Wharf Life, Feb 7-21, 2024 by wharf-life

+ Why Chris Ezekiel finds vital time to relax when running a firm Page 14

Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

how Awoke Plants is serving east Londoners with peat-free greenery Pages 34-35

nurturing the

inside issue 106

Lyll - Sudoku - Limmo Peninsula John Ruskin Prize - Ballet Nights Liam Gallagher + John Squire - After Dark Women Of The RNLI - The Pen Theatre Save To Buy - Fuwa Fuwa - Dopamine Dressing Crossword - Grand Days Out - Wharf Life Hacks

celebrating the best of Canary Wharf, Docklands and the new east London people - events - treasure - property - foolishness

Image by Jon Massey

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read

feast your eyes on these

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Temple Of Art And Music MMy Wood Wharf

GIG | Open Mic Night Whether you’re watching or performing, this open mic in the basement of the luxury market hall promises emerging artists and impromptu jam sessions. Saturdays, 8pm, free, tam.tv

Welcome to issue 106 of Wharf Life. As we wave goodbye to January, this is the season of going out and doing things. The venues have packed their programmes, so whether it’s top dancers at Ballet Nights, rock’n’roll with Liam Gallagher at Troxy or emerging talent at The Pen Theatre, this paper’s for you...

The sweet jiggle of Fuwa Fuwa pancakes, drenched in sugars

Where? Everyman Cinema Crossrail Place

FILM | Monty Python And The Holy Grail The cinema’s throwback season continues with a comedy classic with King Arthur on coconuts rather than horses. Entry includes drink and popcorn. Feb 25, 6.30pm, £16.60, everymancinema.com

How Lyll is aiming to give media brands a boost via SME ads

Where? Boisdale Of Canary Wharf Cabot Place

GIG | Simon + Oscar Ocean Colour Scene’s Simon Fowler and Oscar Harrison play an intimate acoustic gig of hits such as The Riverboat Song and Hundred Mile High City. Feb 28, 9.15pm, from £29, boisdale.co.uk

Amazing grace: How Lanterns Studio Theatre on the Isle Of Dogs is set to host principal dancers from The Royal Ballet as the fourth edition of Ballet Nights takes place at the east London venue

flash back

Find a grand day out this half term to satisfy the whole family at once

the joy of six

30 Canary Wharf Group has launched Wharf Connect, a network for professionals in the first 10 years of their careers to meet each other and explore the estate and their own professional development through events and talks canarywharf.com Scan this code to read our interview with CWG’s Jane Hollinshead about the new initiative want more? @wharfwhispers

How the National Maritime Museum is celebrating RNLI women

Why TfL is seeking a new partner to develop land on Limmo Peninsula

Every issue Wharf Life covers six areas surrounding Canary Wharf to bring you the best of what’s going on beyond the estate From Page 25

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on the radar

doing the deals

get more for less on and around the Wharf

need to know

£5

Canary Wharf Group is set to welcome Pozitive Energy, Hypervolt and WelHunt as new tenants on the estate – all of whom have taken space on its MadeFor, fully fitted office spaces at One Canada Square. FIA and Rittal have also renewed tower deals canarywharf.com

Food hall MMy Wood Wharf in George Street is offering select dishes from its traders for £5 on weekdays from noon-5pm. Details on the Canary Wharf App canarywharf.com

Manchester comes to Limehouse as Liam and John prepare to play Troxy

We’re excited about another new opening – skincare and makeup brand Kiko Milano is set to fling wide its doors in Canary Wharf’s Cabot Place mall. Expect an extensive range of products alongside accessories from the Italian retailer kikocosmetics.com

After Dark at UEL returns, with a festival of lights that’s free to visit

30%

Small, but perfectly formed: How The Pen Theatre provides a platform for new writing, shows in development and low-risk rates as an essential cog in the creative industry

Get nearly a third off any breakfast item at Pure in Cabot Place – Wharfers will need to show the offer on the free Canary Wharf app to redeem. Selected items only canarywharf.com

Next stop

m u e s u M t r o p s n a r T n o d Lon Covent Garden Piazza

s transport Discover London’s world famou Book online

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write me

words you don’t know you need

betshi

noun, fake, from Old English subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter and get our content in your inbox fortnightly

A small wager – say a grand – between two supposed gentlefolk about the small matter of whether it will be possible to deport asylum seekers to a third country from the UK. Exactly the sort of behaviour becoming of a PM...

GIG Alabama 3 Acoustic Feb 22, from £29 Boisdale Of Canary Wharf, Cabot Place boisdale.co.uk

blithesome adjective, real, from German

Lighthearted, merry or cheerful – the kind of attitude expressed by those prone to making betshies, even on matters that significantly change the course of others’ lives. An astonishing state of affairs for those looking on...

Rock Freebase, Larry Love, Devlin Love and Harpo Strangeglove promise a raucous, whisky-soaked show of country ditties, blues groove and harmonica as they work through acoustic versions of some of their biggest hits. Known for their hillbilly take on Acid House, the outfit have enjoyed much success, especially off the back of The Sopranos theme tune, Woke Up This Morning. Not a show to miss...

Lotus Biscoff drizzle

it’s the sweet flavour of the moment, yours for £8.90 >> Ok, the first thing, which actually applies to both offerings is that they took 20 minutes to prepare. That’s enough time to pop to Bread And Truffle, bag a foccacia sandwich, eat it and come back to Fuwa Fuwa. Quite what casual target market this process is aimed at on the Wharf is unclear, but if a sugar-shaped window does unexpectedly open up on Shrove Tuesday (Feb 13), then this is the place for an alternative to the classic options. >> What did chefs do before they realised they could crush up Lotus Biscoff biscuits and use them as an ingredient in desserts? They’re everywhere right now, but this offering is perhaps the most potent expression yet applied. For 10p less than £9, you get a pair of wobbly, feather-light pancakes topped with Biscoff sauce, granulated Biscoff and a whole biscuit to top things off.

Have you helped your loved ones to help you?

>> It’s an impossibly sweet, yet earthy offering – generous and beguiling with an unnecessary dusting of icing sugar

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AY L E S B U RY

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diary dates, listings and ideas to make your Canary Wharf sweeter.. LO N DO N

M A IDE N H E A D

S LO U G H

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scan this code for more on Fuwa Fuwa

Both tempting – but where should you be putting your cash? Read on to find the best alternative Pancake Day selection ART Spirit Of Place Simone Brewster Harbour Quay, Gardens canarywharf.com

It’s time to adjudicate – just which sweet treat is better at Fuwa Fuwa (fluffy in Japanese, apparently) – the Lotus Biscoff Drizzle or the Strawberry Nutella Drizzle?

Strawberry Nutella drizzle

with all that fruit, it’s practically a health food, £8.90 >> Before Biscoff, there was Nutella, the OG of products coopted to make desserts just that little bit more luxurious. Does anyone remember pizzas smeared with the stuff and coated with Smarties? Is that diabetes knocking? >> Straight off the bat, there’s a difference. The addition of the word “strawberry” means many more slices of fruit embedded in the quenelle of whipped cream on the side. The main difference here is the pancakes, that appear to have a near negative density, such that they might just float up and away to the mall’s ceiling, are not sitting in a sickly sweet bath. They’re all the better for that. The thick solidity of the chocolate and hazelnut spread gives this dish the edge on structure.

Find the impossible jiggle of these fat, soufflé pancakes in Canary Wharf’s Canada Place mall on the way to the Elizabeth Line station’s east entrance

Canary Wharf Group has brought five new artworks onto the estate to enliven the dockside boardwalk at Harbour Quay Gardens. Simone Brewster’s Spirit Of Place, which will be available to view on an ongoing basis at the Wood Wharf park, comprises five cork totems, painted in a succession of bright hues. The artist said: “It’s wonderful to know that Spirit of Place has found a new home in such a distinctive London location. “The surroundings right by the water’s edge will give passers-by a great opportunity to view the sculptures. I’m sure at this time of year, the vibrant collection will continue to be enjoyed by passers-by and the local community, while continuing the necessary conversation within design about beauty and sustainability.” The works join more than 100 pieces in the estate’s portfolio – the largest publicly accessible collection of its kind in the UK. Go to canarywharf.com for more

>> While the sprinkling of chopped nuts and yet more icing sugar (they really should be more careful not to spill – everything's covered) are superfluous, all in all this is simply super ★★★★✩

all change

TfL consulting on further extension of the DLR

scan this code to view the proposals and make comments

Transport For London has announced that it is seeking views on a possible extension of the DLR to Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead. Under the plans, a fresh length of railway would be created, stretching out from Gallions Reach station to the river and then under it. TfL says the extension could see 25,000 to 30,000 homes built on the route with up to 10,000 jobs created should the scheme go ahead. The plans would also chime with housing association Peabody’s extensive regeneration of Thamesmead, which is already benefiting from increased connectivity via the Elizabeth Line at Abbey Wood.

Detailed proposals can be viewed online, with views sought by March 18 as part of a consultation process. “Although we have started a recordbreaking 116,000 plus genuinely affordable homes and completed more homes of all types at any time since the 1930s, the demand for housing in London shows no sign of slowing down,” said Sadiq Khan, Mayor Of London. “I’m excited for TfL to launch this consultation – extending the DLR will unlock huge opportunities for London, support new homes, deliver new transport connections and boost the economy, supporting the creation of thousands of jobs.” Go to haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

how Lyll aims to revolutionise advertising on news sites for SMEs with budgets of £50+

Months since Lyll launched in Norway – the startup is now part of Innovation Norway’s TEA programme at Level39 in Canary Wharf Lyll CEO Camilla

Scan this code to find out more about Lyll’s offering

Frydenbø is hoping to reinvigorate interest in advertising on news sites

by Jon Massey

he idea that the way things are at the moment is how they shall continue to be. But the world rarely stands still, especially in the world of tech. There’s a danger in this – in getting too comfortable with the prevailing winds, lest they all too rapidly change when one isn’t paying attention. Innovation Norway has been running its Tech Executive Accelerator (TEA) programme at Canary Wharf’s Level39, more or less since the community launched in 2013. Back then, people talked of Big Data, with a few early adopters whispering about the blockchain. Challenger banks emerged, crypto wallets proliferated and there was much talk of machine learning. Now it’s generative AI. During this period, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) have seen social media become the dominant marketing channel for their products and services. But nothing in the digital sphere is guaranteed forever – the lustre of Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and even LinkedIn, has started to tarnish, with the inevitable consequences of light regulation and a limited appetite or capacity for in-house moderation. So what of the future? Part of the answer may come from Norwegian startup Lyll – currently in Canary Wharf as part of the TEA’s latest cohort. Launched in June, 2023, the company aims to offer SMEs a simple, self-service approach to advertising on digital news sites and is spending six months here as it targets growth. While the column inches on these sites are often filled with discussions on the impact of and posts on social media, it’s perhaps easy to forget that much of the most well researched, potent and popular digital content is created by the news brands themselves, with millions of readers turning to them as trusted sources. “I’ve been working in marketing for 25 years and online newspapers are my favourite marketing channel,” said Camilla Frydenbø, CEO of Lyll. “I have a continued on Page 8

switching the

Image by Jon Massey

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

from Page 6 lot of love for them and they are important for brand building, which companies need if they are going to grow. “But it hasn’t been very easy for SMEs to use this channel, because they typically have to talk to a salesperson. Most media businesses do not have self-service solutions, so many firms turn to social media because those platforms have made it easy to advertise and firms are welcome with any budget. “Companies often perceive online news brands as expensive, so they don’t contact the salesperson as they feel like they need a big budget. “What we’ve done is create a platform that makes it even easier to advertise on these sites than it is to use social media. “We think businesses will use these channels if they know they can place adverts on these sites with a minimum budget of £50, which most companies can afford. “The price of an ad view is similar to what they pay on social media – that makes it competitive.”

Lyll currently has more than 5,000 news sites on its platform, spread across nine European countries – a demonstration, perhaps of the publishers’ desire to uncover new streams of revenue in a tough climate. “Our slogan is: ‘For your growth and a free press’, because we also think in this world where everyone is talking about sustainability, if we don’t have the fourth estate we will all have a problem,” said Camilla. “We see in countries where there are fewer journalists and news sites being read, you don’t get a high level of debate or a nuanced picture of what’s going on. We hope that it will be part of a business’ sustainability plan – how they choose to spend their marketing budget and what they are funding with it. “We have more than 200 companies in Norway which have signed up to Lyll with an account, although not all are active yet. We see it takes a while between when people create an account and when they start advertising, but the interest is definitely there. “Companies know they need to reach a wider, mass market and when they don’t get the effect

Lyll is currently part of Innovation Norway’s TEA programme, which has been based at Level39 in Canary Wharf’s One Canada Square since 2013

Companies know they need to reach a wider, mass market and when they don’t get the effect they used to from Facebook, it’s a perfect storm because they are willing to listen now Camilla Frydenbø, Lyll

they used to from Facebook, it’s a perfect storm because they are willing to listen now. “If they want to be on TikTok, for example, they have to make videos three times a week, at least, and small firms may not have the resources to produce the coolest thing on the platform. “When it comes to LinkedIn, if you’re selling to consumers, then it’s not the right channel. Then you have women, primarily, using Facebook, and men on YouTube. That’s how the social media market is dividing right now. “Going beyond this, bringing news sites into the marketing mix, will see firms continue their growth.” That’s partly because the two streams serve different purposes. Camilla said she would never encourage a company to abandon social, but spread marketing onto more than one channel. She said: “It is important for businesses to always be better at brand building – creating something sustainable which gives them growth over time and makes them more profitable. A presence on national, regional or local news sites is how you do this. continued on Page 10

Scan this code to find out more about Lyll’s offering

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from Page 8 “Firms need to be more patient with news sites. With social media, everything is so fast. Companies are always having to come up with new photos, videos, text – which is a little bit tiring. “If you are always chasing sales, doing special offers or discounts, then you will never succeed. Businesses that put most of their marketing budget into brand building are the ones that win the market, but you don’t do that in three months or six months. You need a plan which goes over several years. “We don’t say companies shouldn’t use social media, because we think they should. The best effect is when you use three to four channels with a single campaign. “In Bergen, for example, we have a concert series. Until recently they were selling their tickets through Facebook. “But since that was declining, they wanted to try Lyll. They took their small budget and divided it between the two newspapers in the city. They told us they had never sold out faster than when they divided the budget. “Lyll can support what a company is doing on social media – their platforms are often more geared towards making ticket sales, but people also have to know there’s a concert on in the first place.” Lyll’s idea will likely be welcomed by digital publishers, many of who have spent the years since the arrival of the internet attempting to thrash out viable business models. Reach PLC, which has kept its sites such as mirror.co.uk and express.co.uk free to access, recently reported a 16% decline in digital revenues – albeit a collapse largely blamed on Facebook’s decision to send less traffic to news brands. Camilla said engagement with companies like Lyll could help. “It’s been very valuable to be in London at Level39 on the TEA programme,” she said. “We said we were looking for investors and partnerships and we’ve had meetings with investors and big media companies. “The latter see that they have a need for a self-service solution but they have one concern, whether it will have an impact on jobs. “Sales people are definitely still needed to serve large advertisers – Lyll is not built for their needs – but we think they can activate sleeping customers. These companies have huge customer bases that we can appeal to. “In the end, if they don’t do anything about this problem, they can’t complain about advertising

£50

Minimum spend for firms using Lyll to purchase programmatic advertising on news sites

Lyll is keen to remind businesses that advertising on news sites as part of a marketing campaign can be beneficial for long-term brand building as opposed to an over reliance on social media

going to social media because, if it’s difficult for companies to buy space on these platforms, they won’t do it. “We make money by taking a small cut of the advertising spend – it’s programmatic advertising made easy. “Another benefit is that while Google’s display network allows placement of ads on these sites, customers can’t choose where their ad appears. “They might be placed on strange websites or bad websites, even. These things happen and brand safety is very important. If you want your advert to appear on the Financial Times’ site, for example, and you think you’ll get that from Google, you’ll probably find as little as 3% of your budget will place it there and the rest could see it placed somewhere else. “With Lyll, you get to be in front of the audience you want – you decide where your money is spent.” As for the future, Lyll is very much eyeing expansion to London following its spell in Canary Wharf. “The networking with the TEA programme has been fantastic,” said Camilla. “I live in Bergen, which is the second largest city in Norway but is still very small. “The investor pool is limited

there in marketing tech. That’s why we wanted to come to London – here you have the best marketing people in Europe and the things we’ve been able to do, the little network we’ve been able to build – we’d have never been able to do this from Bergen. “I think expanding to London would be a natural step for us. When we get more funding, the next thing is to hire a salesperson and they would have to be an English-speaking person who can talk to media companies around the globe and try and get them into collaboration with us.” While the future of media online remains uncertain, the plummeting revenues at X following Elon Musk’s takeover of the platform and its descent into a frequently toxic space which companies are keen to avoid, could well be a cautionary tale. With brands eager for a safe place to reach people, perhaps Lyll will help reignite a channel that’s been looking for a fresh approach for some time. Go to lyll.io level39.co or en.innovasjonnorge.no for more

Scan this code to find out more about Lyll’s offering

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boosting your ♥

how there are plenty of bright ideas to be found on the Wharf for those keen to explore dopamine dressing to raise a smile

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scan this code to find out more about what’s on for half term at the Museum Of London Docklands

Fantastic places to visit with the family over this spring half term

celebrate

Museum Of London Docklands

he Museum Of London Docklands is all set for Migration Celebration this half term. Visitors can expect cookery lessons, storytelling, music, folk tales and toddler parties with sounds from around the world at the West India Quay venue. All of the museum’s activities are free and require no pre-booking, although participants will have to sign up for some workshops on the day on a first come, first served basis. Treats From The Middle East Feb 13-15, times vary This Middle Eastern and North African cookery class promises to sweeten and spice up the lives of those taking part.

>> Half term is nearly here – officially February 12-16 – so we’ve put together some ideas for families to enjoy over the break. Go crazy at Flip Out, learn and play at the Museum Of London Docklands or celebrate women at the London Transport Museum

Party Fun Feb 14-16, times vary Youngsters are invited to bop, dance and boogie to a selection of anthems and songs from around the world.

discover

Rainforest Tales Feb 14-16, times vary Enjoy stories from the Caribbean, where tales of tradition and songs about animal tricksters and magical shapeshifters abound. Other sessions include the opportunity to get involved with blanket making, object handling and folk tales with a side of Klezmer music. The museum is located a short walk from West India Quay DLR and can also be easily reached from Canary Wharf’s stations. Go to museumoflondon.org.uk

Flip Out Canary Wharf >> The opening of Flip Out in Canary Wharf marks a turning point for the area. It’s the estate’s first venue squarely targeted at the family market and, with 10 attractions to explore, there’s a lot for visitors (especially youngsters) to get excited about. where is it? Flip Out Canary Wharf is located underground in a former car park under the estate’s Cabot Place shopping mall. It’s open for 10 hours every day of the week, from 10am-8pm. The West India Quay institution’s half term activities are migration-themed

what’s on offer? The venue is not short on things to do. Visitors can choose from Bumper Cars, Roller Rink, Donut Slide, Laser Quest, Crazy Karts, Interactive Football, Ninja Playground and PS5s or simply do them all. There are also Party Rooms and The Diner for celebrations and refreshments to break up the excitement. how much does all this cost? Standard entry for a two hour session costs £15 per person, with those under 1.2m in height getting in for £10. Some activities are height restricted, however. There are also discounts available for larger group bookings. Perhaps the best deal is the monthly membership, which costs £12.50 and includes a two-hour session every day. The minimum length of membership is three months. if there are rooms, are there party packages? There certainly are. Flip Out is geared to groups of youngsters having a good time. Its Awesome Party Package costs £27 per guest and includes a two-hour session, food and drink, invitations, party bags, a card and present for the birthday child, 30 minutes in a party room and the services of a dedicated party host. how do I find out more? The best place to find out more information is at flipout.co.uk, where tickets can be booked, parties arranged and memberships secured. scan this code to find out more about what Flip Out has to offer in Canary Wharf or to make a booking

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

grand

out Flip Out in Canary Wharf offers many attractions including Bumper Cars for visitors to enjoy

The museum is celebrating Women At Work this half term

travel

London Transport Museum

unning from February 10-18, the London Transport Museum is celebrating Women At Work this half term with a multitude of activities. While most jobs, including transport and engineering roles, excluded female applicants in the 19th and early 20th centuries, there are stories of pioneering individuals who paved the way for others in the sectors. This year also marks the 50th anniversary since London Transport began recruiting its first women as bus drivers in 1974. London Underground followed suit, recruiting drivers in 1978. Visitors are invited to come and discover their contribution to keeping the capital moving as well as having the chance to hop on board historic buses and Tube trains and learning to drive an Elizabeth Line train. Special activities taking place for women at work are: Design A Sign self-guided family trail, 5+, daily Designer Margaret Calvert began creating signs for the UK’s roads and railways in the 1950s, helping people find routes to their destinations. Prompted by her work, visitors are encouraged to scour the museum’s galleries for as many signs as they can as inspiration for their own designs. Transport Heroine Zine Making workshop, 7+, weekdays, 45mins Discover the stories of nine women who shaped London’s transport network including Helen Clifford, who became London Transport’s first woman bus mechanic in 1984, Susan Atyeo, the first signal woman to join London Transport in

1979, and Margaret Okwanga who joined as a Catering Supervisor in the 1970s. Children can then create a zine about their chosen transport heroine and either take it home to show family and friends or add it to the museum’s display. Dare To Dream global poster gallery tours, 4+, times vary Join puppet Simran (a character from one of the museum’s posters by Esther Cox) to discover the work of female artists in its How To Make A Poster exhibition. Leading creatives include Dora Batty, who began designing posters for the Underground in 1921 and embroiderer and designer Lilian Dring, who produced posters from the 1930s. Afterwards kids can create a wheel of their favourite things about London. Other attractions include the All Aboard play zone for little ones, who can play at being bus conductors, repair a mini Tube train with toy spanners or work in the iconic Lost Property Office. The museum also boasts a family friendly cafe – Canteen – overlooking Covent Garden, with plenty of kid-friendly options. The London Transport Museum is close to Covent Garden Tube and is also within walking distance of Holborn or Tottenham Court Road (for those who prefer to take the Elizabeth Line from Canary Wharf before learning to drive one of the trains). Annual passes, covering unlimited visits to the museum, cost £24 for adults. Those aged 17 and under go free. Go to ltmuseum.co.uk for more information, buy passes or book timed slots Scan this code to find out more about half term at the London Transport Museum

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

Years since Chris started Creative Virtual in east London, a company that has since expanded into international markets

virtual viewpoint by Chris Ezekiel

t’s a big year for Creative Virtual. We are celebrating our 20-year anniversary. Reflecting on this milestone and how we’ve grown from a startup to a global business, I wanted to share some of my thoughts on founding and running a local technology company. Over the years, technology has advanced unrecognisably – however, what we do hasn’t. We provide AI-based chatbot technology for automating the way customers and employees communicate within an organisation with the aim of making the experience better for all. It’s a testament to our amazing team that we have become a global leader within the conversational AI space. Every year of the past two decades has seen technological advancements, however this past 12 months has been a pretty crazy time for the industry with the emergence of large language models – in particular ChatGPT. For me, though, business is all about the people. It’s natural staff come and go within organisations. However, there is a core backbone of people who make up the fabric and culture of a firm – what Creative Virtual stands for – teamwork, passion, innovation and quirkiness. From day one, we have remained true to these prinFrom day one, we ciples, making sure they are have remained true always at the heart of everything we do. to our principles of A question I’m often asked is: “How do I make the tough teamwork, passion, decisions and what do I do to innovation and relax?”. Personally, it’s a mix of spending time with family, quirkiness friends and loved ones, running, Chris Ezekiel, Creative Virtual watching West Ham, physics and snowboarding – I’m actually writing this column in Chamonix getting my snowboarding fix. Having a two and a half and a one year old also keeps me from thinking about work 24/7. Making tough decisions never gets easier. It’s about having the data, being pragmatic, having empathy, acting fairly and balancing short and long term gains. Canary Wharf, and the Isle of Dogs, is a great environment to grow a company, but also to relax in. There are lovely runs along the river and docks, great bars and restaurants and a vibrant arts and cultural scene with exhibitions and events. Being in good shape physically makes a big difference mentally. Running also allows me to contemplate and to think about things differently. With all the industry hype around AI – Chris says finding ways and being an optimist by nature – it’s important to keep things in to relax is vital when it perspective. comes to running a business, Here’s to the next 20 years, the new challenges, possibilities whatever stage it’s at and adventures that lie ahead.

the batteries

Chris Ezekiel is founder and CEO of customer engagement solutions specialist Creative Virtual based at Canary Wharf’s Cabot Square Scan this code for more information about Creative Virtual or follow @creativevirtual and @chrisezekiel on X

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Wapping - Limehouse - Shadwell - Tower Hill

Singles released by the duo so far, with an eponymous album in the pipeline

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Wilton’s Music Hall Wapping

STAGE | Hopkins Dead Poets Live presents the tale of Gerard Manley Hopkins, a Victorian priest who was unable to convince himself or friends of his poetry’s worth. Mar 5-7, 7.30pm, from £12.50, wiltons.org.uk Where? Dockside Vaults St Katherine Docks

Liam, right, and John, are set to play Troxy

rock’n’roll

how Troxy is set to host Liam Gallagher and John Squire as the newly minted duo mark record release by Jon Massey

hat do you get when you combine two of the pivotal figures from the Manchester music scene of the 1990s? Liam Gallagher and John Squire have teamed up to record an eponymous album, following the latter’s guest appearances at the former’s massive Knebworth gigs. The sound, somewhat predictably, is a combination of the Stone Roses’ psyche-

delic bounce with Oasis’ nasal whine – both of which remain undiminished by the decades that have passed since they first emerged. Having brought out a couple of singles – Just Another Rainbow (good) and Mars To Liverpool (a little tired), the pair have embarked on a tour to celebrate the release of their full record. That means they’re set to play a date at Troxy in Limehouse on Tuesday, March 26, with the doors opening at 7pm. Audiences can expect plenty of unwithered swagger from the frontman and slick, unshowy licks from

the guitarist and songwriter responsible for many of the Roses’ finest moments, not to mention The Seahorses. Tickets for the show have yet to go on sale, with prices unreleased, but are likely to sell fast – so keep tabs on this one. That way it will be worth getting that massive green Parka dry-cleaned specially for the gig. Go to troxy.co.uk Scan this code to find out more about the gig

SEE | Six Nations Head down to the subterranean venue for screenings of matches throughout the tournament. Dockside is equipped with numerous screens and a full bar. Until Mar 10, times vary, £6.50, docksidevaults.com Where? Half Moon Theatre Wapping

KIDS | Kaleidoscope Performing some eight shows over two days, Filskit Theatre bring mirrors, lights, colours and sounds to Limehouse to delight those aged 6-18 months. Feb 23-24, times vary, £7, halfmoon.org.uk

seek and find

Wapping Docklands Market remains one of east London’s gems – this Devil Paneer Curry with egg fried rice, ginger yoghurt and pickled onion from Ceylon Roti is typical of the food on offer. Saturdays, 10am-4pm at Brussels Wharf themarketnetwork.co.uk Scan this code to find out more about the market and the traders that regularly attend want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

2 what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? The Space Isle Of Dogs

STAGE| Squirrel Cassie is clearing out her childhood bedroom and avoiding calls from her estranged mum. Therapy beckons as she unpacks bin bags of emotion. Mar 5-9, 7.30pm, from £10, space.org.uk Where? Poplar Union Poplar

LEARN | Fool’s Moon Workshop Join comedian and ventriloquist Lachlan Werner for a session on using the voice to build amusing characters. Expect play, stupidity and freedom. Feb 29, 7pm, £3-£7, poplarunion.com Where? Trinity Buoy Wharf Leamouth

RENT | Fatboy’s Diner The authentic 1950s diner is seeking a new operator to flip the patties and serve the cokes at Trinity Buoy Wharf. Includes indoor and outdoor space. Ongoing, details on application, trinitybuoywharf.com

flash back

This is Inigo Lapwood, project director of Theatreship and Artship, which together form a new cultural venue on the Isle Of Dogs. They are moored in the arts and heritage berth at West India South Dock theatreship.co.uk Scan this code to read our interview with Inigo about the plans for the boats and why they’re in the right place want more? @wharfwhispers

Chances to see Ballet Nights’ fourth edition, which comes to Lanterns Studio Theatre on February 23 and 24

how audiences are set to see some of the world’s best dancers as Ballet Nights returns to the Isle Of Dogs by Jon Massey

ur story continues” is the strapline for the latest evening of dance to come to Lanterns Studio Theatre on the Isle Of Dogs. Building on three editions at the east London venue, which took place between September and November last year, Ballet Nights is set to return for a fourth iteration over two nights on February 23 and 24. Having already set a predecent for drawing some of the best dancers in the world to the Island, the latest programme continues in similar vein with performers from the English National Ballet and Studio Wayne McGregor on the bill. But perhaps chief among the attractions will be Yasmine Naghdi and Reece Clarke, both pincipal dancers at The Royal Ballet. The pair will perform twice on each of the gala-style evenings, presenting Spring Waters Pas De Deux to cap off a pac ed first half and Balcony Pas De Deux from Romeo And Juliet to ro nd off the evening. “It’s the format that makes the Ballet Nights concept special,” said Jamiel Devernay-Laurence, the shows’ artistic director and producer. “For audiences who are unfamiliar with dance, it’s a really good way to get a taste of the very best things that are going on right now. “For artists like Yasmine and Reece – who both dance together a lot at The Royal Ballet – to be coming to Docklands is a big deal. Audiences can expect many virtuosic lifts, throws and catches in their first performance efore they take on the memorable and iconic choreography of Sir Kenneth MacMillan in the second. “We listen to our audiences and with feedback that they wanted to see more of our headliners, I wanted to experiment with a snappy performance at the end of act one before the big piece at the end the night. “There is nothing more meaningful and romantic than the Balcony Pas De Deux – it’s exactly what people are ready for.” Audiences will see a total of 12 performances, split into two halves over a period of two hours on each of the two forthcoming nights at Lanterns. These include two new works

performed by resident pianist Viktor Erik Emanuel, who will also join Felicity Chadwick for 324a, set to music by JS Bach. “She was a new discovery in our September show,” said Jamiel. “Here she returns for people to really experience what she can do, dancing the choreography of Joshua Junker from The Royal Ballet.” he shows at anterns differ significantly from most other presentations of ballet. Audiences sit on a level with the dancers and performances take place right in front of the spectators. Ballet Nights’ programmes feature classical styles alongside contemporary pieces offering ticket holders the chance to experience a wide range of movement and music on a single evening. But the brand goes beyond the physical performances. “For many startups in dance and other genres of the arts, there’s often a launch, but for things to continue in perpetuity is rarer,” said Jamiel. “I want audiences to get used to the idea of Ballet Nights both as a series of performances, but also as a platform. “We have various digital productions so people can see behind-the-scenes and get to know the artists via our podcasts. “Ballet Nights doesn’t go away after the performances have taken place – it continues celebrating the artists. That happens before the show and also at our legendary after-party experiences where we meet the dancers and discuss what they do and how they do it. “We also want to be launching

Principal dancers of The Royal Ballet, Yasmine Naghdi and Reece Clarke are set to headline both halves of Ballet Nights’ fourth edition

Duo Pett - Clausen-Knight will return to Ballet Nights

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

Isle Of Dogs - Poplar - Blackwall

close getting

to the action

Ballet Nights will again be hosted by Jamiel Devernay-Laurence Felicity Chadwick is set to perform 324a

new traditions as the premiere ballet event in this area. “One of those, which is on the next programme, will be the mystery act, dancing in a style unlike any of the other performers on the night. “We are quite a versatile platform in that in a full show audiences will see world class stars, modern masterpieces, legacy classics, new voices and new discoveries. “To meet the demand for longer versions of pieces from emerging voices, we will be launching our very first Spotlight Shows on April 26 and 27, which will feature duo Pett - Clausen-Knight. “They will be performing in the

What I’m most keen on is that residents nearby come and give Ballet Nights a go – this is a one-of-a-kind format that doesn’t exist elsewhere Jamiel Devernay-Laurence, Ballet Nights

February show too, so that is a chance for audiences to see more of them.” The fourth edition is also set to have a contemporary offering from choreographer and dancer Jordan James Bridge as well as a debut performance from new duo Cydney Watson and Liam Woodvine, brought together by Jamiel under his creative umbrella. “That’s a brand new launch, birthed at Lanterns Studio Theatre through one of our professional development programmes,” he said. hey were identified individ ally and we’ve had some fantastic results putting them together, so they will be making their world debut as a duo here. “Jordan is a real audience favourite, judging by the standing ovations and it’s really fantastic to have him back again. He’s so capable and talented and it’s a real honour to have him performing at Ballet Nights. “Then we have Chloe Keneally, who hasn’t had far to come, from English National Ballet at London City Island. “She’ll be our tutu ballerina, providing us with two pieces – Etoile Variation from Paquita and Aurora from act three of Sleeping Beauty. “Ballet Nights is starting to become a piece of the fabric of what Canary Wharf has as a dance offer. “With some of the world’s best dancers appearing, loyal audience members are now making the journey for the second or third time. But what I’m most keen on is that residents nearby come and give the show a go. “This is a one-of-a-kind format that doesn’t yet exist anywhere else in the world and it’s right here on the Island.” ● Doors open for Ballet Nights at 6.15pm, with performances running from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Tickets start at £60. Go to balletnights.com for more information or to book

Detail from joint first prize-winner Lucky Number 7 / Confetti, 2022 by William Bacon, made with lottery scratch cards

prizes given >> Trinity Buoy Wharf is currently host to the John Ruskin Prize exhibition of works shortlisted for the award, with pieces on show at the Leamouth venue until February 17. >> Selected from more than 4,000 entries for the sixth edition of the prize, the exhibition features 78 pieces from 68 at artists on the theme of “Seeing The Unseen, Hearing The Unspoken”. >> Prizes were handed out on January 31 at the gallery, with the top spot shared by William Bacon and Curtis Holder, each winning £2,500. Blythe Plenderleith won the Alan Davidson Under-26 Prize, while the International Prize went to Muhammad Amdad Hossain. Wyatt Carson won the Kate Mason Prize For Innovation. These three received £1,000 each. >> The exhibition is free to visit and includes a chair and table that breathe, a prize-winning work made from National Lottery scratchcards and their scrapings and vibrant stained glass with an owl, Fender Stratocaster and raven. It is open every day, times vary. Jon Massey Scan this code to find out more about the John Ruskin Prize

Scan this code to find out more about Ballet Nights Pinki Maclure’s Two Witches (Knowledge Is Power), 2022, was shortlisted for the prize and appears in the exhibition

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

£56.50

Minimum facility fee at The Pen, with the theatre offering a 70%-30% split on ticket sales in favour of the artist after this has been paid

how The Pen Theatre offers performers a South Bermondsey stage that’s ideal for proving and developing their work by Jon Massey

here’s probably a halfbaked line about The Pen being mightier than the Royal Court, where the latter is just about phonetically similar to “sword”. But this isn’t the place. This article should have gone through an editing process to knock it into shape and that sort of thing would almost certainly be left on the c tting room oor. But that’s also the point – I mention it here, because that kind of editing and development is one of the activities The Pen Theatre facilitates. “My background is in performance,” said MJ Ashton, the venue’s founder and director. “I went to Rose Bruford College a few years ago, then started my own company – The Völvas – which was a feminist performance ensemble. “I toured that project for four or five years on the fringe circ its and played at various festivals and London theatres, so I experienced a lot of what was available for an emerging company. “I’ve always felt strongly about theatres being accessible to artists and thought I’d love to run my own theatre so I could draw on my e periences and offer really cheap hire rates to performers.” With her project having naturally reached its end and the pandemic closing the industry, that thought became more than an idea one day over a coffee with her partner, Jack Carvosso. The artist and photographer was looking at expanding his picture framing business, taking on a larger space at the Penarth Centre in South Bermondsey’s Penarth Street. A large unit had recently been vacated by a church and he was sure a third of it would do for his activities. A similar space

It’s a low-risk space that allows artists to perform – a platform that’s between a rehearsal space and a bigger theatre MJ Ashton, The Pen Theatre

diary dates

at The Pen Theatre ● Do I Raise My Hand? Feb 19-24, 7.30pm, £15 Black mental health, middle class privilege and shopping at Waitrose. ● I Bought A Flip Phone Mar 5-6, 7.30pm, £6 A play about loneliness, tech addiction and living life beyond the digital. ● Cabaret Volt-Air Mar 8-9, 7.30pm, £12 A finely curated evening of acts, paying homage to the birth of Dada. could be used by his friends’ business – artist-led publisher and bookbinder Folium – but what to do with the spare footage? “That was when MJ thought about creating a theatre,” said Jack, who has become the venue’s associate director. “In that one meeting, we drew everything out on a napkin, then proposed it to the landlord and he loved the idea. “The unit hadn’t been well maintained by the previous tenants, so we patched everything up, put in brand new wiring applications and started the – we invite journey to where them to come we are now. in. Some theatres “For me, it’s ask for hundreds picture framing of pounds per night, during the day and The Pen but we run at cost and then, in the evenings, I help charge £56.50 per show. Then MJ with the theatre.” we offer a split on tic et Launched in January 2022, sales in favour of the artist. The Pen has hosted hundreds of his ma es it afforda le shows over its first two years for artists to come in with new offering performers a vital space writing. It’s a low-risk space that to stage their first prod ctions allows them to perform – a plathone works-in-progress, give fully form that’s between a rehearsal realised pieces an outing or just space and a bigger theatre, where experiment with an audience. they can test their work. The venue has a maximum of “This can be good for getting seats and provides o office reviewers in – it’s an opportunity facilities, technical equipment, a for people to build a bit of a repudressing room and green room, tation before they start applying marketing support and front-offor larger venues. ho se and ar staff. Artists who We also offer free tech and want to put on shows apply to dress rehearsals to keep costs the venue, then go ahead if their really low because we know a proposal is accepted. lot of people don’t have much “We’re very inclusive,” said money.” MJ. “We accept a lot of people’s

MJ Ashton, right, and Jack Carvosso run The Pen Theatre, a 40-seat venue in Penarth Street

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

Rotherhithe - Deptford - Bermondsey

With the Edinburgh Fringe dominating the calendar, The Pen has carved out a role as an ideal test bed for shows before artists take them north to the proving ground of Scotland. “We had about 65 shows over two months,” said MJ. “The stress level was very high, but putting on shows at The Pen allowed them to try out their material before going up. “The festival has really become

the epicentre of our year – in August we quieten down, but then in September and October, we run a Fresh Oﬀ The Fringe season for acts that want to perform at a London venue after it has finished.” With rehearsal space at the London Performance Studios in the same building, there’s a sense

The venue is located at the Penarth Centre

small but mighty

that The Pen is very much an integral cog in a larger machine of creativity and performance. It’s a role both MJ and Jack clearly relish. “When I was a performer, I thought I’d like my own space to put on anything I wanted,” said MJ. “But now I have that, I’ve realised what I really enjoy is helping other people to develop their own st ff. “I’d feel a bit silly putting on my own shows – it would have been a bit egotistical to build this whole thing for myself. Perhaps I am surprised just how much I enjoy watching other artists develop, but I am rooting for everyone. It’s opened my eyes a bit to see what people can do. “We really want to create a warm comfortable environment for them and the audience so everyone can enjoy it.” Jack added: “We watch every single show and I love it. The variety we see is just incredible. “Some are better than others, but it’s a great atmosphere here. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing the performers and the audience having a good time.” he en’s stage offers a growing pipeline of productions, with works for stage rubbing up alongside comics performing stand-up and even cabaret and scratch nights. For MJ and Jack, having established the venue with no backing as a going concern, the next step will be to explore ways to grow and develop The Pen. “At the moment we’re in a comfortable place,” said MJ. We’ve made a profit and people are getting to know us. The next stage is for s to try and find some funding so we can hire people to work as programmers and manage the space. “We’d like to have a bigger team and to become a theatre that supports writers, directors and the production of shows.” Jack added: “But to do this, we need funding. We want to pay people appropriately – we don’t want them working for free.” The Pen Theatre is located about 20 minutes’ walk from Surrey Quays DLR, or 10 minutes from South Bermondsey station. Go to thepentheatre.com for more information

Scan this code to find out more about The Pen Theatre

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? The Albany Deptford

KIDS | Where The Lost Socks Go Do they end up down the plug hole or sunbathing in the Caribbean? Join Milo and Luna for a silly expedition to find out. Ages 4-11. Mar 3, 1pm, 3pm, £8.50, thealbany.org.uk Where? Phantom Peak Rotherhithe

ON SALE | Spring At The Peak The Festival Of Innovation arrives in the immersive western town complete with madcap mysteries and adventures to behold. Booking now. From Mar 1, times vary, from £25, phantompeak.com Where? Brunel Museum Rotherhithe

GIG | Leap Year Revels Performer Tim Thomas promises an evening of song and good cheer in the museum with Suzie Aries, David Acton and Brian Raftery joining on the bill. Feb 29, 7pm, £15, thebrunelmuseum.com

move fast

Chariots will be rolled along and drunken sailors’ fates pored over as honey beer brewery Hiver hosts a Sea Shanty Night at its taproom in Bermondsey. Expect to pay £6 entry with a pint included. From 6pm, Feb 16 hiverbeers.com Scan this code to find out more information about the Sea Shanty Night or book a ticket online want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

200

Years of saving lives at sea is being celebrated at the National Maritime Museum with Women Of The RNLI, a new exhibition

capturing the crews and views by Jon Massey

new exhibition at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich is set to celebrate the work of women in the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Free to visit, Women Of The RNLI features photography, stories and film of those who volunteer for the organisation in the UK and Ireland. Opening on Saturday, March 2, the exhibition explores the experiences of women who participate in every aspect of the charity’s operation including as crewmembers, lifeguards, fundraisers, mechanics and station managers. As 2024 marks 200 years since the RNLI started, it serves to celebrate their pivotal contribution to the organisation’s ongoing fight to save lives at sea. The exhibition features the voices and stories of volunteers alongside photography by Jack Lowe, an artist who has spent nearly 10 years capturing the crews and views of every lifeboat station using Victorian glass-plate technology – modernity seen through an historic lens. For more information or to book free tickets to the museum go to rmg.co.uk

● Women of Aberystwyth RNLI lifeboat station September 24, 2016

Scan this code for more information about Women Of The RNLI at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich

● The view from Dungeness RNLI lifeboat station September 20, 2018

From top right, Dwynwen, Moelfre RNLI lifeboat volunteer, The view from Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station and Leah, Whitby RNLI lifeboat volunteer

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

Greenwich - Peninsula - Woolwich

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Now Gallery Peninsula

SALE | Secret 7” Slots must be booked for War Child’s sale of 700, one-of-a-kind 7” singles shown here in exhibition. The records are then auctioned off in aid of the charity. Mar 2-17, 10am-5pm, free, nowgallery.co.uk Where? The O2 Arena Peninsula

COMEDY | Thoughtifier Bill Bailey brings his signature blend of music and gags to the tent. The title means an intriguing device that can amplify thoughts, apparently... Mar 4, 3.23pm, from £24, theo2.co.uk

● Natalie, Dungeness RNLI lifeboat volunteer September 20, 2018

Where? Greenwich Theatre Greenwich

STAGE | Madonna On The Rocks This work in progress production promises a neon-lit exorcism in a jazz bar replete with egos, responsibilities and dreams. Parental obligation meets artistic desire. Feb 21-23, 7.30pm, £15, greenwichtheatre.org.uk

catch it

Immersive theatre company Punchdrunk is opening up the world of The Burnt City with its Inside The City series of tours, workshops and masterclasses. These are set to run from February 14 to March 2, tickets from £45 theburntcity.com ● The view from Whitby RNLI lifeboat station June 15, 2017

Images by Jack Lowe / National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

Scan this code to find out more about the various options available or to book tickets want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

3 how After Dark promises giant puppets, installations and street food for one night only in the Royal Docks by Jon Massey

he University Of East London is set to host its second annual After Dark festival at its campus in Royal Docks this month. The event – this year produced as part of UEL’s Year Of Science, which explores the impact of tech and AI on careers and communities – is set to take place from 5pm-8pm on Thursday, February 29. “After Dark is about shared creativity and expression,” said Hilary Lissenden, UEL’s assistant chief operating officer for sport and active campus. “Through it, UEL will demonstrate how tech can offer enrichment on a personal level. We welcome the whole east London community to take part.” The free festival is open to everyone and will feature music, dance, creative arts and fashion. African drumming and magical installations are also promised. Visitors will be invited to participate in immersive experiences to test their talents against those of sporting legends, marking the fact that 2024 is an Olympic and Paralympic year. It will also include a parade of puppets made in partnership with guest artist Charlie Tymms. “I’ve been extremely excited to work with UEL’s students, to produce the parade puppets and showcase them against such a stunning backdrop,” said Charlie, who is based at nearby Royal Albert Wharf and has worked on stage creations for the likes of Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, Life Of Pi and Spirited Away as well as Wes Anderson’s film Isle Of Dogs. “I love the idea of incorpo-

Last year’s event was a lot of fun, which is why I’m involved in it again. It was lovely to see the look of amazement on people’s faces Oliver Cudmore, UEL

rating course-related experience into large-scale events production. “Whenever someone animates an inanimate object and casts it in a scenario, we see the beginning of life for a puppet. In some ways, puppeteering is an artform that defies gravity.” After Dark is supported by second year UEL theatre undergraduate Oliver Cudmore, who sits on the festival’s student committee. “Last year’s event was very hands-on and a lot of fun, which is why I’m involved in it again this year. It was lovely to see the looks of amazement on people’s faces. “It’s not just about UEL but the community around us as well, which I really love. It brings people together.” Attendees at the event, where food and drink will be available from stalls, are encouraged to register their attendance online. Go to uel.ac.uk for more information or to register to attend

Scan this code to find out more about After Dark at UEL

Hours that visitors will be invited to explore the entertainment and installations of After Dark across the university’s Docklands campus

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

Royal Docks - Canning Town

into

the

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? The Factory Project North Woolwich

ART | Nomad Street artist Mohammed Ali brings his work to Royal Docks with participants asked to enter a tent and record their prayers in writing or on camera. Feb 24-25, times vary, free, royaldocks.london Where? Excel Royal Victoria Dock

EVENT | London Muslim Shopping Festival Billed as Europe’s largest pre-Ramadan shopping experience, the show returns to Excel with more than 200 exhibitors offering their wares. Feb 24-25, 10am, from £8.50, muslimshoppingfest.com Where? Dockside Road Royal Albert Dock

SAFETY | Atlantic Pacific Atlantic Pacific International Rescue is opening a permanent facility at Royal Albert Dock to train individuals in water safety and saving lives. From Feb 9, 11am-2pm, free, atlanticpacific.org

flash back Images from last year’s event show installations at UEL’s Royal Docks campus – After Dark 2024 is set for February 29

The PA Show is set to return to Excel from February 28-29, with a wealth of exhibitors and experts available for PAs, EAs, VAs and office managers to access over two days. Get 10% off conference passes with code WHARF10 pashow.com Scan this code to read Wharf Life’s preview of the event online at wharf-life.com and get booking details want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

how Awoke Plants offers a wealth of advice, inspiration and seeds without any peat at all

4.5

Tonnes of excavated material went to help build RSPB nature reserve Wallasea Island Wild Coast in Essex with Siobán’s assistance

by Jon Massey

oincidentally io n Wall’s career has consistently featured the earth beneath our feet and the places that we live in. Having studied German literature at university, she embarked on a career in logistics, working for DHL as it consulted on what to do with all the excavated matter from the forthcoming construction of Crossrail. A move into project management saw her transfer to Bechtel, directly working on the epic scheme she’d helped plan – shifting millions of tonnes of material, dug out for the Elizabeth Line’s tunnels, to help build Wallasea Island Wild Coast – an RSPB nature reserve covering the Crouch and Roach estuaries in Essex. Following that, a job in the housing industry beckoned, as head of construction and logistics at Barking Riverside – the vast east London regeneration scheme on the banks of the Thames. “After nearly four years, I was made redundant and I really wanted to work for myself,” said io n. Awo e lants is my first little business and I opened it last year. “My local garden centre – Growing Concerns, on the edge of Victoria Park – had just closed down and I’d been doing community gardening with the local Women’s Institute. “We were all mutually disappointed by this because we felt there was a need for one. People still wanted to buy plants locally, get advice and enjoy browsing. “Garden centres aren’t just about plants – you can get everything you need – gifts, cards, pots, tools and accessories. Outside London they are often day trip destinations – you get a lovely experience, cake in the cafe and so on. In the capital we miss a bit of that. “I started Awoke to learn the trade and switch over to gardening. I did a future gardeners course, sponsored by the London Legacy Development Corporation, which employs Idvere – a garden maintenance firm. hat incl ded work experience on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and really

grow all set to

Awoke Plants is based at View Tube in east London near Pudding Mill Lane DLR

The centre is packed with plants, tools and accessories

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

Stratford - Bow - Hackney Wick

Siobán Wall has opened a garden centre on The Greenway in Stratford on the edge of the Olympic Park

introduced me to horticulture as a career. It also allowed me to make contacts at Idvere, so I continue Peat is a natural resource to work part-time for them – this winter I was out on the park.” that cannot be replaced io n too all that e perience and poured it into a small unit at in our lifetimes. It’s hard View Tube on The Greenway in to find plants that have Stratford – a community of small businesses, housed in former shipbeen grown without it, ping containers at the edge of the but that’s what we offer park. Awoke Plants, in addition to a wide selection of grown speciSiobán Wall, Awoke Plants mens, sells seeds, pots, gifts and kids’ kits – pretty much anything leaves, bean shoots and so on – the urban gardener might want only need to grow to one or two available online or in person. inches before they’re ready to Reopening its doors in March, harvest – they’re a really quick the business sells troughs, baskets turnaround for salads and are and upcylced containers of plants packed with nutrition. – all of which have been grown hey can e the most e pensive without peat. things to buy in a supermarket, “It’s a natural resource that and they’re so easy to grow. can’t be replaced in our lifetimes,” “If you do have some outdoor said io n. t ta es h ndreds of space, even if it’s small or thousands of years to make – it’s north-facing, think about having essentially rotted down mosses, ower o es on the railings leaves, vegetation and trees, that or use a corner to do a rocklived millions of years ago and ery-type garden – a container decayed to form bogs, with sedum or mosses, and moorland or fens. low-growing plants that “For centuries love shade. All of this is humans have been possible in London. draining the land, “Not only do drying out plants give you the peat and something to digging it look at, they up to use in can be used to horticulture. By screen yo off doing this we’re from tall buildings taking something and they take in that absorbs and car on dio ide and holds carbon and A pot ready to release o ygen. hey’re releasing it. take away also generally good for “It’s currently hard to your mental health and find plants which have for £9.99 wellbeing.” been grown entirely without io n has ig plans for her peat t that’s what we offer here. small garden centre, including “And there are great alternae panding to a igger site when tives. ’m sing a mi of coia the time is right. which is chopped up bits of t was really e citing to open coconut husk, worm castings last year and it’s evolved since for nutrients, sand or grit and then,” she said. “Once I’d got compost. All of these hold myself into the mindset, with my moisture and micro-nutrients, children now at school, I thought which help support a healthy root that I should just go for it. structure and growth period. “Working for myself, the only “In this area, gardening is all limit is my self-belief in how far I about how to decorate our small can go. I really want to make my gardens and balconies with as business meaningful for this area – much attention as we would give there’s a lot of possibility and a lot to our kitchens, dining rooms or of growth potential.” bedrooms. Watch this space. “There’s so much you can do. ● Awoke Plants reopens to the o can grow food owers or public in March. In the meantime, e otic plants in small spaces. orders can be collected from the “The key elements are making garden centre or Bridget’s Cafe in sure you’ve got a container which E20. Bike delivery options are also will fit in the space and some light. available in selected east London Then, you just need to remember postcodes for a fee of £5. to water, feed and look after the Go to awokeplants.com for quality of the soil. more information We can also fill o r homes with houseplants. I’d like to encourage people to e periment. ome Scan this species will work on widow sills, code to find out for e ample. more about “If you’re thinking of growing Awoke Plants vegetables, then summer leaves, micro-greens – seedling salad

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Theatre Royal Stratford East Stratford

STAGE | The Big Life This uplifting ska musical sees the story of Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost meets the Windrush generation. Expect plenty of dance and joy. Feb 16-Mar 30, times vary, from £10, stratfordeast.com Where? Cart And Horses Stratford

GIG | Collateral Expect big hair and big sounds from this Kent-based band who have supported Bon Jovi, Skid Row and HEAT. Support from Zac And The New Men. Feb 25, 7pm, from £12.50, cartandhorses.london Where? Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Stratford RUN | High Performance London Half Marathon In addition to the main event there will be 10k and distances for younger competitors available – one to train for if you’re on a New Year health kick. Mar 3, 9am-12.15pm, from £6, londonhalf.com

see it

The Yard Theatre in Hackney Wick is set to stage Samuel Takes A Break... from February 9 to March 9. Rhianna Ilube’s debut play explores history and colonialism through the lens of comedy. Tickets from £12 theyardtheatre.co.uk Scan this code for more information about Samuel Takes A Break at The Yard Theatre want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Feb 7-21, 2024 wharf-life.com

Crossword - Sudoku

Sudoku

Take a break from that phone How to play To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers one to nine such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. More to play You can find more Sudoku puzzles and a wide selection of other brainteasers available to download for free at puzzles.ca last issue’s solution Jan 24-Feb 7

Notes

crossword beating the

Cryptic

Notes

Ancient and traditional seat of learning (3,6) 2. Tiny movie captures the visual data (9) 4. High school classical concert? (4) 5. A head-shaker by Enid? (5) 6. Sounds like alternative rowing (6) 7. A neat volcano, sort of? (4) 9. Shaking you up, we hear, is meaty (5) 11. Romantic meeting is 1 down (5) 12. Gained degree by degrees (9) 13. Capital location for the confused hat master? (9) 17. Gets the measure of the king (5) 19. Distant place leaves one dry (6) 22. Initially a Disney wonderland (5) 23. Impolite land measure? (4) 24. Your last one to give away to a lover? (4)

3. On both sides (9) 8. 2.5cm, approx (4) . ll fighters 10. Annul (6) 11. Russian rulers (5) 14. Lights (5) 15. Messy dessert (4) 16. Prepares for print (5) 18. Diplomacy (4) 20. Italian city (5) 21. Lightly scorch (5) 24. Neuro divergence (6) 25. Proclamation (9) 26. Orientation acronym (4) 27. Suggesting (9)

Down

Set by Everden

1. Move round (9) 2. Financial study (9) 4. Object of worship (4) 5. Locales (5) 6. Last (6) 7. Chocolate bar (4) 9. Gently mock (5) 11. Rubbish (5) 12. Birds (9) 13. Unmoving (9) 17. Strong beer (5) 19. Outstanding (3-3) 22. Amusements (5) 23. Mix up (4) 24. No author (abbr.) (4)

Quick Solution

Jumbled red spoons for support (9) 8. Tony might be concealing a hiding place? (4) 9. Magic jewellery gets you thinking in awe (9) 10. Download videos to confuse the master (6) 11. Passing over material colours (5) 14. Angry to be out of breath (5) 15. Rough courage? (4) 16. Extreme speech? (5) 18. Ingratiatingly greasy (4) 20. Not needing to pay is excessive (5) 21. Being miserable about a scooter (5) 24. Edit out left-wing behaviour (6) 25. Fare collector lets the c rrent ow 26. A trial run may be Greek (4) 27. Including a speech in worship, we hear (9)

Across: 3 Bilateral; 8 Inch; 9 Toreadors; 10 Cancel; 11 Tsars; 14 Lamps; 15 Eton; 16 Edits; 18 Tact; 20 Turin; 21 Singe; 24 Autism; 25 Statement; 26 Lgbt; 27 Proposing. Down: 1 Circulate; 2 Economics; 4 Idol; 5 Areas; 6 Endure; 7 Aero; 9 Tease; 11 Tripe; 12 Starlings; 13 Inanimate; 17 Stout; 19 Tip-Top; 22 Games; 23 Stir; 24 Anon.

Across

Cryptic Solution

Down

Quick

Across: 3 Sponsored; 8 Lair; 9 Wondering; 10 Stream; 11 Dying; 14 Huffy; 15 Grit; 16 Utter; 18 Oily; 20 Undue; 21 Moped; 24 Redact; 25 Conductor; 26 Beta; 27 Adoration. Down: 1 Old School; 2 Microfilm; 4 Prom; 5 Noddy; 6 Oaring; 7 Etna; 9 Wagyu; 11 Dated; 12 Graduated; 13 Streatham; 17 Ruler; 19 Yonder; 22 Epcot; 23 Rood; 24 Rolo.

Across

whether you’re cryptic sleuth or synonym solver in it for quick wins, this should satisfy

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