’s largest ever festive lights trail is back for its second year; the . km trail is set to shine even brighter as it hosts e citing new displays. estive food and drink will be available along the way too. ute ar Cardiff hristmasat ute ar m
On now, until 8 January
CARDIFF’S WINTER WONDERLAND
pread across two city centre locations, get your skates on in the pictures ue grounds of Cardiff Castle, where you will find the undercover ice rink and ce alk against the backdrop of the mighty Norman eep. nd over at City all Lawn, enter sub- ero temperatures in the ce ar –
actually made entirely out of ice –cosy up with some festive treats in the lpine village and ski-lodge themed bar, ur la Piste, or have some fun on the funfair’s giant wheel, which offers incredible views of the city. Cardiff Cast e / Cit a La ardiffs i ter der a d m
On now, until 8 January
GINGERBREAD TRAIL
Cardiff ay will be transformed into a olly gingerbread amboree with giant sculptures of the festive treat appearing at everyone’s favourite hotspots across the ay. Cardiff a isit ardiff a i f
fter being attended by , people last year, this year’s estival of Light will be held over days and will feature ma estic mirror balls, a neon ribbon and animal trail, a light show and an enchanted fairy garden. Ce tra ar arr isitthe a e m
THE SANTA DASH undreds of walkers and runners will don their best anta, elf, turkey and Christmas tree fancy dress to take part in the annual charity fun run. a d ah ass Cardiff a sa tadash a es
THE CHRISTMAS SHIVER Grab a dose of outdoor Christmas cheer with a winter activity family day. oin in the wild sea dip, warm up by the marshmallow firepits and take part in the beach bushcraft workshops to create coastal gifts. L a t it Ma r ea h isitthe a e m
26 December
BOXING DAY SWIM oin the Dawnstalkers ea wim Club for a free-for-all sunrise dip around . am at Penarth Pier. e arth da sta ers m
On now, until 4 December THE SNOW QUEEN: THE MOST DAZZLING PANTO IN THE LAND ritten especially for Penarth peratic Dramatic ociety P D this pantomime is the biggest in P D almost- -year history. he a et ms e arth ds e arth r
On now, until 1 January CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN THE SPIEGELTENT
brand-new addition to Cardiff’s festive calendar, this festival will take place inside a uni ue piegeltent – a hand-hewn pavilion built from wood, cut mirrors, canvas and glass, detailed in velvet brocade.
The -seat venue will offer three shows The Nutcracker, a Christmas ballet with a elsh twist; a magical new musical, Santa’s Wish; and Caste a a, a blend of cabaret, burles ue, and comedy. or more, see page . Cardiff Cast e r u ds the ast e a es
The annual Christmas fundraiser like no other is back a glamorous drag show in a church t dre s ited ef rmed Chur h e e d ad Cardiff I sta ram dra edt hur h
E pect an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery. an ‘ ’ atkins from teps will lead the cast and will be oined by rugby legend Gareth Thomas and panto Dame e traordinaire Mike Doyle. e heatre ar a e e theatre ardiff u
An evening of music, readings and more, featuring the likes of the Fashion Weak, Miki Berenyi and Getdown Service. Clwb Ifor Bach, Womanby Street; www.clwb.net
CHRISTMAS
Experience the critically acclaimed Varna International Ballet and Orchestra, renowned for their award-winning soloists and magnificent corps de ballet. The company will mark their UK debut season in Cardiff with three shows: The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and Coppélia St David’s Hall, The Hayes; stda idsha ardiff u
Kinetic School of Performing Arts return for the annual pantomime. Join Peter Pan and his friends (and enemies for a swashbuckling family adventure. RWCMD, Cathays Park; www.rwcmd.ac.uk
The ollywood blockbuster movie has been supersi ed into a live show. Get ready for anta’s flying sleigh and an indoor snowstorm. For more, see page 28.
Cardiff I ter ati a re a it e tre ardi ter ati a are a u
Taking place in Caerphilly, strad Mynach, Blackwood, and Bargoed, the markets will offer food and craft stalls, children’s funfair rides and street theatre entertainment. Caerphilly County Borough; www.visitcaerphilly.com
CARDIFF
Cardiff’s well-established Christmas Market has been organised by Craft olk for almost years; you can find their seasonal wooden stalls clustered around the ayes and its adjoining streets.
he a es Cardiff ardiff hristmasmar et m
BARRY
This Christmas Market will coincide with the Festival of Light, for the ultimate festive feel. Kings Square, Barry; www.visitthevale.com
CHRISTMAS FAYRE
ith over stalls spread across the grand ground-floor castle rooms, t Donats rts Centre and e terior gardens, this family-friendly, annual event showcases a creative mix of handmade designer crafts and street food e hibitors. St Donat’s Castle, Vale of Glamorgan; www.visitthevale.com
DEPOT
A market day featuring live music, an arts and crafts corner for kids, street food and Crimbo vibes all day. ff Curra m a me t de t ardiff m
A colourful indoor market full of local artists, designers and makers. Cha ter rts Ca t ha ter r
More than farmers and small producers sell food and drink across three regular markets every week: hiwbina armers Market on Fridays, Roath Farmers Market on Saturdays, and Riverside Farmers Market on Sundays. r ss Cardiff www.riversidemarket.org.uk
THE SIXTEEN AT CHRISTMAS
One of the world’s most renowned choral ensembles contrast muchloved modern classics with Renaissance sounds. St David’s Hall, he a es stda idsha ardiff u
CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS
Don your cosy jumpers and sing along to your festive favourites at this family concert. St David’s Hall, he a es stda idsha ardiff u
SLADE: TOGETHER
AT CHRISTMAS t’s Christmaaas lade is bringing the ultimate Christmas party to Tramshed with a live set of hits
including, of course, Merry Xmas Everybody Tramshed, Clare Road; tramshed ardiff m
See the Wales-based male voice ensemble who rose to stardom after winning Last Choir Standing t dre s C Cardiff www.onlymenaloud.com
See Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, along with special guest vocalists Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall. Cardiff I ter ati a re a it e tre ardi ter ati a are a u
Get ready for a rowdy and rollicking mix of cheer and tunes on The Wurzels annual Christmas Tour. The Globe, Albany Road; e ardiffmusi m
Cardiff ratory’s Choral Clerks Scholars, accompanied by national soloists from around the country, will execute the only performance of its kind in Wales. Oratory of St Philip Neri, Cardiff ardiff rat r u
On now, until 24 December
BELIEVE AT ST DAVID’S Believe, the enchanted Christmas grotto experience, invites guests into a mystical cavern to meet McJingles the elf and Norbert the reindeer before entering anta’s grotto. L er ra d r ade t a id s Cardiff stda ids ardiff m
On now, until 24 December
This experience combines the creation of coins with the making of toys, as you take a tour with an extra sprinkling of festive spirit. Discover the elves’ different stations as well as meeting Santa himself. The Royal Mint, Pontyclun; www.royalmint.com
On now, until 24 December
SANTA AT ST ANDREW’S
Visit Mr.C every Saturday in the lead up to the big day. t dre s C e e d ad Cardiff sta dre sur ardiff u
QUEEN
See the big man in red at his warm, cosy hut among all the magic happening in the city centre. uee treet Cardiff a e a ta Cardiff
A cheeky elf will put on a show before Father C makes an appearance. You can also meet the alpacas, roast marshmallows and do a spot of late-night Christmas shopping. Forage Farm Shop, Penllyn Estate, Cowbridge; f ra efarmsh u
or the first time in Principality tadium’s history, anta will be taking over the Wales team Home Changing Room – a place where heroes gather – for the month of December. As well as meeting Mr.Claus, rugby-loving mums and dads will get to explore the sacred halls before stepping into the magical winter wonderland and beating heart of the home of Welsh Rugby. ri i a it tadium Cardiff www.principalitystadium.wales
Sit down to a Christmas meal with the big man himself. The Coal ha e te M u t tuart uare Cardiff a e ha e ardiff u
See Santa in his grotto and then indulge in the food festival and browse the craft stalls.
Cit a Cardiff ardiff it ha m
As well as meeting the jolly fella, kids can take part in an interactive storytime session with him and get creative in a craft workshop. St Fagans National Museum of ist r Cardiff museum a es
SANTA SUNDAY LUNCH EXPERIENCE
Combine the magic of a festive family lunch with children’s games, disco and a visit from Mr.Claus. t a id s te a a ah treet Cardiff stda ids h te s m
Take the kids for an unforgettable experience on Christmas Eve morning where they’ll en oy a festive breakfast and a meet and greet with Father Christmas. uture I s Cardiff a futurei s u
Les Mis is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals. torm the barricades for a ticket! For more, see page 66. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff a m r u
Considered one of the most influential ritish comedians since Charlie Chaplin, Ricky Gervais is coming for us. Cardiff I ter ati a Arena, city centre; ardi ter ati a are a u
THE LION, THE B!TCH AND THE WARDROBE tep into another world filled with flirty fauns, wicked wolves, a couple of beavers and the “baddest b!tch” of them all, Polly morous. a es Mi e ium Ce tre Cardiff a m r u
A riotous collision of drum & bass, hip-hop, ska, dub and punk. The Globe, a ad e ardiffmusi m
The last ever tour has been announced. For more, see page 31. ff Curra m a me t de t ardiff m
On now, until 17 December AUGUSTUS JOHN DRAWINGS & ETCHINGS
ugustus ohn – was considered the most famous ritish artist of his day. This e hibition is a rare opportunity to see and purchase such a large collection of his works. Marti i e a er t dre s Cres e t art a es m
On now, until 18 December
CARL BEVAN ART POP-UP t this pop-up, find original paintings, prints and Carl’s popular artwork calendars. i s ad ard t a a ar e a art m
On now, until 7 January WINTER SHOW
changing e hibition of new work from more than artists both established and emerging. he a a er a ad a a a er m
7 December
FESTIVE WREATHMAKING
Create your own uni ue wreaths with Toni orne of Lily Pad lorist. e arth a i i isitthe a e m
10 December –
16 April 2023
BBC 100 IN WALES
E plore a century of the C in ales, featuring star items from programmes such as t r h and her ati a Museum Cardiff Catha s ar museum a es
On now, until 23 December
BOTTOMLESS RACLETTE
Eat as much melted cheese as possible within minutes, offered with a selection of sides and wines. ei h urh d it he ud r treet Cardiff ei h urh d it he u
18 December
ROATH CHRISTMAS BAKE OFF
Celebrating years since the first ake ff event. t dre s C e e d ad Cardiff sta dre sur ardiff u
BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH
Themed brunch days – from eyonc to Mamma Mia – featuring show-stopping shenanigans. i ht se hi e Car i e treet t i ht se hi e u
On now, until 31 December
TALES OF THE BROTHERS GRIMM nspired by the famous fairy tales, annah McPake reimagines the world of the rothers Grimm. herma heatre Catha s sherma theatre u
3 December –23 December
Pop in during December for the museum’s festive feel-good family trail. ati a Museum Cardiff Catha s ar museum a es
BIGMOOSE’S SUPERTRI ack for the fifth time is uperTri, a triathlon for children with disabilities and additional learning needs. No competition, ust a day to create memories. Cardiff Metr ita i ersit C ed Cam us i m se ffee m a
NINJA WARRIOR CARDIFF ids from age five can tackle this obstacle adventure park inspired by the T show i a arri r ad e d ad Cardiff i a arri ru u
The science centre offers interactive e periences that have been en oyed by over five million people of all ages since its inception in Cardiff in . e h i uest tuart treet Cardiff te h i uest r
The world’s first Cosy Cinema Pod Park has landed in Cardiff. ou’ll find private pods – big enough for small groups – where you can stream media of your choice from Netfli originals, to bo sets, to movies, or even live sport or video games on -inch screens. ou can even stay overnight. Cara a ar ie ds ar s ad t a a sse u
Get your skates on and take to the ice with the whole family. I e re a a es m ia ri e i eare a a es m
27 January 2023
THE GREATEST TRY
host of sporting legends – including ir Gareth Edwards C E, illie ohn Mc ride C E, and P illiams M E – will gather years to the day since the famous match in Cardiff between the arbarians and the ll lacks. The event will include a threecourse lunch and live entertainment. ICC Ce ti Ma r es rt C dra ds e rt the reatesttr m
The Lumineers are being brought to Cardiff by DEP T Live, the live-events arm of The DEP T – one of Cardiff’s most successful events venues. Cardiff Cast e r u ds de t ardiff m
DISNEY ON ICE: DISCOVER THE MAGIC oin Mickey Mouse and his friends –from riel and Moana to elle and Elsa – for world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and une pected stunts. Cardiff I ter ati a re a it e tre ardi ter ati a are a u
OUR OWN VERY SPECIAL EVENT
Nominations are now open for our very own city-wide awards ceremony! We can’t wait to welcome 500 local business people to celebrate the greatest successes of the year with us. For more, see page 65. City Hall; www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk
If
To
We catch up with father-and-son duo Jon and Jordan Conway, producers of Elf: A Christmas Arena Spectacular – part of the World’s Biggest Pantomime brand – ahead of the show touring to Cardiff
The Hollywood blockbuster movie, Elf, starring Will Ferrell, has been supersized into a live arena spectacular with film backdrops on a huge LED screen plus a mobile stage that travels the auditorium, so everyone gets a close-up view of the action. Get ready for anta’s flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, an indoor snowstorm and aerial cir ue stars at Cardiff nternational rena this December.
Here we chat with the show’s producers: Jon Conway – known as the reinventor of traditional panto – and his son Jordan, who, even from the age of seven has been giving his dad big ideas, and is one of Elf: The Christmas Arena Spectacular’s stars.
My dad would have loved the idea of what ’m doing now, says on Conway, actor, writer, theatre producer, and the mastermind behind The World’s Biggest Pantomime company, producers of Elf: The Christmas Arena Spectacular, coming to Cardiff this month.
The word ‘arena’ should tell you all you need to know about the scale
of Jon’s ambitions for his shows.
He recalls, “My dad was general manager of Bertram Mills and Billy Smart’s Circus before becoming director of tourism in Scarborough and Bridlington during the sixties and seventies, so as a child I would go to see all these shows.
“I saw everything from comedy plays to variety shows, and all the big names of the time, people like Frankie Howerd, would come up to do what they called Sunday Concerts. I actually met Frankie when I was 10 years old and, astonishingly, co-starred with him 14 years later in one of the very first pantomimes I ever did.”
Jon’s transition from actor to producer came after a serendipitous meeting with a then littleknown magician called Paul Daniels.
“I was very lucky to meet him the year before he became famous,” says Jon. “At the time, I was in a comedy magic act, but when I saw Jasper Carrott on stage, I suddenly realised my kind of act was over because here was this incredible guy doing two hours of ‘different’ material with no support act, no dancers, just him on his own.
figured if wanted to have a career as a performer, I was going to have to produce the shows myself, and was very lucky to meet Nick Thomas, who had won New Faces, and he agreed with me. We started putting on shows, with me as a performer while he looked after the business, and that took off to such an extent, I realised I could have three careers: as a writer, director and producer.”
Jon and Nick went on to form Qdos Pantomimes, producing dozens of the biggest pantos across the UK every year. Along the way, they reinvented the traditional pantomime – Nick looking after the bookings while Jon took the creative reins evolving the format into the festive, star-studded extravaganza we know today.
Watching from the wings as a child was Jordan, Jon’s son. Not that it was a career choice he was encouraged into, at first anyway.
“It was a bit weird,” says Jordan, “because my dad never actually pushed me to go into the business, he always wanted me to get an education, so I’ve kind of had to work my way up – he even used to make me audition; parts were never a given.
eeing between five and pantos a year as a child, ordan was becoming a fledgling director and producer without even realising it.
“There’s quite a good story about one of dad’s first big musicals, Boogie Nights. When I was about 10, he asked me to make notes about a performance I was about to watch. Then, at the end of the show he went through them, didn’t change a single one, and then made me read them out to the cast.”
It wasn’t just Jordan’s attention to detail
then he makes it better.”
Elf: The Christmas Arena Spectacular finds the pair working together more closely than ever – with Jordan starring in the show alongside the West End’s Steven Serlin, who steps into the big floppy shoes of ill errell to play Buddy the Elf – but then it is the ‘biggest panto in the world’ after all.
“We call it the world’s biggest panto for three reasons: it performs to the biggest audiences on the biggest stages with the biggest cast,” says Jon. “I wasn’t unhappy leaving Qdos after 25 years as I felt I had taken the theatre-based pantomime format as far as I could. I wanted it to be in an arena where it could become an event. So now we don’t do 60 shows in each city, we do two or three and the audience turns up, sees it on this big scale and realises that it is special.
that Jon had noticed. He chips in to reveal that many of the big ideas he introduced to his pantomimes came from his young son too.
“The strength of our working relationship now goes back to when Jordan was a kid,” says Jon. “He came to me one year and said, ‘Well, why can’t Spider-Man be in a pantomime?’ So I booked the rights to Spider-Man and put him in a pantomime.
Then he said, ‘Why can’t you have 3D in a pantomime ’ nd pioneered all that D stuff on stage. He asked, ‘Why can’t Peter Pan have a real ship and sail through the theatre?’ And that’s exactly what we did.
“With Qdos, we had 25 pantomimes and our stars never knew that some of the things in their shows were the result of a seven-year-old boy saying, ‘Hey dad, why don’t you do it like this?’ And we did.
“All the things he demanded as a kid were a great litmus test for me because that was what a family audience wanted, and now, in our shows, he has the ability to co-direct and cast. Normally I write the script, give it to him and
“The best shows are always the funniest, but it’s still about actors on a stage communicating the story. In Elf, we haven’t changed the written script that much, but there are a hundred extra laughs. That’s because of the way Jordan and I worked the physical comedy business into the performance.”
Jordan, it seems has developed a reputation for being a ‘dangerous’ performer, and is responsible for all those extra laughs.
“The rest of the cast never know what to expect from him,” says Jon. “ He might do a different piece of business or come on from a different side. The audience senses that danger and that what they are watching is special and just for them. That is what makes Elf such an event.”
Jordan adds, “Because I grew up watching so many comedy greats, I have a feel for what will work, so I never plan anything. Basically, my thing is, if I can make the people on stage laugh, then the people in the audience are going to laugh too. It’s as simple as that.” n
See Elf: A Christmas Arena Spectacular at Cardiff International Arena on 27 and 28 December; www.worldsbiggestpanto.com
“They reinvented the traditional pantomime into the festive, star- studded extravaganza we know today”Father and son, Jon and Jordan; BELOW: This year, Buddy the Elf will be played by the West End’s Steven Serlin
Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon has announced its final tour
From the Rabbit Hole at Glastonbury to secret pop-up sets at Latitude and The Mighty Hoopla, Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon (CCLNPD) –a group fronted by Charlotte Church and backed by a nine-piece post-punk-disco-R’n’B band – has become the stuff of festival legend. They’ve just announced a run of festive dates, which will be – deep breath –their final ever tour.
CCLNPD is a genre-fluid jukebox of anthems spanning from En Vogue to Bowie and Kate Bush to Nine Inch Nails, often rubbing shoulders in the same mashed-up medley.
“After six ecstatic years of unparalleled debauchery, the Late Night Pop Dungeon is hanging up its feathers, se uins, P. .C and velour, says Cardiff-born voice of an angel Charlotte. “All good things must come to an end, and this ending will be the most euphoric one conceivable. Think Carrie meets Sunset Boulevard, soundtracked by the 2nd side of Abbey Road. Think a pool party with Prince and Kate Bush at the grill, Beyoncé and Kurt Cobain on the bar… except it’s also Christmas, and both Santa and Kevin McAllister are here to get down. Look, there’s Trent Reznor and Ozzy Osbourne discussing Taylor Swift’s new record...” n
See Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon at Cardiff 2 e em er www.charlottechurch.co.uk | de t ardiff m
“The Late Night Pop Dungeon is hanging up its feathers, sequins, P.V.C and velour”Charlotte Church © PHOTO BY GEM HARRIS
Hi Joe! You’re known as The Flying Man into theatre training and, while studying
“It’s a wonderful ati mmu it ed ith i d et e treme dis i i ed fThe Flying Man
Are you looking forward to Castellana in Cardiff?
I cannot wait to perform in this brand-new show in Cardiff The venue – which is a spiegeltent in the Castle grounds – is beautiful and ’m very e cited to show our audiences what we’ve prepared for them. t’s going to be a great night out with music, laughter and mischief with great storytelling and a cast of incredible international performers. can’t say too much about the story, as that would ruin the surprise, but ’ve been working on a brand-new act especially for this show, one that’ll hopefully get everyone on their feet dancing along with me.
Have you had any accidents live on stage? aving done this for many years, it’s only natural that ’ve occasionally made a mistake here and there; the most dramatic was when fell from a handstand at a couple of metres in the air, landing on a small staircase, which tumbled down, all while wearing a pair of si -inch stilettos and a sparkly leotard. That’s showbi , guess
What will you be doing with your time off stage in Cardiff?
plan on spending my time seeking out the best restaurants that the city has to offer. ’m feeling particularly festive this year, so wrapping up and heading out in the evening to get my mas fi is high on the agenda. n
This brand-new festival will be staged inside a 570-seat spiegeltent – a handhewn pavilion built from wood, cut mirrors, canvas, leaded glass, and detailed in velvet brocade – in the grounds of Cardiff Castle. It will present two upcoming shows:
A spectacle of cabaret, circus, burlesque and comedy with anthemic music, a storyline set in a magical mystical Welsh world, a hint of naughtiness, and worldclass performers – from fiery angels and dazzling demons to magicians, shapeshifters and high-flyers. For ages 16 and over.
2 December – 1 January 2023
A magical, heart-warming musical adventure enriched with original songs, immersive storytelling and a sprinkling of circus magic guaranteed to leave the whole family bursting with festive joy and happiness. Suitable for ages three plus.
2 – 31 December www.thecastle.wales
Although many pregnancies are unplanned, there is an opportunity prior to getting pregnant for women to optimise their health and the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Consider issues such as stopping smoking and alcohol consumption, adopting a healthy diet and managing your weight, taking folic acid, checking your blood pressure and talking to your GP about any health issues like diabetes, epilepsy etc.
Currently in the UK all pregnant women are offered an ultrasound scan and a hormone blood test (Combined Test) around 11-13 weeks of pregnancy to screen for Down Syndrome, Edward Syndrome and Patau Syndrome. These are genetic conditions due to an extra copy of a chromosome e.g. chromosome 21 in Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21). These conditions are associated with learning difficulties, heart and structural developmental problems, miscarriage and stillbirth. They are also more likely to occur in babies born to older pregnant women.
Those with an increased risk are then offered a blood test called NIPT which can analyse DNA from the pregnancy which is circulating in the mother’s blood stream. If this shows a high chance of the baby having the condition then amniocentesis would be offered. This is a diagnostic test based on a sample of fluid taken from the pregnancy sac. This test, however, carries a 0.5 per cent risk of miscarriage. This approach to screening can only identify about 85 per cent of pregnancies where the baby has one of these conditions.
Some people will choose to have NIPT directly as it is a more reliable test than the Combined Test with a 99 per cent detection rate for Down Syndrome, Edward Syndrome and Patau Syndrome. PANORAMA NIPT can be done from nine weeks of pregnancy and works for twins. Another advantage of the PANORAMA NIPT test is it can screen for a wider range of genetic conditions and identify the sex of both the baby or babies if twins. Not only can it identify the chance of having extra chromosomes but also the chance of having certain missing parts
of a chromosome (microdeletions). One of the common microdeletions is due to a missing part of chromosome 22 called Di George Syndrome. Babies with this condition have an increased risk of heart defects, cleft palate, immune problems, seizures and learning difficulties.
Not all NIPT tests are the same and some of the more advanced tests such as PANORAMA use artificial intelligence and advanced laboratory testing to analyse the results making them even more accurate and allowing them to identify a wider range of conditions. They can also identify some pregnancies at higher risk of placental problems, miscarriage and poor growth in later pregnancy that may benefit from closer monitoring.
When thinking about screening in pregnancy, people often consider how frequently the condition occurs, how it will affect the baby and what it would mean for them and their
families. It also helps them to make specific plans of care for babies who might need them.
For more information about NIPT and our testing services, please get in touch or scan the QR code below. n
Innermost Healthcare.
Ashtree Medical Clinic, 3 Ashtree Court, Woodsy Close, Cardiff, CF23 8RW
Email clinic@innermosthealthcare.com Tel: 03331217121
Planning a pregnancy and being pregnant is an important time but also a time of uncertainty and anxiety for many. INNERMOST HEALTHCARE are here to help...
LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR PREGNANCY
ithout a doubt a huge highlight of recent weeks for us has been following pop superstar Anastacia on her I’m Outta Lockdown tour Nath’s her number one fan n two weeks, we went to five of her concerts, with the highlight of course being in Cardiff’s t David’s all. The Left Outside Alone and I’m Outta Love hitmaker performed 22 years of bangers to a sold-out audience who clearly were equally as in love as we were. Six months back, a dear friend of ours Gavin Sheppard (also a phenomenal singer) reached out to Nath to see if he could talk with Anastacia’s team and arrange a moment that Gavin could propose to his partner, Luke, from the front row of the gig. ell, it happened t was a hugely emotional
visually very, very ‘loverly’.”
n other news, we hosted the annual N Medicine Clinical oard taff ecognition awards up at Cardiff’s niversity ospital of ales. gain, a huge oy to acknowledge and celebrate those who go above and beyond within the N . Thanks for asking us
And we must mention Sophiaworks’ fireworks show down at ophia Gardens, which was as exceptional as ever! A must-add event for your calendars for 2023!
That’s about it for this column; we are in full panto rehearsal mode now, learning our lines and songs for Peter Pan, coming to the oyal elsh College of Music Drama this month – December . e are devious Captain Hook and loveable bestie Smee… you can probably work out which is which! See you there?
and spectacular moment, orchestrated by Anastacia herself and of course to the complete shock of Luke who’s now happily engaged to the love of his life.
Every person in St David’s Hall was on their feet cheering! Love is Alive, everyone – that’s another Anastacia song title for those that don’t know!
or our adio Cardiff show, ayne had the honour of interviewing the wonderful conductor Geraint Owen who was performing here at the ales Millennium Centre with the My Fair Lady tour, and also our Cardiff Theatre Cafe volunteers van and Sophie went along to review the show itself and they absolutely loved it. They said, My Fair Lady is a sumptuous and swirling rags to riches tale packed with classic tunes like Get Me to the Church on Time and I Could Have Danced All Night, delighting fans of this much-loved musical revival. Elegant, sophisticated and
About our columnists: Nathan Wyburn is a pop culture artist who uses non-traditional mediums such as Marmite, beans, soil and fake tan; and Wayne Courtney is a healthcare support worker at University s ita f a es he are a s adi Cardiff s ith their sh a d the ru t dre s C ffee C urt i Cardiff them s ia @wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne
TOP 5
Five Cardiff events we can’t wait for...
• Dragged To Church, 6 December at St Andrew’s URC
• Westlife, 11 – 12 December, at Cardiff
International Arena
• Ricky Gervais, 15 December, at Cardiff
International Arena
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: The Fairest Panto in the Land, 10 December –8 January, at the New Theatre
• Only Men Aloud, 17 December, at St Andrew’s URC
Move over Ant & Dec. Make way Edina & Patsy. Stand aside Batman & Robin. Our dynamic duo are in town and they’re here to give us the low down on the Cardiff high life
Live music venue The Moon on omanby treet in Cardiff city centre has launched a vegan eatery.
The venue was rescued by former staff of The ull Moon in , who took over the unit to run as a not-for-profit and accessible space. t programmes live music of all genres throughout the week, as well as club nights, special events and small festivals such as ub.
During the pandemic, the team began improving the venue whenever they could, including replacing the floor, installing seating booths and setting up a kitchen.
e wanted the space to grow into a hub for local musicians, creatives and the wider community, says Li unt, venue co-owner, a place where you can rela and spend more time in. Customers can work from here during the afternoon, catch up over brunch, or pop in during their lunch break to take food out. There’s also dinner service on ridays and aturdays before our live music starts, and unday roasts too.
The Moon egan itchen serves comfort food which is plant-based and handmade in-house by chefs lona Moro and osef Treweeks.
The venue will also host monthly Music Community Dinners, where anyone involved in music can en oy a hot meal and networking, then pay what they can afford.
e have to consider not everyone can afford to eat meals out all the time, says Li . y offering a ‘pay what you can’ option, people can socialise over a good meal, pay what they can and not be e cluded. them ardiff m
The Glory tores, ales’s first LG T provisions and dining room, in oath, has launched the ’s first caviar mince pies, at a pop. There’s a purpose to these premium products though; they will raise money for food banks across the country this festive season.
e believe it is important to give back, says haun oucke, proprietor of The Glory tores, particularly at this time of year, which is why we are donating all profits of our caviar pies to the Trussell Trust an anti-poverty charity that supports a nationwide network of more than , food bank centres and provides emergency food and support to help people facing hardship who not only do incredible work throughout the festive season, but all year round. www.glory-stores.com
Celebrate the festive season at The Ivy Cardiff, where the brasserie is serving an array of joyful treats, including a lavish Afternoon Tea, which has been given the golden touch, served on gilded trays adorned with Christmas-themed cakes, scones and classic sandwiches; as well as stand-out à la carte dishes. To accompany the food, a cocktail menu has been created in collaboration with Monkey 47; our tipple of choice would be the Popping Cracker Royale – a concoction of gin, passion fruit and Prosecco, garnished with candy floss and popping candy. www.theivycardiff.com
Ivy Cardiff
With a target launch date of anuary , lack heep Coffee is launching its first elsh site, on Cardiff’s ood treet. Their goal is to be the biggest speciality coffee chain in the UK; they have a pipeline of over sites in the , with more franchisees coming on board, and they’re also making waves in France, the Philippines and the – with their first sites launching in Texas at the end of the year.
Fun fact: they serve the world’s first speciality grade obusta beans – from the mineral-rich soils along the Bhadrariver belt in ndia – on the market.
www.leavetheherdbehind.com
Winners of the third elsh estaurant wards were revealed in November at a ceremony at The Mercure Cardiff olland ouse. The awards celebrated industry excellence and recognised the success of local professionals and establishments that deliver great flavours and e periences.
Earlier this year, Silver Circle Distillery invited a host of local aspiring and professional mixologists to create a cocktail using ales’ first uavit – candinavia’s favourite spirit – from ilver Circle.
The winning cocktail, chosen by the judges to become ilver Circle uavit’s ‘signature serve’, was created by Matthew ‘ elly’ ones of Lab bar in Cardiff. t was made using ilver Circle uavit, t Germain, soda, and a Welsh seaside cordial which Matthew had homemade using foraged sea rosemary and dehydrated elsh seaweed.
By taking Welly’s original recipe, Monmouthshirebased Silver Circle Distillery has created a new premi ed, bottled cocktail called Lan Môr.
See the winning cocktail in our Christmas gift guide, on page . www.silvercircledistillery.com
These are but a handful of local winners from the night (with plenty more we couldn’t fit in!)…
Mediterranean estaurant of the ear The ellenic Eatery, Crwys oad talian estaurant of the ear Porro, Llandaff Curry estaurant of the ear Mirchi, City oad Pi a estaurant of the ear Dusty’s, Cardiff apanese estaurant of the ear Don Don T , Cowbridge oad est Thai estaurant of the ear angkok Caf , Cowbridge oad East egetarian estaurant of the ear egetarian ood tudio, Penarth oad est orld Cuisine eaneys estaurant, Pontcanna treet ood estaurant of the ear Pregos treet ood, reshmoor oad omantic estaurant of the ear The Classroom – Dosbarth, Dumballs oad est of Cardiff l ali estaurant, City oad ndian estaurant of the ear Castle Gate ndian estaurant, Caerphilly Facebook: TheWelshRestaurantAwards
1
A giant loaf of sourdough from @GroundBakery in Pontcanna – which just recently announced its third site is soon to open in Cowbridge (the second can be found in Penarth).
A delicious ‘Celt’ burger from @Anshcymru in Canton – Welsh Black beef in a potato bun, with strong Welsh cheddar and Ansh sauce. I ate it too fast to even take a pic!
Not eaten yet… but I’ve been planning ahead and stocking up on Boxing Day pickles from the lovely @InnerCityPickle at Roath Market.
Our columnist, good food fanatic, local blogger and indie foodie PR guru JANE COOK has her finger on the pulse when it comes to what’s new and tasty in the city…
Last month, I was lucky enough to attend the BBC Food & Farming Awards, which for the first time in the ceremony’s 20+ year history, was held here in Cardiff at the National Museum of Wales. It was a brilliant night, celebrating the great and the good of British food, and I even managed to drag a rabble of local foodies, journalists, BBC execs and a few famous faces out for a post-award visit to Nighthawks Wine Bar Nighthawkscardiff in Castle rcade, and the multi-award-winning Lab 22 Lab cardiff on Caroline treet.
I absolutely love showing people around my home city, and rumour has it that the ceremony might be returning to Cardiff ne t year –consider this my o cial bid for after-party planner 2023!
warm welcome to t n
CoaltownCoffee which has opened its first coffee shop in the capital, in Castle Arcade. ead uartered in mmanford, the Coaltown roastery was originally founded to help the local economy recover following the devastating closure of its last coal mine in 2003. Coaltown’s new ‘black gold’ brought industry and purpose back to mmanford, and now we can get our hands on a freshly brewed cup right here in the ’Diff.
In an inspired move, the clever folks at Matsudai Ramen Matsudai amen have created a newDIY ramen kit; a soup-less noodle dish inspired by our city’s iconic Chippy Lane. It’s made with a chicken paitan-miso-curry sauce, a large portion of thick, wavy noodles, chicken thigh ‘off-thebone’ if you know, you know , fried noodles and crispy fried onions, plus pickles and spring onions to offset the richness. The kits
can be delivered anywhere in the UK from November until Christmas – meaning you could even have Chippy Lane Ramen for Christmas dinner if you wanted to!
nd finally, Food i has been busy encouraging city centre businesses, thirdsector organisations, and major institutions to help Cardiff on its way to achieving Gold ustainable ood Placesstatus by the year . new toolkit demonstrating how businesses of all sizes and from all sectors can help make Cardiff more sustainable has been created with the help of funding from the i City mbition und. or more information, check out foodcardiff and look out for their first case study film, featuring Cardiff’s Waterloo Tea ( aterlooTea .
For more: www.janechicomendes.co.uk | @janechicomendes| www.hungrycityhippy.co.uk
By the time this issue of Cardiff Life magazine has hit the city, our fourth annual Cardiff Property wards will have taken place November at Mercure olland ouse otel, Cardiff.
This awards ceremony is a prestigious celebration of the best of Cardiff property and property companies, with the biggest gathering of its kind in the city. e ust wanted to say a huge congratulations to all of our winners
and finalists, and a massive thank you to our sponsors, partners, suppliers and supporters.
eep an eye out for the cial Winners’ Guide in Cardiff Life’s next issue out on December .
e’re already getting the wheels in motion for our fifth annual ceremony, so keep an eye out on our social channels if you’re planning on nominating yourselves ne t year.
r m re ardiff r ert a ards u
City rents are increasing significantly; we pick the brains of John Wood, director of Thomas H Wood estate agents in Cardiff, about why, and what it means for the market…
Property rents have seen significant, progressive increases since , coinciding with the end of lockdown and continuing to rise to the present day.
John Wood, of Thomas H Wood – a company which has o ces in hitchurch and adyr and has been helping customers buy, sell and rent homes across south ales for over years – says property rents in the private rented sector are currently extremely high and this trend looks set to continue, causing a headache for renters and landlords alike.
hile the Tenant ees ct and incoming legislation like the enting omes ales ct will help to protect renters, the additional re uirements are piling financial pressure on landlords who are increasingly leaving the market and reducing the rental stock available to let, says ohn. The enting omes ales ct will come into effect on December and will be the biggest change in
the Welsh rental market since the introduction of assured shorthold tenancies in .
“The legislation increases succession rights for tenants and moves towards further security of tenure for the tenants, which is welcome news for renters as it offers peace of mind and certainty for their living situation.
owever, many landlords feel that the legislation is at their e pense. The danger is that if landlords find the new measures prohibitive or too costly for them to continue, they will leave. y selling their rental stock, and therefore reducing the rental properties coming onto the market, the trend of high rents will only continue to rise. e have seen interest rates and inflation increase rapidly this year. s interest rates increase, so do mortgage costs with lenders
increasing their rates. mid the current market uncertainty, and coupled with the cost-of-living crisis, we would e pect renters to remain in their rental properties rather than buy due to the economic impact on their savings, putting house deposits further out of reach.
r m re th mash d m
Beaufort Park, a prestigious new development, is set to become one of Lisvane’s most desirable addresses. We were invited to take a look inside its newly launched Blenheim show home...
By Evelyn Green
Perched just on the edge of the highly regarded village of Lisvane, an a uent suburb and one of Cardiff’s most desirable living locations, you’ll find the newly launched development Beaufort Park.
The new abodes, which are now e pected to become some of the most prestigious addresses in the city, are a mi of four- and five-bedroom detached properties from elsh housebuilder Edenstone omes.
nitially, the houses were sold off plan, but buyers can now view an e ample of the homes in the form of the five-bedroom lenheim show home, styled by ndrew enry nteriors.
Edenstone sales director dele McCoy says visitors will be captivated by the design and by the cinema room, no doubt , which demonstrates an understated level of lu ury.
e wanted to create an aspirational home with a wow factor – which it definitely has – but also a home that demonstrates how the fabulous spaces could be used and how a family could live within this property, she says. “One that visitors could easily visualise themselves living in.
The colour scheme of sophisticated neutral tones with
The development Beaufort Park, Lisvane Road, Lisvane, CF14 0SG
Location Five miles north of the city centre
What’s nearby Llanishen Reservoir, several parks and nature reserves and Cardiff Golf Club
Prices £995,000 – £1,550,000 Square foot 2,787 – 4,349
Bedrooms 4 – 5
Bathrooms 4 – 5
Reception rooms 2 – 3
Did you know Among the homes currently available is plot 22, a double fronted Burghley, priced at £1,075,000, which is ready to move into this side of Christmas
Agent Savills Cardiff new homes team 02920 368 940 cardiffnewhomes@savills.com www.savills.co.uk
blue accents e udes a sense of sophistication and offers a timeless appeal, and metallic elements emphasise the theme and nod to today’s trends.
Interior designer Andrew Henry says, “People think blue is cold, but we have used the colour in varying shades, from a lighter blue to navy with enough diversity in terms of the individual rooms to show how you can use those tones. There’s a fantastic kitchen, dining and family room that runs across the back of the house. Essentially, it’s an open-plan space, but for the dining area in the middle we have used smart navy-blue velvet dining chairs with brass legs to accentuate and zone that space.
“In the family room we have opted for a relaxed and casual feel with a contemporary corner sofa in a natural linen. In contrast, we have dressed the lounge, at the front of the property, as a more formal living room with modern Chesterfield style sofas sitting opposite each other, on either side of the fireplace.
ur personal highlight is the second-floor family games room with a plush home cinema.
“As you go in, there’s a bar area and an air hockey table, and as you turn there is a fantastic home cinema with lovely big squashy sofas and a projection screen,” says Andrew.
The bedroom on this level has been styled as a home gym, which is another enticing feature indeed. And the
incredible suite of bedrooms on the first floor includes one with an en suite and two dressing areas.
“We wanted to show how this could be used as a self-contained space either for a family with teenage children, or even for those considering having an older parent living with them,” says Adele. “It shows the e tent of the fle ibility.
“From the moment you walk in there is a sense of elegance and grandeur, and we wanted people to be e cited about what they would find ne t on their journey through.”
1. Dining room décor idea from Annie Sloan, featuring Chalk Paint in Old White, Olive, and Country Grey, from £6.95, available at Beti Biggs, Pontcanna; www.anniesloan.co.uk
2. Hanging decorations, from £15, from Glass at the Spinney, Vale of Glamorgan; Instagram: @glass.at.the.spinney
3. Balloon cat bauble, £8, from Paperchase, St David’s Cardiff; www.paperchase.com
4. Sardine bauble, £8, from John Lewis, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com
5. Brass Snowdome, £55, from Buddug, Cardiff; www.buddug.com
6. A festive display of ornaments, various prices, from Pugh’s Garden Village, Radyr, Cardiff; www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk
7. Hannah Turner puffin tree decoration, £16, from Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiff; www.hannahturner.co.uk
8. Fairy ornaments, £12 each, from Layla Holzer, Barry; www.laylaholzer.com
9. Fern Baby Fern wreath, £55, from Wilde Posies, Ynysybwl; www.wildeposies.com
10. Acorn hanging decoration, £16 for three, from Athena Interiors, Cwmbran; athenainteriors.co.uk
11. Pre-lit Brunswick pine tree, £420, from Victoria Fearn Gallery, Heol-Y-Deri; www.victoriafearngallery.wales
12. Classic decorations, various prices, from M&S, Queen Street, St David’s Cardiff; www.marksandspencer.com
13. Diamonds mistletoe merman, £49.99, from Shore, Windsor Court, Penarth; www.shorecoastal.co.uk
STARRY DECORATION COLLECTION, £25 – 39.50
From Oliver Bonas, St David’s Cardiff i er as m
1. Winter wreaths, from £14.99, from The Range, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.therange.co.uk
2. Nightlife drumkit bauble, £8, from John Lewis, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com
3. Christmas pud garland, £25, from White Stuff, The Hayes, Cardiff; www.whitestuff.com
4. A festive set-up at Pugh’s, various prices, from Pugh’s Garden Village, Radyr, Cardiff; www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk
5. Winter animals, various prices, from White Stuff, The Hayes, Cardiff; www.whitestuff.com
6. Glass star tree topper, £30, from Lisa Valentine Home, Penylan; www.lisavalentinehome.co.uk
7. Holly bauble, £9.50, from Baldhead Designs, Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna; www.baldheaddesigns.com
8. Fish bauble, £3.99, from TK Maxx, St David’s Cardiff; www.tkmaxx.com
9. Gisela Graham glass sequin crab, £9, from Leekes, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk
10. Midnight Elegance decorations, from £1.79, from The Range, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.therange.co.uk
11. Novelty ceramic pots, £5 each, from B&Q, Cardiff Gate; www.diy.com
12. Christmas tableware, various prices, from Next, Queen Street, Cardiff; www.next.co.uk
13. Candelabra, £18.99, from TK Maxx, St David’s Cardiff; www.tkmaxx.com
14. Traditional sweet hanging decorations, £14.99 each; from Pugh’s Garden Village, Radyr, Cardiff; www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk
15. Kotta Star stocking holder, £35, from Lisa Valentine Home, Penylan; www.lisavalentinehome.co.uk
The press launch of Tir a Môr –the new Welsh dining experience at the five-star voco t. David’s, Cardiff – gave guests an e clusive opportunity to see the landmark hotel’s restaurant ahead of its public launch.
Tir a Môr, meaning ‘land and sea’ in elsh, celebrates the local produce of ales and serves everything up at its breath-taking waterfront location in the ay. n the menu you’ll find everything from nglesey mussels and Menai oysters, to beef from
Cefn Mawr Farms; and as for the drinks, distilleries of ales are showcased on the menu, and the spirits of the country heavily influence the signature cocktails.
‘Coctel sur ara rith’ ara rith our features Devil’s ridge spiced rum; and the ‘Coctel en fasiwn myglyd’ moked ld ashioned is made using Penderyn peated whisky. www.stdavids.vocohotels.com
Abby Goulding Plating up Brandon Jones Georgia McLaughlin, Karishma Plaha and Sarah Turner Paige Jennings and guest Andrew Gray Darcey Corria (Miss Wales), with members of Tir a Môr/voco St. David’s
An awards ceremony recognising the achievements of some of Wales’ most remarkable women has seen honours bestowed on women from across the nation.
The Chwarae Teg Womenspire Awards 2022 took place live at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff ay recently, and was streamed across ITV Cymru Wales’ Facebook Live and Twitter.
The biggest winner on the night was Emily Nicole oberts who, as a young woman with cerebral palsy, has taken it upon herself to inspire, educate and
support others living with disabilities. She received the Rising Star Award as well as the overall title of Womenspire Champion 2022 having impressed the judges with advocacy work and her humorous and informative YouTube videos.
Presented by Andrea Byrne of ITV Cymru ales, and elsh actor and presenter Elin Pavli- inde, the ceremony was able to share inspirational stories with a wide audience. www.chwaraeteg.com
Dee Llewellyn
The supportive audience Sara Packard and Sophie Hinksman
Vera Ngosi-Sambrook Sarah-Jayne Bray and Alexandra Walters
C arriors – a non-profit organisation with a mission to highlight the importance of sport and e ercise to every member of the cystic fibrosis community – held a fundraising lunch recently at Park Pla a Cardiff, which raised , .
C arriors was founded by osh Llewellyn- ones E and his brother Mark. osh was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth, and at the age of two met Dr ob ramer from Dallas, Te as. is advice to osh’s parents was to run his legs off ; e ercise always needed to play a big part in osh’s life to keep him fit and healthy. Nearly years on and osh is as fit as he’s ever been. Passionate about helping children with cystic fibrosis, osh and Mark set up C arriors to motivate, inspire and support children on their ourney to longer, happier and healthier lives. www.cfwarriors.org.uk
Photos by Paul Fears
Rebecca Watkins, Gina Maheson, Elisabeth Burch and Rhoswen Shaw
James Gadd and Jonathan Ashcroft
Caroline Sims and Dawn Llewellyn-Jones
Angharad Jenkins and Josh Llewellyn-Jones OBE
Karen Phillips and Jacqui Williams
Linda Jones, Jayne James, Niki Wall and Laura Baglow
Bethan Darwin, Helen Jenkins and Christian Sylvester
Ceri Prothero, Amanda Carroll, Kim Patterson and Sharon Williams
Techniquest – the science discovery centre in Cardiff ay – recently hosted a gathering for funders, friends and associates to allow them to safely play with fire, be big kids, and to hear a little more about the centre’s story so far.
Celebrating how far the organisation has come since its birth in , it was a time to reflect on its achievements over the past few years as it weathered the storms of significantly decreased government funding, dealt with the potentially devastating impact of the pandemic, and met the challenges of creating a new multi-million-pound e tension, The cience Capital – housing over digitally
connected, state-of-the-art interactive e hibits.
Guests were able to view the newly refurbished Lab, the ensory Garden overlooking the bay, and the Planetarium.
The achievements over the last few years were only possible through the key supporters – from a variety of trusts and foundations, to the elsh Government, local businesses, and many other individuals and organisations who worked closely with the Techni uest team and trustees.
www.techniquest.org
The architectural team of Arcadis IBI Group celebrated their th anniversary of the Cardiff Studio at their annual Party in the Arcade event. After a three-year gap, the team says it was great to host many clients, collaborators, and colleagues in the atmospheric surroundings of Morgan Arcade and to celebrate all the projects designed and delivered over the last two decades and the many awards won this year, including an RSAW Welsh Architecture Award for Grange Pavilion. www.ibigroup.com
Cardiff Studio –Arcadis IBI Group
Paulo Santos and Mark Williams
Jess MahoneyWhat a turnout
Dan Corrigan
Simon Cambridge
Flight Club, known for reinventing darts for the 21st Century, opened a brand-new and highly anticipated venue on St Mary treet, Cardiff, recently. This marks the 10th UK opening for light Club and the first in ales.
Guests were invited to experience Flight Club’s unique concept, which supercharges the social scene, bringing people together through multiplayer games, show-stopping cocktails and tasty bites. hether you’re a sniper with a dart or have
never thrown one before, Flight Club welcomes all.
Players will discover 15 Social Darts playing areas and four bar areas spread over three floors. enture upstairs and find a roof terrace, complete with ambient festoon lighting, and quirky seating areas including a traditional wagon and huts, all of which are individually bookable. i ht u darts m
The name Ellis Jenkins may be synonymous with control and strategy on the pitch, but the Wales rugby star is keen to raise awareness of the need for people to take control of their own futures by putting Powers of Attorney in place.
“My sister and I have become Attorneys for my parents which will allow us to manage their affairs if they ever become incapacitated,” he says. “They run their own business and these Powers of Attorney (LPA) will ensure that we can continue to run the business and manage their day-to-day financial matters – everything from making business payments to paying their domestic council tax and utility bills.”
Unlike a Will which comes into effect when you pass away, an LPA allows a nominated individual to make decisions for you while you are still living, but are unable to make decisions for yourself. Typically, they may come into effect when someone is living with dementia, for example, or has perhaps experienced serious brain trauma due to an accident or sporting injury.
In addition to an LPA that covers financial matters, there are LPAs that can be put in place to cover health and well-being. These cover decisions about your health, care and medical treatment. The key aspect to both LPAs is that you choose a person you know and trust to make these decisions for you, rather than leaving it for a law court to make such decisions for you. This person should
ideally be someone that knows you well and that would make decisions on your behalf that you may have made for yourself.
As his 30th birthday approaches, Ellis has been keen to emphasise the importance of LPAs at any age. “Although it’s not a nice thing to talk about, you’re never too young to think about Lasting Powers of Attorney,” he says. “Unfortunate things happen every day, whether it’s a car accident, skiing accident or sports accident; Lasting Powers of Attorneys make sure that the people making decisions on your behalf, when you can’t make them, are the people you trust the most.”
Rhian Rees, Wills and LPA specialist with Robertsons Solicitors in Cardiff confirmed that there is growing awareness of the need to plan for all eventualities.
“We are seeing an increase in enquiries from younger clients for both LPAs and Wills,” she says. “An LPA looks after you when you are living and upon the event of your death, your Will then takes over and so it’s important to have both in place and it’s really encouraging to see the younger generation taking control of their own futures.” n
Rhian Rees, Wills and LPA specialist at Robertsons Solicitors
Cardiff Offices: 6 Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3RS 26 Windsor Place, Cardiff, CF10 3BZ 029 2023 7777; law@robsols.co.uk www.robsols.co.uk
“ LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEYS MAKE SURE THAT THE PEOPLE MAKING DECISIONS ON YOUR BEHALF, WHEN YOU CAN’T MAKE THEM, ARE THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST THE MOST ”
Welsh Rugby star Ellis Jenkins shares why he felt passionate about putting Lasting Powers of Attorney in placeWelsh Rugby International Ellis Jenkins
t David’s Dewi ant Cardiff – which provides over . millions ft of retail and leisure space and over stores in the city centre – is welcoming a host of new retailers to its line-up, ust in time for Christmas. The new arrivals, a variety of much-loved local independents and wider national retailers, include
The ueen outi ue, a womenswear store making highclass fashion accessible on the high street, opening as a si -month pop-up after success with its Penarth and arry stores.
Cardiff law firm Clarke illmott LLP has reported another year of positive results from , with revenue of . million – up per cent on the prior year on the back of strong results across the firm’s teams and sectors.
The last two years have been transformational for the firm, says tephen osser, CE . fter a decade of improvements, we have moved the firm onto an e cellent footing for future growth. ur results are a conse uence of the hard work undertaken by everyone at the firm and the great support from our diverse client base from whom we have received more instructions than ever, on increasingly comple and interesting work.
Changes implemented during the pandemic have become our new normal and we have a thriving culture built on fle ible, collaborative and supportive working.
For more: www.clarkewillmott.com
Talking of Clarke Willmott LLP, it’s also been recognised as a Top Tier firm in the latest Legal 500 guide which ranks the UK’s top lawyers and organisations. The firm received prestigious Top Tier rankings for 11 of its specialist practice areas.
Several individuals also appeared on the guide’s list of outstanding lawyers, including partner Vicky Kells, who heads up the Cardiff office and leads the social housing sector, who was named in the elite ‘Leading Individuals’ list; Fraser MacRae, who was named in the prestigious ‘Hall of Fame’ for his work in banking and finance; and Bethan Evans who was listed as a ‘Next Generation Partner’.
Comic, gaming and collectable store in City Comics, originally launched in Cwmbran in . ales’ first Mint elvet store, a women’s and childrenswear brand with bouti ues across the . Laser Clinic, the largest global cosmetic clinic, offering medicalgrade and industry-leading technology including laser hair removal, in ectables, and LED light therapy.
lternative and sub-culture fashion retailer Damaged ociety, celebrating its th birthday in , offering brands that can’t be found anywhere else on the high street including The agged Priest, Dickies, and Loungefly.
e’ve always been proud of our retail mi here at t David’s, says elen Morgan, centre director at t David’s, and our latest openings really show that there’s something for everyone under our roof. t’s e cellent to see a mi of both local independents and nationwide brands oining us at the centre, and we know our visitors will en oy these new stores.
r m re stda ids ardiff m
LOUISE MISELL INTERIORS LTD won our Homes & Interiors category at the Cardiff Life Awards 2022; here we chat with the business’s founder Louise about taking the plunge to launch her own venture, who inspires her, and that time she was on Emmerdale…
Louise says she was mind-blown by the win
What’s the story behind Louise Misell Interiors?
I set up the business in early 2017. I’d been working for John Lewis as a home designer, and felt that I wanted to extend the service I could offer customers. Many would come to us and ask for recommendations for tradespeople, or would like us to be involved in their construction or renovation projects from start to finish, essentially taking care of everything for them. As a retail store, this just wasn’t something we could offer, but really wanted to help people achieve their renovation goals. From my own experience of renovating property, I knew how stressful it could be, and wanted to ease the burden for my clients. I also
love to create unique interiors and push the boundaries of design, and knew that if I started my own business, I would have more creative freedom and could give more interesting and complete end results to my clients.
How did you then go about setting up?
I did my homework and researched other designers in the area, which helped me decide where I would position myself. I also took all the courses that usiness ales offered to help with starting a business, which were invaluable, and read as many books and listened to as many business podcasts as could find. The main challenge I had was that my business would be in direct competition with my day job, so I had to end one before starting the other. That was scary!
How did it feel to win the award, and what did you think of the night?
Honestly, I was so surprised and shocked! To think that my relatively young business was worthy of the greatness that is a Cardiff Life Award, that just blew my mind! The night was so much fun, but after we won the award, I was in a bit of a daze. I met so many fantastic people, and did manage to remember to exchange numbers with some of them…
How does your business contribute to and benefit the local area?
We contribute to the local economy by using local suppliers where possible, and by providing work to a host of local tradespeople and businesses. There are many moving parts needed to bring a project to life, from storage units to
florists to carpenters and furniture installers. The list goes on!
Tell us about a recent highlight... There have been so many positives lately, including helping a couple relocate from California. I loved getting everything designed and ready for them in the house so they could move straight in, without having to lift a finger. t was a big challenge with the timeline they had, but we did it!
Tell us about the local people who inspire you…
I love what Nathan Wyburn [artist and Cardiff Life columnist] is doing; what a talented guy! He has so much energy and is so connected to his local community, and is dedicated to improving Cardiff for everyone.
I also really admire the natural history artist Annette Townsend, she’s transformed the skills needed for her day job into a thriving and creative discipline, and produces stunning work.
I have done some acting and was once on mmerda e as an extra with pink hair.
r m re uisemise i teri rs u
“I HAVE DONE SOME ACTING AND WAS ONCE ON EMMERDALE AS AN EXTRA WITH PINK HAIR“
You can enter your business into one or more of these categories… Arts and Creative Bar
Business services Charity Civic Education Event Hair and Beauty Health and Wellbeing Homes and Interiors Legal Financial Leisure and Tourism New Business People Services property Restaurant Retail Sustainability Technology Welsh Language (And then the ultimate Winner of Winners is chosen by us!)
The Cardiff Life Awards are coming back – are you ready? Planning is well underway for the glittering, vibrant, joy-filled 2023 ceremony, the business highlight of the city, at which pretty much any and every local organisation – big or small, from shops to restaurants, salons to galleries, and charities to schools – can win one of our coveted awards.
Last year we had a record-breaking number of nominations from local businesses of all descriptions; the total hit 350, and our judges had their work seriously cut out for them.
If you are a part of this amazing community of businesses, enterprises and organisations and want to showcase your venture, talent and efforts, along with supporting and meeting other top business people, then nominate yourself – it’s free after all!
There are a number of ways to get involved:
• Enter the Awards
It’s free to nominate your business; just head online, choose what categories you’d like to enter, and you’ll find a Q&A asking you all about your business or organisation – your biggest achievements over the past year, your highlights, and what you are most proud of. This is not a
time for modesty; you are encouraged to blow that trumpet and shout about yourselves! Please remember, your business cannot be nominated by an outside party. The entry must come from the business itself.
• Sponsor the Awards
With more and more interest in being closely associated with the most prestigious event in the Cardiff business calendar, sponsorship opportunities are going fast. Already signed up are: Cardiff City Football Club, Genero, Bupa, ReRecruitment, 13Fields, Lexus Cardiff, Crumbs, Entreconf and of course Cardiff Life. Sponsors reap the benefits of powerful marketing and exposure in the build-up to the Awards, and they also bag guaranteed tickets. To find out more, please contact mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk
•
Nothing beats being there! Anyone can attend the event, whether you’re up for an award or not. With the company of 500 people, the networking and collaboration opportunities are on another level, and the party, well, that speaks for itself. What goes on at the Cardiff Life Awards stays at the Cardiff Life Awards.
For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk
Nominations are now open for Cardiff Life Awards 2023! The excitement is real. It’s free to enter, so what are you waiting for?
Welsh star of the West End Lauren Drew will star as Fantine in Les Misérables when it comes to Cardiff
Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Boublil and Schönberg’s musical Les mis has taken the world by storm and has been hailed ‘Les Mis for the 21st Century’. With scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, and a score including I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own and Bring Him Home, the show has been seen by over 120 million people in 52 countries and in 22 languages, making Les Misérables one of the world’s most popular musicals. Here we chat with former semi-finalist on The Voice UK Lauren Drew, who plays Fantine.
Hi Lauren! It must feel amazing to be part of such an iconic musical? Les Mis is one of those dream
shows that you’re desperate to be in as soon as you leave drama school. I had played Éponine in an amateur version when I was 17 and could never have imagined I’d be playing my dream role of Fantine at home in Wales! The feeling is indescribable.
Do you enjoy touring with a production?
It’s incredibly special as we get to bring the show to people around the country. Theatre is to be enjoyed by everyone and I’m so happy to be part of their experience.
Are you looking forward to performing in Cardiff?
Cardiff’s ales Millennium Centre is my favourite venue to perform in. I performed here with Six the Musical a few years ago and will never forget the incredible support that came
from the audience. I’m very much looking forward to family, friends and people that have followed my career seeing me in one of my dream roles and being part of this amazing journey with me.
Did you have a favourite moment in Les Mis as an audience member, and as a performer do you have a different favourite moment? One of my favourite moments has to be the battle on the barricade. The lights and sound effects create a high stake, battleground feel which is so hard hitting and the actors are phenomenal! As an audience member, you go through so many emotions and feel as though you are fighting alongside the characters.
Another favourite part of the show for me has always been the confrontation between Jean Valjean and Javert. The orchestration is immense and it’s the perfect accompaniment for the fight which is happening next to Fantine’s death bed. It’s quite brutal, but such a powerful moment. It always sends shivers down my spine.
Another favourite moment for me is Fantine’s transformation after she has sold herself to help provide for her daughter. You see this hopeful beacon of light slowly diminish into a shell of what she once was. Incredibly tragic but so powerful.
What are some of the challenges of performing in a show like this?
Les Mis is a wonderful show and
written incredibly well, hence its success for all these years, so as an actor being fortunate enough to be telling this story, I always want to come from a vulnerable, truthful place so that in the short time we get to meet Fantine, we go on a journey with her, and we get to understand the pain, crushed hope and loss that she endures. That of course brings its challenges as her story is a tragic one and she goes to some very dark places, but she is driven by hope. Hope is what I like to hold onto in my interpretation of Fantine and I take that right to the bitter end of her life.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given as a performer?
Don’t wonder or care what other people are thinking of you, focus on your path and be you.It’s even more prevalent today with social media being so present in our everyday lives.
We’re always looking for some sort of a rmation or we’re trying to fit a mould that we think people want us to be. Be yourself. There’s only one you in the whole world and that’s special.
You could be what the panel are looking for, but they’ll never get to see that if you don’t bring YOU to the table. Push your boundaries, go outside of your comfort zone and don’t allow inhibitions to stunt your growth as a performer. Go for it! n
See Les Misérables at Wales Millennium Centre from 13 December – 14 January 2023; www.wmc.org.uk
this month. Here we chat about landing her dream role
“Les Mis is one of those dream shows that you’re desperate to be in as soon as you leave drama school”
