Wharf Life, Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 by wharf-life

+ Why a lobster roll is the ideal payday reward on the Wharf Page 5

Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

how Theatreship and Artship are set to be a new home for creative endeavours on South Quay - P26

inside issue 105

Third Space Wood Wharf - Inside The City Ceylon Roti - The PA Show - Sudoku Crossword - Wharf Connect - Rebirth Hiver - Samuel Takes A Break - Dishoom Wharf Life Hacks - Natasha Maddison David Lefebvre Sell - Hiver

putting the

on the water

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

Image by Matt Grayson – find more of his work at graysonphotos.co.uk or @mattgrayson_photo on Insta

Probate Support or Advice on Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney Contact Erica John-Marie to arrange a free consultation. Call 020 7205 2783 or email EJohn-Marie@kiddrapinet.co.uk

kiddrapinet.co.uk/familylegacy Download our 8 STEP GUIDE TO MAKING A WILL

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

read

feast your eyes on these

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Canary Wharf Pier Canary Wharf

RIVER | Valentine’s Day Cruise Join Uber Boat By Thames Clippers for a specially chartered round trip up river with Champagne, live music and romance. Departs from Canary Wharf Pier. Feb 14 , 6.15pm, £25, thamesclippers.com

Welcome to issue 105 of Wharf Life. As 2024 truly gets going this is a paper about evolution and change. Canary Wharf Group launches Wharf Connect to bring professionals together at the start of their careers, Third Space unveils its second site at Wood Wharf and Theatreship opens on the Island

Sorting out life with a spot of shopping in the Canary Wharf malls

Where? Museum Of London Docklands West India Quay

EVENT | Lunar New Year The museum will be hosting a weekend of events as the Year Of The Dragon arrives with ribbon dancing and martial arts all on offer. Feb 10-11, from 11am, free, museumoflondon.org.uk

Why this limited edition lobster roll is worth £25 (just)

Where? Canary Wharf Idea Store Churchill Place

SEE | Evolution Of The Isle Of Dogs See this exhibition on local history and take part in various talks and activities throughout the month of February. A deep dive into east London’s past. Feb 1-29, daily, times vary, free, canarywharf.com

How Wharf Connect is set to deliver a packed programme of events, networking and community to young professionals working on the Canary Wharf estate

flash back

How Third Space’s new location will be included in Wharf membership

the joy of six

30 This is Chris Ezekiel, founder and CEO of Canary Wharf-based conversational AI firm Creative Virtual, which is celebrating 20 years in business while looking to the future as large language models turn heads around the world creativevirtual.com Scan this code to read our interview with Chris about the myriad applications of AI and what they might mean want more? @wharfwhispers

Punchdrunk opens its doors for a series of tours and workshops

Interior design firm Rebirth talk style and blending on projects

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 24

get in touch

correct us

Editorial email jon.massey@wharf-life.com call 07765 076 300 Advertising email jess.maddison@wharf-life.com call 07944 000 144

Our editorial team works hard to ensure all information printed in Wharf Life is truthful and accurate. Should you spot any errors that slip through the net or wish to raise any issues about the content of the publication, please get in touch and we will investigate

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

on the radar

doing the deals

get more for less on and around the Wharf

need to know

50%

What’s going on the empty floating barge next to Hawksmoor? Looks like Wood Wharf will be welcoming a French brasserie called Marceline and a branch of Aegean-inspired restaurant Hovarda, expanding from Soho, pictured hovarda.london

New Year, New Shoes? Barker Shoes in Cabot Place is currently offering up to 50% off selected styles for those who enjoy a British-finished brogue or funky shades of leather barkershoes.com

Visit Hiver for a night of sea shanties and honeyed beer under an arch

More restaurant news, as another Indian-inspired dining option is set to arrive on the estate in the form of Kricket and Soma. The chain, which started in a shipping container in Brixton, is expanding into a unit at Frobisher Passage on the Wharf kricket.co.uk

40%

discount code Attend seminars at The PA Show for less

Visitor passes to The PA Show at Excel in February are free, however, to get the most out of the event attendees will want to sign up for the event’s workshops and seminars. Readers can get 10% off day or two-day passes to the show in Royal Docks with code WHARF10 – full details on Page 32

Samuel Takes A Break is set for its premiere at The Yard Theatre in Hackney Wick, with history and colonialism very much in the mix from playwright Rhianna Ilube

You’ll need to be quick, but The Alchemist in Reuters Plaza is offering 40% off diners’ whole bills Sunday through Friday in Jan via the Canary Wharf App canarywharf.com

Why warmth can always be found at Wapping Docklands Market

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write me

words you don’t know you need

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

A person who endlessly reminds those around them that they’re “on the wagon” for Dry January – a kind of smugness that increases exponentially as the month grinds on. Best countered with tales of Burns Night excesses

mall trawl

exiguous adjective, real, from Latin

Scant, meagre or small. While this word dates back to the mid 17th century in the age of shrinkflation, it’s due a fresh airing. Ideal for bottles of Listerine Fresh Burst (100ml less) or PG Tips’ 180 packs (now 140)

ew Year, new me, right? Well, not totally new. Maybe slightly improved. It’s a cliché, but sales for health and wellness brands really do boom in January. My gym is definitely busier than usual and I’m battling to get a space at my usual Pilates class. Ultimately though, my 2024 goal is to make life easier. So, I’m going to hire a cleaner. I have a four-year-old and a kitten and I am only one woman. I’m also going to commission a painter and decorator (because I’m never going to get around to those jobs) and I’m going to look after my own mental health by taking long baths, meditating and generally trying not to let other people stress me out (easier said than done, I know). ● First things first, I know Christmas is over, but it is still winter – it’s freezing. I love my Winter candle from The White Company in Jubilee Place. It has notes of cinnamon, clove and orange and is based on a scent created more than 20 years ago by the brand’s founder, Chrissie Rucker. The store sells candles in various sizes, oils, sprays, diffusers and many other products. Prices start from £10. ● I’ve recently discovered live sound meditation, which basically involves lying on the floor covered with a blanket while someone plays crystal bowls and ocean drums. Previously a cynic regarding these types of things, I absolutely love it. The game changer? A heated blanket. Check out Robert Dyas in Canada Place for its range of heated throws. Its Cozy Night Electric Heated Throw Blanket in grey or lilac costs £44.99 and comes with nine heat settings. It’s also machine washable and won’t do your energy bills any harm.

Have you helped your loved ones to help you? Health conditions can change your future and your capacity to make decisions but creating a Lasting Power of Attorney ensures you control who makes decisions on your behalf should you be unable to do so.

● As for baths, I can go without one for years. I am a shower girl – it’s quick and simple. However, when I do have a bath, I really appreciate it, so I’m trying to take one at least a once a week. Rituals in Jubilee Place has amazing smelling products, and its The Ritual Of Sakura Bath Foam is a thing of beauty. Priced at £17.90 for 500ml, it lasts for around 10 baths and the cherry blossom and rice milk scent boosts relaxation.

Download our FREE Guide to Making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)

kiddrapinet.co.uk/understandinganlpa

● Speaking of relaxing, some professional pampering never goes amiss. I’m turning 39 in 2024, and I’m evermore realising the importance of looking after myself. Consequently an appointment at Jon Hala in Jubilee Place looks very appealing, with the salon’s extensive range of hair and beauty treatments. Ladies cut and blow dry starts at £75.

Your options can start here. Download our free guide or book a free consultation with our private client team. Call 020 7205 2896 or request an appointment online at kiddrapinet.co.uk

AY L E S B U RY

FARNHAM

HI GH W YCOM BE

Natasha Maddison @pazzanatasha on Insta LO N DO N

M A IDE N H E A D

S LO U G H

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Canary Wharf - West India Quay

SKATE Wheelchair Skating Ice Rink Canary Wharf, £17.95 Feb 20, 3pm icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

CORRECTION Winter Lights 2024 Across Canary Wharf, free Until Jan 27 canarywharf.com

The Canada Square facility is set to host a dedicated wheelchair skating session on its rink. Ticket prices include entry for one carer alongside wheelchair users aged 13 and over. For those aged 4-12, the price is £13.50. The session will last 45 minutes, with ramps provided for easy access on and off the ice. The rink officially closes its doors on February 24. Standard adult tickets cost £20.95 for those 13+

It’s been brought to our attention by a reader that we inadvertently suggested The Peace Poem – one of 19 temporary installations that make up Canary Wharf’s Winter Lights festival – was created to commemorate 100 years since the first day of peace after the Second World War. This should, of course, have been the First World War as it’s not 2045. There’s still time to catch it at the festival if you’re quick.

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

taste test

Scan this code to find out more about Dishoom

by Jon Massey

obster was never likely to be a cheap option, but Dishoom has got some nerve, charging £25 for what’s basically a sandwich on a plate with a heap of crisps. Wait a minute, is that the 1980s calling? It wants its pub food aesthetic back. But it’s not the 20th century and this isn’t a round of ham and cheese sarnies. Dishoom is, as ever, just a little bit cannier than that. Put aside that you only get four of these for £100, for a second, and take stock. There’s a seriously decent amount of shellfish jammed into the bread. What’s more, there’s lashings of flavour in every bite. Garlic, lime and chilli are all embraced by the supple claw meat. True, there are more filling options to be had on the Wharf at less than half the cost. But this is a surprisingly subtle and nuanced dish, dressed up as a thug. If you’re doing it right, the crisps go in the sandwich and the little jug of chilli garlic butter is employed to soak the contents. Then it’s time for a squeeze of lemon just before teeth are sunk into this unlikely blend. You’ll be left with dripping fingers, a dent in your payday windfall, but ultimately a smile. The lobster roll is on offer at Dishoom’s Canary Wharf restaurant until February 4, so move swiftly to catch it. Go to dishoom.com

DEAL Express Menu Pedler, from £20 One Canada Square pedlercanarywharf.com Looking for lunch? Pedler is currently offering a weekday set menu on from 11.30am to 3pm with two courses for £20 and three for £25. The deal includes a soft drink, glass of wine or bottle of beer for each person. Diners at the One Canada Square restaurant and bar can expect the likes of duck and orange parfait, flat iron chicken, harissa cauiflower and vanilla panna cotta on their plates.

The lobster roll comes with garlic and chilli butter and, well, some crisps

DEAL Shell & Spritz Hour Burger And Lobster, £1 Oysters West India Quay burgerandlobster.com

DEAL Bottomless 0% Brunch Clays, £40pp Wren Landing clays.bar

Overlooking the waters of West India North Dock, this restaurant is bringing back its Shell & Spritz Hour from 3pm-6pm on weekdays. Expect oysters for £1 and selected cocktails and drinks for £5. Mixed beverages include Mojitos, the Strawberry Minx and the Amalfi Coast. Wines, pale ale and lager are also available

Prefer blasting away at virtual clay pigeons untrammelled by the effects of booze? Clays is offering 90 minutes of gameplay, pizette and fries alongside unlimited mocktails and other low and no-alcohol beverages on Saturdays from noon-4.30pm until the end of February. Why not extend that Dry January a little further?

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Canary Wharf - West India Quay

how Wharf Connect has been created to bring people together on the estate

Wharf Connect will bring professionals working on the estate together as they navigate the early stages of their careers

by Jon Massey

he role of the landlord is evolving all the time – is it enough to simply let a building? Probably not,” said Jane Hollinshead, chief people officer at Canary Wharf Group. Things have changed in the world of work in the wake of the pandemic and the company that runs the estate is firmly in listening mode – especially when it comes to young people. That’s the thinking behind the creation of Wharf Connect – a free membership community aimed at professionals in the first stages of their careers with a packed programmed of events and opportunities planned. “We’re hearing a lot more from companies about what their employees want,” said Jane. “Our customers are saying: ‘Bring people back to the office, listen to what the next generation want, which is something more experiential’. “It’s made us think about what we’ve got at Canary Wharf and how, as a landlord, we’re in a position to curate experiences because we’ve got so many different amenities. “We also picked up another dynamic through running our own intern programme last year. Often, when you’ve got new employees coming in from outside London, moving to a huge metropolis can be quite overwhelming. For them, it’s about how quickly they can immerse themselves in a business and the geography around them, as well as feeling like they’ve got a network of friends and colleagues. “So Wharf Connect is about how we work with our customers. The genesis of it is in the idea that people are the greatest asset companies have. “They are the fundamental part of what makes a business succeed, so what would something look like that was created to bring young professionals together?” Wharf Connect’s stated aim is to convene a network in a way that enhances people’s engagement with the office environment, fosters employee retention and continued on Page 8

Scan this code to find out more about Wharf Connect

building a

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from Page 6 plugs workers into the wider world of Canary Wharf. “What’s interesting from a post-pandemic perspective is that, 10 years ago – if we were talking to different tenants about their graduates or apprentices – firms probably weren’t so open to their people mixing with peers at other organisations,” said Jane. “It was very much about investment in their own people. “But now, a lot of big corporates are thinking about how to listen to what the next generation wants – whether that’s learning, wellbeing sessions or networking and bringing people together. “Either organised internally or with other bodies, the idea is that those participating in these networks really benefit. “The social aspect of this is also very big. We feel, at Canary Wharf Group, that we have a responsibility to do this and it’s very much a reflection of what we’re trying to do in creating a customer-centric approach to how we interact with everyone around the estate. “We’re in this incredibly privileged position to be able to do that because of the amenities we have and the scale of this place.”

harf Connect is open to anyone working on the Canary Wharf estate who has spent 10 years or less in their current sector. Members will have access to talks from leading experts, networking events and workshops on leadership. There will also be events held in partnership with local retailers and hospitality businesses, as well as health and wellbeing organisations. Members of the community will be made aware of local volunteering opportunities, as well as exclusive offers via the Canary Wharf App. “One of the big events we’re going to have is with entrepreneur Stephen Bartlett on February 8, following on from his appearance in our Wharf Talks series last year. “Broadly, Wharf Connect’s events, initiatives and offers will focus on personal development. Some people will be wondering where their career will take them. “Many events will be held in collaboration with businesses on the Wharf – events at Dishoom or Electric Shuffle, for example. “We think exploring what’s on offer on the estate is better in a group. As a member, you’ll be getting carefully thought through, curated experiences – we’ll be bringing people into new spaces so they can experience them and benefit from that.”

All about people: Staff are an organisation’s most vital asset and Wharf Connect is aimed at plugging workers on the estate into the amenities and experiences taking place all around them

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Canary Wharf + West India Quay

Wharfers enjoy Squidsoup’s Submergence installation in Montgomery Square, part of the estate’s Winter Lights festival, which runs until January 27

The relationship between landlords and tenants is becoming a partnership. Not only do you have to create a sustainable collaboration space, you need to be curating an experience Jane Hollinshead, Canary Wharf Group

Wharf Connect is free to join, with workers on the estate able to apply for membership via the Canary Wharf App. At sign-up, users must select “I work here” and fill out their details, including selecting the company they are employed by from the list, or choosing “Company Not Listed” for organisations not mentioned. Prospective members should sign up using their work email address so Canary Wharf Group can verify they are based on the estate. “The relationship between landlords and tenants is becoming a partnership,” said Jane. “Not only do you have to create a sustainable collaboration space, you need to be curating an experience. It will be really interesting to see how Wharf Connect develops – how many people get involved. “Personally, I like the idea that there’s give and take in it – what are people offering to this community? “If it results in more people volunteering who wouldn’t otherwise do so, then that’s great. “Members may also spread the word of what Canary Wharf really is and that’s positive too. “A lot of the benefits are nuanced and intangible – they exist above the hard line data – and you’ll see those trickling through. “Wharf Connect will create allies and advocates for the Wharf and I think that will become exponential in terms of its effects. “The question for us is always: ‘What we can do to make our customers’ experience more immersive and accessible?’.” Wharf Connect is accepting applications for membership now via the Canary Wharf App, which can be downloaded for both Android and iOS devices. Go to canarywharf.com for more information

Scan this code to find out more about Wharf Connect

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

£212

Monthly cost of Third Space Canary Wharf membership, which will include Wood Wharf’s facilities when it opens in the summer – that’s a little over £7 a day

An artist’s impression of

Scan this to find out more about Third Space Wood Wharf

how the new pool at Third Space Wood Wharf will look when the club opens its doors

how Third Space Wood Wharf is set to deliver fresh facilities and a programme of classes to add even greater depth to the largest luxury health club in all of Europe

even more to members by Jon Massey

hird Space Canary Wharf is vast. Its facilities, spread over three floors above Waitrose in Canada Square, include an expansive Crossfit-themed training area, a combat zone with a full-size boxing ring, a climbing wall, a swimming pool, fitness studios, a dedicated mind and body space and that’s before you even get to the weights and cardio machines.

Billed as Europe’s largest luxury health club, it boasts an unrivalled selection of classes featuring everything from treadmills and Olympic weightlifting to bodyweight HIIT, kettlebells and callisthenics. Pick pretty much any exercise trend and, if it promises serious benefits, the Third Space’s Canary Wharf facility will pretty much have it covered. Like Barry’s? then Third Space has Sweat X. Prefer spinning? Choose Hardcore Cycle or Just Ride. Enjoy Crossfit? There’s Yard WOD and so on.

An artist’s impression of how the gym will look when the Water Street site is up and running

It’s not unusual to have more than 45 classes timetabled on a given weekday for members to choose from – all included in the monthly fee. Soon, however, that won’t be all they’re getting. Third Space is set to open a new branch on the estate, with access for Canary Wharf members at no extra cost. Located at 15 Water Street above Dishoom and Tribe Canary Wharf, Third Space Wood Wharf will be spread over two floors. The club is essentially an extension on a second site to the facilities already on offer in Canada Square. It will have its own fully-stocked gym floor and swimming pool, but also a series of new classes.. “We have a great offering already, but the idea is that if a member can think of a type of class they’d like to do, then it should be available across the two sites,” said Gillian Reeves, head of group exercise at Third Space. “There are a couple of things Canary Wharf doesn’t offer that Wood Wharf will, completing our full suite of facilities. continued on Page 12

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from Page 10 “We’ll have dedicated studios for hot Yoga and Reformer Pilates. They will be great spaces and we can’t wait to welcome our members into them.” The Wood Wharf branch is expected to open in early summer, with preparations well underway. “It’s massive for Canary Wharf,” said Alex Barsby, the new facility’s dedicated general manager. “With both sites taken into consideration, it’s such a fantastic offering. “The idea is to deliver extra facilities to what we already have at the existing site without duplicating too much of what’s already there. “There will be more capacity – there’s a fully equipped gym with Eleiko free weights, a sled track, professional lifting racks, Pulse pin-loading machines with digital screens and cardio machines. “Upstairs, there will be beautiful changing rooms where members can relax, unwind and get ready before venturing out into the city. “There’s a 20m pool with a hydro pool and unisex sauna and steam room facilities, which is something new for the club on the estate and will be ideal for couples. “There will also be poolside loungers and an experience shower that people can use after coming out of the sauna or steam room. Being above ground, there’s lots of natural light with windows all round the club, which is really fantastic and gives it a lovely feel.”

hile the extra capacity will be of obvious benefit – especially to Vertus residents and Tribe hotel guests who can use the facilities – the chief attractions are perhaps the two new studios and the possibilities they bring. While Third Space Canary Wharf offers a programme of mat based Pilates classes and Yin, Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga at ambient temperatures, Wood Wharf will expand significantly on these. “We’ll continue with all those classes,” said Gillian. “But these new spaces allow us to offer more. The hot Yoga studio will be heated to between 32ºC and 35ºC – a really lovely temperature. “We know from our other clubs that some people really want to escape to a warm place where they can feel that they’re sweating a bit. “It can feel a bit more challenging because you have the heat to contend with and that puts

Fitness studios at Wood Wharf will offer hot Yoga and Reformer Pilates classes to all Third Space Canary Wharf members

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Canary Wharf - West India Quay

Reformer Pilates classes developed with expert, James Shaw, have already proved popular at Third Space’s Wimbledon club

Above, an artist’s impression of the hot Yoga studio at Wood Wharf, which will offer Yin, Hatha and Vinyasa classes in a room heated to a toasty 32-35ºC Reformer Pilates uses a piece of equipment called a Reformer to maximise the system’s effectiveness

your body under greater stress. The fact it’s hot and that you have to move and breathe, means you need to work with your mind – to use all the tools that your practice has taught you to focus on the positions. “To keep things straightforward we’ll be programming the same forms as in the ambient studios but there are variations because we don’t dictate to our teachers the approach they should take. “Everyone who teaches at Third Space has years of experience and the classes differ based on the way that they have been trained in Yoga.” Perhaps the most significant addition to Third Space’s offering, however, is its decision to include a Reformer Pilates studio at Wood Wharf. “This equipment is commonly used in smaller groups or one-on-one, but we’ve found there’s growing demand for bigger classes with lots of Reformers,” said Gillian. “The challenge was to keep the authenticity of Pilates when creating these larger classes. “To do that, we needed an expert and we found that in James Shaw who has been teaching for more than 10 years. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience and he’s really passionate about Pilates – he’s devoted his life to it. “He’s developed our signature classes and we’ll be running Fundamental Reformer Pilates, Traditional Reformer Pilates and Dynamic Reformer sessions. “We’ve dropped the word ‘Pilates’ from the last one, because it’s really movement exercises on the equipment and looks quite different from the traditional system, but members love it. “We’ll also be offering Tower Pilates classes, where participants will work with the structure at the end of the equipment. It’s a really nice addition, as it’s a different way of working with the resistance springs.” Alex added: “Third Space is an investment in yourself – the return you get can be life-changing. We really pride ourselves on the fact everything we do is member-assessed. “We love this feedback and use it to constantly improve what we do and to provide what our members want.” Membership at Third Space Canary Wharf, which will include the new Wood Wharf club currently costs £212 per month. Go to thirdspace.london for more

Scan this to find out more about Third Space Wood Wharf

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

getting greener

by Sophie Goddard

oming back to work in January after the holidays always inspires a certain amount of New Year, New Me spirit – a cleaner desk, a cleaner home and a cleaner life. Clearing out the desk drawers always makes me feel ready for whatever the next 12 months has in store – at least for a few weeks. In that vein, we are very excited to be running an event with Tech Takeback in February. Old electronics – particularly laptops, tablets and mobile phones – can be tricky to recycle and failing to dispose of them properly can release toxic chemicals into the environment. That’s where Tech Takeback comes in – the not-for-profit organisation extends the life of old tech through refurbishment or disassembles gadgets and recycles items safely that cannot be of further use. From February 6-8, Wharfers can bring old laptops, tablets, mobile phones, desktops and monitors to the Tech Takeback team in Canary Wharf. They will be on hand to securely erase all data before sending the gadgets off to be refurbished or recycled. Contributions will also help the most digitally excluded members of the community gain access to refurbished technology. Limited tech can lead to educational setbacks, hinder employment prospects and create challenges in maintaining connections with family and friends. Our aim is to assist community members by granting them access to refurbished

Wharfers can donate their old devices to Tech Takeback from February 6-8 in Canary Wharf’s Jubilee Place, 9am-5pm

dealing with the

technology, enabling them to use these vital resources. The Tech Takeback shop will be in Jubilee Place (opposite Reiss), and we’ll also have a pop-up stand in Canada Place, at the crossroads next to Vision Express and HSBC, to answer any questions Wharfers may have. People can pop by between 9am and 5pm, with no appointment needed. We’re also happy to answer any questions about the items that can be recycled or donated, or about Tech Takeback itself over email to sustainability@ canarywharf.com. Bring those gadgets down. Sophie Goddard is director of sustainability at Canary Wharf Group and can be contacted via sustainability@canarywharf.com Go to canarywharf.com or breakingtheplastichabit.co.uk Scan this code for more information about Tech Takeback in Canary Wharf

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

£10.99

Cost of Devil Paneer Curry with egg fried rice, ginger yoghurt and pickled onion from Ceylon Roti

Wapping Docklands Market takes place every

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see

Saturday from 10am-4pm at Brussels Wharf off

Where? Wilton’s Music Hall Wapping

Wapping Wall beside Shadwell Basin

STAGE | Love Songs, Poems And Animal Drawings Poet and performer John Hegley promises an evening of elephants, crabs, horses, worms and an armadillo on Valentine’s eve. Feb 13, 7.30pm, from £12, wiltons.org.uk Where? Troxy Limehouse

GIG | Dreamcatcher World Tour The K-pop girl group bring their Luck Inside Seven Doors show to London. Expect strong vocals from the septet alongside some fearsome dance moves. Feb 21, 6pm, from £98.64, troxy.co.uk Where? Half Moon Theatre Wapping

KIDS | The Great Big Dinosaur Show Poet Simon Mole and musician Gecko deliver a stage version of the former’s book on the great and terrible lizards with raps, songs and poems. Feb 17, 11am, 2pm, £7, halfmoon.org.uk

book it

There’s still time to secure tickets for Make Some Noise at Half Moon Theatre in Limehouse. The shows features poet and storyteller Dommy B, and is suitable for audiences under five. Jan 27, 11am, 2pm, £7pp halfmoon.org.uk Scan this code to read more about the shows and find out why making a racket is a blast want more? @wharfwhispers

warmth finding some

if it’s an impromptu lunch on a cold day you’re after, the food stalls at Wapping Docklands Market have got you covered

The Devil Paneer Curry comes in a generous portion packed with Sri Lankan punch and plenty of rice

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Wapping - Limehouse - Shadwell - Tower Hill Ceylon Roti operates a stall at the market, selling a range of Sri Lankan dishes

by Jon Massey

he Janaury cold snap has been tiring. Even contemplating going outside in temperatures a little above freezing is a wearying exercise. So when resolve gets the better of inaction, it’s all the more reason to celebrate the joys that may be found. Wapping Docklands Market, located by the waters of Shadwell Basin, just up from The Prospect Of Whitby pub, has always felt like an outpost of rebellion. There’s something slightly anarchic in a bunch of people engaging in ruddy cheeked commerce, fuelled by craft beer, sangria and a plethora of street food options. As I sit down to my Devil Paneer Curry from Ceylon Roti – £10.99 for a seriously generous tray of cheese cubes, pickled onion, yoghurt and rice chopped and fried with egg – a brass trio launches into Angels by Robbie Williams. Just as the food is brightly coloured and filled with punch Sri Lankan flavours, the music is jaunty. While the former Take That man’s original isn’t the most drab of ditties, an arrangement for trumpet, trombone and tuba renders it significantly bouncier.

And through it all, Ceylon’s food just keeps getting better and better. The mercury might only be nudging two or three degrees, but there’s a warmth in my mouth that seems reflected in every stall at the market. It might be cold. The long johns might be on. But the spring and summer are coming and, until then, there are plenty of comforts to be found here. Then, when they arrive, it will be time to work through a whole bunch of fresh delights fuelled by chilled drinks and seeking shelter from the glare of the sun. Until then, Sri Lankan cuisine is an excellent option. The Devil curry is, perhaps as implied, demonically spicy. But the richly flavoured rice blends well with the cooling yoghurt to balance the fire, tempering the blaze in one’s mouth by just the right amount. All in all, it should see you good for an extra 20 minutes in the cold. Go to themarketnetwork.co.uk for more information about the market or follow @ceylonkothu on Insta Scan this code to find out more about the market

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what’s on

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

STAGE| I, Lord Response Ability Theatre promises uncompromising, compassionate lyricism as it invites audiences to a mass in the mind of a spiritual abuse survivor. Feb 13-17, 7.30pm, from £8, space.org.uk Where? Poplar Union Poplar

GIG | Friday Sessions Soul Cafe returns with performances from r’n’b artist Ada B and spoken word performer Jetha KM (pictured) – curated as ever by Jordan O Feb 9, 7pm, free, poplarunion.com Where? The Space Isle Of Dogs

STAGE | The Duchess Of Padua A quartet of singers brings Oscar Wilde’s tragedy of revenge and passion to life as a compact opera. A young man falls for a browbeaten, noble wife. Feb 20-25, times vary, from £10, space.org.uk

flash back

Historic ship the SS Robin has embarked on a new chapter as she is moored at Trinity Buoy Wharf to begin life as a museum aimed at revealing her remarkable history as the last cargo vessel of her kind trinitybuoywharf.com Scan this code to read our interview with Eric Reynolds of Urban Space Management about bringing her home want more? @wharfwhispers

how Theatreship and Artship are set to carry cultural cargo in their holds as Isle Of Dogs venues open

Theatreship is moored in Millwall Cutting

by Jon Massey

oats are Inigo Lapwood’s thing. He’s been living on them and repairing them since moving onto a sinking barge in Oxford when in need of a place to live. That’s fortunate because, as project director of Theatreship, moored in the Millwall Cutting between West India South Dock and Millwall Inner Dock, there’s plenty to do. “I’ve drifted further and further down the Thames and as the river has got bigger, so have the boats, said Inigo. “Generally, my living space in them has got smaller, but the idea has very much remained the same. “I first came to Canary Wharf about five years ago. That was for a boat that had sunk – a steam tug named Addie in Blackwall Basin. By the time I got there, the Fire Brigade had done the hard work of raising her. “So I took that on as a repair project and found this part of London really fascinating. It seemed like a real opportunity. “You have these huge bodies of water that are deeply connected to east London and the communities that lived and live in the area. “There’s the white working class community, of course, but also the British merchant navy was about 25% Bengali, and that’s reflected in Tower Hamlets today. I really believe in what the waterways do. “They are one of the few truly democratic spaces left – you get all kinds of people living on the water on all kinds of boats. “There are people who are one step up from homelessness and others on super yachts. But everyone is connected to the water – the river is the reason London exits.” Inigo is at the heart of a team of volunteer creatives that is hoping to establish a new arts centre based on two historic craft in the dock. Theatreship is already in place and set to host its first events from January 24 to February 2. The former bulk dry cargo carrier is set to be joined by Artship – a diesel coaster currently in north Germany. “We’ve been working very closely with the Canal And River Trust trying to increase the utilisation of the water here and

Theatreship and Artship occupy the arts and heritage berth – the idea is really to reopen the dock as a public space

casting

Inigo Lapwood, Theatreship / Artship

to do so in a way that’s connected to the history of the place,” said Inigo. “Theatreship and Artship occupy the arts and heritage berth – the idea is really to reopen the dock as a public space. “Theatreship is now in place – it’s exactly the kind of boat that used to be here when the docks were working. She was a bulk dry cargo ship transporting things like grain and coal. “We sailed her across from the Netherlands and in the harbour she feels like a very big vessel. “As soon as you’re out onto the North Sea, she feels like a very small boat. We were really surprised how much she moved – how rocky she was on that crossing. “When loaded there would have been 300 tonnes of cargo in here and, without that, she bobbed around all over the place.” Fully converted, Theatreship boasts a 110-seat auditorium suitable for theatre performances or film screenings and a cafe-bar area, all housed amid the steel fins of her cargo hold. “This is where we will host our more conventional performances – stuff that works with rows of people on seats,” said Inigo. “When it comes to programming, our plan is to really heavily lean into being a mixed arts space. For example, our forthcoming film screenings are all combined with live performances. “We want to avoid silos – especially because different artforms are richly in dialogue with each other – cinema and ballet, for instance. “We’re screening The Red Shoes, which features one of the most extended and virtuosic ballet scenes on film, with live dance as a response to the film from West End performer Pàje Campbell. “For us, its an opportunity to introduce audiences to one or the other through our events.”

Below decks there’s a 110-seat auditorium

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Isle Of Dogs - Poplar - Blackwall

£9

Get £9 tickets for Theatreship’s first shows with code WHARFLIFE9 – expect to pay about £10 in total with booking fee included

Inigo Lapwood is looking forward to welcoming audiences aboard Theatreship on the Isle Of Dogs

Image by Matt Grayson – find more of his work at graysonphotos.co.uk or @mattgrayson_photo on Insta

he venue’s first series – Cinema Unbound: The Creative Worlds Of Powell + Pressburger – features six screenings of movies made by the filmmakers. Hosted with the support of the FI as part of a national celebration of the duo’s works, Theatreship’s events include the likes of opera, dance and music presented alongside the screenings. “ t present we’re focusing on these screenings, said Inigo. “ nd we will be hosting many events in the future. We’re really lucky. “We’ve been overwhelmed with the support that people have shown for this pro ect. We’ve been met with generosity at every level. “That’s everything from people coming along and grabbing a paintbrush to the support of organisations like the Canal nd iver Trust and FI. “ ll the pro ection e uipment we’re using, for example, has been lent to us by one of the world’s top pro ectionists. “While Theatreship is run by a volunteer team, it’s still very much a professional organisation. ur head of film programming, for instance, is atalie Hill who has years experience as a T executive, has won multiple FT s and has produced The Apprentice, 24Hrs in A&E and Stacey Dooley Investigates. ur head of music programming is arl utchmayer – a multi-award winning teinway artist and former professor at Trinity aban in reenwich. “He will be performing as part of our first season at our screening of Black Narcissus on anuary . “ ne of the most ama ing things about the pro ect is how supportive people have been with their professional time.

A There’s also an expansive bar area

s for the heritage aspect of the pro ect, when in place, Theatreship and rtship will be a visual and functional link to the history of the docks’ former life as part of what was once the busiest port in the world. “Theatreship is from and rtship is from , said Inigo, who works as a data scientist and I developer when he’s not crawling around on boats. “ rtship is currently in north ermany, about an hour and half outside Hamburg. “We’re basically ust waiting for the weather. I spent most of last year rebuilding her engine. It’s largely in its original condition and you are not only unable to buy parts for it, you can’t buy the tools to take it apart to know what you need to get. “ o we had to make the tools

to disassemble it, then make the parts necessary to get it working. ut she’s now ready to come over. “There’s a lot about sustainability in what we’re doing – it’s one of the cores that runs through the whole pro ect. “We’re reclaiming and reusing these ships rather than seeing them go to scrap, which is what’s happened to many of their colleagues. “There were literally thousands of ships like rtship and they would have filled these docks. ow she’s one of the last ones left. “It’s really nice to bring these boats back into use and to make them relevant to the docks today rather than building something new, with the associated environmental cost of that. “When they are both here, it will be a collection of historic ships on the dock. We’ll have theatre and cinema on this one, installations and exhibitions on the other one but they will also both be pieces of living history. “They will be used to present things that are contemporary and current in the arts. ur plan is to open through the day as a cafe and bar for as many hours as possible. We really want to be the nucleus around which other things can be built and we’ve seen this happen already with the covered market that’s arrived nearby on outh uay. “ ltimately, we’d like it to be the best place to be in ondon, maybe even the . We genuinely believe in this pro ect and are really excited about developing an arts programme to give opportunities to young artists here. “ ery much the long term goal is to make it something that is financially self sustaining. We’d love to become one of the rts Council’s national portfolio organisations. “We’d also like to develop a long term sustainable structure so that we can have paid staff members who can commit to being here all the time. ur strategy has been to demonstrate that we’re able to deliver the pro ect. “We’ve been lucky with the funding we’ve had already, especially in the current climate, and I think that’s a reflection of how exciting this pro ect is. ● Wharf Life readers can get tickets to any of the forthcoming screenings for plus a booking fee with code WHARFLIFE9 normally . For more information go to theatreshipco.uk or artship.co.uk

Scan this code to find out more about the project

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Advertising Directory - Classified

be part of the Canary Wharf conversation To advertise in Wharf Life call 07944 000 144 or email jess.maddison@wharf-life.com

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Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Rotherhithe - Deptford - Bermondsey

£6

Cost of entry to Hiver’s Sea Shanty Night, which includes a pint of beer

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Deptford Lounge Deptford

KIDS | Mystery Makers Children’s author and performer Gareth P Jones presents an improvised whodunnit with live music, rap, jokes and a frenetic tale. Suitable for ages 7-12. Feb 15, 11am, donations, 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

A reserved crowd enjoys nautical tunes at Hiver during a previous Sea Shanty Night

Where? The Albany Deptford

belting out the KIDS | Breathe Suitable for ages 5-11, this show takes audiences on a journey through a busy forest from the perspective of an acorn. Expect puppets, cameras and trees. Feb 14, 1pm, 3pm, £8.50, thealbany.org.uk

how craft beer brewery Hiver is set to put on an evening of drunken sailors and singalong songs by Jon Massey

hat’s better than a honeyed pint of Hiver or a crisp glass of Fabal lager under a brick railway arch in Bermondsey? The answer is that same drink but enjoyed to the rollicking backdrop of men singing sea shanties. Taking place on Friday, February 16, from 6pm to 10.30pm, the craft brewery’s taproom will be taken over by old salts and captains of

their own destiny as guests and singers alike unite in rollin’ the ol’ chariot along. Flavoured with honey, Hiver welcomes bee puns and plenty of audience participation with shanty band, Mainstay, set to lead the crew in “raucous seafaring singalongs”. The ticket price of £6 includes entry and a pint of Hiver. Brewery founder and managing director, Hannah Rhodes, said: “We love these sea shanty nights as they’ve developed into a wonderful folk evening that’s respectful

in keeping this old tradition alive. “It’s also a chance to come together, let your hair down and even meet new friends.” Those wishing to find out what should be done with the drunken sailor will simply have to buy a ticket. Go to hiverbeers.com for more information about the brand or to book tickets Scan this code to find out more about the event

check out

Head to The Pen Theatre for Greek Myths: Retold – six classic tales told by a single performer over the course of an hour. Shows take place on February 8 and 9 with curtain up at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8.06 thepentheatre.com Scan this code to find out more information about Greek Myths: Retold or to book tickets want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

take a breath

by David Lefebvre Sell

£45

Starting price for a group tour of Punchdrunk’s The Burnt City at Woolwich Works

The Burnt City’s immersive world was inspired by tales of Troy from antiquity

Don’t fear boredom – doing nothing is vital for mental and physical health

verything these days needs periodic upgrades, it shouldn’t be a surprise that your self care routines do too. The penalty for not doing this is often to experience some sort of breakdown or burnout, and when that burnout becomes chronic it can be very hard to find your way out of it. So here are a few upgrades to help your general stress levels and mental health. Practise doing nothing. Right off the bat I’ve probably lost you, but the constant stimulus of doom scrolling when we should be resting, or the cognitive equivalent of stroking a phone – overthinking – means your mind never really gets a break. Stop multitasking for a bit and just watch a sunset, enjoy a cup of coffee or take a slow walk without listening to a podcast. Learn to recognise your warning signs. Sometimes you might recognise behaviours before you notice your emotional state. They could show Recognise your warning themselves through signs. If I find myself procrastination, self soothing with food or watching more than numbing with alcohol. For me, it’s YouTube. If two YouTube videos in a I find myself watching day, I know I’m putting more than two videos in a day, I know I’m something off putting something off. David Lefebvre Sell Use Binaural Beats to help regulate mental states. This is a phenomenon where listening to sounds of two different frequencies, usually with headphones, can alter brainwaves. The evidence supporting some claims is a bit inconclusive, but I have found it to be very helpful. If it doesn’t work, at least there are no side effects. Learn to breathe. The way that you breathe might be keeping you in a constant state of fight or flight. If it’s something you’ve never investigated, why? Is it hard to believe that something free might be the answer? All of these practices will cost you only time and, if you’re not investing that in your mental wellbeing – then there’s your problem. David Lefebvre Sell is a Greenwich-based psychotherapist and Yoga instructor who teaches at Third Space in Canary Wharf Follow @davetheyogi on X and Instagram and @DavidLefebvreSellYogaAndPsychotherapy on FB Scan this code for information about David’s work as a transpersonal counsellor and psychotherapist

get behind the scenes of a rich, immersive world in Woolwich by Jon Massey

eading immersive theatre company Punchdrunk has announced a second series of tours, workshops and masterclasses going behind the scenes of its most recent production in southeast London. The final performance of The Burnt City was in September, but visitors have since been invited to explore the expansive world the company created at its Woolwich Works base. Punchdrunk is set to open the venue up on selected dates between February 14 and March 2. Inside The City promises

a mixture of ways to get to grips with the company’s creative effort including weekend events and one-to-one tours for the first time. Group events allow parties of visitors to explore Troy with a familiar face from the production, while workshops focus on the creation and maintenance of a project on the scale of The Burnt City with hundreds of performers and staff. Punchdrunk artistic director Felix Barrett and sound designer Stephen Dobbie will also each lead masterclasses aimed at helping creatives’ professional development. Tickets for group tours start

at £45, while one-to-one tours are from £90. Workshops start at £100 while masterclasses are from £350. Early booking is advised as tickets for these events are already selling fast. Find full listings online. While no plans have been announced, Punchdrunk is based permanently in Woolwich and may be in the process of developing a new show. Go to theburntcity.com Scan this code to find out more about Inside The City

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Greenwich - Peninsula - Woolwich

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Visitors’ Book Cafe Woolwich

GIG | Ruby Rushton The jazz quartet offer a special anniversary performance of their album Two For Joy in full – an opportunity to appreciate its impact on jazz. Feb 9, 6.30pm, £15.50, woolwich.works Where? The O2 Arena Peninsula

SEE | Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow Party Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, Demo Derby and more get their brightest paint on alongside a fire and frostbreathing dragon called Arcticgon. Max octane. Feb 17-18, times vary, from £52, theo2.co.uk Where? Firepit Art Gallery And Studio Peninsula

ART | Splendours Of Henan This exhibition showcases Henan’s rich heritage displaying cultural artefacts to coincide with Chinese New Year. Find the gallery on The Tide. Feb 10-24, times vary, free, @art.firepit on Insta

flash back

This is Nick Williams, director of Woolwich Works, who is looking forward to the year ahead. There are plenty of big events coming over the next 12 months and an idea to host a show-stopping dog show woolwich.works Scan this code to read Wharf Life’s interview with Nick and find out more about what’s planned for the venue want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

£149

Price of at one-day conference pass to The PA Show excluding the 10% discount available to Wharf Life readers

how The PA Show promises a wide ranging programme, packed with seminars and exhibitors at Excel by Jon Massey

he PA Show is set to return to east London with a packed programme aimed at personal, executive and virtual assistants as well as o ce managers. The 2024 event, which is sponsored by South Western Railway Business Direct, will take place at Excel in Royal Victoria Dock on February 28 and 29, three minutes from Canary Wharf on the Elizabeth ine. The flagship event, which has seen significant growth in recent years – with a separate utumn edition now a fixture in the calendar – promises a show designed to boost learning, skills and the personal networks of those attending. In addition to an extensive range of exhibitors – offering services, products and resources to aid the lives of executive support professionals – the event boasts a packed programme of seminars across its five theatres. “The diversity of our sessions and the calibre of our speakers are truly exciting,” said Lisa Farnfield, sales director at The how. “We’re also thrilled about the networking opportunities that attendees will have, connecting with peers and industry leaders. “We believe in empowering our attendees with knowledge, skills, and networks that not only enhance their current roles but also pave the way for future opportunities. This show is a catalyst for both personal and professional transformation. There are three ways for s, s, s and o ce managers to attend The how . The first is via a free visitor pass, which grants access to all exhibitors and the event’s Keynote Theatre. This will host sessions throughout the show including Chief Of Staff: Top Five Skills Needed For The Executive Shift, where

We believe in empowering our attendees with skills, knowledge and networks that pave the way for future opportunities Lisa Farnfield, The PA Show

Sarah Howson and Marianne Whitlock are set to unpack the traits of high-performing executive assistants. lso on offer will be The Power Of Adaptability, with Claudine artin offering thoughts on embracing change as a catalyst for growth, and Menopause’s Impact On Financial Health: A Threat To Business, in which Tracey ouise Taylor will explore the issue in depth, finishing with a call to action for 2024 to be the year to confront the various challenges posed. n the exhibition floor itself, visitors will find the likes of Toca ocial, restige Hampers, Miss Jones Group, Hyatt Hotels, Flight Club and lectric hu e, urostar, Center arcs, Crystal Corporate Travel anagement and many more. Attendees are once again encouraged to explore via the assport scheme, sponsored by atar irways. isitors collect stamps from participating exhibitors, with completed passports entered into a pri e draw. Going deeper, full access conference passes offer admission to all five theatres, starting at for one day or for two. Wharf Life readers can get off by using code WHARF10 when booking. These include seminars such as The Productivity Triangle at the Key Skills Theatre where Kathleen rum offers advice on navigating time and energy management alongside strategic planning. At the Personal Development Theatre, Career Management – Why

A wide range of talks, activities and exhibitors will be on offer at the show this February at Excel

skills connections and ideas

All visitors get access to the Keynote Theatre at The PA Show 2024 included with registration

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Royal Docks - Canning Town

offer

10% off conference passes Organiser of The PA Show, Mash Media, is offering Wharf Life readers 10% off the cost of one and twoday passes to the 2024 event. Use Code WHARF10

And How To Be Proactive About Your Career will see Joanna Gaudoin host a session on the significance of proactively shaping a role for long-term fulfilment. This includes practical steps on developing a career and ways to gain motivation in making it a positive, consistent aspect of visitors’ professional lives. A highlight at the Tech Theatre will be Fiona oung’s How To Make AI Your Superpower, looking at generative applications and large language models. The seminar explores how attendees can integrate the likes of Chat T, ard, ing, and Claude into their workflows. The Office Management And VA Conference Theatre will host Maximising Your Potential Through Recognition And Reward, where Hana ray will chair a panel of award-winning o ce managers – Caroline ees Williams, egan ’Connell, and arah ames – who will offer insights and strategies for achieving recognition in the sector. The theatre will also be the venue for Using Your Existing Network To Get Clients As A VA, a session with Caroline arshall aimed at helping virtual assistants grow their businesses. “ ur aim has always been to mirror the evolving landscape of the roles, said Charlotte Fewlass, event marketing manager and deputy event director of The how. “This year, we’re focusing on sustainability, technological adeptness, and career progression, reflecting the current and future challenges faced by our community. ive in with an open mind and be ready to absorb a wealth of information. “ etwork, engage in sessions, and most importantly, en oy the experience of being part of this vibrant community. Full listings of exhibitors and sessions available in the theatres are available online. Go to pashow.com for more information or to book passes

Scan this code to find out more about The PA Show 2024 Lisa Farnfield, left, and Charlotte Fewlass, organisers of The PA Show

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Good Hotel Royal Victoria Dock

KIDS | Canvas And Connections Suitable for mums with babies and toddlers aged 0-3, this session offers kids and grown-ups a chance to explore creativity and meet new friends. Feb 18, 10am-noon, donation, royaldocks.london Where? Excel Royal Victoria Dock

EVENT | MCN London Motorcycle Show Find bikes, manufacturers and accessories galore at this convention for two-wheel enthusiasts. Includes Charley Boorman’s Adventure Base Camp. Feb 16-18, 9am- 5pm, £25, mcnmotorcycleshow.com Where? RA Fold Canning Town

CLUB | Percolate DjRum (pictured), a UK underground pioneer, promises a night of ambient, dubstep, techno and jazz alongside sets from Ehuna (jungle) and DJ Wiggles. Feb 16, 10pm-5am, from £25.20, ra.co

flash back

On Jan 25, young people from NASSA will take on a team drawn from the ranks of the Met in a symbolic game to mark the charity’s Carry A Basketball Not A Blade initiative, founded by Anthony Okereafor, pictured nassasports.org.uk Scan this code to read Wharf Life’s interview with Anthony and Newham borough commander Simon Crick want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Image by Becky Mursell

Image by Camilla Greenwell

£12

Starting price for standard tickets to see Samuel Takes A Break at The Yard – Yard Local Card holders get 30% off

Anthony Simpson-Pike

Jay Miller

Rhianna Ilube

staging the

by Jon Massey

udiences are set to go on “a soulsearching odyssey through time and space” as Rhianna Ilube’s debut play comes to The Yard Theatre. Samuel Takes A Break... In Male Dungeon No. 5 After A Long But Generally Successful Day Of Tours, is set to run from February 9-March 9 at the Hackney Wick venue. “It’s a moving and hilarious look at the legacy of slavery,” said Jay Miller, director and founder at The Yard. “This play identifies that there remains cultural pain amongst the Black British community, but this is not a play that lodges in the tragedy of the events. Instead, it sensitively and powerfully evokes the tragedy, while suggesting that history lives and breathes within us, in multiple, farcical ways. “Samuel Takes A Break does not tell us what to think, but rather, the play encourages us to talk together, to feel together, and to understand together.

“It is playful, it is entertaining, it is bold, it is live, and that’s why Rhianna’s brilliant play is on at The Yard.” The show is set in 2019 in Ghana’s Year Of Return and follows Samuel, a tour guide, and Orange, a ticket officer, at Cape Coast Castle in the African country. Soon black Britons Trev and Letty arrive seeking their roots and suddenly history isn’t what it seems, forcing Samuel to confront new truths that transform his relationship with history and expose his inner turmoil. The play is directed by The Yard’s deputy artistic director Anthony Simpson-Pike and will get its premiere in Hackney Wick. Samuel Takes A Break is Rhianna’s first work on stage and was highly commended by the Soho Theatre’s Verity Bargate Award as well as being shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Playwriting. An events curator as well as a writer, she is a member

how Samuel Takes A Break explores history and colonialism with comedy and pain juxtaposed

of the Soho Six and an alumnus of the Royal Court Intro Group, Oxford Playmakers, BBC London Voices and Omnibus Theatre’s Engine Room. She developed her first TV pilot with Expanded Media for a Sky Table Read in May last year and was previously associate director at interactive theatremaker, Coney, where she wrote 1884 1884, a new game-theatre show set to

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 2024 wharf-life.com

Stratford - Bow - Hackney Wick

Scan this code to find out more about Samuel Takes A Break Fode Simbo stars as Samuel in The Yard’s forthcoming production

premiere in the spring. Rhianna is also a film programmer for BFI Flare and has curated events for cultural venues and NGOs across London and Berlin since 2015. The Yard’s production stars Fode Simbo as Samuel, Bola Akeju as Orange, Tori AllenMartin as Letty and Stefan Asante-Boateng as Trev. Performances will take place at 7.30pm Monday-Saturday with matinees on selected Saturdays at 2.30pm. Those living or working locally in Hackney Wick or nearby can sign up for the venue’s Yard Card, which offers a range of benefits at the venue. These include 30% off tickets for selected shows for the card holder and a guest and 10% off drinks at the bar. To be eligible individuals should be resident or employed in E3, E5, E7, E8, E9, E10, E11, E15 or E20 postcodes. The scheme is free to join. Those under the age of 27 can also get tickets for £5 if there are unsold seats in the house. Those using this scheme should turn up in person on the day and must carry ID. Access tickets are charged at a concession rate with free tickets for companions, but these should be booked via email. Go to theyardtheatre.co.uk for more information and full details of the production

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

Tori Allen-Martin

Where? Cart And Horses Stratford

Stefan Asante-Boateng

GIG | Maryland Metalfest III Headlined by Tytan and Alunah (pictured), this two-day celebration of all things metal includes sets from Trojan, Cruel Mother and Forced In Black. Feb 9-10, 7pm, from £5, cartandhorses.london Where? Hackney Bridge Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park SHOP | Flea London This market features a mix of stalls selling vintage clothing, antiques, furniture, records, jewellery, ceramics and art. Go grab a bargain. Sundays, 11am-5pm, free to visit, hackneybridge.org

squeeze it in Bola Akeju

Tickets are still available for Burns Night at floating restaurant Barge East. Moored beside Hackney Wick, diners can expect themed food, whisky and poetry with a dash of live music from £55 per head bargeeast.com Fode Simbo

Scan this code for more information about Burns Night at Barge East and the floating venue’s offerings want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 24-Feb 7, 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 10-24

Notes

crossword beating the

Cryptic Across

Down

Knock out with a bright light? (4) 3. Professional parts of speech? (8) 8. Cover a rustic undulation, we hear (4) 9. Sharp criticism surrounds a feline (8) 11. Majority at the very top? (12) 13. Describes a speedy camera person? (6) 14. Confused young sheep is at fault? (6) 17. Yearning for a domestic ailment (12) 20. Hassled by a crimson pin (8) 21. A rise in long walks? (4) 22. Strangle the accelerator (8) 23. Muddled wise man takes for ever? (4)

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

Quick Across

1. Clerical garb (4) 3. Defame (8) 8. Walkway (4) 9. Child’s game (8) 11. Conquering (12) 13. Parisian dance (3-3) 14. Concealed (6) 17. Slow movement (12) 20. Taking care of (8) 21. Sharp point (4) 22. Danish city (8) 23. Jane ____ (4)

Victory over Europe is stolen for paramours (4,4) 2. “I am Lara,” said the diseased girl (7) 4. Make a note about the string (6) 5, 10. An immediate gift a chronometer? (2,4,4,3,7) 6. Individuals in Tunis? (5) 7. Start the pudding course? (4) 10. See 5 down 12. Sounds like a strange wanderer (8) 15. Convention of carnivores, we hear (7) 16. 18 down for other things to be straight (6) 18. Get in line! (5) 19. One of these always comes next! (4)

Down

1. Come near (8) 2. Bird (7) 4. Dead nobleman (2,4) 5. Added amount (10) 6, 7. British folk hero (5,4) 10. Remove bends (10) 12. Redundant (8) 15. Concerning food consumption (7) 16. One at fault (6) 18. London cricket ground (5) 19. Land measurement (5) Set by Everden

Across: 1 Lamp; 3 Pronouns; 8 Vale; 9 Scathing; 11 Northernmost; 13 Snappy; 14 Blamed; 17 Homesickness; 20 Badgered; 21 Hike; 22 Throttle; 23 Ages. Down: 1 Love Nest; 2 Malaria; 4 Record; 5, 10 No Time Like The Present; 6 Units; 7 Sago; 12 Odysseus; 15 Meeting; 16 Lineal; 18 Order; 19 Abut.

Cryptic Solution Across: 1 Albs; 3 Besmirch; 8 Path; 9 Peekaboo; 11 Overthrowing; 13 Can-Can; 14 Hidden; 17 Sluggishness; 20 Curating; 21 Barb; 22 Elsinore; 23 Eyre. Down: 1 Approach; 2 Bittern; 4 Ex Earl; 5 Makeweight; 6, 7 Robin Hood; 10 Straighten; 12 Unusable; 15 Dietary; 16 Sinner; 18 Lords; 19 Acre.

Quick Solution

Notes

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