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September 2018
WIN
Nails & Brows at John Lewis Cire Trudon Candle Deliciously Ella Cookbook
BRIGHT SIDE
COLOUR CONFIDENCE
Animal Instinct
FABULOUSLY FEMININE
Rebel at heart
RACHEL WEISZ INTERVIEW
Art house
WONDER WHOLE NEW WORLD WALLS
Going against the grain
Granville Avenue, Oadby
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COMING SOON Manor Green, Houghton on the Hill Exclusive development of just 48 properties in delightful East Leicestershire village 2, 3, 4 & 5 Bedroom Homes Cosy Village Setting Elegant Designs and Uncompromising Quality Perfectly Placed for Commuting to Leicester Part Exchange and Help to Buy Available 5 Star Builder Available September 2018 Register Interest with Fothergill Wyatt
Hello
It’s all too easy to get stuck in a rut or play it safe; but if you’re frustrated waiting for something exciting to happen. Good news! The wait is over. From doing something unexpected, to stepping outside your comfort zone, this month’s Braver, Bolder edition reaches the parts other magazines can’t reach.
COVER SHOT: Harriet Blouse, £65, Boden
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Pack a punch in the fashion stakes with Flower Power. Not just for summer, fall florals are dark, dramatic and deceptively versatile. Team with neutrals for the ultimate week-to-weekend look. And from moody blooms to dynamic boardroom, this season’s best work dress is exploding with zest appeal. Will you Dare to Wear? Confidence is at the very heart of this edition. So whether you’re securing your dream job, embracing a new culture, experimenting with food or standing up for what you believe in, we say Feel the Fear and do it anyway! A new adventure lies around every corner. On the home front we’re taking a walk on the wild side with statement chairs and designs that are out there. Overhaul your décor for a Modern Mix of past and present, or banish bland and boring for all things bright and beautiful in Art House. We also reveal how to add the X-factor to your property in Dress for Success. One woman who’s no stranger to success is Academy Award winner Rachel Weisz. Not one to shy away from a tough role – think The Constant Gardener, Denial, The Light Between Oceans - here she talks to us about religion, sexuality, love and rebellion in her latest film Disobedience, due for release later this autumn. We’d love to hear about your everyday feats of bravery. So whether it’s a solo world trip or trying the new power lip (p19), head over to Facebook and join the conversation. 11
MARTINA LENAGHAN Editor editor@theurban-fox.co.uk
John Lewis
46-47
Modern MIX
Image & products:
STEVE LENAGHAN Head of Sales & Marketing 07738 614245 steve@theurban-fox.co.uk
HOMES & GARDE NS
Myers Touch Table Lamp, £90
Perfume Bottle, £30
Combine traditional contemporary edge designs with a home style. Think for a confident alongside uniqu modern accents e to create your ownand curated pieces, timeless look.
LISA ROTH Head of New Business Development 07843 851132 lisa@theurban-fox.co.uk KATIE TURNBULL Designer katie@theurban-fox.co.uk
13
Jordan Marble Mantel Clock, £40
Ipanema Rug, £350
Moet Knitted Throw, £59
15 Yoko Sideboard, £699
Carved from £35Vases,
Marble Trinket Box, £40
Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, the editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content. Copyright: All text, images and design in this publication are subject to copyright. Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given to use it in this publication.
Cire Trudon Candle, £78
URBAN FOX SEPTEMB ER 2018 49
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CONTRIBUTORS: Kirsty France, Sarah Mettrick, Nicol Nightingale-Spear, Rebecca Watts URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 5
The new Cayenne. Extreme sports for team players. Discover more at porsche.co.uk/cayenne
Fuel consumption figures for the Cayenne: Combined 3.4 – 3.2 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 78 – 72 g/km; energy consumption: 20.9 – 20.6 kWh/100 km. The fuel economy and CO2 figures quoted are sourced from official EUregulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving experience.
Porsche Centre Leicester Fletton Close Thurmaston Lane Leicester LE4 9LP 01162 764488 info@porscheleicester.co.uk www.porscheleicester.co.uk URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 7
September HEALTH & WELLBEING
21 Bright side Colour confidence
51
48
23 Heavy duty Get lifting, get healthy
WINING & DINING 25 Whole new world Going against the grain 29 Spice girl Tongue tingling curries
LIFE & WORK 31 Feel the fear How brave are you?
46 Modern mix Where past meets present
34 Rebel at heart Rachel Weisz interview
37 FASHION & BEAUTY
51 Art house Wonder walls
37 Dream job 3 ways to find yours
55 D ress for success Putting the X into X-factor
HOMES & GARDENS
57 Bold simplicity Breaking boundaries
41 Statement piece Be swept off your feet
11 Flower power 4 ways to wear…
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
29
13 Animal instinct Fabulously feminine
59 What’s on Entertaining the whole family 61 Reviews Something old, something new
15 Dare to wear Best power dress
PEOPLE & PLACES
17 Top of the crops Making the cut
65 Life is out there Let the adventure begin
19 Big is beautiful AW18 standout beauty trends
66 My way Local spotlight on Vicki Cropp
18
24
48
WIN NAIL & BROWS
WIN COOKBOOK
WIN MANDURAI CANDLE
at John Lewis
by Ella Mills
by Cire Trudon
Bibi Silk Cotton Cardigan, £95, L.K. Bennett
Modal Lace Vest, £29, Jigsaw
DATE
And/Or Isabella Saddle Bag, £99, John Lewis
Dixie Suede Flats, £150, L.K. Bennett
Paris Chip Revere Jacket, £198, Jigsaw
Flower
POWER Power up your wardrobe with these funky floral culottes. Bold but beautiful, pair with neutral separates for a work to weekend look.
MEETING
Eastside Shirt, £55, French Connection
Poppy Court, £149, Hobbs
London Tote, £199, Kurt Geiger
FASHION & BEAUTY
Tara Ankle Boot, £129, Mint Velvet
Slouchy Knit, £69, Mint Velvet
LUNCH
Letterbox Saddle Bag, £450, Aspinal of London
Max Mara Reversible Wool Coat, £500, House of Fraser
Peony Circular Culottes, £140, Jigsaw
SHOPPING Denim Trucker Jacket, £109, Mint Velvet
Star Tee, £29, Mint Velvet
Verity Backpack, £280, Whistles
Aith Trainer, £129, Whistles
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 11
20% off with code UF918
Baukjen.com *Terms and conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See website for details. Valid until 01/10/18
FASHION & BEAUTY
Leopard Print A-Line Midi Skirt, £49, Sosandar Alice Temperley Leopard Print Blouse, £79, John Lewis
Audrey Print Shirt Dress, £119, Mint Velvet
Celia Animal Print Mules, £265, L.K. Bennett
INSTINCT Leopard print is back! But for those that fear being swallowed whole…Relax!...AW18’s take is less fierce and more feminine. Think flirty, floaty and fabulous!
Oxford Saddle Bag, £189, Hobbs ATM Leopard Print Pants, £285, Net-A-Porter
Leopard Print Camisole Top, £28, Oasis
Ada Boot, £225, Hobbs
Taylor Animal Print Bag, £175, L.K. Bennett
Sherri Hill
L A M I N A
PANTONE 446 U
WOMENS | MENS | HOME 16 Mill Street | Oakham | Rutland | LE15 6EA | 01572 770372 | cavells.co.uk
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0116 271 4430 • WWW.SIMPLYCHIQUEUK.COM
FASHION & BEAUTY
DARE
to wear 1
3
2
4
6
Be bold in the boardroom. Exploding with zest and energy, this season’s colour trend screams “Look at me!”
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7
1 Feverfish Frill Front Dress, £40, Debenhams 2 Editor's Pick: For feminine flare Hugo Boss Belted Dress, £369, House of Fraser 3 Fit & Flare Dress, £59, Sosandar 4 Emilia Wickstead Alice Dress, £1,490, Matches 5 Launa Tie Dress, £175, L.K. Bennett 6 Gathered Dress, £199, Karen Millen 7 Tie Back Dress, £39, Warehouse URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 15
20% off Proteolytic Enzyme Back Treatment Offering the latest non-invasive
Enzymatic treatment that aids in skincareback treatments to target specific skin the removal of concerns dead skin cells, improving the •skin texture, clarity and firmness Advanced Facials Chemical Peels • Book Online or Call Us! 0116 271 1551 • Skin Analysis www.dermacaresalon.co.uk • eDermastamp Microb lad • Dermaroller Advanced Facials |AChemical va ab ingPeels Botox | Skin Analysisil| le Botox |•Fillers Cryotherapy ow • FillersDermaroller |NeDermastamp Genuine • Cryotherapy Mineral Make-up | St.Tropez Tan Make-up • MineralBlemish Removal • St.Tropez Spray Tan Stoughton Grange Gartree Road Oadby LE2 2FB • At-home skincare products • Semi-Permanent Make-up • Advanced Blemish Removal for: Skin Tag, Milia, Seborrhoeic Keratoses, Warts, Thread Veins.
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FASHION & BEAUTY
Crops
Top of the
Dare to wear short hair? Check out these top tips on making the cut.
1
2
Know what you want. Whether you cut out photos of your favourite celebrity hairstyles or create a Pinterest board, have something ready to show your stylist. Pictures speak a 1000 words. Be flexible and realistic. Just because you know what you want, doesn’t mean you’ll end up with the same results. Even if you do, you still may not look like Michelle Williams.
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Consider your lifestyle. Short hair can require more maintenance than you think. If you don’t have time to visit the hairdressers every 3-4 weeks, it may be wise to think again.
6
Try before you buy. Whether you fake it with an up do, try on some wigs, or experiment with ‘Your Perfect Hairstyle’ app, it’s a good idea to see what you might look like before you take the plunge.
Book a consultation. Be clear about what you want but also listen to professional advice. They’ll know what will work best for your hair type. Unconvinced? You can always get a second opinion.
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Think about your hair type. If your hair is fine avoid one length styles which can lay flat to your head and instead add layering on top to create the illusion of volume and height.
Choose a cut that suits your face shape. Elongated face types should avoid cuts that sit below the chin. Those with shorter, rounder faces should steer clear of cuts that sit above the ears.
Take baby steps. If you’ve never had short hair before, don’t make a drastic decision. Take it in stages - long hair to a long bob, short bob to a long pixie. Upgrade your styling tools. Mini-straighteners have narrower plates which will enable you to style your short hair quickly and easily. You can even create curls, waves and flicks.
10
Invest in the right products. Wax, wet gel and gel wax are the ideal sculpting tools for short hair. Styling gels are especially great if you like your hair to stand up from your head aka Halle Berry.
11
Avoid washing every day. Use a dry shampoo or styling mousse to help to refresh your hair style between shampoos.
12
Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise. Stock up on headbands, scarves and cute clips for those inevitable bad hair day. Bedhead anyone?
13
Don’t worry. Remember if you don’t like it, it’ll always grow back!
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 17
WIN! NAIL & BROW TREATMENT at John Lewis
John Lewis Leicester has recently welcomed the &Beauty Nail and Brow Bar to the ground floor of its Beauty department. To celebrate their latest arrival, John Lewis are offering one reader the opportunity to win a 1 hour treatment package comprising of an OPI GelColour manicure and eyebrow shape. Our lucky winner will also be treated to a glass of Prosecco to enjoy while being pampered.
&Beauty at John Lewis Leicester offers a wide range of treatments for both nails and brows. For treatment information and availability please visit johnlewis.com/andbeauty. Alternatively contact &Beauty directly on 0116 2518565 or email andbeauty.leicester@johnlewis.co.uk
TO ENTER:
Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘John Lewis’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Sunday 30 September 2018. Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The prize must be redeemed within 2 months of the closing date at John Lewis Leicester only. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.
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FASHION & BEAUTY
BIG IS
Ujoh
BEAUTIFUL
Big. Bold. Beautiful. We go backstage to discover the standout beauty trends for AW18.
BOLD & BRIGHT
E SHIMMER & SHIN It might not be new, but the glitter trend is here to stay. From lids to lips and everywhere in between, the sparkly stuff was a hit at the pre-season shows. For a more subtle take, apply gold shimmer to your cheekbones.
CIDI Chanapatana
Kick off the season with a bold splash of eyeshadow. Hot pink, yellow and green were the hues most featured on the catwalks. Take inspiration from your clothes or accessories, rather just wearing a random pop of colour.
Piccione.Piccione
Stella Jean
Pamella Roland
A symbol of female empowerment, the red lip is massive for AW18. Experiment with shades, as the right one will bring your complexion alive. Worried about wearing red, try a sheer texture first to build up confidence.
POWER LIPS
REBEL YELL TEXTURED BROW
Au Jour Le Jo ur
It’s back to black as eyeliner is taking a dramatic turn in 2018. Whether you go for the classic cat eye, wing it out, create graphic shapes or opt for a quirky thumbprint, you really can’t go wrong. Now is not the time to play safe.
This style is about building dimension, texture and fullness to your brows regardless of their shape. Brush your brows up with a tinted, smudge-proof gel. This will separate the hairs adding both thickness and texture.
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 19
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HEALTH & WELLBEING Gym Ball Upbeat Bra, £50, Sweaty Betty Gel-Pulse 10 Running Shoes, £85, Asics
Gym Ball Power Leggings, £90, Sweaty Betty Multi Sports Bra, £25, M&S
Adizero Adios 3 Running Shoes, £129.95, Adidas
From couch to 10K, feel comfortable and confident in the latest upbeat, high energy gym wear. Adidas Training Shirt, £100, Stella McCartney
Multi Sports Legging, £28, M&S
Bright SIDE 576 Colour Circle Trainers, £140, New Balance
Perfect Moment Cropped T-Shirt, £110, Net-A-Porter Adidas Training Bottoms, £100, Stella McCartney
Eclypse Leopard Sneakers, £475, Stella McCartney Perfect Moment Starlight Leggings, £110, Net-A-Porter
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 21
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
Duty
HEAVY
The weights area in a gym, has long been viewed as an intimidating, testosterone-drenched New skinny In the past skinny has been portrayed space. Yet women as the ultimate (and often elusive) goal shouldn't miss out on for women. However as the focus moves towards health and wellbeing, strength the many health benefits training has come into its own. More of this kind of training, effective than cardiovascular exercise for says Rebecca Watts shifting fat, toning and improving shape, lifting weights won’t make you bigger from TheStudios40. Here she takes a look at why resistance training has become one of the fastest growing trends in recent years…
Mind power
So many people focus on the aesthetics of exercise results i.e. how they want to look. However, much more important is how exercise makes you feel. As well as releasing the feel good hormones, endorphins and dopamine, lifting weights has an amazing effect on confidence and self-esteem. Several studies have shown strength training to be associated with significant improvements in body image, health-related quality of life, satisfaction, and comfort.
Age buster
Lifting weights isn’t just for the young, it’s for women of all ages. There are great physical health benefits to resistance training including better body composition, increased bone density, hormone regulation, reduced risk of injury and health conditions, and better mobility. Some of these benefits are often more important as we get older, so don’t let age be an excuse. We all deserve to be that strong, independent women no matter our age!
Get started
There are many ways to get started and build your confidence: • Get a resistance training app on your phone and workout at home.
(basic biology means women won’t naturally bulk up) but they will make you stronger; making daily activities (carrying shopping, picking up kids, gardening) so much easier.
• Join a kettlebells class. If you feel intimidated by the gym there’s always the village hall.
Self love
• Hire a personal trainer. Get some friends together and split the cost or join a group session.
Studies have shown women of all sizes who lift weights have a better relationship with their body and size than slim women who don’t lift weights. Lifting weights can be incredibly rewarding and motivating. Seeing yourself progress, get leaner and stronger creates a buzz, and helps you to love the body you’re in. In no time you’ll find yourself standing taller and creating a presence rather than simply blending into the background.
• Workout in the gym. There are plenty of ladies gyms about, or ladies only sessions.
• Learn the proper techniques, as this will help you to avoid injury. • Keep challenging yourself and vary your routine. Don’t let your body get used to it. So what are you waiting for…get lifting, get healthy! URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 23
“OUTSTANDING”
“What a hidden gem, tucked away in a quiet village, this is a place to seek out.” Open for Dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm 0116 2796260 lighthousekibworth.co.uk
WIN!
DELICIOUSLY ELLA COOKBOOK Deliciously Ella: The Plant-Based Cookbook, contains 100 simple vegan recipes to make every day delicious and we’ve got 5 copies to give away. Ella’s latest book features the most popular, tried and tested recipes from her supper clubs, pop-ups and deli to show how delicious and abundant plant-based cooking can be. The simple vegan recipes cover everything from colourful salads to veggie burgers and falafel, creamy dips and sides, hearty one-pot curries and stews, speedy breakfasts, weekend brunches, muffins, cakes and brownies. With diary excerpts that document the incredible journey that Deliciously Ella has taken
and over 100 tried-and-tested irresistible recipes for every day, using simple, nourishing ingredients, this vegan bible will be a must-have for fans and food-lovers alike.
TO ENTER:
Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Deliciously Ella’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Sunday 30 September 2018. Terms & Conditions: The winners will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.
WINING & DINING
Whole New
WORLD
Cutting gluten from your diet may seem like a difficult task. Fortunately, there are many healthy foods that are naturally gluten-free. Discover a new eating experience with these delicious recipes from Waitrose.
TIKKA LAMB CUTLETS Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus marinating Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: 4 lamb rack cutlets 1 x 70g Patak’s tikka masala paste pot ½ lemon, juice 3 tbsp mint raita ½ small red onion, finely sliced 300g new potatoes, halved 160g frozen peas Handful mint leaves, shredded
1
2
Put the cutlets, paste and a squeeze of lemon juice in a resealable freezer bag. Massage the paste into the lamb, then set aside to marinate for 20 minutes (or chill for up to 24 hours). In a large bowl, mix the raita, remaining lemon juice and sliced red onion; set aside. Put a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Remove the cutlets from the bag and scrape off and discard the excess
marinade. Season and fry for 4 minutes on each side, then fry the edges for a couple of minutes to crisp up the fat. Ensure the juices run clear before setting aside to rest for 5 minutes.
3
Meanwhile, cook the potatoes in a large pan of simmering water for 12 minutes, then add the peas. Bring the water back to the boil, then drain thoroughly. Tip into the bowl with the raita and onion, then toss together, season, and fold through the mint. Divide between two plates and serve with the lamb cutlets.
CARROT, HALLOUMI & FOUR-SEED SALAD Preparation time: 15 minutes, Cooking time: 5 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: ½ tsp fennel seeds ½ tsp coriander seeds 1 tbsp sunflower seeds 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds 450g carrots 1 courgette 5 tbsp cider vinegar 2 tbsp sultanas, roughly chopped ½ x 250g pack halloumi, cut into 1cm slices
Images and recipes: Waitrose
1
Dry-toast the fennel and coriander seeds in a frying pan for about 1 minute until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly, then roughly crush in a pestle and mortar. Meanwhile, dry-toast the sunflower and pumpkin seeds for 1-2 minutes until golden; remove and set aside.
2
Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, carefully pare long ribbons from the carrots and courgette. Place in a large bowl with the vinegar, crushed fennel and coriander seeds, sultanas and 100ml ice-cold water, then set aside.
3
Meanwhile, dry-fry the halloumi slices in the frying pan over a medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden, then remove and chop into chunks. Drain the carrot, courgette and sultanas in a sieve, shaking off any excess, and discard the liquid. Place on 2 plates and top with the warm halloumi before scattering over the sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
WINING & DINING
HAKE & BUTTER BEANS WITH LEMON MAYO Preparation time: 15 minutes, Cooking time: 30 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil 2 onions, sliced 2 garlic cloves, sliced ½ tsp sweet smoked paprika, plus extra to serve 4 tomatoes, roughly chopped 400g can butter beans, drained and rinsed 4 tbsp mayonnaise ½ lemon, zest and juice 250ml fresh fish stock 4 x 150g fresh hake fillets Handful flat leaf parsley, chopped
1
Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over a medium heat; fry the onions with a pinch of salt for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and fry for another 8-10 minutes, until soft and just starting to turn golden. Add the paprika and fry for 1 more minute, then add the tomatoes and butter beans, frying for another 2-3 minutes.
2 3
Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the lemon zest and juice; season and set aside. Add the fish stock to the sauté pan. As soon as it comes to a gentle simmer, nestle in the hake fillets. Cover with a lid or a sheet of foil; cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. Check the seasoning and serve sprinkled with parsley and a little more paprika, plus a dollop of the lemon mayo.
0116 255 5745 WWW.DEWHIRSTKITCHENS.CO.UK OUR LEICESTERSHOWROOM IS LOCATED AT 98 GRANBY STREET, LEICESTER LE1 1DU
Recipes & Images: Waitrose
WINING & DINING
Spice
GIRL
Are you a girl that loves big, bold flavours? Then spice up your life with these tongue tingling curries.
CHICKEN MASSAMAN CURRY
SWEET POTATO CURRY
Ingredients: 400ml can reduced fat coconut milk 200ml chicken stock 100g jar Cooks’ Ingredients Massaman Thai curry paste 1 cinnamon stick 6 chicken thigh fillets 300g miniature potatoes, halved 50g cashew nuts or peanuts 1 red chilli ½ x 28g pack fresh coriander, leaves only 2 salad onions, shredded Cooked basmati rice, to serve 1 lime, cut into wedges
Ingredients: 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 350g cauliflower florets 3 tbsp Cooks’ Ingredients tikka curry paste 350g sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2cm cubes 35g raisins 500ml vegetable stock 400g can chopped tomatoes Juice of ½ lemon 400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 115g pack baby spinach 25g toasted flaked almonds 200g quinoa with bulgar wheat mix, cooked to serve
Method: Place the coconut milk, stock, curry paste and cinnamon stick in a large saucepan and bring to a simmer. Cut the chicken into cubes and add to the pan with the potatoes. Cook gently for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through with no pink meat remaining. Meanwhile, toast the cashew nuts or peanuts in a small non-stick frying pan for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Deseed the chilli and slice it into long shreds. Set aside. Divide the curry among 4 bowls and scatter with the toasted nuts, coriander leaves, chilli and salad onions. Serve with rice and lime wedges for squeezing over.
Method: Heat the oil in a large saucepan and cook the onion and cauliflower for 6-8 minutes until starting to turn golden and soften. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the sweet potatoes, raisins, stock and chopped tomatoes. Cover and cook gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and the sauce is thickened. Stir in the lemon juice, chickpeas and spinach and cook for a further 2-3 minutes. Scatter over the toasted flaked almonds and serve with the quinoa mix. URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 29
Boden
LIFE & WORK
Feel the
FEAR
Doing anything new in life is scary — and no one is immune to it. The only way to get through it is to get stuck into the things that terrify you, says fear aficionado Sarah Mettrick. During my twenties and early thirties I longed for adventure. If I jumped off a cliff, trekked through a desert or spearfished in shark infested waters, it really didn't occur to me to think of a negative. A decade and a half later and I’m carrying out a comprehensive risk assessment before putting on a pair of tights. What the hell? An adrenaline pumping activity these days is negotiating a downward escalator carrying a heap of shopping. So do we get less brave as we age or just more sensible? Could it be that as we mature and get wiser we simultaneously become aware of dangers and are far more reluctant to face them if we don't need to. Or maybe, and this is my theory, it's all to do with procreation. When we are young and reckless we have little to lose, it’s far easier to gamble any potential consequences when you live only for yourself. However that maternal pull to protect and care for
one’s offspring kicks in big time and self-preservation becomes paramount. But hold your horses - bravery is not limited to acts of physical courage, I like to think as the years pile upon us that other strengths compensate for the lack of our Lara Croft qualities. Take social courage for example, it takes a brave woman not to care what others think of her. We risk embarrassment, unpopularity and even rejection by standing up for what we believe to be important, so we should never underestimate the strength behind moral courage. And what about emotional courage? Everyone, and I mean everyone you love should know it. And it takes serious guts to cut out those negative people in your life who’ve pulled you down for too long. We should understand that courage is not the absence of fear, being brave is carrying out something while experiencing fear, however with
the right mind-set this is something we can all achieve. All too often we translate feelings of fear into a reason not to do something and give up at that point. Now this may be wise if you’re considering a back-flip into the lion enclosure on a family day out at the Zoo. However if you want to make that career change, confront your boss or conquer a phobia, the wise words and title of Susan Jeffers book – “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway” becomes invaluable advice.
When you act despite your fear you get a surge of confidence, pride and empowerment The only way to rid yourself of the fear is to go out and do it. The payback from your bravery compensates tenfold. When you act despite your fear you get a surge of confidence, pride and empowerment. This motivates you to grow even more and you begin to understand that fear is not a reason to remain static. I truly believe if you want to achieve your full potential, reach greater levels of happiness, love well and live a full and rewarding life, you need to be brave. On that note I must go, my kids are pestering me to take them out for an evening walk, now where did I put those Hi-Vis jackets… URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 31
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REBEL AT
Heart
Away from Hollywood, Rachel Weisz has long sought to protect her private life from the prying lenses of the world’s paparazzi – a fact that serves only to emphasise her bravery on the big screen when it comes to handling difficult and thought-provoking roles.
LIFE & WORK
Rachel Weisz may well be one half of arguably Britain’s biggest acting super-couple, but unlike the ‘Brangelinas’ of this world, there’s little to be known about the actress’ marriage to 007-star Daniel Craig. Other than the eight years of matrimony already under their belt and a new baby on the way, of course. Both parties remain infamously tight-lipped about their personal lives – preferring instead to step away from the spotlight and the attentions of the tabloid press to instead let their silver screen craft do the talking. While her husband has seen himself inextricably tied to the Bond franchise for over a decade now – reports of his imminent departure notwithstanding – Weisz has indulged her creative passions in a multitude of varied projects. There have been action-packed blockbusters (The Mummy, The Mummy Returns), Academy Award-winning portrayals (The Constant Gardener), and cult favourites (The Lobster). And now there is Disobedience, a heart-strings-tugging tale of two Orthodox Jewish women – Weisz’s Ronit and Rachel McAdams’ Esti – rediscovering their feelings for each other despite their faith forbidding it. “They are two very different kinds of women, yet they found love together even though that's something very difficult to find even under normal circumstances,” Weisz explains. “But in their case, it's much more complicated because you can't be gay if you live in that world and you can't express that side of yourself. That means that you're faced with the choices of giving up that sense of community and entering a new world or remaining within that
culture into which you were born and to which you will always feel deep attachment.” For Weisz, the setting of Disobedience gave the 48-yearold a chance to reflect upon her own upbringing. Raised just a few bus stops away from the North London Jewish community “where spirituality is a beautiful thing”, Weisz was able to draw from her own experiences of religion.
"I wanted to create my own path even though I wasn't that sure of myself in my twenties" “I grew up with an understanding and awareness of Jewish culture, since my dad was Jewish,” she nods. “But my mum was raised Catholic in a convent in Cambridge and she only converted because my dad, being Jewish, wouldn't have married her otherwise. I think I grew up with the culture of both religions although I never felt a connection to religion myself. Equally important to Weisz was the added draw of co-starring alongside another highly talented actress in a female-driven love story. “It was very rewarding because I've never played in a film before where I had so many scenes with another woman and where I was able to connect to a female character in such a close way,” she smiles. “I remember telling Rachel how it was so interesting to be able to delve into friendship between women that intensely. There should be more place for such stories to be told in our industry.”
And even with the almost obligatory tabloid attention being directed at Weisz and McAdams’ characters more intimate scenes together, there is far more to the physical side of the women’s story than mere titillation. “Usually sex scenes are very marginal to films and there's not much point to them,” Weisz admits. “But in our story it's really a love scene that is about freedom, and the freedom that Esti feels in that moment. It's very erotic but it's also symbolic of the transformation that takes place within her and how it will change her world forever. Ronit is a rebel, but deep down she's very vulnerable and hurting. I think everyone can relate to the experience of leaving one's home, one's community, and then having this desire to go back and rediscover it and reconnect with it.” This insight could well reflect Weisz’s own dogged determination to make bold and inspiring career choices. “I wanted to create my own path even though I wasn't that sure of myself in my twenties and the course I was taking,” she concludes. “I can understand of course how it's important to try to free yourself from the kind of conditioning that takes place in your family even though you don't necessarily know where you're going or exactly what you want to do in life. It takes time and even as you get older you don't necessarily feel you've figured everything out.”
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 35
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AYGO x-press 5 door 1.0 VVT-i Manual. Official Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 57.6 (4.9), Extra Urban 78.5 (3.6), Combined 68.9 (4.1). CO2 Emissions 93g/km. All mpg and CO2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU regulated laboratory test results. These are provided to allow comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect your actual driving experience. From 1 September 2017, certain new vehicles will be type-approved using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which is a new, more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. From 1 September 2018 WLTP will fully replace the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which is the current test procedure. Due to more realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions measured under the WLTP are in many cases higher compared to those measured under the NEDC. More information can be found by visiting www.WLTPfacts.eu Model shown is MY18 AYGO x-press 5 door 1.0 VVT-i Manual at £12,630. Additional charges may apply on selected paint colours and finishes. Prices correct at time of going to print. 5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty. Terms and conditions apply. *0% APR Representative only available on new retail orders of AYGO (excluding X grade) between 2nd July 2018 and 30th September 2018 and registered and financed through Toyota Financial Services by 31st December 2018 on a 36 month AccessToyota (PCP) plan with 0%-35% deposit. ^Payment shown is based on a 36 month AccessToyota (PCP) contract with £2,680 customer deposit and Guaranteed Future Value/Optional Final Payment. Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. 8,000 miles per annum, excess miles over contracted charged at 8p per mile. Toyota Centres are independent of Toyota Financial Services. Participating Toyota Centres. Affordable finance through AccessToyota (PCP). Terms and conditions apply.
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LIFE & WORK
DREAM
JOB Do you go to work every day with a skip in your step and a song in your heart? If not, why not, asks Kirsty France? I know, I know, I can hear you laughing from here. All of this ‘living the dream’ stuff is for people who don’t have children to feed and a mortgage to pay. But not necessarily. Just because you can’t afford to throw it all in and go and work on a beach in Bondi doesn’t mean that you can’t make things better. Anyway, if I worked on a beach my laptop would be full of sand within minutes. I took the leap towards my dream job in my own way and you can too. You just have to be a little bit brave.
DISCOVER YOUR DREAM
For most of us, the idea of a dream job can seem a million miles away. Your youthful ambitions have probably been crushed by the reality of making a living. Someone probably told you to be realistic. People like you didn’t do jobs like that. Eventually your dream got buried. I’m only going to tell you to be realistic up to a point. You’re not going to make it as an opera singer if you couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket. What I am going to suggest you do is to come up with the ultimate dream. What would
you like to be doing in 5 years’ time? Don’t let the little voices in your head tell you that you can’t, just write it down.
BREAK IT DOWN
Once you’ve written down a big scary goal you might think that it’s too far away and you couldn’t possibly get there. That’s why the next bit is so important. What would it take for you to get to where you want to be? Finding the smaller stepping stones that get you there can make the whole thing less daunting. For example, maybe you make jewellery or basket weave bags as a hobby and want to turn it into a business. What opportunities do you have to sell what you make? Maybe you could create a website or a Facebook page. There are probably loads of local craft fairs where you could have a stall. Some of your ideas might be for things you don’t know how to do yet. There’s absolutely nothing wrong
with a stepping stone that says ‘find out how to learn x’.
BE BRAVE
Of course, all of that is easier said than done. Writing a long list of the things you want to do and how you can make a start might be easy, but actually doing it can be a lot more difficult. The first tiny step might be ringing someone up to ask about a stall or going along to a networking group but the fear of putting yourself out there can be overwhelming. A friend shared a great technique with me for overcoming this. She calls it being ‘five minute brave’. You don’t have to be brave all the time. Just do it for the five minutes it takes to make a phone call or to walk into a networking meeting and get a coffee. Put a few of those together and you’ll start to gain in confidence.
Share your dream job with me on Facebook and #JointheConversation URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 37
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 39
HOMES & GARDENS
Statement
PIECE
A statement chair will add colour and interest to your living space.
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1 Calvin Armchair, £399, Atkin and Thyme 2 Cashmere Hypercube Chair, £459, Bluesuntree 3 Finn Juhl Armchair, £299, MY Furniture 4 Audrey Accent Chair, £199, John Lewis 5 Oriel Chair, £2,370, Rume 6 Kubrick Wing Back Chair, £349, Made.com 7 1958 Armchair, £585, Oliver Bonas 8 Misty Armchair £595, Habitat 9 Womb Chair, £3,312, Heal’s URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 41
Harborough Lights Lighting Design Consultancy
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Welcome Mr. Wattson, your fun and flexible friend Open 9am until 5pm Tuesday to Saturday
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URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 43
The Light House LEICESTER’S LEADING LIGHTING SPECIALIST
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www.lighthouse-leicester.co.uk Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday 11am-4pm sales@lighthouse-leicester.co.uk
LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE
Inspiring, Practical and Creative. EMC Tiles have been supplying quality ceramic and porcelain tiles since 1979 to the trade, domestic customers and commercial developers. Our award–winning showrooms in Leicester, Loughborough and Nottingham have the latest in tile fashion and trends with an extensive range of tiles and tiling accessories in-store and online. Our staff share a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you make the right choice of tile and fixings; all with free local delivery.*
For further details call 0116 283 4068 or email enquiries@emctiles.co.uk 551 Saffron Lane, Leicester, LE2 6UN Also at Nottingham and Loughborough. Follow us: * T&C’s apply
www.emctiles.co.uk
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 45
Image & products: John Lewis
Modern MIX
Combine traditional design with modern accents for a confident, creative and curated home style.
HOMES & GARDENS
Myers Touch Table Lamp, £90 Perfume Bottle, £30
Jordan Marble Mantel Clock, £40
Ipanema Rug, £350
Connubia Chair, £329
Cire Trudon Candle, £78
Marble Trinket Box, £40
Glass Car ve Vases, fro d m £35
Waterford Lismore Candlestick, £265
Yoko Sideboard, £699
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 47
Broughtons
Traditional Lighting & Architectural Ironmongery
WIN! MANDURAI CANDLE by Cire Trudon
Remy Wall Light. Heritage Bronze with Parissiene Gold detail. LIIW2582
Showroom Open: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm The Old Cinema Cropston Road Anstey Leicestershire LE7 7BP
0116 232 3175
www.broughtons.com
sales@broughtons.com
We Specialise in quality bespoke made to measure: BLINDS | CURTAINS | SHUTTERS | AWNINGS
For Full Range & Inspirational Gallery: @thecurtainsandblindscompany
Invigorate your home with this Madurai candle from Cire Trudon (worth £78) as featured in our ‘Modern Mix’ homes feature. Blending notes of ylang ylang, sambac jasmine absolute and benzoin resin, it evokes a time when the Duke of Tuscany first brought jasmine in India in 1690. Whether fresh or dried, jasmine plays a quintessential role in India’s myths, legends and daily rituals from perfuming loose-leaf teas to being braided into floral necklaces. This beautifully floral scent is named after the city of Madurai in southern India which is well known for the culture of jasmine. A wonderful addition to your home fragrance collection, this scent comes presented in an elegant blue vessel finished with ornate Cire Trudon label with a burning time of 55 to 60 hours.
TO ENTER
07511561812
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EVINGTON, LEICESTER, UNITED KINGDOM
Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Cire Trudon’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Sunday 30 September 2018. Terms & Conditions: The winners will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.
Kitchen Design and Installation for every Lifestyle and Budget.
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0116 271 4003 | www.kitchenhomedesign.co.uk | DDDD
Art HOUSE
Bring your walls bang up-to-date with a palette of pattern and colour. Be fearless with a bold artistic statement, or dip a toe with a stylish feature wall. PERIOD PIECE
Historical inspired wallpapers don’t need to be old-fashioned. Timorous Beasties ‘Edinburgh Toile’ draws on eighteenth century toiles de jouey, but aside from the city’s iconic buildings and historical figures, it also features tourism, fast food vans, homelessness, and modern housing developments.
HOMES & GARDENS
MARBLE EFFECT
Delight your style senses with the Timorous Beasties ‘Cerebral Marble’ wallpaper collection. Inspired by the Rorschach Personality Ink Blot Test it’s reminiscent of looking through a psychedelic kaleidoscope. Temper other decorating elements to create balance within the room.
MAKING SHAPES
ORIENTAL GARDEN
Inspired by captivating landscapes of the Orient, Harlequin ‘Salice’ is an abstract painterly interpretation of sprays of pussy willow. Avoid going overboard with the oriental theme. Add depth by swapping traditional eastern style furniture, for French inspired or contemporary furnishings.
Large-scale graphic prints work well in a contemporary scheme, while smaller patterns work with traditional furnishings. ‘Prism’ by Cole & Son is an enigmatic wallpaper which uses the four colour separation process to produce a bright palette. A real signature piece for any modern interior.
FLOWER POWER
Oversized floral prints can look fabulous in both small and large rooms. ‘Floral Dance’ by Gillian Arnold Design is a creative blend of English leaves and wild cuttings that take you back to a time of ornate fixings and rich décor. The subtle use of colour creates a design that is as much artistic as it is elegant.
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Adhesives, oils, lacquers, cleaning products, skirting & door trims etc available from stock
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Find us on
a family name, a family business
Specialists in Aluminium & UPVC Windows & Doors, Living Spaces & Heritage Styles SHOWROOM OPEN 7 DAYS Kettell Windows, Unit 12, The Warren, East Goscote, Leicestershire LE7 3XA 0116 2696721 | sales@kettellwindows.co.uk | kettellwindows.co.uk
Find your perfect home in two desirable locations Huncote
Loughborough
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Images depict a typical Westleigh home
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westleigh.co.uk *Subject to Help to Buy scheme rules. Mortgage offer is subject to application and status. Full details of the mortgage product are available through an independent mortgage adviser.
John Lewis
HOMES & GARDENS
Dress for
SUCCESS In an increasingly tough property market, making your home stand out to potential buyers has never been more important, says Fothergill Wyatt’s, Nicol Nightingale-Spear.
In this rapidly changing industry, home owners are increasingly bombarded with professional advice and assistance on how to sell their biggest asset. From property consultants and lifestyle gurus, to home stagers and feng shui specialists, all promise to help add value to, or expedite the sale of your home. Alongside the boundless professional expertise, there’s also a wealth of helpful hints and inspirational ideas available through both digital and print media. Think Ideal Home, House Beautiful and Houzz.co.uk. For the ‘New Homes’ market, dressing properties for sale is old news. The aspiration in recent years for larger
and higher specification kitchen/ diners, family rooms, contemporary bathrooms and en suites, has largely been born from show homes found on new developments, combined with the public’s veracious appetite for property and design TV programmes aka Property Ladder, Love It or List It, Grand Designs. The chic, modern interior design in show homes and property programmes, make the properties more enticing, creating a wow factor while giving insight into desirable lifestyle choices. But how does this translate into selling your own home? When the property market is strong home owners can get away with marketing their properties without offering any wow factors or standout features. However, when the market slows down it’s vital that owners really think about how their property presents to prospective buyers. Remember buyers will be comparing your home with other properties in the immediate area and so to secure a sale you may need to be proactive and bold.
So how do you make your property stand out? Declutter and clean thoroughly before putting your house on the market; tidy your garden, touch up or repaint walls that show signs of wear and tear, create light and space with neutral colour schemes, accessorise with natural textures and materials; even a well-made bed will help sell the lifestyle, as well as the property. But what about those ‘wow’ factors? Present any classic property features such as fireplaces, Minton tiled flooring and interesting nooks and crannies, so they stand out. Fling open trifold doors and incorporate plants for the ultimate outside-in vibe. Or invest in a funky piece of garden sculpture, striking artwork or that contemporary lamp or mirror you’ve always fancied – you can always take it with you to your new home. Essentially the clearer the lifestyle is defined, the easier it is to sell the property. Keep asking yourself… Could we do more? What makes our home special? And if you’re unsure where to start, remember there’s a wealth of on/off line resource out there. A good, experienced estate agent will always be able to advise you on what needs to be done to make your property standout in the current market. URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 55
Add light and space to your home Would you like somewhere to just sit back and admire your garden? Adding a conservatory can be a relatively low cost, hassle free way to extend your living area whilst adding value to your home.
For more information, call Harveys on 0116 233 4441 Showroom: Empire Road, Leicester LE3 5HE Open Weekdays 9-5, Saturday 10-1 info@harveyswindows.co.uk www.harveyswindows.co.uk
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SIMPLICITY Being brave in the garden doesn’t have to mean throwing caution to the wind with clashing colours, strong shapes and bonkers borders, it can be as simple as trying something new.
1 Colour
Yes you could go intense with a kaleidoscope of deep crimson, firey orange and sunshine yellow, or alternatively leave a lasting impression by paring right back with a single colour and plant type.
2 Space
A bold garden is one that has defined areas to use and enjoy. It’s possible even in a small garden to create a series of spaces – veggie patch, dining area, relaxing retreat – using partitions.
3 Design
Go all out with busy borders and bright furnishings or opt for a simplified design for extra
drama. Keep planting low key and swap bulky tables and chairs for a streamline allweather garden seat.
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4 Vibe
Be brave and reflect your personality and character in the garden. Think about incorporating a theme. From tropical jungle to Japanese zen garden, the only limitation is your imagination.
5 Playfulness
Finally, don’t take it too seriously. Brave decisions can be playful too. Furniture crafted from recycled materials, art installations, or a few novelty pots, will make your garden fun and quirky. URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 57
BURGHLEY AT 3 -6 October 2018
See the State Rooms at night illuminated by atmospheric lighting and enjoy a glass of prosecco in the Old Kitchen. Tickets on sale soon!
£20 online - £22 at the ticket desk
www.burghley.co.uk
#twilighttours
Charity golf day in aid of Venue: Leicestershire Golf Club
• Sponsorship welcome • £250 per team of four • RSVP by 21st Sept
Date: Wed 10th Oct 2018 from 9.30am For more information contact: 0116 270 5900
info@fothergillwyatt.com www.fothergillwyatt.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
WHAT’S ON
The Merry Wives of Windsor, 12 Sep, Market Harborough Theatre
SEPTEMBER 2018
Julie
Blithe Spirit
Vanessa Kirby (The Crown, NT Live: A Streetcar Named Desire) and Eric Kofi Abrefa (The Amen Corner) feature in the cast of this brand new production, broadcast live from the National Theatre to cinemas. Wild and newly single, Julie throws a late night party. In the kitchen, Jean and Kristina clean up as the celebration heaves above them. Crossing the threshold, Julie initiates a power game with Jean – which rapidly descends into a savage fight for survival. This new version of August Strinberg’s play Miss Julie, written by Polly Stenham, remains shocking and fiercely relevant in its new setting of contemporary London.
Do you believe in ghosts? When eccentric psychic Madame Arcati delves into the unknown, Charles finds himself caught between the spirit of his first wife Elvira and his new spouse Ruth. Two’s company but three is definitely a crowd and things will never be quite the same again. Made famous as a film in 1945 starring Rex Harrison and Margaret Rutherford and recently revived on the West End stage with Angela Lansbury, Blithe Spirit is an improbable farce, full of incessant wit and elegant charm. This amateur production is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd.
Thu 6 Sep Cinema De Lux Tickets from £13.25 showcasecinemas.co.uk
10 - 15 Sep The Little Theatre Tickets from £13.50 thelittletheatre.net
Julie, 6 Sep, Cinema De Lux
The Trench, 28 Sep, Uppingham Theatre
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Tue 11 - Sat 15 Sep Haymarket Theatre Tickets from £12 haytheatre.com
Leicester Amateur Operatic Society presents a fantastic musical adventure based on the beloved 1968 film of Ian Fleming’s children’s book, and featuring an unforgettable score. An eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, sets about restoring an old racing car from a scrap heap with the help of his children Jeremy and Jemima. They soon discover that the car has magical properties including the ability to float and take flight. Trouble occurs when the evil Baron Bomburst desires the magic car for himself. The family joins forces with Truly Scrumptious and batty Grandpa to defeat the Baron and escape the clutches of the evil child-catcher!
Kirsten McTernan
The Wipers Times, 24 - 29 Sep, Curve
The Merry Wives of Windsor Wed 12 Sep Market Harborough Theatre Tickets from £8 harboroughtheatre.com
A new version of Shakespeare’s hilarious comedy of suburbia, wives and over-inflated egos! Down on his luck in the suburbs, John Falstaff plans to hustle his way to a comfortable retirement by seducing the wives of two wealthy men. Unknown to him, it’s the women of Windsor who really pull the strings, orchestrating Falstaff’s comeuppance amidst a theatrical smorgasbord of petty rivalries, jealousies and over-inflated egos. The only way is Windsor, in this outrageous and fun-filled new version of Shakespeare’s hilarious comedy.
The Wipers Times Mon 24 Sep - Sat 29 Sep Curve Theatre Tickets from £10 curveonline.co.uk
Ian Hislop and Nick Newman’s The Wipers Times tells the true and extraordinary story of the satirical newspaper created in the mud and mayhem of the Somme. In a bombed out building during the First World War in the Belgian town of Ypres (mispronounced Wipers by British soldiers), two officers discover a printing press and create a newspaper for the troops. Far from being a sombre journal about life in the trenches, they produced a resolutely cheerful, subversive and very funny newspaper designed to lift the spirits of the men on the front line. The Wipers Times is coming to Leicester direct from a record breaking West End season.
The Trench
Fri 28 Sep Uppingham Theatre Tickets from £14 uppthearts.co.uk Olivier Award nominated Les Enfants Terribles bring their signature style of visual storytelling to the stage with their First World War epic, The Trench; blending live music, puppetry and physical performance for this special centenary production. Written by Oliver Lansley and with live music by Alexander Wolfe, The Trench is inspired by the true story of a miner who became entombed underground in a collapsed tunnel during World War One. As the horror threatens to engulf him, he finds that not everything in the darkness is what it seems. The line between fantasy and reality blurs as he embarks on an epic journey for survival, questioning what’s real, what’s not and whether it even matters?
Me, Mum & The Patriarchy
Sat 29 Sep Upstairs at the Western Tickets from £6 upstairsatthewestern.com Join Keeley Lane as she packs away her memories into boxes and journeys through her family history to explore her relationship to the patriarchy. This one woman short performance (1 hr) portrays three generations of women in a moving, hilarious and poignant journey exploring the irony of choice through feminist autobiographical performance. It covers themes of gender binaries, the right to choose, growing up, domestic violence, sexual harassment and questions whether women really can have it all.
Withering Looks
Fri 28 Sep Stamford Arts Centre Tickets from £10 stamfordartscentre.com
Specially reworked for the 200th anniversary year of Emily’s birth, the classic comic duo, Maggie Fox and Sue Ryding, just couldn’t resist the urge to dust off their crinolines, wear flattering bonnets and sit at rain-lashed windows in a pale and decorative manner. Withering Looks takes an “authentic” look at the lives and works of the Brontë sisters – well, two of them actually, Anne’s just popped out for a cup of sugar. Peopled with many of the characters we know and love, Maggie and Sue move effortlessly from frock to frock coat. Withering Looks won the Critics’ award for Comedy at the Edinburgh Festival.
Withering Looks, 28 Sep, Stamford Arts Centre
Welcome to Wingates Gallery in Market Harborough
Our friendly gallery provides you with a warm welcome and an amazing range of art including: • Originals • Limited Editions • Sculptures • Bespoke Framing So, whether it’s floral, landscapes, seascapes, abstract, glassware or ceramics that you prefer – we have something just for you. Come in and see us - the coffee pot is always on and we would be delighted to show you around the newly refurbished gallery with plenty of new artists’ collections to see. A warm welcome awaits you.
Wingates Walk, 44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU shop@wingatesgallery.co.uk 01858 465455 www.wingatesgallery.co.uk Open: Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm
AUTUMN AUC TION PROGRAMME OF
gildings auctioneers
FINE ART AND ANTIQUES
Suitable entries are invited
Jewellery Valuations Entries of fine, victorian, vintage and modern jewellery are amongst the items now being invited for inclusion in our autumn programme of Fine Art and Antiques sales. Please contact our jewellery specialist on 01858 410414 or sales@gildings.co.uk for an appraisal. Illustrated: A diamond solitaire ring in the Art Deco style. SOLD £8,025 Including Fees.
Auctions and Catalogues Auction dates are published online at www.gildings.co.uk including fully illustrated catalogues when they become available. You may also subscribe so that you will be informed as soon as new catalogues are published.
There is always more to discover at Gildings Auctions
Telephone : 01858 410414 | Email: sales@gildings.co.uk | www.gildings.co.uk Gildings Auctioneers, The Mill, Great Bowden Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DE
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Book REVIEW
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
From poetry to paint, it’s time to live a life more full, more fun, more fierce.
A Woman's Drink
by Natalka Burian & Scott Schneider A chic and empowered approach to mixing drinks in style, A Woman's Drink: Bold Recipes for Bold Women is the ultimate cocktail book for women. Filled with gorgeous cocktails and favourite drinks from notable women, this chic package celebrates a new cocktail culture that's distinctly and unapologetically feminine. Whether you're drinking solo or with a crowd, these cocktails are strong, spirited, and bold, just like the women who drink them. Available Oct 2018.
Living the Life More Fabulous
She is Fierce
by Ana Sampson Collected by anthologist Ana Sampson She is Fierce: Brave, Bold and Beautiful Poems by Women contains an inclusive array of voices. From suffragettes to school girls, from spoken word superstars to civil rights activists, from aristocratic ladies to kitchen maids, these are voices that deserve to be heard. Divided into sections including ‘Roots and Growing Up’, ‘Love’, ‘Protest, Courage and Resistance’, and featuring biographies of each poet, this is a stunning collection to own and cherish.
by Tricia Cusden There has never been a better time to be an older woman. We are fitter, healthier and living longer than at any time in history. Living the Life More Fabulous is an irresistible guide to feeling great, whatever your age. Whether you’re looking for ideas to update your look, improve your general well-being or take an exciting or much-needed new direction, this book will encourage and empower you to live your life to the full.
Be Bold
by Emily Henson Fly the flag for maximalism – bring playful patterns, bold prints and vivid colours into your home with Emily Henson’s ‘interiors for the brave of heart’. Chapters such as ‘More is More’, ‘Pattern Riot’, and ‘Paint it Bold’, are brimming with inspiration, plus easy ideas to recreate in your own home. Henson also shares her favourite ‘trailblazers’. Homes with interiors for those who love colour, pattern and adventure.
Charred & Smoked
by James O. Fraioli & Derek Bugge Charring, searing, smoking, burning - techniques for achieving mouth-watering dishes with crispy textures and deep, robust flavours are no longer limited to the world of barbecue. Charred & Smoked includes recipes for rubs, seasonings, dressings, marinades, sauces, creative cocktails, and even desserts using fire and smoke, as well as a deeper dive into cooking methods used throughout the book, along with essential equipment and tools you should have on hand. URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 63
Explore a thousand years of history…
RE TRE AT S
…and the best of contemporary country living RE TRE AT S
An inspired collection of shops and experiences awaits you at the Engine Yard this summer. Come and see what makes us so special.
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RETREATS
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Life is OUT THERE It’s great to kick back and relax, but this year we’re swapping boring beach for biking, bungee jumping and back-packing. If it’s time to let your intrepid side out, here’s some ideas to get you started…
PERU With its ancient heritage and world class trekking, Peru is truly captivating. Whether you journey along the Inca trail to the citadel of Machu Picchu, camp in the Amazon rainforest, trek through the Andes, or explore its bustling cities, a visit to Peru is richly rewarding.
AFRICA From scaling the heights of Kilimanjaro and the Sossusvlei dunes to discovering the souks of Marrakech or a bush safari; this vast continent has a spectacular array of landscapes and a charming mix of cultures just waiting to be uncovered.
ICELAND A country that conjures up images of waterfalls, glaciers, spouting geysers and steaming hot pools, Iceland is an immense and evocative country. Complete the Golden Triangle of Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir and Thingvellir National Park, with a chance to see the enigmatic Northern Lights.
SRI LANKA From tropical beaches and tea fields, to fascinating ruins and vibrant towns, throw yourself into a holiday brimming with adventure and relaxation. Explore the national parks, wander through pretty colonial streets and discover the amazing local cuisine.
FIJI Located in the tropical South Pacific, Fiji is every island hopper's dream. Consisting of 333 islands, Fiji offers
water lovers the chance to surf, snorkel, dive or just zen out. Head to the Yasawa Islands for a break from civilisation. You won't find any shops there but it’s the ultimate retreat in paradise.
JAPAN This is a place where the past and present unite. From the skyscrapers of Tokyo and the Shinkansen bullet train, to the serenity of sacred shrines and splendour of Mt Fuji, get your bags packed for a trip that’s sure to ignite your wanderlust.
CROATIA It’s sparkling blue water, rugged coastline and picture-postcard villages, makes Croatia a fascinating country to visit. Whether you choose to explore the walled city of Dubrovnik, cruise the Med or cycle the Dalmatian Coast; there’s so much more to Croatia than sitting on the beach. URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2018 65
Personal style
Sophisticated Bo-Ho (if there’s such a thing) Fav yoga wear
Onzie, Dharma Bums & All Fenix Best for beauty
Environ
Most extravagant purchase
MY WAY
Vicki Cropp “Practising yoga is not about getting better at yoga, but getting better at living”, says Vicki Cropp, owner of Yoga Loft.
I was born and brought up in Hinckley, living with my mum, dad and two older sisters. As a child, I loved dancing, acting and stealing my sisters’ clothes to prance about in…shy I was not. By my late teens, I was officially (and still am unofficially) a drama queen, attending drama school, performing on stage and going to auditions. Those years were invaluable in terms of helping me to build my confidence, manage nerves and learn how to present myself. After school, I went to university and completed a BA (Hons) in English, after which I took some time out and travelled around the USA, south east Asia and Australia. During those wanderlust years, I felt like a free spirit and developed an interest in spirituality and philosophy. Back in the UK, I first worked in recruitment, working my way up to regional business manager for Hays, before switching careers to become a secondary school teacher. I’ve loved my career choices, but my philosophy has always been to evolve and change and keep riding the waves. So, after nine years of teaching, I swapped my desk
for a yoga mat and opened Yoga Loft, in Burbage, with my business partner, Kat Jennings. I first met Kat six years ago after having my first baby. I was a student in her yoga class. Kat was an amazing teacher and really inspired me to take a leap and train to become a yoga teacher. It was a personal journey and tough, both physically and mentally. Thankfully, I had the support of my family…literally…I took my husband and two sons aged three and four with me to India. It was a life changing experience. Through yoga, I found an inner peace. I only wish I’d found it sooner! Kat and I both believe that practising yoga is not about getting better at yoga, but getting better at living. This philosophy was reflected in our concept for Yoga Loft. We wanted to create the perfect environment for those wanting to switch off - think essential oils, candles, herbal tea and a dedicated tranquil space in which to practise. We also wanted to create a sense of belonging and community, offering a place for clients to meet after class. We’re not elitist and schedule specialist sessions for everyone from beginners and teens to children. Our Mums & Baby and Broga (men only) classes are popular too. Running your own business has its challenges, but I don’t regret it for a
Our honeymoon. A 21-day world trip. It cost more than the wedding! Latest read
“Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman On the box
Call the Midwife, Victoria & Downton. Period escapism. Sweet or savoury
Definitely savoury. I love my fish Advice to young self
Worry less, do even more second. Life is busy, but so much more flexible than before. I can do the school run and attend all the boys’ activities. We also have a new addition to the family, so working from home on back office tasks means that I can be hands on for my baby daughter. Best of all, we can take a month off each year to travel as a family to places such as India or Bali. We explore, experience the culture and spend quality time together. It’s also the perfect opportunity to hone my skills further. Since we opened, Yoga Loft has gone from strength to strength. We’ve expanded, scheduled new classes and welcomed new teachers and clients alike. But it’s important to us that we don’t overstretch ourselves or lose sight of the essence and authenticity of what we are doing. No-one wants a stressedout yoga teacher! So, for now I’m going to practise what I preach… and find the right balance. If you’d like to discover more about Yoga Loft, visit www.yogaloftstudio.co.uk
NEW HOMES IN RURAL VILLAGES WITH EXCELLENT CONNECTIVITY
L RE AS M TF AI O N UR IN G
Mulberry Homes’ latest developments include these stunning collections of superior two, three, four and five bedroom homes offering spacious and contemporary living catering to first time buyers, commuters and down sizers alike, we have a house type to suit every need.
STOKES RISE
GREAT EASTON LEICESTERSHIRE LE16 8SH
An exclusive development of three and four S T O K bedroom, expansive family homes located in what G R E A T is considered to be one of the most attractive villages in the Welland valley.
ES RISE E A S T O N
Prices from £599,950 Visit the Marketing Suite - 07884 434 119 By appointment only
H
HARCOURT GARDENS
G
KIBWORTH HARCOURT LEICESTERSHIRE LE8 0RX
HARCOURT GARDENS K I B W O R T H
A collection of 60 two to four bedroom homes in the vibrant village of Kibworth Harcourt, eight miles to the south east of Leicester.
H A R C O U R T
Prices from £239,950
O NO VE W SO R 5 LD 5%
Visit the Marketing Suite - 07501 011 214 Open Daily 10am - 5pm (Sundays 4pm)
HURSLEY PARK
GREAT BOWDEN LEICESTERSHIRE LE16 7FN
An exciting development of 50 three to fi ve H U R S L bedroom family homes, set within stunning G R E A T landscape gardens and 22 acres of country park.
EY PARK B
O
W
D
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Prices from £379,950 Visit the Marketing Suite - 07884 434 119 Open daily 10am - 4pm
For further information visit www.mulberryhomes.co.uk or call 01582 797 562 Images are indicative only. All details and prices correct at time of going to press - August 2018
Andrew Granger & Co. Your sales & lettings agents across Leicestershire
LEICESTER • LOUGHBOROUGH • MARKET HARBOROUGH • LONDON
LEICESTER • LOUGHBOROUGH • MARKET HARBOROUGH • LONDON
Andrew Granger & Co. Your sales & lettings agents across Leicestershire
RURAL • •COMMERCIAL SURVEYS VALUATIONS RURAL COMMERCIAL•• PLANNING PLANNING & & DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT ••SURVEYS && VALUATIONS For expert expert advice advice call: For call: 0116 2429922 // 01858 01858 431315 235534 0116 2429922 431315 // 01509 01509 235534 www.andrewgranger.co.uk www.andrewgranger.co.uk