Super Sussex

Adele Trathan anticipates the further easing of restrictions, the return to something closer to normal life, and a call to action this summer

Spring is here and summer is on the horizon, after so many months of lockdown it is time to dust off the cobwebs and finally get out and about again - hurrah! Although it’s still important to observe current restrictions, we are finally able to enjoy our beautiful county again so let’s make the most of it.

We are extremely privileged to have the countryside and coast right on our doorstep, with plenty of space to roam and enjoy our natural surroundings. Blue skies create the perfect opportunity to pack up a picnic and set off for a family trek. Climb the South Downs, take in the Local attractions are slowly opening-up, finally offering the chance to visit places that perhaps, we once took for granted

vistas, watch the wildlife and inhale the fresh air. Alternatively, head to the coast, and stroll along the promenade of one of our wonderful seaside towns or cities or follow a rugged coastal path; Sussex has so many different coastal opportunities. Inland, forests, woodlands, lakes and riverside walks are all in abundance. Each offering their own compelling space that allow the senses to thrive and blossom in these wonderfully varied environments.

For history lovers there are many historic towns to explore, narrow cobbled streets and beautiful buildings that have stood for centuries. They evoke the senses, enticing discoveries about places and times gone by. Strolling back in time and learning about our surroundings, the people and places, help connect our lives with the past and create a

sense of belonging.

Local attractions are slowly opening-up, finally offering the chance to visit places that perhaps, we once took for granted. A day out with the kids provides an opportunity for education, engagement, entertainment and most of all a fun-filled family day out.

Pubs, restaurants and tea-rooms have found new ways to ensure customers can indulge safely, to go out, socialise and enjoy the pleasure of being served tasty food and drink. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the local fayre and produce and help support the local hospitality industry. The chance to spend time with friends and family has become precious, and a priority.

Our high streets have suffered enormously during lockdown. The pavements of towns and villages across our county have emptied and become still. Shops, retailers and businesses need Blue skies create the perfect opportunity to pack up a picnic and set off for a family trek

customers and if we value a thriving local community and economy then it’s time to show our support. Sussex has so much to offer in every aspect, so now more than ever, this is the opportunity to show our appreciation, while still observing safety guidelines. Why not give some support to the retailers, entertainers, attractions, hospitality industry and businesses across the county and help us all recover from this tough last year? l

SALES | LETTINGS | LAND | NEW HOMES

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Brighton Festival returns with arts outdoors, online and safely back on stage this May!

Brighton Festival returns from 1 May with acclaimed British and Ethiopian poet, playwright, and broadcaster, Lemn Sissay MBE as guest director. The annual celebration of classical and contemporary music, theatre, visual arts, literature, comedy and family events will take place online, outdoors and as guidance allows from 17 May, in socially distanced venues across the city.

Artist Ray Lee brings the world premiere of Points of Departure, a spectacular series of mechanical sculptures that will light up the night-time backdrop of Shoreham Port. The large-scale structures sing out a sci-fi symphony that will mesmerise visitors as they walk around the outdoor installation. Families and friends will be celebrated in Arrivals & Departures, an interactive artwork by Yara & Davina located in Royal Pavilion Gardens. Births and deaths are commemorated on two digital billboards and the public can nominate a loved one to be included.

Immersive sound installation Pier to Pier combines interviews with 14 people who live and work on the coast with music from a coastal choir, played from a bench as it travels the Sussex coast from Brighton to Worthing. HERstory, an insightful and inspiring collaboration between writers, storytellers and performers, uncovers the real stories of Brighton-based women. A free, city-wide audio tour, the stories can be accessed via QR codes on a smartphone, located at different points around Brighton city centre and suburbs.

Classical music highlights at Brighton Dome include a refreshing take on Schubert’s song cycle Schwanengesang (Swan Song) from baritone Roderick Williams, joined by soprano Ella Taylor and baritone Themba Mvula.

Arrivals + Departures Lemn Sissay

Photo: Tom McClaughlanlaughlan Chineke! Orchestra’s chamber ensemble performs Schubert’s beloved Trout quintet and La Nuova Musica provides a bold new take on Monteverdi’s monumental masterpiece, the Vespro della Beata Vergine. Young artists are showcased in a series of lunchtime concerts, including one of the UK’s most sparkling classical talents, pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason.

As part of the Festival’s Young Readers events, bestselling children’s authors Dame Jacqueline Wilson and M. G. Leonard introduce their new books and a special storytelling event celebrating Guess How Much I Love You is perfect for young families.

For families with older children, a bike ride around the city turns into a fun

Pier to Pier

and interactive game with Brighton-based digital artists Blast Theory. Rider Spoke takes cyclists on a guided tour using a smartphone app, with narrators leading them to search for secret hiding places. Robot Selfie invites the public to submit a selfie to be added to a mural, created by a wall-drawing robot, which can be visited in person at Greater Brighton Metropolitan College or viewed online.

Jacqueline Wilson

Many events are free or tickets start from £5, for more information visit brightonfestival.org or call 01273 709709 (Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm)

Isata Kanneh-Mason

Photo: Robin Clewley

If not, you are missing out! Hidden County is all about Sussex Living readers enjoying the benefits and making the most of what Sussex has to offer. If you love Sussex then you will love Hidden County and what’s more, all the benefits are completely FREE! This special membership club gives you the opportunity to experience exclusive competitions, discount vouchers and offers, exciting online events and fascinating features as well as a FREE online magazine every month. What’s not to like? Sign up today and here are just a few things you could take advantage of this month.

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Looking forward to the summer to get out and about again? To celebrate the re-opening of cinemas – Hidden County members can watch a film in the historic Dome Cinema for a special discounted rate of just £2.99. Great offers are also available on food and drink tours, live music events, spa and experience days plus much more...

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