Feel Alive Magazine Winter 2010

WINTER EDITION

I’m dreaming of a...

Sparkle this

Christmas IT’S A FESTIVE FASHION FEAST SENSATION!

COOL Stuff

CHILL OUT WITH ESSENTIAL GADGETS

SHINE

and be our next cover star

HAS YOUR CHILD GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO BE COVENTRY’S NEXT TOP MODEL

Nativity STAR Chat UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH DEBBIE ISITT

The Business

MEET COVENTRY’S LATEST ENTREPRENEUR

Coventry’s Dream Christmas

WIN A FAMILY HOLIDAY TO FLORIDA

Please note that personal photography is not allowed in the grotto.

EDITOR’S

WELCOME WINTER 2010 T

is the season to be jolly and have we got a cracking festive edition for you!

Girls up the glamour stakes with our guide to this season’s sparkling fashion and guys, make a statement with our top tips to make you shine during the festive season.

Meet our latest entrepreneur and “The Business” winner Gillian Wesley and catch up with Brody as he gives us the latest guide to the Gospel.

With the impending release of Nativity on DVD we get up close and personal with Nativity filmmaker Debbie Isitt and we give you the chance to get your child on the front cover of our Spring edition!

Do the scent-sible thing and catch our guide to those must have fragrances that will keep you smelling sweet throughout the holidays. And for those of you who need help with that post Christmas indulgence follow our tips and advice and you’ll be looking fab and not flab in 2011.

To top it all we’re giving you the opportunity to win your dream family holiday to Florida in conjunction with our Coventry Dream Christmas campaign see page 32 for further details of how to enter.

Add in news, reviews, gadgets, gizmos and entertainment and you’re in for one festive treat!

Have a fantastic Christmas and peaceful New Year!

Contents NEWS

4 Keeping you up to date with what’s hot and happening

FASHION

10 F estive Sparkle – Step out in style with the latest women’s trends

12 D ing Dong – The essential guide to male fashion 13 Twinkle Little Stars – The latest fashion for our little stars 15 Winter Warmers – Keeping warm – we’ve got it covered 16 Undercover Christmas – Spice up your Christmas

FEATURES

20 Jingle Belles – Follow our beauty tips for looking hot this season

22 Be a cover star! – Our search for Feel Alive’s new cover star 24 A ll I want for Christmas – Gifts for all the family with this Christmas stocking filler selection

27 Cool Stuff – Gadgets to send shivers down your spine 30 G odiva Awards – Your award winning lifestyle businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire

32 C oventry’s Dream Christmas – Win that perfect family Christmas and a holiday of a lifetime

34 S witch On – The latest information on Coventry city centre’s seasonal celebrity switch on

37 S cent-sational – Our essential guide to smelling sweet this holiday season

Mick McLaughlin Editor in Chief

39 Prince Charming! – Guys, make sure you look good this Xmas 40 T he Business - Uncovering the hidden talents of our latest

Feel Alive is produced by CV One Ltd

44 Nativity Star – Up close and personal with Debbie Isitt 47 A Match Made in Heaven – Magic movie moments and divine

local entrepreneur

Editor in Chief Mick McLaughlin m.mclaughlin@cvone.co.uk 024 7660 7015

sweets perfect for sharing

48 T he Gospel – Brody gives us the low-down of what’s hot and

Editorial Team Darren Lee Taylor d.taylor@cvone.co.uk 024 7660 7003

happening

50 Bling It On! – Add some sparkle to your Xmas 52 T is the Season to Party – Your perfect Christmas party

Stevie Keith StevieK@cvone.co.uk 024 7660 7005 Kieron Pennie k.pennie@cvone.co.uk 024 7660 7006 Sales Executive David Pails d.pails@cvone.co.uk 024 7660 7004 City Centre Manager Marc Dwyer m.dwyer@cvone.co.uk 024 7660 7014 Design www.watermarkdesign.co.uk 01926 493666

uncovered

55 D eck The Halls – Add a touch of glamour to your home this festive season

Feel Alive is funded by the Coventry City Centre Business Improvement District (BID) a partnership between customer facing businesses in the City Centre, CVOne and other key stakeholders. The levy paid, funds retail security, cleansing, a major marketing programme and also supports our entry into Britain in Bloom to make Coventry City Centre a safer, cleaner and greener place to visit, shop and do business.

CV ONE LTD 8 Hay Lane, Coventry CV1 5RF www.cvone.co.uk Chief Executive Liz Millett Head of Destination Marketing Nicola Leake Head of Marketing & Communications Mick McLaughlin

58 New Year Fitness – Keep trim and slim in 2011 60 Coventry Calendar – Grab the latest 2011 Coventry Calendar 62 Kids Page – Christmas jokes, riddles and teasers!

OUT & ABOUT

28 S hop till you Drop – get the latest seasonal trading times from all main shopping centres in Coventry city centre

29 City Centre Map 51 M ercia Live – Your chance to win a pair of tickets to the must

Print and Distribution Trinity Mirror Group

see event of the year

56 O h Come All Ye Faithful - Cathedral/Church Winter * Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the publication, CV One Ltd cannot accept any responsibility for any errors it may contain. All prices, events and information was correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change without further notice. The views and opinions in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the advertisers or publishers.

Service Times 135,429 average net circulation 04 January 2010 – 4th July 2010 Declared circulation 150,000

Feel Alive Winter 2010 03

nEWS NEWS | COVENTRY

A Day to Remember

N

ovember 14th marks one of the most significant days in Coventry’s history, with the 70th anniversary of the blitz on the city. The city suffered one of the largest air raids of the entire Second World War on that fateful Thursday night in 1940, when over 500 German bombers targeted the city’s industrial strength and the resulting devastation left over 600 people killed and 1,000s injured. The Remembrance Sunday service has a programme of events taking place to commemorate the day the face of the city changed forever.

Remembrance Sunday and 70th Anniversary of Coventry Blitz (Sunday November 14th) 7.45am-8.50am BBC Radio 4 broadcast, Coventry Cathedral.

10.45am-noon Remembrance Sunday Service, War Memorial Park.

1.30-2.15pm Presentation of Coventry International Prize of Peace and Reconciliation, Cathedral.

3-3.30pm Communal Grave Service, London Road Cemetery.

6-7pm Civic Service of Commemoration, Cathedral.

7.15-7.45pm Lights and sirens followed by silent vigils, Cathedral ruins.

7.45pm-midnight Music, drama, art, films, Cathedral ruins.

IMPULSE C

ity centre newcomer Impulse Fashion Accessories promises to bring a little bit of glitz, glamour and bling to our lives. Displaying a huge range of contemporary fashion jewellery including earrings, necklaces, rings, bangles and bracelets galore with many of them starting from as little as £1! Just about every accessory a girl could need is on offer with the party season literally just around the corner, now is the perfect time to bag that bargain.

The store also features a wide range of winter scarves and hats ensuring you look good throughout the colder months.

Top off the look with a selection of stunning yet affordable leather and elasticated belts, throws and clutch bags not to mention the huge choice in stylish heels and stockings.

Impulse Fashion really does have everything you need to hit the party scene this year looking glamorous and stylish.

Impulse fashion Accessories, Lower Precinct.

04 Feel Alive Winter 2010

In the lead up to the commemoration day, numerous events are taking place throughout the city. The hugely successful play “One night in November” will once again be staged at the Belgrade Theatre until November 13th. A Blitz Family day will be held at the Transport Museum and the Herbert Art Gallery, plus the Transport Museum will be holding a Blitz Ball on that evening. Coventry Market will also be marking the event from November 13th -20th, while BBC Coventry & Warwickshire will be broadcasting 70 stories from 70 years, tales of the blitz from those who lived through it.

Spreading

its wings B

utterfly Bras brings a totally new concept to lingerie shops and boutiques. Offering exquisite designs and with a diverse range of underwear products including Bridal, maternity and nursing bras. This gem of a shop caters for larger and smaller cup sizes, teen and also post surgery bras. The shop is the brain child of Coventry entrepreneur Gill Orton who opted to open her own business after spending years helping breast cancer sufferers across the region.

Gill spent almost 4 years working as a mobile underwear specialist initially in mastectomy wear and then maternity wear, offering her clients a personalised fitting service in the privacy of their own home. The mobile service is something Gill still offers on Mondays, for clients unable to get to the shop in person and she takes comfort from knowing she is helping her clients after everything they have been through.

Gill said: “Butterfly Bras has had an encouraging start since opening its doors, I have been pleased with the interest shown in the stock I’m selling and the personal bra fitting service that is offered. I believe that I have filled the gap for an independent lingerie shop offering quality and affordable underwear. I hope to encourage women to experience the benefits of being fitted for their lingerie so they can see that by getting the right fit it will improve confidence, shape under clothing, comfort and improved posture.”

Butterfly Bras Spon Street 024 7641 5983

nEWS

2-Tone Central T

wo Tone the music that put Coventry on the map finally has its very own place to tell its black and white multicultural story...

2-Tone Central. Based in the significantly historic Coventry University Students Union, it was here Pauline Black attended, where Jerry Dammers met Horace Panter and where the song ‘Rat Race’ was conceived and indeed filmed.

Director of the project Pete Chambers said: “2-Tone finally has a home in the city of its birth, a place where it can be celebrated, where the next generation can

discover just how important the genre has become and where new bands can play, and maybe even launch their own legacy from. 2-Tone Central will be about educating and entertaining, that’s why it’s important we have all types of acts here. It’s not for just 2-Tone bands and ska music, its open for all types of events, gigs, book signings and ‘fantastic evenings. We encourage the next generation of local bands to come along and play and maybe learn about bands like The Specials and The Selecter, The Beat and Madness. Many of the newer bands may well have been influenced by these groups, sometimes without

Severn Trent W

ork on Severn Trent’s new £60million 7 storey operations centre building was completed in early August, showcasing once again that Coventry remains a desirable place for business to flourish. Severn Trent moved into their new premises after relocating from numerous smaller offices in the South Midlands region.

The state of the art office building dominates the city’s skyline around St Johns Street.

Severn Trent chose Coventry above several other proposed

NEWS | COVENTRY

actually knowing it. This project is a dream come true for me, and has been built on kindness and favours. Coventry University, The Lower Precinct and Coventry Market and many others have made this happen.

Coventry is going to be a much more ska-ppier place from now on.”

2-Tone Central is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 till 5.00 and on Saturday 10 till 2.00pm.

2-Tone Central Ltd, Coventry University Students’ Union, Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5HJ For full information and gig guide go to www.2tonecentral.co.uk

PerfectHome P

sites in the region, echoing the popularity the city offers in terms of growth as well as accessibility. Although the majority of the building’s staff are relocating from other sites, a number of the proposed 1700 positions within the company were made available to local residents. With such a large new workforce in the area, several local businesses throughout the town could all feel the benefit of prospective new custom, enhancing the profitability and sustaining growth of the city and the region.

erfect Home has flung open its doors on Hertford Street. The High Street chain is one of a proposed 75 new stores throughout the UK planned for the next 5 years, once again showcasing Coventry as a viable place for a commercial and independent business to flourish.

Along with usual outright cash payments, shoppers can choose to make repayments on certain items by direct debit system or by visiting the store each week.

PerfectHome Hertford Street, Coventry

The store will be selling every kind of product for the home ranging from televisions, computers, games consoles, washing machines, fridge freezers as well as dining and bedroom furniture and soft furnishings.

Customers will also have the added benefit of several separate repayment schemes.

Feel Alive Winter 2010 05

n EWS Victorian NEWS | COVENTRY

Skate C

oventry Skydome will be bringing a taste of a traditional Victorian Christmas to Coventry this winter, as the city steps back in time to the 19th century to recreate an authentic feel of a bygone era. November 20th will see the skating club present a condensed version of Dickens’ favourite “Scrooge“ in the evening, which will just be a small part of the events taking place over the weekend. A Victorian style open air market is planned and it is hoped the stall holders will all be decked

L

out in traditional outfits making the whole weekend as authentic to the Victorian Christmas as it possibly can be.

The weekend will be kicked off in style and hopes to gain support as the BBC will be at the Skydome on Friday 19th to do a live broadcast for Children In Need, ensuring a fantastic spotlight will be shining on the city once more.

Skydome, Croft Road, Coventry

What’s in a name T

he new manager of a city centre bar has vowed to transform it into a lively safe haven for drinkers on a night out. The bar in Bull Yard, formerly known as The Glasshouse, has recently regained its alcohol license following a series of incidents throughout the earlier part of the year. However, the bar is about to be relaunched, refurbed and rebranded under a new guise by new owner Dee McLaughlin.

Dee is looking forward to the opening but she is keeping a few things close to her chest for now! Such as the name!

The bar will not be revealing their new name until launch night on November 13th, which will incorporate a charitable element in aid of the Help for Heroes Charity. With plenty of fantastic entertainment planned for the evening

06 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Exquisite-Xplicit

visitors will have a chance to win a series of prizes based on a sweepstake to guess the new name of the bar.

Dee said: “There will be a few clues in the way the bar is being designed and decked out, I’m aiming for a bold pink and black colour scheme and if the customers take a look around, there will be a few cheeky hints to what the new name may be! This is NOT the Glasshouse, we are a totally new brand looking to move away from the troubled past this bar had and pushing hard to make this a fantastic place to get the punters back in”.

The Bull Yard, Coventry

ooking good and feeling good... It all goes hand in hand and today’s modern man certainly needs more in the line of somewhere to shop to keep him on top of his game.

Following a refurbishment and a whole new stock range, Xplicit re-opened its doors in the West Orchards Shopping Centre, on October 15th with very special guest star, singer and model Lisa Maffia, who first shot to fame in hip-hop group The So Solid Crew. The “21 seconds” singer was on hand to welcome shoppers back through the door and ensure the store’s new lines hit the headlines with a huge

punch of publicity. With her own fashion line House of Maffia out there, Lisa should certainly know what looks good and her endorsement on Xplicit’s new lines should ensure that business will once again be booming. Stocking a fantastic range of mens evening and casual wear, branded t shirts and jeans and the latest high street must have labels, Xplicit will have you looking good just in time for the festive season.

West Orchards link, Coventry

Fella’s Christmas is coming...

Cor set is!

W

ith the festive season approaching Gillian Wesley has extended her opening hours to ensure that gentlemen have the perfect opportunity to bag that must have gift for the lady in their life.

With an expert team on hand to help you select the ideal gift, choose from beautifully made corsets, quirky jewellery not currently found on the high street, bracelet watches, Italian laced boots, original handbags and mineral make up. With corporate party gifts and a gift wrapping service available, Gillian Wesley certainly has your lady’s Christmas all wrapped up.

Gillian Wesley City Arcade www.gillianwesley.co.uk

nEWS

NEWS | COVENTRY

King of the Castle F

ollowing a £100,000 refurbishment by new owners The Barracuda Group, The Castle, on Little Park Street has opened its doors and the message from area manager Gareth Tomkinson is, “This is a place with something for everyone”.

I’ll have a Bayley’s!

B

ayley’s Wine bar and lounge on Bayley lane, threw open its doors on October 1st. Owner Andrea Sillman is aiming to draw in the city’s over 21’s with a contemporary “urban chic” look and feel to the city’s newest hotspot. Plush, comfortable leather sofas and armchairs and grand chandeliers set the tone for the visiting clientele and immediately give a laid back, unfussy, chilled out yet lively vibe running throughout.

Specialising in a great range of wines, cocktails and premium beers from across the world, which guarantee to prove popular to everyone.

Andrea hopes to roll out the brand in up to 5 other cathedral cities across the country, but as a local girl, was desperate to ensure Coventry was the flagship. Open daily from 11am – 11pm, Bayley’s also has a late licence for Saturday nights, where you can enjoy the atmosphere and sample what’s on offer until 2am. Keen to promote local talent, Bayley’s will have a DJ every Friday and Saturday

night playing soul and jazz style sounds, in fitting with the feel of the bar and live music from local musicians and bands every Saturday. Bayley’s can also cater for business events in private areas and has Wi-Fi available for meetings and lunches.

Andrea says: “We are aiming to provide somewhere with a more sophisticated feel in the city centre. This location lends itself to a more laid back feel and not the usual louder more raucous bars that can be found. We want our customers to come in and feel immediately relaxed and at ease. We’re keen to promote local talent and we are also going to be proud sponsors of local sporting teams too, as well as supporting local charities. I want people who have left the city to go elsewhere, to come back in and realise we have everything that you could wish for on your own doorstep”.

Bayley’s Wine Bar and Lounge Bayley Lane, Coventry.

Open daily from 9 am until 11pm but with a later license on weekends and Wednesday nights (student party night), where they remain open until 2 am. Students can also purchase a loyalty card for £1 which then entitles them to a month’s worth of discounts on food and drink. There are several offers on food

including 2 meals for £6.99 available all day every day.

Friday night is an after work club with selected bottles of wine from £5.99... 2 cocktails for £6 and all real ales available at £1.89 per pint.

For a more family oriented feel there is a Sunday roast available for £5.99 per person. The Castle also has a Christmas menu with a 2 course meal available from £7.99 and a party buffet menu available for larger groups and celebration parties.

The Castle 7 Little Park Street Coventry 024 7663 0862

Let them eat cake!

L

et them eat Cake!

Maria’s bakery is expanding their very successful stall in Coventry indoor market to West Orchards shopping centre.

Offering the very best, not to mention the most tempting choice of delectable delicious goodies, Maria’s bakery has spent many years building up a loyal client base, creating buffets for both parties and business events. A huge selection of sandwiches,

mini pizzas and all the usual finger foods and nibbles can be made to order for every occasion, as well as offering a huge choice of cakes and pastries. The new store will predominantly be specialising in celebration cakes suitable for all occasions, certain to get the taste buds-a-tingling. www.mariasbakery.co.uk

Feel Alive Winter 2010 07

Please note that personal photography is not allowed in the grotto.

FASHION | WOMENS

T

his Christmas, step out in style with the latest glamorous looks. Be brave and try something alternative whilst maintaining your festive sparkle for the office party or a night out with friends.

Neutral tones teamed with on-trend, statement accessories will guarantee all attention is on you this party season, for all the right reasons!

Stepping out in

Style 10 Feel Alive Winter 2010

New Look Black Velvet Trophy Jacket £40 Black Spotted Chiffon Side Pussy Bow Blouse £22 Black/Gold Jacquard Print Trousers £30

WOMENS | FASHION

Dorothy Perkins Lace Covered Mixed Bangle Set from £12.50

Dorothy Perkins Vintage Pearl Ring £9.50 Next Multi Bangles £12

M&S Autograph Graphic Flower Cuff £15

M&S Autograph Soft Grey Belted V Neck Dress £59

Monsoon Kipp Tunic Dress £110

BHS Slinky Maxi Dress £50 Primark Lace and Satin Dress £17 Faux Fur Tipped Coat £27 Large Dome Cocktail Ring £2.50 Diamante Platform Court £18

Accessorize Bow Clutch £35

New Look Limited edition dress £75

Miss Selfridge Accessorize Satin Case Clutch £35 Debenhams Ben de Lisi Satin Ruffle Bandeau Dress £140 Sweetheart bag £30 Next Pearl Heart Sweater £25 Mesh Skirt £25

Next T-Bar Sandals £35

Dorothy Perkins M&S Black Lace Panel & Beaded Platform High Heel Shoe Boot £55

Feel Alive Winter 2010 11

FASHION | MENS

Next Watch £36

G

uys, be brave and make a statement with bold colours, patterns and fashion accessories during this festive period. Think sophisticated yet laid back and quirky monochrome pieces teamed with shades of purple, blue and pink – make sure it’s you who really stands out this Christmas!

Ding

Next Check Jumper £32

Dong

M&S Single Breasted Two Button Evening Wear Suit £49.50 Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Classic Pleat Shirt £35 Pure Silk Plain Black Tie with stain defence £9.50 Autograph Leather Derby Brogue Shoes by Jeffery West £59.50

M&S Collezione Shawl Collar Evening Suit £199 Autograph Plain Poplin Shirt £25 Autograph Waistcoat £29.50 Plain Silk Tie £9.50 Silk Hankie £9.50 Black Dress Shoes £55

Primark Jacquard Jumper £14

Next Check Shirt £32

New Look White Crew Neck T Shirt £5 Black Pattern Cardigan £35 Check Jacket £55 Jeans £25

Renegade Jacket £100 Shirt £45 M&S North Coast Funnel Zip Through Jumper £59

M&S Wool Coat £129 North Coast Lumberjack Shirt £28

Primark Navy Tuxedo Jacket £25 Navy Tuxedo Trousers £10 Shirt & Bow Tie £6 Shoes £10 Primark Moonlight Printed Tee £6 Velvet Blazer £30 Jeans £13

7. Next Piped Detail Lace up Shoes £50

12 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Renegade Shirt £50 Cardigan £65

KIDS | FASHION

twinkle little T

aking the lead from adult fashion this season, kids take centre stage this Christmas with bold and trendy pieces. Faux fur and animal prints are popular for girls whilst chunky knits, check and denim are spot on for the boys.

BHS Sweetmillie Vintage Fur Swing Coat from £24 Purple Floral Print Dress from £22

New Look 2x black corsages £5 Pale Green Brocade Dress £25 Black military coat £28 Silver bangle £10 Black glitter tights £5

Primark Leopard Print Jacket £13 Lace Necklace Vest £5 Studded Denim Shorts £5 Black Opaque Tights £2 Utility Boot £12

New Look Feather Headband £5 Purple Chiffon Dress £16 Grey Knit Cardi £16-18 Grey Gilet £16-18 Burgundy Tights £6 Beige Suede Boots £12

M&S Dress from £32

Monsoon Cross over Bow Walker £14

New Look Grey & Fair Isle Hat £4 Red Sunglasses £8 Green Check Shirt £8 Grey & Navy Knit £14 Navy Hooded Knit Jacket £18-20 Dark Jeans £12-14

M&S Checked Scarf £5 Blazer from £12 T Shirt (part of set) £12 Jeans from £12

M&S Check Shirt and Tie Set from £12 Wool Bomber Jacket from £28

New Look White Shirt with in-built Waistcoat £14-16 Black DB Jacket with Red Lining £12-14 Black Jeans £12-14 Duffel Coat £22-24 Coloured Check Shirt £8-9 Red Jeans £12-14 Red and Black Trainers

Feel Alive Winter 2010 13

Minx Nails

£18.00

only

hair & beauty

• Tailor made wedding packages available

• Late night opening till

Valid from 1 November to 31 December 2010

Xmas designs now available

8pm every Friday

• Free consultations • Wella, TIGI and GHD approved

024 7663 3077 168 Spon Street, Coventry City Centre

£10.00

£10 off Voucher with every Facial, Body treatment, Spray tan or Manicure/ Pedicure to use in January or February 2011

www.enigmahairdesign.co.uk 17a is an established hair salon situated in the heart of Medieval Spon Street. For many years business owner Peter Johnson and his talented team of stylists, have built a reputation based on excellent hairdressing in a friendly and modern environment. 17a uses some of the hair industry’s finest premium brands such as Aveda, Bumble and Bumble and GHD. Always at the cutting edge of styling and colouring we understand that these are cost conscious times and we keep our prices competitive which has helped us to retain and expand on our large client base.

14 Feel Alive Winter 2010

(conditions apply)

Recently the salon has undergone an extensive refurbishment to include luxury massage basins and a dedicated colouring and waiting area. In addition 17a has joined forces with Nailworks to provide manicures and pedicures so come on… treat yourself to some serious pampering.

In 2011 plans are afoot to utilize over 2000 sq ft of historical architectural space to house small businesses that compliment the health and beauty industry. This will be a unique initiative in a prime location designed to attract like minded professionals and interested parties can contact the salon on 024 76 258010

WOMENS | FASHION

Primark Sequin Angora Cardigan £25

Monsoon Teddy Bird Embroidered Cardigan £55 River Island Alpine Pom Pom Hat £14.99 Avalon Dress £39.99 Fifi Skirt £34.99

Primark Skinny PU Trousers £15 Double Breasted Ruffle Front Coat £23 Wedge Ankle Boot £20

Winter

BHS Melton Military Coat Navy £70

New Look Fur Trapper Hat £12

Next Fur Trapper £7

Accessorize Bobble Hat £14

W

rapping up this winter doesn’t have to mean losing your sense of style. Whether on route to work, Christmas shopping or a night out on the tiles, stay cosy this season in the latest outdoor trends.

Accessorize Bow Leather Glove £22

M&S Cardigan £49.50 Top £35 Shorts £29.50 Tights £4 Belt £7 Leg Warmers £9.50 Bag £25 Shoes £25

Accessorize Button Racing Glove £20 M&S Coat £175 Dress £45 Belt £6 Tights £4 Shoes £55

Primark Snowflake Tunic £15 Fur Trapper Hat £6 Faux Fur Mitten £4 Patent Skinny Bow Belt £2

Debenhams Mantaray Cream Cardigan £49 Carrie Check Shirt £25 Carol Winter Short £25 Red Herring Lola Satchel £25

M&S Blue Antique Floral Tights £6

M&S Silver/Black Lurex Opaque Tights £9.50

Feel Alive Winter 2010 15

FASHION | LINGERIE

L Ann Summers Sheer Delight Bra £18 Thong £8 Waspie £18 Brief £10

adies, whether you want to treat yourself this Christmas or chaps, looking to spoil your wives or girlfriends - this season, the high street boasts the latest in sultry and glamorous lingerie looks.

Feminine, understated yet sexy looks teamed with glamorous deep reds or lacy pieces give you the option to dress your underwear up or down this Christmas.

Primark Maximise Your Assets £6

Undercover New Look Black Lace Bra £10 Matching Lace Briefs £5 Debenhams Bra £20 Thong £8.50

Ann Summers Leading Lady Bra £28 Brief £12 Debenhams Bra £17.50 Hipster £8.50

16 Feel Alive Winter 2010

BHS Bellisima Opulence Body £28

LINGERIE | FASHION

M&S Long-line Basque £25 Brief £18 Bracelet £19.50

M&S Bra £20 Brief £9.50 Robe £35

M&S Bra £18 Brief £9.50 Suspender £12 Robe £30 Hold Ups £4.50

Debenhams Reger by Janet Reger Black Basque £45 Black Thong £10.50

New Look Pink Floral Bra £10 Matching tie-side Brief £5

M&S Leopard Print & Red Lace Detail Bra £12 and Brief £6

Ann Summers Kissing Cleavage Bra £22 Brief £10 Thong £8 Long-line Basque £45

Feel Alive Winter 2010 17

   

High Fashion High Quality High Tech High Performance Experience the best in shopping this Christmas. Home to some of the City’s most exciting retailers, cafes and restaurants, offering something that will appeal to everyone, within a covered environment. Centrally located, easily accessible by bus, train or car, with its own quality car parking.

18 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Coventry Located off junction 7 from the ring road

From the North Pole to the Lower Precinct... keep your eyes peeled for Bjorn the Polar bear this Christmas from Sunday 21st November!

 Bags R Us  Blue Star  Bowens First Choice  Cafe Giardino  Carphone Warehouse  Clarks Shoes  Coventry City Football Club  Craft Culture  Devlins Newsagents  Dorothy Perkins  H&M Hennes  Herbal Inn  Home Bargains  H Samuel  Jacques Vert  Julian Graves  Label  Lush  New Look  Next  Paperbox  Pizza Hut  Poundworld  Reveal  Rooms of Coventry  Sally Hair & Beauty  Sony Centre  Supercuts  The Entertainer  T J Hughes  Trespass  Two Seasons  West One 

Lowerprecinct.com

Feel Alive Winter 2010 19

Jingle

FEATURES | WOMENS BEAUTY

D

eck the halls – it’s party season! It’s time to glam up that beauty regime for a Christmas look to put the baubles to shame.

De-Fuzz Remington i-Light Hair Removal Unit £249.99 Boots This innovative and pain free hair removal system is good enough to rival products used by the finest professional salons. Using cutting edge pulsed light technology; the i-Light is both convenient and easy to use in the privacy of your own home. Removing hair for up to 12 weeks, this product is a little pricy but a worthwhile long term investment!

Scrub it up!

Africa Ximenia and Salt Scrub £14.00 Body Shop

Christmas Kisses

Vamp it up!

For all over flawless silky skin this season, this luxurious body scrub is a must have. Leaving skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, this Bodyshop product is perfect for revitalising skin left tired from the icy winter weather.

Colourglide Lip Colour £8.00 Bodyshop

Girls Aloud False Lash Gift Bag £25.00 Debenhams

For the perfect pout underneath the mistletoe this Christmas, this luxurious lipstick collection from Bodyshop provides intense, long lasting cover. Leaving lips feeling soft and smooth and available in an array of colours, these products give your lips the real X factor!

This superb false eye lash gift set from Debenhams is simply irresistible. Allowing you to mix and match your look with the personal styles of Girls Aloud and ideal for every occasion, these lashes complete any outfit, giving your style and edge a boost in the right direction.

Nail Power Andrew Fulerton Nail Polish French Bright White & Crème £7.99 Superdrug This affordable manicure set from Superdrug gives your nails a professionally groomed finish on a budget. By using the thin, slender brush provided, you’ll achieve a perfect, effortless application every time. Ideal for an understated finish or a glamorous evening look, this collection is a real winner.

20 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Let it Glow Clinique - Great Skin Home and Away Gift Set £60.00 Debenhams Ideal for a relaxed pampering session or to prepare for a night on the tiles, this superb Clinique gift set includes many of Clinique’s finest, luxury products. The beautifully packaged collection is suitable for all skin types, making for the perfect Christmas present.

Straight & Curl Nicky Clarke Desired Salon Professional Straighteners £39.99 Boots Reaching temperatures of 230 degrees, Nicky Clarke hair straighteners feature advanced floating tourmaline

and nano silver coated ceramic plates to give your hair both style and substance.

Perfect to either curl or straighten your tresses, this product protects hair whilst working it into the essential styles of the season.

Feel Alive Winter 2010 21

FEATURES | KIDS MODELLING

BE A FEEL ALIVE KIDS COVER STAR Is your little star, tomorrow’s big future?

22 Feel Alive Winter 2010

KIDS MODELLING | FEATURES

0 SPRING 201

Feel Alive has joined forces with Re-Act Kids casting

and modelling agency to offer one lucky child the opportunity to be the face of our Spring 2011 cover and to get on the books of a new and exciting casting agency which represents film, TV and modelling industries.

!NK P GETS

THE PARTY STARTED RICOH

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GUIDE TO THE ESSENTIAL

COUNTDOWN

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LATEST SUPERCAR

WE CATC NEURS EFUL ENTREPRE THE CITY’S HOP

PART Y! – A WORLD CUP IN! CYBERSHOT CAMERALOTS IN!ERTW MORE TICKETS – A SONY IN! W – PLUS W NZA P!NK CONC £200.00 DEBENHAMS VOUCHERS COMPETITION BONA HERS – JACQ0UES £500.00 201

SUMMER

VERT VOUC

A GODCIV K O R S HAPPENHESINGRE,!

IT’S BACK, IT’

Comes to Coventry!

A SNEAK PREVIEW ON THE CITY’S VERY OWN CHRISTMAS BLOCKBUSTER

HOT STUFF

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IT’S THE Merrie’s CHRISTMAS Cracker TRGETUCHTH KEDD EEKY! TAKE A LOOK AT OUR MISTLETOE MAKEOVER WITH A TWIST NADYSHINE AN KIRSTY BRO LIKE A FCRACKING Show Gromit!

O THE HERBERT GETS ANIMATED WITH THEIR LATEST EXHIBITION STAR the RO N’S INDEPENDENTS DAY THE E LATEST LOOKS, TRENDS AND S SEASO AIS

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IVE THI SEASON TEST DR RIOLET OUTFITS FOR THE PARTY WE HOTTEST CAB

CELEBRATING THE RETAILERS WHICH MAKE OUR CITY UNIQUE

WIN! WIN! WIN!

! KID CREOLE AND THE COCA ONUTS ! WINAND

THE

With many of today’s biggest stars starting out in the world of child modelling including the nation’s sweetheart Cheryl Cole, who knows where this opportunity could lead to and today’s little star could be tomorrows big future...

WINTER 09

IT’S

TRIED EST GADGETS

We’re looking to find the kids with the right look and star quality to dazzle in front of the camera. So if your child loves the camera and has the personality to match they could find themselves in front of 150,000 households throughout Coventry and Warwickshire next year!

To Enter

The competition is open to children aged 5 – 11.

Entrants must submit one head and shoulders photograph of their child with a covering letter of consent from a parent or guardian with a full name, address and contact telephone number.

Entries must be sent to: Feel Alive Future Cover Star 8 Hay Lane Coventry CV1 5RF

A MAGICAL TRIP TO L APL AND – A LIMITED EDITION Wii BUNDLE

INMEET THE CHRISTIANSKEOVER – BARBAQUE BONANZ INNS!COMW W MA PETITIONS A SUMMER AY BASH – COMPETITIO G7635 FEEL ALIVE Singles.indd 1

EN’S BIRTHD

– A CHILDR

21/10/2009 13:39

The closing date for entries is Monday 31st January 2011

Re- Act Kids Casting and Modelling Agency

R

eAct Kids are a new and exciting casting, training and modelling academy representing children and teens, in the film, TV and modelling industries. All their children attend workshops where they learn audition technique, acting for camera and what to expect on set in order to give them confidence at auditions and castings to increase their chances of success.

As a Director of the agency Coventry born and bred Samantha Ferry was keen to give local children and teenagers the opportunity to break into the world of modelling and acting and put the city and region of Coventry and Warwickshire on the map with its own home grown talent.

Having trained at Italia Conti, London, on a three year Performing Arts course and moving into film and TV, Samantha is also a media make-up artist and has worked on many film sets in this role. In addition Samantha has taught drama and dance for over ten years and more recently, has been teaching children of all ages for film and TV. www.reactkidsagency.co.uk

Feel Alive Winter 2010 23

FEATURES | CHRISTMAS GIFTS

for him

All I want for for her

Khaki Canvas Hat Burton £12:00 Kshocolat Hamper M&S £28:50

Fujifilm x1600 Digital Camera M&S £149:00

Diamante Compact Mirror M&S £9:50

MSNB Notebook M&S £279:00

Bangle Watch Accessorize £29.99

Chunky Knit Scarf Burton £18:00

Mr Grumpy Mug M&S £4:99 Betty Jackson Black Pallette Collection Debenhams £28:00

Internet Touch Screen Radio M&S £249:00

Jeff Banks Manicure set Debenhams £20:00 Can I Have My Balls Back Chocs M&S £4:99 Fur Trapper Hat New Look £12:00

Leather Flutter Tote Bag River Island £120:00

Natio for Men Grooming kit Debenhams £19:00

Chrome Watch Next £36:00

Fur Mittens New Look £8:00

Multi Bangles Next £12:00 Red Satin Gown M&S £30:00

24 Feel Alive Winter 2010

CHRISTMAS GIFTS | FEATURES

Christmas is... for boys

Remote Control Ferrari Debenhams £8:50 Talking Jet Pack Buzz Lightyear Debenhams £40:00

Chocolate Scrabble Debenhams £8:50

for girls Reindeer Cuddly Toy M&S £12:00

Vtech Kids Zoom Pink Camera Debenhams £50:00

The Night Before Christmas Book M&S £1:00

Dolly Mixture Jar Debenhams £8:00

Mini Table Football BHS £10:00

Faux Fur Gilet Next £15:00

Faux Fur 3 piece Next £12:00

Nintendo Ds Style Boutique M&S £29:50 Xbox 360 Kinect with Kinect Adventures Game £249:99

Biker Jacket Next from £30:00

Nintendo DSi XL M&S £159:00

Feel Alive Winter 2010 25

GADGETS | FEATURE

COOLSTUFF Whilst the temperature on the outside plummets, turn up the heat on the inside with these scorching gadgets, definitely essential must haves for that Christmas list!

Xbox360 Kinect Kinect brings games and entertainment to life in extraordinary new ways – with absolutely no controller required! Easy to use and instantly fun, Kinect will get the family off the sofa this Christmas and keep them entertained for hours. With several exciting launch games including the pet simulator ‘Kinectimals’, full body workouts with ‘Your Shape Fitness Evolved’ and ‘Dance Central’; it’s a pulse pounding, rhythmically impressive, groundbreaking piece of technology that offers an enjoyable boost of family fun for all ages.

Price: £129.99 Release: Out Now Where: GAME, Gamestation, HMV and Argos in Coventry city centre

Nintendo DSiXL

Sony Bravia KDL-40NX713 3D HDTV The super-slim Sony Bravia KDL-40NX713 3D HDTV creates a phenomenal 3D home viewing experience, with its 40’ inch screen in full 1080p high definition, it’s a 21st century eye pleaser. With Dynamic Edge LED, Monolithic Design, built in Wi-Fi and 3D ready out of the box, the KDL defines Sony’s superior 3D Bravia range.

Available in three brand new colours, blue, yellow and green; the Nintendo DSi XL console sports two 4.2 inch screens – 93% bigger than the screen on the Nintendo DS Lite. In addition, the new screens have a much wider viewing angle, making it easy for you to watch and share the fun. The Nintendo DSi XL opens up a new world of shared handheld gaming whilst breathing new life into your favourite Nintendo DS games as you experience them on the big screen.

Price: £159.99 Release: Out Now Where: GAME, Gamestation, HMV, Argos in Coventry city centre

Price: £1,599.00 Release: Winter 2010 Where: Sony Centre, Lower Precinct, Coventry

iPod nano 16GB Blue The latest in Apple technology, squeezed into one of the smallest iPod’s of this generation. With a new design, incorporating multi-touch technology, it’s even lighter than previous models, but still packs a very impressive punch where it counts. With seven bright colours to choose from, sleek aluminium finish and 16GB of storage for all your songs, albums and play lists, the iPod nano is as cool as ice!

Price: £153.24 Release: Out Now Where: KRCS, West Orchards Shopping Centre, Coventry

Feel Alive Winter 2010 27

OUT & ABOUT | SHOPPING TIMES

Christmas

COVENTRY Opening Hours Lower Precinct Wednesday late night Sundays 16th December 17th December 18th December 19th December 20th December 21st December 22nd December 23rd December 24th December 25th December 26th December 27th December 28th December 29th December 30th December 31st December 1st January

West Orchards M&S 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 10:30am - 4.30pm 10:30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 7pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 4:30pm 9am - 9pm 8am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 8am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 7am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 7am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 7am - 5pm CLOSED CLOSED 10am - 5pm CLOSED 9am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm CLOSED

Cathedral Lanes Debenhams 8am - 10pm 10:30am - 4:30pm 9am - 7pm 8:30am - 7pm 8:30am - 7pm 9:30am - 5pm 8am - 9pm 8am - 9:30pm 8am - 10pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 6pm CLOSED 9:30am - 5pm 7am - 7pm 8am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 8pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 6pm

All other shops 9am - 9pm 10:30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10:30am - 6:30pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 5pm CLOSED 10:30am - 4:30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 11am - 5pm

Coventry Market

1st Dec open until 9pm

10:30am - 4:30pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 10:30am - 4:30pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 9pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 5pm CLOSED

10:30am - 4:30pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5.30pm 10am - 4pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 7am - 5pm 7am - 5pm 7am - 4pm CLOSED Closed / First Sport Open CLOSED 10:30am - 4:30pm CLOSED 10:30am - 4:30pm CLOSED 8am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 4pm CLOSED CLOSED

Times correct at time of going to print.

Note: Individual stores within the shopping centres may have different opening times.

FREE PARKING Park for FREE in Coventry city centre after 3pm from Wednesday 17th November to Wednesday 22nd December 2010. The offers applies to West Orchards Shopping Centre, Barracks, Lower Precinct and Belgrade Plaza car parks only.

SHOPMOBILITY

Shopmobility is a service which provides both powered and unpowered wheelchairs and scooters for people who have either permanent or temporary limited mobility. Located on the ground floor of the Barracks car park, with plenty of disabled parking bays nearby, the free service is available everyday from Monday 22nd November to Thursday 24th December 2010.

Please provide identification on arrival, booking in advance is highly advised during peak periods.

Call 024 7683 2020 Mon – Sat 8:45am – 4.30pm Christmas Eve 8.30am – 1.00pm Closed: 25th December – 27th December and 31st December – 2nd January 2011

28 Feel Alive Winter 2010

MAP | COVENTRY

City Centre

Parking Guide

This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of The Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. Coventry City Council LA100026294yr2010

CAR PARKING Coventry has 4000 short stay car parking spaces within the city centre. Please note that the Lower Precinct car park is now accessed from Junction 6 on the ring road. Only IKEA and The Sky Dome can be accessed from Junction 7.

Ringroad Junction Car Park

Spaces

5

Barracks *

460

6

Lower Precinct

757

7

IKEA

800+

9

Belgrade Plaza

1100

9

West Orchards

670

*Shopmobility is located on the ground floor of Barracks car park.

PARK AND RIDE The two park and ride services in Coventry operate Monday to Saturday.

Park and Ride South, War Memorial Park, off Kenilworth Road 402 free car parking spaces The service operates from War Memorial Park at 0736 (0800 Saturday) and every 12 minutes until 1812 (1800 Saturday) direct to the City. From Broadgate, in the City Centre, the first journey to War Memorial Park is 0744 (0808 Saturday) and every 12 minutes until 1820 (1808 Saturday). It stops at 8 convenient points in the City Centre.

Park and Ride North, Austin Drive, Courthouse Green 163 free parking spaces The service operates from Austin Drive at 0745 (0800 Saturday) and every 15 minutes until 1800 direct to the City. From Queen Victoria Road the first journey to Austin Drive is at 0758 (0813 Saturday) and every 15 minutes until 1813.

For more information call Traveline on 0871 200 2233

Feel Alive Winter 2010 29

FEATURES | SWITCH ON

COVENTRY

Christmas Lights

Sunday 21st November

34 Feel Alive Winter 2010

SWITCH ON | FEATURES

The Big Light Switch On! Broadgate / Travelodge Balcony. 3.30pm – 6pm Keep your eyes peeled for further announcements regarding our headlining chart topping artists appearing at the switch on, log onto www.visitcoventry.co.uk, tune into local radio station Mercia or look out for details in the local press.

Santa Claus is coming to town!

West Orchards Shopping Centre

Christmas Lights will switch on at 5pm This Christmas the stage is set for a fantastic afternoon of entertainment with comperes from CBBC and Mercia’s weekend show Sam and Mark kicking off the proceedings.

Joining them, on stage there will be guest appearances from the cast of Nativity with director Debbie Issit and

Coventry’s homegrown talent Melissa Walton alias Loretta Jones from Hollyoaks, Coventry City football club, Coventry rugby club, Coventry Blaze and Coventry Jets. Popular children’s character Pingu will be there to meet and greet the little ones and turn on the lights with Lord Mayor Brian Kelsey and Melissa.

Festive Funfor everyone Magical Markets

Sketts Christmas Fair November 20 -21st Market Way, selling a wide selection of unique Christmas gifts for all the family.

Christmas Arts Fair Market Way, 18th December, a diverse selection of hand crafted goods perfect for that unusual last minute gift.

01789 267000 www.sketts.co.uk

There will be a chance for children of all ages and size to come on up to Level 3 of the shopping centre, meet Santa and his helpers and make their Christmas present wishes. Every visitor will receive a free special gift and also have the chance to have their picture taken with Santa! (approx £5)

Cathedral Lanes There will be a variety of entertainment on Saturday 20th November to keep shoppers entertained

Throughout the day there will also be appearances from Crackers the Clown, face painters and special appearances from Peppa Pig and George!

To avoid disappointment, why not pre-book your visit online at: www.westorchards.co.uk

Traditional

Christmas

Throughout the Precinct there will be traditional carol singing and a Christmas Schools Music Competition

Santa’s Reindeers fly in!

A Star is Bjorn!

Lower Precinct Shopping Centre.

Bjorn, the incredibly lifesize and life-like Polar Bear has journeyed from the Arctic to pay a special visit to shoppers in the Lower Precinct over the Christmas period. When emerging from his own sculpted inflatable ice environment he is playful, mischievous, extremely friendly and huggable, with the look, feel and sounds of a real life bear, Bjorn is just about

Flying in all the way from Lapland, Santa and his elves will be opening up his grotto in the West Orchards Shopping Centre from 12 noon on November 21st right up until Christmas Eve, before Santa loads up the sleigh and sets off on his magical journey delivering presents to excitable children right across the world.

kept in check by his keeper an Arctic Inuit Explorer. Bjorn (and his Inuit friend!) will be performing three 20 minute shows per day throughout the build up to Christmas.

Everyone’s favourite reindeer Rudolph and his friends will be stopping by to say hi and spread some festive cheer. They will be in their own special reindeer pen just outside the entrance to the West Orchards on Smithford Way between 11am and 3pm on November 21st, come and see Rudolph and friends in the flesh, before they soar off pulling Santa’s sleigh across the night skies on Christmas Eve.

Feel Alive Winter 2010 35

FEATURES | PERFUMES & AFTERSHAVES

Scent-sational!

G

uys and girls, team your winter fashion this festive period with the perfect scent.

We’ve reviewed the freshest and most up to date smells on the market (courtesy of those nice people at Boots!) to ensure you’re smelling scent-sational this season…..

All fragrances available at Boots, Lower Precinct, Coventry city centre

36 Feel Alive Winter 2010

PERFUMES & AFTERSHAVES | FEATURES

Women’s

Paco Rabanne - Lady Million Fresh, floral and woody are terms that spring to mind for this perfect winter fragrance. Being both vibrant and sensual, Lady Million carries hints of orange, raspberry and honey all perfect for an autumn day, carrying through to the Christmas party.  50ml £45.50

Men’s Boss Bottled - Night With hints of Birch leaf, this fragrance is fresh and clean, perfect for a night out on the tiles this season. Giving you the confidence to seduce, this Boss fragrance has potential to easily transfer from day to night being both sexy and sophisticated.  50ml £35

Chloe, Love Both a light and elegant fragrance with notes of Iris and rice powder, Chloe Love is perfect for the girl who loves life. With feminine and floral charm this perfume is great for everyday wear.  50ml £50

Bleu de Chanel This Chanel fragrance oozes hints of grapefruit together with dry cedar making it a deep and aromatic scent.

Perfect for the urban man, this refined fragrance is both enticing and fresh; a real winner this season.  50ml £34.50

Paco Rabanne - Million Being both sweet and oriental, this unusual fragrance boasts power and style. Ideal for an evening out this Christmas, this Paco Rabanne scent is extremely unique and importantly, long-lasting.  50ml £34.50

YSL - Belle D’Opium This luminous and spicy fragrance leaves a strong and long-lasting impression.

With hints of peach, lily and jasmine, this scent is both bewitching and addictive.

Perfect to take you from day into night, this is an all-round, usable perfume which will leave you wanting more!  50ml £50 Gucci - Guilty This powerful, oriental fragrance oozes hints of mandarin, pink pepper and geranium. Being both fresh and clean, Gucci Guilty allows you to really indulge by being both edgy and risk taking.  50ml £90

Jean Paul Gaultier - Le Male Terrible A masculine and sensual fragrance with notes of lavender and vanilla, this scent is irresistible to any bad boy. Rebellious, edgy and sexy, this Gaultier aftershave is subtle, perfect for everyday use yet easily transferable to any evening event.  75ml £39

212 - VIP by Carolina Herrera Combining style and attitude, 212 VIP boasts hints of passion fruit, gardenia and vanilla. A fresh and sparkling fragrance which we considered perfect for day time or evening wear without being overbearing or musty.  50ml £43.50

Dolce and Gabbana The One, Gentleman The name of this Dolce and Gabbana fragrance says it all, this scent is sophisticated and unique.

Perfect for the young guy on a night out to the more mature gentleman, ‘The One Gentleman’ is both powerful and long lasting.

This scent oozes elegance, power and depth.  50ml £39

Feel Alive Winter 2010 37

G

Prince Charming

MENS GROOMING | FEATURES

uys... You can’t say no to another Christmas party but you’ve still got to go to work the next day! Don’t despair, follow our tips and that hard night of indulgence won’t show on your face the morning after...

Fresh as a daisy!

It’s All In The Eyes!

Dove Men+Care Extra Fresh Bodywash, £2.39, Superdrug

Eyedew Dazzling Eye Drops, £4.39, Boots/Superdrug 2 True Instant Colour Mascara No 1 Clear, £1.95, Superdrug

Ok you’ve slept in, the clock is ticking and you need to get to that important meeting….STOP! No matter how late you are, take five minutes to have an invigorating shower. Dove Men +Care Extra Fresh Bodywash opens those pores, gets the skin breathing and improves circulation. With a cooling agent and an invigorating fragrance this fantastic formula includes micromoisture technology, micro wax capsules filled with natural oil that deliver moisturisation direct to the skin, leaving you refreshed, invigorated and raring to go.

Dehydration stops your tear ducts from working effectively, which is why your eyes feel dry and sore and look red the morning after a late night.

A few drops of Eyedew will turn those old red eyes into sparkling peepers ensuring those windows to the soul don’t give away last night’s secrets!

‘For today’s metro sexual guys add an extra zing and borrow your girlfriend’s clear mascara, or why not invest in your own? Clear mascara is a fantastic choice for adding light separation and pliable hold to lash and brow lines. It also opens the eyes and best of all no one will know you’re using it!

When You’re Smiling!

Let’s Face It Nivea for Men Exfoliating Face Scrub £3.00, Superdrug/Boots Clarins for Men Fatigue Fighter £28.00 Debenhams/Boots Clinique M Cover £12.50 Debenhams/Boots There is a reason why sometimes men tend to look like extras from the Thriller DVD even when partying all night isn’t to blame. Studies into men’s skin has shown that it tends to burn energy faster than women’s and that dark circles around the eyes tend to be more pronounced in men. Don’t despair! Kick start your facial regime with a good old scrub. Nivea

for Men, exfoliating facial scrub contains vitamin E and minerals that deeply cleanse to unblock pores and clear away built up dirt and impurities. Slap on some Clarins for Men legendary Fatigue Fighter and that tired looking skin will gain an instant lift leaving your skin glowing with health. If all else fails and nothing shifts those dark circles there’s always concealer. Ok, we know those macho men out there won’t admit to using it but it has been a beauty staple in men’s bathroom cupboards for a long time now and used correctly and sparingly there’s no better way to hide the signs of a night on the tiles!

And Finally...

Colgate 2 in 1 Toothpaste and Mouthwash, £1.99 Superdrug/Boots So you’re feeling all refreshed, looking human again but there’s just one problem... your breath! Get rid of last night’s toxins with a refreshing and stimulating toothpaste and mouthwash. There are tons on the market but when you’re in a hurry go for a two in one toothpaste and mouthwash. We recommend Colgate 2 in 1; you’ll leave the house ready to face the world!

Slap It On!

Get out that aftershave or eau d toilette and make sure you’re smelling more Calvin Klein than Jim Beam! Take inspiration from our fragrance page and we guarantee there’ll be more than a whiff of excitement around the office…..

Feel Alive Winter 2010 39

FEATURES | THE BUSINESS

Be !nventive celebrates the innate inventiveness of Coventry’s people, a source of real pride and sends a message to new inward investors about the skills and versatility they can find amongst Coventry’s workforce. Earlier this year Coventry was at the forefront of Inventiveness with its competition to win a business in Coventry city centre organised through CV One, Coventry City Council, Mercia and Coventry Telegraph. The idea was to come up with a business to capture the imagination and to bring a fresh new concept to the City Arcade shopping area.

We were inundated with entries and shortlisted entrants had to go through a rigorous process and endure a Dragon’s Den style panel with the ultimate winner bagging their own shop and an advertising package from Mercia and Coventry Telegraph worth a staggering £120,000!

Left to Right: Gillian Wesley with colleagues Sacha and Rebecca

Gillian Wesley was our lucky winner and opened her business “Gillian Wesley Designs” in August and is currently riding high on the wave of publicity that surrounded the win. With business happily exceeding her own wildest expectations we caught up with Gillian to find out more...

“I am on a mission...

I believe every woman should own a corset”

40 Feel Alive Winter 2010

THE BUSINESS | FEATURES FA: So Gillian, what did winning this competition mean to you?

GW: ”I feel that we have been given such a great opportunity to be here and I am so happy the judges saw my business proposal and decided to back my vision. After 10 years working from home to build this whole venture up, I feel we were at the perfect time for the business to progress, now I have that opportunity”.

FA: What do you think made your business stand out from the rest?

GW: “I think because we are a totally different concept to anything else might have helped! Also I believe the way that we have a synergy with many of the other businesses here in City Arcade.

There are florists, hair and beauty studios, nail bars and of course us now. If you are a bride to be for example, you can find everything you need basically all under one roof. It can be very beneficial for all of the businesses here”.

FA: Is the bridal market your target audience?

GW: “Partially yes, but bridal wear only covers part of what we do here. Although our corsets can be worn for that magical occasion, they can be worn again in so many different styles for so many different occasions, as we make our corsets to be true investment pieces designed to last for many many years”.

FA: How has business been since you opened your boutique?

GW: “It’s been surprisingly good, brilliant in fact. It has totally exceeded even my wildest expectations. We have had, and continue to have, a very positive and warm response from both existing and new clients as well as passing trade.

It’s a huge buzz when someone passes by and stops to look at your window displays and then come in to find out more. That is the one thing I never experienced working from home...It’s great! And I have to say the other traders here have been so welcoming to us since we arrived. I couldn’t have asked for more. The shop has been very well received and I am pleased to report that the workroom is already buzzing with corset orders for the Christmas party season ahead!

FA: How have your friends and family reacted to your success?!

GW: “They’ve been incredibly supportive, as I knew they would be. Everyone has been firmly behind me, the business and my team too...they are all aware of just how hard I have worked to achieve this dream and they continue to support me all the way”.

FA: You have obviously gathered a very dedicated team here, how important do you feel they will be in the success of this venture?

GW: “They are absolutely vital and essential. It’s a complete team effort and their dedication, loyalty and willingness to continue to share the passion for this business never ceases to astound me.

I am completely happy and trusting for my colleagues to represent this business, they are simply essential to our success”.

FA: How much pressure did you feel when taking this on?

GW: “Of course there was risk involved, but, I know and we all know, that although we have been given an amazing opportunity, the hard work has just begun. I wasn’t prepared to just sit back and think that’s it I’ve made it! It’s been over

a decade of hard work in getting to this point. We see this as a fantastic beginning and one we aim to make the most of”.

FA: Have you met your initial goals and aspirations and have they now changed in any way?

GW: “I’d say it has gone better than we dared dream. We are focused on ensuring the success of this shop first and foremost before setting any unobtainable targets, but of course we have aspirations to go much further and to become a huge success”.

FA: What are your long term plans for the business?

GW: “We plan to be here for good! The first step is making a name for ourselves here, but I would love to be successful enough to open further businesses throughout the city. I think that would be the absolute dream scenario”.

FA: For any other budding entrepreneurs out there, what advice would you offer them?

GW: ”Set yourself achievable targets and don’t try to run before you can walk. Research is vital and I did so much market research before entering this competition, knowing our likely market was invaluable before setting out. Dedication and hard work obviously go without saying! Self belief...self belief in knowing you have a great product for a start, but believing the dream is attainable.”

FA: You must consider this to be your greatest success?

GW: “Of course! Winning and opening up this shop has been amazing. We realise the chance we have been given and we are so proud to be here. This is just the start for Gillian Wesley Designs.

FA: The city of Coventry has certainly given you an opportunity, wouldn’t you agree?

GW: “The history and culture of Coventry is immense and all of us here are so passionate towards building a positive view of the city and in particular the city centre. Hopefully others will see our story and realise that it can be done.

There are other new businesses starting up as well and we are working very hard to establish relationships with other shops and independent traders who complement our business.”

FA: In terms of your marketing, obviously the industry tends to promote stick thin models in their campaigns, what’s your view point on this?

GW: “I don’t want to use models in any of my photo shoots or promotions of my products, I want real women of all shapes and sizes who represent the true shopper on the high street.

The real shoppers aren’t all tall size zero models and most women who visit here, although slightly apprehensive at first, soon remark how incredible wearing one of my pieces can make them feel...that’s what I want!”

Gillian Wesley Designs City Arcade, Coventry 024 76 633625 www.gillianwesley.co.uk

Feel Alive Winter 2010 41

FEATURES | CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

Star Chat A

Debbie Isitt

s a successful writer, actor and director, the super talented Debbie Isitt certainly has the world at her feet. With a host of popular plays, comedy and films including “Nasty Neighbours”, “Confetti” and the hugely successful Nativity! (which was mainly set and filmed in Coventry) under her belt its clear that we are going to be seeing a lot more from this extremely likeable and down to earth lady. With the DVD release of “Nativity!” about to hit the streets and a must have gift for this year’s Christmas list, Mick McLaughlin caught up with her to find out how it all started, her plans for the future and why LA is no match for her beloved Longford Park....

You’re a very successful business woman, how did it all start?

In a funny way it all started with my school Nativity play. I was cast as Mary when I was 7 years old and from that moment my destiny was set. I was directing my first stage production by the time I was 9 years old at primary school in Birmingham, it was my own version of ‘The Wizard of Oz’. I struggled through secondary school, kept afloat only by my inspirational English teacher and then came to Coventry to train as an actor when I was 17. I set up a theatre company called SNARLING BEASTIES and toured the world for years and years and then I thought – I want to make films.

What have you been up to since Nativity was premiered in Coventry city centre?

Since our fantastic premiere in Coventry I have been developing lots of new film projects including a sequel to Nativity! and literally fighting off Hollywood! I have also been to America and South Korea where Nativity! opened two family film festivals. There are lots of projects that could start shooting next year so….watch this space!

You are a successful director; do you ever fancy seeing yourself on the big screen in a meaty acting role?

I trained as an actor and used to do a lot of acting with my company Snarling Beasties, but I don’t think I will ever act on the big screen because I much prefer being behind the camera now.

As the Blu-Ray is released this November, can we expect any extras in the title, such as uncut scenes or bonus features?

I have had a lot of fun making a featurette for the DVD extras which includes interviews with the cast and crew and lots of unseen footage.

44 Feel Alive Winter 2010

There are some brilliant deleted scenes as well as a ‘sing a long’ feature so that everyone can get into the Christmas spirit!

Are there any stars from the film in the making?

I think many of the children have already gone on to star in other things. The little boy Bernard who flew from the Cathedral spire in Nativity! is starring in the Lion King in the West End and the little boy Ben who did the funny dancing is in a channel 4 sitcom and one of the Coventry children Tom was in Oliver in the west end and all of the Coventry children are stars in the making as far as I’m concerned. I would love to work with them all again and might just do that!

Do you have any more plans to foster creative talent from Coventry school children?

I do have more plans for Coventry school children – I hope to work with many more of them over the next few years in a variety of projects. In fact we are planning a Nativity! franchise – so there could be lots of films, TV shows and theatre projects all spinning off from the film.

How was Nativity received in the States?

The Heartland film festival that Nativity! was invited to open in the states was the US premiere of Nativity! The level of appreciation for the film was quite spectacular. I have already had an offer from Universal Studios to do an American remake of the film but for now I am holding back until our UK version has been properly seen and appreciated by as many people as possible.

Outside of directing films, have you been putting pen to paper in writing any other forms of entertainment, stage shows, comedy etc?

I have been working on a TV comedy for Sky and would like to develop a stage musical of Nativity! There’s a lot to do – sometimes it makes me feel dizzy. I also have a choir film in the making as well as a possible film about Belly Dancing Brits!

What are your long term career plans?

My long term career plans are mainly to keep breathing! The film business is a tough nut to crack but I am in the luckiest of positions now.

Nativity! was the most successful independent British Film of the year and this has brought me many new opportunities to make films.

In all honesty all I want to do is make people laugh and feel better about life – so I’ll just keep trying to do that.

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW | FEATURES

You live in Coventry, do you have any aspirations to write a film about the city?

I arrived in Coventry when I was seventeen and having spent my adult life here I think there is a lot to say about the city, so who knows, maybe I will set more films here in the future but I think Nativity! represents the city well – the characters are all warm and friendly and the city looks beautiful.

Do you ever worry about how your films will be perceived?

Of course I do to a point. I want as many people to like my films as possible but I am under no illusions that people’s taste differs dramatically from one person to the next. I have long since given up on caring about critics – I don’t’ make films for them, I make films for real people who like comedies with heart.

You’re a fantastic ambassador for Coventry and have really put the city on the map.

Looking back over your time here what are your favourite memories about Coventry?

My teenage drama school memories are plentiful! I had the best time here making new friends and following Terry Hall from The Specials around Owen Owens trying to get his autograph!

Your obviously very creative, does this run in your family, and would you encourage your daughter to enter into this world?

My family are creative but they are not in the profession. My Dad is a fantastic actor, although he is actually a businessman. My mum is huge music fan and she plays piano and dances Flamenco but again just for fun. All my family can do a great ‘turn’ if asked to but I’m the only one who earns a living from any of it! Although my daughter does have a part in Nativity! and she’s a very talented actor so who knows what she will do with her life. I can’t even tell her which shoes to wear any more so I doubt I will have much influence over what she does for a living!

Do you see yourself settled in the city, or do you have to move in this industry to achieve further success?

I’m a great believer in just getting on with things that you want to do. Where you are should not stop you from achieving anything you want in life. I have spent a lot of time in London and Los Angeles but I have resisted the pressure to live there full time because I like the city of Coventry, the people and the ‘realness’ of living in the region I was born in.

I travel all over the world with my job and I can set a film anywhere from Bangkok to Budapest but Coventry is home to me.

What do your friends and family think of your success?

My friends and family are the main reason that I have found some success. They are the most inspirational and supportive people anyone could wish for. They have stuck with me through tough times and help me enjoy the good times. Most of my friends and family end up in my films as extras too!

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I do find inspiration from people close to home.

Family, teachers, events that happen to me or have happened to me (or someone close to me) in the past. I suppose I am a character driven filmmaker and great characters are everywhere and anywhere!

You’ve entered into the celebrity world, attending many glamorous award ceremonies, Cannes Festival, many people would love to be in your shoes, describe what it’s like for us, and does celebrity really matter to you?

Well I think its great fun to be an observer in a different world. I love dipping in and out of all that razzamataz because it is fun and often very funny but the minute you take it seriously and want it or need it I think it can turn very sour. I love the fact that one minute I’m in Los Angeles at a meeting then I’m in Longford Park walking my dog. LA is nice but Longford Park is lovely!!

Cinema attendance has fallen in recent years, how do you see the future development of the film industry?

I have no idea really how cinema will develop.

I know everyone is 3D mad and yet no one knows for sure whether it is the future or just a phase. I believe that people will always want to share the experience of watching films together – the collective thrill that only a cinema can provide for an audience will I hope prevail.

What do you think of the UK film scene? Do you think we do enough to encourage young talent within the industry?

The UK struggles to sustain its industry. There are more talented people in our small isle than there is money to support them. I really believe that anyone can be a filmmaker if their idea is good enough and they are prepared to battle for it for years!

How difficult is it from conception to final product in getting your film to the market?

I’m not going to pretend it is easy. It sometimes feels impossible. You have to tell yourself that you will give yourself (say) three years to get it off the ground – that’s how long it takes.

You have to have a strong idea, make good contacts, work with like-minded people and sell the hell out of it. Even if you make a film you can’t always get it distributed (put on at the cinema), There are a million hoops to jump through so if you want to be a filmmaker please God you’re good at jumping!

Who would be your perfect cast or leading man/lady?

I do work with people I admire so the British cast I have worked with on my films Nasty Neighbours (Ricky Tomlinson) Confetti (Martin Freeman, Jessica Heinz) and Nativity! (Martin Freeman, Marc Wootton, Jason Watkins, Alan Carr, Ashley Jenson, Pam Ferris) are all perfect cast for me and my work. There are some amazing American actors I’d love to work with – Johnny Depp and Will Farrell to name but two!

In terms of Nativity you edited and cut a lot of the material from home, this must have been quite a challenging process? Could you ever see yourself opening up a film studio in Coventry?

In a way we already have! We made the film Nativity! completely in Coventry from start to finish – only a few days in LA and London. We hope to set more films here in the future and TV shows so bring it on!

You have obviously mixed with a lot of celebrities; do you still get star struck?

Of course! When Meryl Streep held my daughter (she was a baby then) at the Venice Film Festival and told me she was “adorable” I nearly fainted! There are some great stars that anyone would be in awe of.

Describe your most surreal moment?

Too many to describe but I guess riding a camel into the premiere at Coventry Odeon was up there!

They say that everyone has a novel or a script in them, what advice would you give to turn that into a film, play, book?

Make sure your idea is universal in its main themes (so that everyone and anyone can relate to it), eternal too (something that will last forever) but also personal enough so that you are an absolute authority on it (no one else could do it only you!) Then get on with it and make it or write it. Action speaks louder than you do.

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Who directed Na

A. Debbie Isitt B. Debbie Smith C. Debbie Ward on a Send your answer ll fu ur postcard with yo contact d an s es name, addr to r : telephone numbe ion, tit pe Nativity! Com e, in az ag m ive Feel Al ntry ve Co , ne La y Ha 8 CV1 5RF

DVD and Nativity is released on er, courtesy of Blu-ray on 22 Novemb Entertainment One. Feel Alive Winter 2010 45

MUNCHIES | FEATURES

A match made in heaven!

G

et together with friends and family this Christmas and relax with a DVD and essential munchies... perfect...

Back to the Future 25th Anniversary Collection Tin 3-Disc Bluray Set All three classic films in one very special collector’s box, including an extraordinary amount of bonus features and memorabilia, perfect for those long winter nights.

Perfect munching partner An easy choice! Get into the good old USA spirit with American Imports in Market Way, Coventry city centre, offering family favourites and American classics, as well as juicy treats with a blast from the past.

From £44.99 – Bluray 3 Disc 25th Anniversary Collectors Tin Available from HMV West Orchards, Coventry city centre From £15.99 3-DVD Disc Digi-Pack Various Munchies – American Imports, Market Way Coventry city centre

Alien Anthology 6-Disc Bluray Set Finally, on Bluray and DVD, the ultimate collection arrives in the UK. All 6 Alien films in high definition with stunning surround sound and every special feature ever released.

Perfect munching partner It’s got to be Galaxy Moments, Mars and Milky Way Stars, family favourites and the perfect indulgence. Grab some friends and get munching on the perfect pizza. Coventry city centre has a wide range of shops, restaurants and takeaways all offering delicious, mouthwatering pizza, perfect for sharing…..

Tesco Express, Iceland, M&S Restaurants – Pizza Express, Pizza Hut From £37.99 – 6-disc Bluray set Available from HMV, West Orchards Coventry city centre.

Galaxy Moments, Mars and Milky Way Stars Available from Poundland, 99p Store, Pound World, Wilkinson’s and all good newsagents in the city centre of Coventry.

Beauty and the Beast 2 Disc Bluray and 2 Disc DVD Set One of Disney’s most successful classics and one of the all time greatest love stories. Perfect for the family, this very special diamond collection contains the most compact, impressive collection of bonus features and audio/visual transfer seen in animation history.

Perfect munching partner Cadbury’s Roses, perfect for melting away those winter blues, who says romance is dead! Crack open a nice bottle of rose from Marks and Spencer’s in the High Street, or, a special bottle of champagne from Sainsbury’s in Trinity Street the perfect combination From £15.99 2-Disc Bluray Set – Available in HMV West Orchards Coventry From £14.99 2-DVD Set Roses from £9.99 – Available from Tesco Express, Market Way, Wilkinson’s in Cathedral Lanes Shopping Centre. Variety of Rose and Champagne from M&S and Sainsbury’s.

Les Miserables in Concert: The 25th Anniversary Live O2 DVD Set Seen by over 57 million people worldwide in 42 countries and in 21 languages, Les Miserables is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals. In celebration of 25 incredible years of the world’s longest running musical, Les Miserables marks this momentous occasion with a spectacular performance at The O2 Arena.

Perfect munching partner Combine classic Thornton’s chocolates with a nice bottle of red, it doesn’t get any better than this! £12.99 DVD available from HMV, West Orchards Coventry city centre £17.99 Bluray set available from HMV, West Orchards Coventry city centre Various Wine and Thornton’s, available from M&S High Street, Bodyfuel City Arcade, Tesco Express, Market Way and Thornton’s, West Orchards Coventry city centre.

Feel Alive Winter 2010 47

FEATURES | THE GOSPEL

The according H

ello it’s Brody, Touch FM 96.2’s breakfast show host, back with my what’s on and where to be seen in Coventry guide “THE GOSPEL” once more ushering in the festive season.

Christmas is the time for us to get together with friends and family, get ourselves out and about or simply bundled up in front of the TV and relaxing with a good family film.

Megamind:

The latest animated masterpiece from the studio that bought us Shrek, Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda. With characters voiced

by Brad Pitt and Will Ferrell, this one is carrying on in the same rich Superhero/Supervillain vein as The Incredibles and is sure to be as big a box office smash.

“Megamind” is the most brilliant, evil super-villain the world has ever seen… unfortunately he’s also the least successful and most incompetent! He has spent years trying to conquer Metro City, only failing on every occasion thanks to his enemy (as well as his own stupidity) a caped Superhero “Metro Man”… An invincible force until one fateful day, Megamind actually defeats and kills him during an otherwise failing evil takeover bid. Suddenly, having achieved his goals, with no superhero to pit his wits against, Megamind discovers he has no purpose.

Gospel to Brody...

So here are just a few suggestions as to what’s going on, what’s in the shops and where to go to kick back, have some fun and enjoy the well earned Christmas break!

Until next time, Merry Christmas and keep listening!

create his own new improved, best ever opponent, stronger, braver and more powerful than Metro Man ever was. “Titan” is born! The only problem is that Titan suddenly realises being evil is much more fun and so sets out to destroy the world.

Megamind must now decide… should he destroy his own creation? Should he do the right thing? Can he become the Hero for once?

ONE TO WATCH!

But more importantly... is he capable of doing any of those!

Release Date: 3rd December Odeon, SkyDome, Coventry

And so… he hatches his most amazing plan to date, he will

Eating out, in and around ONE TO INDULGE!

48 Feel Alive Winter 2010

the city centre, is fast becoming a gourmet diners delight. With so much on offer it can be a head spinning wonder of culinary choice. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s no doubt it can be found somewhere within the city walls.

Cosmo on Corporation Street offers up a myriad of Pan Asian delicacies, with dishes from China, Japan, Malaysia to name just a few along with some European favourites now incorporated on their extensive menu. Delicious dishes ranging from fine Sushi through to the traditional favourites like Aromatic Duck

and Barbecue spare ribs, sumptuous curries and even a Tepanyaki hot plate and Yakatori grill. There’s much, much more readily available, this buffet restaurant is quickly becoming a regular on my list!

Cosmo, Corporation Street, Coventry: Tel 02476 553366

THE GOSPEL | OUT & ABOUT

ONE FOR THE SOFA!

The Goonies 25th Anniversary Ultimate Gift Edition One to take us back in time to the decade of leg warmers and many other fashion disasters! A classic brought to us from the pen and imagination of Steven Spielberg.

The Goonies celebrates its 25th birthday, with a spectacular collector’s DVD gift edition. Packed inside are a whole host of collectibles, including a Goonies board game, a 1985 souvenir magazine and reproduction article with cast and crew updates. This is the story of a bunch of friends, who set out

to find the hidden treasure of mythical pirate One Eyed Willie, in order to save their town from destruction and redevelopment into a golf course. The film follows Mikey, Brandon, Mouth, inventive genius Data, Andy, Stef and the ever hungry Chunk, through puzzles and dastardly booby traps on their quest to discover the hidden jackpot. Throw in gang family The Fratelli’s with their hideous but lovable brother Sloth hot on their heels and you have all the ingredients of a rip roaring adventure sure to be watched over and over.

Sit back, enjoy and do the truffle shuffle!

Available from HMV, Upper Precinct

ONE FOR THE FAMILY! Cinderella Panto.

It’s far too early to think about this year’s panto… ”Oh no it isn’t!” Get in now and book ASAP to get the best seats and the best value tickets. Ugly sisters, handsome princes, pumpkins and glass slippers, they’re all here as a family Christmas favourite returns to the stage. One of the best loved pantomimes, Cinderella is the all-time classic ‘rags-toriches’ tale.

This year’s show will once again be directed by panto

veteran Iain Lauchlan and will star the Belgrade’s much-loved Dame, Andy Hockley, alongside a fantastic professional company and a host of local children.

The traditional panto is an essential part of the family Christmas experience and this year, you even get two grand Dames for the price of one with the ugly sisters!

With lavish designs and sets, it’s one not to be missed.

30th November 2010 – 8th January 2011 Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

ONE TO SEE! returning to B2 this December with a new and improved version of last year’s hit show.

The Cheeky Chappies Christmas special The perfect alternative Christmas treat for grownups! The Cheeky Chappies are a comedy music hall act that have never given up and, as if to prove the point, they’re

Rooted in the variety theatre of the 1930s these two inept, saucy old buffers will once again host a variety of songs, scenes, sketches and festive silliness themed around the Twelve Days of Christmas.

Paul Nolan & Robert Wilkinson star.

14th - 23rd December Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

Feel Alive Winter 2010 49

FEATURES | CHRISTMAS BLING

IT ON... for her

ADD SOME SPARKLE TO

YOUR CHRISTMAS

for him

Accessorize Tattoo Diamante Watch £35

Accessorize Enamel Charm Bracelet Watch £35

M&S Textured Cufflinks

M&S Autograph Watch

Ernest Jones Omega Watch £899

M&S Vintage Style Necklace

New Look Floral Jewel Ribbon Hair Clips £2.50

New Look Limited Beaded String Cuffs £15

M&S Platinum Diana Sparkle Ring £15

Ernest Jones Calvin Klein Ring £40 Goldsmiths Armani Ring £69

Ernest Jones Ted Baker Cufflinks £30

Debenhams Dior Minaudiere £59

Debenhams EB by Erikson Beamon Jewellery Box £22

River Island Guess Belt £30

M&S Platinum Heirloom Ring £18 Accessorize Charleston Alice Band £15 Debenhams Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Collectors Edition from £69.50

50 Feel Alive Winter 2010

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO This year the LG Arena will play host to the biggest pop music event the West Midlands has seen in years with the first Mercia Live 2010 concert.

Mercia will be bringing MCFLY, JOE MCELDERRY, SHAYNE WARD, JAMES BLUNT, EXAMPLE, THE WANTED, OLLY MURS, DIANA VICKERS, THE HOOSIERS, TINCHY STRYDER and THE SATURDAYS to perform on Saturday 27th November for the new star studded show.

Diana Vickers said “I can’t wait to play to such a big crowd, it’s been an amazing year so far but this gig promises to be the biggest and best yet!”

Live 2010, promoted by Mercia and its sister stations Beacon, brmb and Wyvern, Mercia Chief.

Tickets are on sale now and priced at £29.95 or £34.95 for Gold Circle subject to transaction fees and are available online at www.mercia.co.uk or by calling The Ticket Factory on 0844 338 8000.

The Saturdays

To be in with a chance of winning, answer the following question: Which artist is appearing at Mercia Live? a. Diane Snickers b. Diane Vickers c. Diana Rickers

Tom from McFly said “We’re really looking forward to playing in November, we’ll have just come off a mini tour so we’ll be ‘tour fit’ and ready to rock the LG Arena. Plus we’ll be playing an exclusive medley of McFly classics on the night”.

James Blunt, who returns with a new album in November added “I can’t wait for this gig, I’ve been locked in the studio for the last year so I can’t wait to perform live again”.

Enter online at www.visitcoventry.co.uk closing date for entries Monday 22nd November 2010 Terms and Conditions apply Mercia is an Orion Media business.

The Wanted

Feel Alive Winter 2010 51

FEATURES | PARTY TIME

Party

Tis the season to

Dine

C

hristmas is the party season and, whether out and about with the family, friends or work colleagues Coventry city centre has plenty to offer...

Bella Italia

Kakooti

Bar Eden

A wide choice of Italian classics and handmade pizza. Delicious grilled speciality dishes and warming panini’s to name but a few. The perfect location for theatre and local nightspots too, makes Bella Italia the prime place to get the party started with your friends.

A fabulous hearty Italian restaurant in the wonderful setting of Spon Street. Kakooti prides itself on authenticity and offers refreshing new menus to reflect the changing seasons.

Special party menus from 3-7 courses can be arranged from as little as £15.95 and can be individually tailored to suit specific requirements.

A mix of the contemporary and the traditional, with a laid back rustic feel. Set in a beautiful 300 year old building you instantly feel relaxed and unfussed. With a wide ranging menu from Cajun roast belly pork and pan seared salmon, through to traditional hearty grills. Boasting an extensive bar and with live music on the weekends, it’s definitely one to be discovered.

Belgrade Plaza Upper Well Street Coventry 024 7622 6811

Turmeric Gold Spon Street Coventry 024 7622 6603

Award winning Indian restaurant, set in the centre of Medieval Spon Street. A sumptuous and extensive menu, serving up traditional favourites and chef’s speciality dishes. For a further indulgence, Turmeric have their own more private “Maharaja Quarters” a relaxed, luxurious dining area where you can wile away the evening whilst being treated like royalty, a real treat.

52 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Spon Street Coventry 024 7622 1392

Petit Gourmand at The Belgrade Belgrade Theatre Belgrade Sq Coventry 024 7684 6762

Awarded Best Newcomer and Restaurant of the Year at its hugely successful restaurant in neighbouring Kenilworth, Petit Gourmand now proudly takes centre stage at the Belgrade serving modern English food with a French twist. Perfect for pre-theatre dining, their delicious fixed menu in the restaurant offers 2 courses for £14.95 or 3 courses for £16.95.

Celebration packages are also available to make the evening just that little bit more special.

Riley Street Coventry 024 7655 1234

Myo Restaurant Old Fire Station Hales St Coventry 024 7655 3551

A fantastic place for a multithemed choice of menus... so start your evening off with a meal in MYO’s restaurant, with a lavish buffet on offer covering the best of Indian, Chinese, Thai and Mediterranean cuisines. A relaxed party feeling all set in the stylish surroundings of the ornate Old Fire Station.

PARTY TIME | FEATURES

Wine & Looking Fine!

Careys

The Castle

Browns

Bar Maison

Fun, laughter and dancing.. could there be a better combination to get you into the Christmas and New Year spirit?! Careys has live comedy shows to start the evening off in the luxurious downstairs bar. If live music is your thing then Friday and Saturday nights offer the latest in live bands all sourced from throughout the Midlands. If you remember the sounds of Luther Vandross, Alexander O’Neal, Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet, then get yourself down to their Park Lane, Revival night on Fridays and for those who want uber cool dance and glamour Saturday nights upstairs in the contemporary and stylish club are not to be missed.

Offering something for everyone and catering for all the family. The Castle recently opened after an extensive refurbishment and prides itself as somewhere designed for bringing families together. 2 for £6.99 offers on meals from an extensive menu, alongside 2 for £6 offers on cocktails and even student party nights on selected evenings, certainly shows that everyone is taken care of! A welcoming atmosphere with families invited along throughout the day and night and an ideal city centre setting, ensures The Castle is THE place to get the Christmas party started!

For a more laid back relaxed feel to your party night out Browns is just the place to start the night. Taking you through a journey of hip hop, americana, indie, breakbeat, dub, reggae, indietronica, electro, blip hop, drone, trip hop and retro this funky bar oozes cool but with an unpretentious vibe. Selling mouthwatering food until 10pm and a wide range of beers and wines it’s a fantastic place to catch up with friends and put the world to rights.

Real Manhattan style nightlife, slap bang in the middle of Coventry City centre. Elegant, decadent and with a genuine hipster appeal, this stylish lounge with bespoke French armchairs and crystal chandeliers merges late night sophistication with current and trend breaking entertainment.

Offering cocktails to die for and oven baked pizzas, Maison is chilled by day and buzzing by night!

Bayleys

Jumpin Jaks!

A wine bar and lounge aimed at catering for the over 21’s delivering a stylish, plush contemporary feel and a relaxing laid back night out.

Opened in early October, Bayleys sits nestled on the corner of Bayley lane amid the shadows of the Cathedral creating a dramatic backdrop to the City’s latest hotspot.

If you’re a child of the 80’s or looking for somewhere to dance the night away to a thumping disco beat and the latest chart anthems, JJ’s has the lot. The bar and dance floor are open until around 4am, so there’s plenty of time to get the party started… the ultimate venue for a wild night out.

Hertford Place Coventry 024 7622 7397

Little Park St. Coventry 024 7663 0862

Earl Street Coventry 024 7622 1100

Bayley Lane Coventry

Priory Place Coventry 024 7623 9306

The Skydome Coventry 024 7655 5913

Feel Alive Winter 2010 53

F

estive Buffet Menu

Enjoy your Festive Season with us!

Large Turkey Roast Potatoes Stuffing Balls Chipolatos Yorkshire Puddings Selection of Canapes Vegetarian selection of Canapes Selection of Stone Baked Pizzas Indian Platter Chinese Platter Chicken Satay Chicken Goujons & Dip Selection Quiche Tempura Prawns

Large Gammon Feature Salad (Greek / Caesar) Dressed Whole Salmon Coleslaw Selection of Bagels / Wraps and Sandwiches Ham & Tomato Turkey & Cranberry Coronation Chicken Tuna Mayo Cheese & Pickle Chicken Tikka Profiteroles Gateaux Mince Pies Maison Chocolate Pizza

ÂŁ8 per head, 10% deposit required when booking*.

Pay deposit before 17th November and receive a FREE champagne reception on arrival!

This Menu can be changed to suit budget and dietry requirements.

Please call Katie to discuss - 02476 239306

*Deposit is non refundable

Priory Place, Coventry CV1 5SQ

Ooh La La! www.facebook.com/maisonbar

Godiva Awards Winner 2010 – Best Bar

54 Feel Alive Winter 2010

FESTIVE HOME | FEATURES Next Baubles (part of 100 piece set) £20

Debenhams Felt Stockings £4.50

Debenhams Damask Wrap £5

Debenhams Pudding & Present Cards £5

Debenhams Snowflake Crackers £25 Debenhams Exquisite Wrap £5

Next Crackers (set of 12) £12

M&S 6ft Woodland Tree with Snow £120 Accessories available from M&S

M&S Set of 5 Votive Candles £29.50

Nu Leaf Table Arrangement £32.69

Deck the Halls...

Add a touch of glamour to your home this festive season...

TRADITIONS

All available from M&S Debenhams Lisa Stickley Christmas Nibble Bowls £15 for 3

All available from M&S

Next Dinner Set (set of 12) £28

Twelfth Night (5th January) is when all Christmas Decorations should be removed so as not to bring bad luck upon the home. If decorations are not removed on Twelfth Night, they should stay up all year.

Why is it bad luck to leave the decorations up after Twelfth Night?

Long ago it was thought that leaving the decorations up would cause a disaster. People believed that treespirits lived in the greenery (holly, ivy etc) they decorated their houses with. The greenery was brought into the house to provide a safe haven for the tree-spirits during the harsh midwinter days. Once this period was over it was necessary to return the greenery back outside to release the tree-spirits into the countryside once again. Failure to do this would mean that vegetation would not be able to start growing again (spring would not return), leading to an agricultural disaster. It was also thought that, if you left the greenery in the house, the tree-spirits would cause mischief in the house until they were released.

Today people still feel uneasy about leaving the Christmas decorations up after Twelfth Night. Despite decorations now being made of foil or paper, and even though the tree-spirits are long forgotten, the superstition still survives.

Feel Alive Winter 2010 55

OUT & ABOUT | CATHEDRAL & CHURCH TIMES

Christmas

Carols, Choir and Concert Celebrations

Coventry Cathedral

Time

Event

Saturday 28th November

6.30pm

Light in our Darkness: This coincides with the City Christmas Lights switch on. A magnificent celebration to start the Advent and Christmas season with carols, candles and choirs.

Saturday 11th December

3pm

Family Carols: Informal concert led by Saint Michael’s Singers lasting just one hour. Specially suitable for families, with opportunity for participation by children. Admission free.

7.30pm

Carols for All: Gala Christmas Concert featuring Saint Michael’s Singers, City of Coventry Youth Orchestra and Cathedral Choristers. Compèred by BBC Coventry and Warwickshire’s Stuart Linnell. Mince pies and wine will be served during the interval. Tickets £12 (concession £10) available from the Cathedral Bookshop or by calling 01676 532436. You can also email jill.pacey@lineone.net

4.30pm

BBC Christmas Carol Concert: Join us for celebration of carols and Christmas to be shared with the whole of Coventry and Warwickshire.

TICKETED EVENT.

7.30pm

La Nativité du Seigneur Organ Concert: Organ recital by Kerry Beaumont, Coventry Cathedral’s Director of Music. A deeply moving musical event based on the birth of Jesus. FREE EVENT. Voluntary donations are welcome.

Sunday 19th December

6.30pm

Carols by Candlelight: Join the Dean of Coventry to celebrate Christmas at its best. Traditional and modern carols, choirs, readings and candles.

A special occasion for all. FREE EVENT. Voluntary donations are welcome.

Christmas Eve Friday 24th December

3.30pm

Journey to Bethlehem: One of the most popular services of the year where children are invited to dress up as characters from the Christmas story.

Bring your family and join us on the journey to the stable. FREE EVENT.

7pm

Form of a Servant: Our world-famous service for Christmas Eve - a carol service with a difference. If you haven’t experienced how special this is, make this the year you don’t miss out! FREE EVENT.

11.30pm

Holy Trinity - Midnight Eucharist: This service is held in Holy Trinity Church next to the cathedral, in partnership with Coventry Cathedral and Methodist Central Hall.

Christmas Day Saturday 25th December

10.30am

A celebration of Christmas: The Cathedral’s glorious Christmas Day service with wonderful music to uplift the spirit on one of the most important and exciting days of the year.

Sunday 26th December

10.30am

‘St Stephen’s Day Eucharist’: Join us for this special Boxing Day morning celebration.

Saturday 18th December

Holy Trinity Church – Broadgate

St John Baptist Church

Jesus – The Reason for the Season – Everyone welcome!

4.30pm

Evening Services Winter

Sunday 21st November

6.30pm

Evening Services Summer

City lights switch on Church open for refreshments from 3pm onwards

Sunday 28th November

6.30pm

Sunday 19th December

6.30pm

Nine Lessons & Carols Candle lit service for all

Friday 24th December

11pm

Midnight Eucharist Celebrant – Revd. David Mayhew Joint service with Coventry Cathedral and Methodist Central Hall

Saturday 25th December A house of prayer for all people

56 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Darkness to Light A candle lit service with choir

Christmas Day Service For all the family at 10.30am

Weekday Services Monday

6.00pm Evening Prayer – 6.30pm Mass

Tuesday

6.00pm Evening Prayer – 6.30pm Mass

Wednesday

10.00am Mass – 6.00pm Evening Prayer

Thursday

10.00am Mass – 6.00pm Evening Prayer

Friday No Service Saturday

9.30am Mass

Sunday

10.00am Sung Mass

Saturday 27th November

Xmas Fayre 10am – 2pm

New Year FEATURES | FITNESS

NewYou! with a

Top

tips and healthy facts...

tone your Regular exercise not only helps you gy levels ener body, it’s also great for boosting ls and leve ss and brain activity, lowering stre g for as cisin Exer even improving your sex drive! ld of wor a e mak little as half an hour a day will out king Wor . difference to mind, body and soul ng... and exercising needn’t be bori

Feel Good!

Fitness classes offer something for everyone covering all fitness levels. Many of these are available at the Coventry Sports & Leisure Centre and Fitness First for Women.

No matter what your level of fitness, from beginner to seasoned workout enthusiast, there is a fitness class for everyone and you can find the right workout for your needs.

Step classes Specifically designed to work out the heart and lungs, whilst helping to tone your legs, tum and bum.

Aquafit A fun and invigorating workout in the pool, helping to effectively burn calories but at the same time having a much more minimal impact on the body.

Boxercise & Boxfit The introductory level boxing class which moves around in a circuit, giving a full cardio workout. Using gloves and pads, this is a great way to keep trim and fit and effectively tone the entire upper and lower body.

Classes Available from: Coventry Sports & Leisure Centre Fairfax Street 024 7625 2525 Fitness First for Women 50 Bishop Street Coventry 024 7622 4437

58 Feel Alive Winter 2010

A

s the New Year kicks in, now is the perfect time to freshen up both body and mind. Whether you’re looking to get back into shape after the excesses of Christmas, or to get that fabulous beach body in time for the summer holidays, the “new you” could be just around the corner. Here are just a few ideas to get you heading in the right direction...

something to Visiting a gym with friends offers ing back for com and d ivate mot keep everyone ses and more, with a fantastic choice of clas g to the goin ever How . lable avai programmes body needs gym is only half the battle as your tion correctly. the correct fuel if it’s going to func d of difference worl Eating healthily can make the cise and if exer g aidin as well as to how you feel groups, food t rtan you keep a balance of the impo road to the then , Fats lthy Hea and Carbs, Protein er! corn the nd arou fitness and well being is just

Healthy mind!

Along with exercise, as the old saying goes healthy body, healthy mind. Exercise can stimulate the brainwaves and get you on the way to thinking clearly. Feeling fitter and bursting with renewed energy will certainly promote a more positive outlook, put a smile back on your face and a bounce back in your step. There are alternative ways with more and more people turning to Crystal Healing, relaxation techniques and incenses and fragrant oils to help them on the way to a more balanced body and balanced mind. Feeling relaxed and in tune with yourself will certainly help with maintaining focus and drive towards the NEW YOU. Unwind in the comfort of your own home, lay in a hot bath with some essential oils and relaxation candles burning while you soothe the aching muscles... tranquillity...calm...and inner peace!

Healing Crystals, incenses, oil burners, fragrance and essential oils are all available from: Craft Culture Sherbourne Arcade 024 7655 3673

Look Good!

Let’s face it, if you’re going to put all that effort in you may as well look the part whilst exercising. Finding the right equipment is as important as what we eat and how we exercise. It doesn’t have to cost the earth or need to be suitable for taking on an Olympic marathon! Choosing a proper fitting pair of trainers and a loose fitting trackie that you feel at ease in, will at least make you look and feel like the athlete you’ve always dreamt of being. Kit yourself out correctly at the start and you’re on the right track.

Sportswear Available from: JJB Sports Hertford Street 024 7622 3495 Sports Direct Market Way 0844 332 5364 First Sport Cathedral Lanes 024 7663 2770

Eat Good!

Your body is like a finely tuned engine...so treat it like one!

Refuelling correctly is as important as exercise itself in maintaining health and fitness.

As long as we eat a balanced diet consisting of the 3 most important food groups, then a little treat every now and then won’t undo all the hard work.

Slow release carbs provide the body with a more sustainable source of energy to make us feel stronger for longer, therefore aiding with exercise and fending off the feeling of tiredness.

Foods such as pasta, brown rice, sweet potatoes and root veg are ideal for maintaining energy, whilst fruits including bananas, oranges and red berries provide us with the natural sugars and vitamins vital for health and well being. Smoothies are the perfect way of ensuring we get a large chunk of our 5-a-day!

Protein, which can be found in lean red meats, eggs, nuts and milk are essential for helping strengthen muscle and perfect for losing weight as most high protein foods are extremely low in fat and calories!

Healthy fats...yes it sounds odd but they exist and play a big part in our fitness plan. These are all easily obtainable in our daily diet. Tuna, salmon and oily fish which all contain essential Omega 3, not only maintain a healthy heart but can also boost brain power and function. So fat, providing it’s the right kind, can be good for you…..phew!

Foods Available from: GNC Broadgate 024 7622 1336.

Julian Graves Sherbourne Arcade 024 7622 2190 Love Shake Smoothies West Orchards food court

FITNESS | FEATURES

New Year

New You Feel Alive Winter 2010 59

RE

AD

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OF FE R

£1 .0 0

OF F

FEATURES | CALENDAR

T

his Christmas, grab yourself a copy of the official 2011 Coventry Calendar showcasing local hotspots and areas

of interest. With shots captured by some of the city’s finest photographers, the 2011 calendar features some unique views of the city. Images include stunning new photographs of Coventry Cathedral, impressive shots of the Canal Basin and the Ricoh Arena along with striking shots of Coventry’s War Memorial Park and Coombe Abbey.

MARCH

Calendars cost only £5.99 and are available from local stores throughout the city centre.

Alternatively, you can purchase a calendar through one of the following methods:

www.visitcoventryandwarwickshire.co.uk,

In Person – The Tourist Information Centre, St Michael’s Tower, Cathedral Ruins, Cuckoo Lane, Coventry

024 7622 5616

tic@cvone.co.uk.

£1.00 off

JULY

READERS OFFER

We’re giving Feel Alive readers a special discounted rate of £4.99 when you purchase the calendar online.

Visit www.visitcoventry.co.uk and quote ref FA2011

60 Feel Alive Winter 2010

AUGUST

FEATURES | KIDS

Christmas Capers Can you find these words?

1. Rudolph 2. Snowman 3. Noel

Q. What do you get if you eat Christmas decorations?

A. Tinsilitus!

4. Holly 5. Turkey 6. Santa

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Can you unscramble these winter words?

1. TNIESL 2. HCSRIAMTS 3. OSNW 4. ACRCEKR 5. LIEHSG

62 Feel Alive Winter 2010

Q. What is Santa’s dog called?

A. Santa Paws!

Q. A donkey carried Mary to Bethlehem.

What do you call a 3-legged Donkey?

A. A Wonky!

Q. What do you get if Santa goes down the chimney when the fire is lit?

A. Crisp Cringle!

Q. What do you call a Snowman party?

A. A Snowball!

Our Feel Alive penguin is lost in a blizzard! Help him find his way home!