Issuu

STEPPING FORWARD

ED COSENS ON

HEALTH AND MOVING ON

available until 6.00pm, SUNDay TO FRIDAY

Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail or two!

CHOOSE FROM OVER 20 COCKTAILS TAGGED WITH THE 'CUBANA STAR' IN OUR DRINKS MENU FOR ONLY £7.00! PLUS...

>> House Spirit Double £7.00

>> Selected bottled beers £3.50 - Corona and Super Bock

>> Selected house wines £4.25 per glass or £18.50 per bottle. Choose from Pinot Grigio White, Pinot Grigio Rosé or Montepulciano Red

>> Prosecco - £22.50 per bottle

>> Sangria or Sangria Blanca £22.50 per jug

**DOWNSTAIRS BAR EXTENDED HAPPY OFFER**

We have extended all of the above Happy Drinks offers for a further two hours, until 8pm, Monday to Friday in the downstairs bar **only available in the downstairs bar

available until 6.00pm, SUNDay TO FRIDAY

Call in and chill out at the end of a hard day, unwind and soak up our relaxed Latino vibe whilst enjoying our ‘Happy Tapas’ deals. ANY 2 tapas dishes for £12.95 £5.00 off ANY Of our tapas set menus –– OR ––

Fantastic value when you dine early. APPLIES TO ALL TABLES SEATED AND ORDERING BEFORE OR AT 6PM. HAPPY

Please note our Happy Drinks and Happy Tapas Offers are not available on Bank Holiday Sundays

salsainthesquare!

LATIN MUSIC & DANCE FIESTA!

BANK HOLIDAY SUNDAY

MAY 25

The Final Bank Holiday Sunday in May

FREE OUTDOOR SALSA SPECTACULAR IN LEOPOLD SQUARE

FROM 5pm UNTIL 10pm. Live 6-piece all Cuban Salsa band... the amazing ‘RAICES CUBANA’

> Omar Puente: violin/vocals

> Flavio Correa: congas

> Oscar Martinez: timbales

> Dorance Lorza: bass

> Jesus Batallan: keyboard

> Musiquito: trumpet

Plus DJ ANNA DE ORTE (Direct from Barcelona) and DJ ROLY CABALLERO (Havana, Cuba). Bachata Dance Show, Latin Dance Animations, and so much more.

The party continues inside CUBANA from 10pm through to 2am:

BARRIO LATINO

BANK HOLIDAY FIESTA!

FOUR TOP DJS PLAYING OVER TWO FLOORS

> DOWNSTAIRS: > DJ ANNA DE ORTE (BARCELONA)

> DJ ROLY CABALLERO (HAVANA, CUBA) With ARMANDO MURILLO (Congas)

- Reggaeton, Salsa, Samba, & Latin House

> UPSTAIRS: > DJ ANTONIO (SABROSO)

> DJ SEAN WILSON

- Kizomba, Semba, Kudoro

Playing in the square from 6pm

OMAR PUENTE AND RAICES CUBANA

Raíces Cubanas, led by virtuoso violinist and musical director Omar Puente, Winner of the 2017 Lukas Award, have their roots in Cuban Son and Charanga (violins, trumpet, piano, bass, timbale, congas with a strong vocal front line) infused with Afro- Cuban jazz.

PA S RES TA URANT

Omar has toured worldwide with Cuban greats such as the late Ruben Gonzalez, Orlando “Cachaíto” López, Guillermo Rubalcaba, supported Tito Puente, Omara Portuondo and jammed with the Afro-Cuban All Stars. Over recent years he has performed, recorded and toured with British jazz stars Courtney Pine, Denis Baptiste, Gary Crosby among others.

DJ Anna De Orte

PANORAMA

ADMISSION & RACECARD, 3 COURSE MEAL,

ADMISSION & RACECARD, 2 COURSE MEAL, TABLE BETTING SERVICE*

32:

INTO THE SPOTLIGHT

Seasoned singer-songwriter Ed Cosens steps forward for this month’s Red Light Session, laying down some raw live tracks and chatting with Ash Birch about life after Reverend and the Makers.

14: CITY VIEWS

For this month’s City Views, Chris Arnold reflects on how Sheffield’s vibrant events scene shaped his career, from founding the slightly unhinged Cool Beans club night to working in TV, radio and festivals.

20:

A NEW CHAPTER

Rising from the ashes of Kommune, Department opens in Castlegate soon. With new events, spaces and food traders confirmed, we spoke to the owner about lessons learned – and ambitions for the future.

62:

RHYMES AND REASON

Slam City, a new documentary by Dom Heslop and Jack Godfrey, spotlights rising Sheff talent and the community behind Slambarz. Ahead of its premiere, the duo explain why telling these stories from inside the city matters.

68:

STATE OF THE ART

DIY event We Love What You’ve Done with the Place returns this month, showcasing a fresh lineup of exciting local artists. Organiser Kieran Flynn chats to Exposed about the new exhibition and the city’s thriving creative scene.

GAFFERS

Phil Turner (MD) phil@exposedmagazine.co.uk

Nick Hallam (Sales Director) nick@exposedmagazine.co.uk

FINANCE

Lis Ellis (Accounts) accounts@exposedmagazine.co.uk

GRAFTERS

Joe Food (Editor) joe@exposedmagazine.co.uk

Ash Birch (Online Editor) ash@exposedmagazine.co.uk

Holly Dibden (Web/Socials) holly@exposedmagazine.co.uk

Lizzy Capps (Content Creator) lizzy@exposedmagazine.co.uk

Marc Barker (Design Dogsbody)

GI’ US A HAND PLZ

Holly Dibden, Joe Murphy, Megan Pocock, Sean Hession

Exposed is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd

25 Feb - 1 March 2026

Trek through Iceland's stunning scenery to raise vital funds for Sheffield Children's.

VOTE OF CONFIDENCE

You came, you saw, you voted in your thousands – and now the Exposed Awards 2025 shortlists are finally in!

Over the last couple of months, you lot have blown us away with yet another record year of voting. Give yourselves a pat on the back, will yer? With your part done and the vote now closed, it’s over to our panel of expert judges…

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Each category below features the top five nominees – listed alphabetically – who received the most votes. We’ll now hand the shortlist over to this year’s crack team of local judges for their final rankings: Lucy Revis of TRACKS; Dom Heslop, founder of Slambarz; True Fiction, host of the Tha What? 0114 podcast; and Kat & Ryan, culinary explorers from @HotFoodSheffield. Their votes will then be added to the public vote – à la Strictly – and the winners will be revealed at the big bash on 15 May.

MORE ABOUT THE NIGHT

Now a regular fixture at the awards, Chris Arnold will return on hosting duties and we’ll have some of Sheffield’s finest handing out awards throughout the night. Ticket cost covers entry to the event, drinks on

arrival and food from some of the city’s finest street food traders – as well as plenty of live entertainment to get you in the party mood.

A VERY SPECIAL PERFORMANCE

Last year we had a local supergroup seeing things out with a superb Moloko cover. It’s a tough one to top, but we’ve pulled out all the stops once again and will have another Steel City ensemble performing live at the end of the night.

ON A LATE’UN?

The fabled awards afterparties will take place at two of our favourite spots, Factory Floor and Yellow Arch Studios. It might be worth booking the next day off work... don’t say we didn’t warn you!

If you’ve made the shortlist – firstly, congrats! We’ve got a limited number of tickets available for you (£45 + VAT seated, £25 + VAT standing). Just email nick@ exposedmagazine. co.uk to reserve yours.

THE SHORTLIST

BEST BAR

RARE RECORD COLLECTOR AND VINYL DJ

HUNTING FOR RECORDS IN SHEFFIELD IS FUN.

Every collector has to start somewhere, so local is as good a place to start as any! Whether it’s the local run down to the charity shops, the queue outside Bear Tree on Record Store Day or crate-digging at second-hand specialists like Spinning Discs up at Norton Lees, there is always something to be had in that thrill of the chase. It’s also pleasing to see new stores popping up like Gravel Pit at Leah’s Yard and on Abbeydale Road, Hub on Sharrow Vale Road and selector-led natural wine experts Grub on Queens Road.

CLUB SPACES ARE VITAL TO THIS CITY.

With underground club space disappearing all the time, it’s great to see places like Gut Level, Factory Floor and Haggler’s Corner thriving, surviving and giving the next generation of DJs opportunities to express themselves through sound. For professional DJ studio space, I would recommend Spring Tank Studios on Randall Street.

I’m currently enjoying the freedom and expansive sounds of jazzdance being pushed through by DJs like James Tsirikos and Ashley Grimshaw. I recently went to their all-dayer, Milestones, at Crookes Social Club and their progressive approach to dance music blew me away. My good friend Bobby Lee can always be relied upon to blend musical genres with an open ear at his Sidney & Matilda residency. 1

SHEFFIELD IS A GOOD PLACE FOR DJS.

4 5

PEOPLE WANT WHAT THEY KNOW, EXCEPT THE PEOPLE WHO DON’T.

Seems like there are two camps in Sheffield at the moment. There are people who just want to hear pop music that they know, which is fine, and the immensely popular daytime disco Day Fever will have you covered there. I, however, without sounding like a snob, am in the other camp and prefer a more expansive mindset to music and love not knowing what the DJ is playing – and if I particularly like the track, I might ask them politely what the song is after their set or even purchase a record off the back of it.

NO REQUESTS.

The one universal rule that unites every vinyl DJ in existence. Just don’t try it under any circumstances. Ever. The DJ is usually too busy mixing tracks to engage and they really don’t need you harassing them. Even if it is your birthday, we really don’t care! And, no, you can’t play it off your phone. All future requests made to me when I am DJing will be referred to the printed version of this article.

Expect to see Tom Maxwell Shore bringing the soulful grooves at a venue near you soon (and remember – park those requests!). For a taste of what he’s all about, subscribe to @ thomasmaxwellshore on YouTube.

CITY VIEWS

CHRIS ARNOLD

In 2007, I applied to five different universities but, due to my supremely lacklustre A-level results, only one of them let me in – Sheffield. Joke’s on UCAS though, that was the one I wanted to go to! Sure, that was based on the one boozy night out I had there the previous year with my friend Scott, as well as the quality of the cheesy chips and gravy on said boozy night out, but still, there was a certain electric quality to the place which drew me in. Little did I know then the impact this city would have on literally all aspects of my life.

For my first two years at university, I would love to say I embraced my studies, but if anything, they took a battering – as did I by embracing the quad-vod deals at Corporation nightclub instead. In fact, I still regularly blow 18-yearolds’ minds when I tell them that you could once buy four shots of vodka with a miscellaneous blue mixer for £1. They tend to look quite concerned as they drink their creatine protein shake and log another run on Strava, but I know that secretly they are a little bit impressed by Old Man Arnold and his tales of yore. I did just enough work to pass my first two uni years, and then in my third I did a year abroad teaching in Paris. Whilst I loved living in the French capital city, I struggled in many ways –finding accommodation, covering costs, teaching kids who wanted nothing to do with me, etc. It made me realise how much more there was to Sheffield than non-stop partying, and I yearned to hit the ground running upon my return. In 2010, freshly back in Sheffield and with a new outlook on life, I launched Cool Beans – a monthly club night and a radio show on the student station Forge Radio. Aided by my pals Dom Kidson and Andy Enchilada (who would later find fame as Welsh country-folk star The Welsh Whisperer), we wanted Cool

THE SHEFFIELD EVENTS SCENE SHAPED THE PERSON THAT I AM TODAY."

Beans to be upbeat, genre-less and not afraid to be silly. I gave DJing a go for the first event, wearing a giant blue monkey costume (no idea why), left a Twister mat on the dancefloor for punters to play whilst they listened to my tunes (also no idea why), and added fake genres such as ‘shrimpcore’ and ‘land shanties’ to the poster (once more, no idea why). By then taking Cool Beans to a different Sheffield venue for each event, I got to know the inner workings of the city’s industry and quickly fell in love with all aspects of live events – from pubs to bars to clubs to music venues to festivals and beyond. When I look back, I realise just how many of those hotspots are now gone. The Redhouse, The Bowery, The Great Gatsby, O2 Academy and The Harley (although chances are that’ll be open again under a new owner by the time this goes to print) – a memory in time, a snapshot of the scene.

A real variety of acts appeared on Cool Beans stages over the years, many of them still going strong today – KOG, Public Service Broadcasting, New York Brass Band, Smiling Ivy, Mary Anne Hobbs, Mr B. The Gentleman Rhymer, MJ Cole, Franz Von, to name a few. One standout event remains the time I put on The Correspondents, Renegade Brass Band and Nice One Greg at the Students’ Union and 600 people bought tickets for it. We even had to upgrade the venue! In hindsight, it feels like that moment put me and Cool Beans on the Sheffield map. Not long after that, I started getting booked to DJ in other cities, for festivals, and I also became a resident at the hottest party in town –Threads at DQ! Enough has been spoken about Threads over the years, so I won’t add much, but it really was exciting to be part of a night that might have Toddla T playing one week and Matt Helders from Arctic Monkeys the next. On the flip side though – it’s been years

CITY VIEWS: CHRIS ARNOLD

IT'S HARD TO EXPLAIN, BUT IT ALL FELT VERY 'SHEFFIELD' – JUST CRACK ON AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS. IT'S A MANTRA I'VE SEEN COUNTLESS OTHER CREATIVES EMBRACE WHEN TAKING ON THEIR OWN PROJECTS."

since I’ve been able to even be anywhere near a Red Stripe or a Jägerbomb due to overindulgence during that era. Apparently DQ is now a church – good luck erasing all the historical sin from that building, is what I say!

Away from the events, Sheffield was my breeding ground for a crash course in media. Following on from student radio, I presented a show on Sheffield Live FM and later had a comedy sketch and music show commissioned for Sheffield Live TV when it launched. Myself and my close pals Jimmy May, Mickey Michaels, Sidekick Jonny, Soggy Rob and Longmourne Ratsby would just go out and film sketches in the streets and buildings of Sheffield, utilising whatever props and outfits we could get on the cheap. Inspired by programmes such as The Adam & Joe Show and with a Wayne’s World aesthetic going on, we worked tirelessly on putting the shows together – sometimes editing through the night on computers that couldn’t handle the footage – in order to meet broadcast deadlines. We ended up doing two series of six episodes each, as well as a final Christmas episode, with the show eventually being sold on and broadcast on 13 different local stations around the country. It’s hard to explain, but it all felt very ‘Sheffield’ – just crack on and see what happens. It's a mantra I’ve seen countless other creatives embrace when taking on their own projects, whether that be a coffee shop, a festival, a band, an art exhibition, a restaurant, a club night, etc, etc, etc.

Doing The Cool Beans Television Show eventually resulted in me getting a job as a presenter on a live local TV show, and following that, on BBC radio. In reflection, it was like a five-year unpaid internship where I figured out

how to navigate the industry, make contacts and pitch myself. My love for live events and festivals also remains strong – I promote less nowadays, but am very busy as an act touring my Beatles Dub Club show all over the country and beyond.

Throughout all this, Sheffield gave me the greatest gift of them all – meeting my wife and now the mother of our child, Francesca. We met working behind the bar at the O2 Academy and romance blossomed despite my extremely poor flirtation technique, which mainly consisted of asking her if she had had a

good weekend, then asking her what she was up to the following weekend. We now all live in Bristol, but I’m back in Sheffield a lot for various reasons – the most exciting calendar date for me being hosting the Exposed Awards. And no matter which route I take to come back –via the M1/Sheffield Parkway or over the Pennines – a part of me always feels like I’m coming home.

You can find Chris at @chrisarnoldinc on socials and he’ll be back hosting the 2025 Exposed Awards on 15 May

PHOTO: ELLIE GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY

2025 marks the final chapter of ILLUMINATE THE GARDENS at the Sheffield Botanical Gardens.

What started as an ambitious idea in 2015 became a sold-out sensation, bringing thousands of people together for nearly a decade of unforgettable shows!

SHEFFIELD BOTANICAL GARDENS 7th- 9th NOV 2025 ‘Final Show’

The team at EVENTS COLLECTIVE has loved every moment of planning, designing, and delivering this experience.

Now, as we move on to new projects, we want to ensure this FINAL SHOW is the most SPECTACULAR yet!

www.illuminatethegardens.co.uk

FACES OF SHEFFIELD

Armed with a 1969 Rolleiflex 3.5F, local photographer Matt Willoughby wanders Sheffield, snapping portraits, swapping stories and capturing the spirit of the city’s residents, one shot at a time.

AMY & GRUM

Amy and Graham (Grum) Coupland are proud Sheffielders and lovers of skinhead culture. Graham, a caretaker, has been part of the scene for as long as he can remember, drawn in by the music and the community around it. When he’s not working, he’s out riding his scooter, often with Amy by his side. Amy, a neighbourhood officer, has a big love for 70s glam, ska and boss reggae. She spends her time getting to gigs, scooter rallies and reggae nights with her best mate – who also happens to be her husband.

Follow @mattwilloughbyfilm on Insta for more film portraits

THREADS REBORN

Sheffield’s own Warp Films has announced its next major project – and it’s a big one. Fresh from the success of their Netflix hit Adolescence, the production powerhouse is set to bring Threads, the harrowing 1984 nuclear war drama, back to screens as a new limited TV series.

First shown by the BBC, Threads is still seen as one of the most chilling portrayals of nuclear apocalypse ever made. Set in Sheffield and nominated for seven Baftas – winning four – the original film follows the aftermath of a nuclear attack and the slow collapse of British society. Forty years on, it feels just as relevant.

“Threads was, and still is, an unflinchingly honest drama that imagines the devastating effects of nuclear conflict on ordinary people,” said Mark Herbert, Warp Films’ founder and chief executive. “This story fits perfectly with our passion for telling powerful, grounded stories that really connect with audiences.”

The new series promises to be a “rich, character-driven” reimagining, according to Warp, taking the terrifying DNA of the original and updating it for today’s world.

The announcement comes off the back of Adolescence, the gritty drama co-developed with Matriarch Productions, the company founded by Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters. That series smashed the Netflix charts, pulling in 24.3 million views in just four days and climbing to 66.3 million within two weeks.

With a track record for raw, socially resonant dramas – This is England, The Virtues, The Last Panthers – Warp feels like the perfect studio to tackle a reboot of Threads, especially given its Sheffield roots. The original film’s brutal realism, set in the very streets the company now calls home, made it essential viewing then. Now, Warp looks set to introduce its powerful message to a whole new generation.

No casting or production dates have been announced yet – but we’re already bracing ourselves to watch it from behind the sofa.

You may have noticed a recent changing of the guard in the former CoOp building in Castlegate. After a turbulent final chapter for its previous occupant, Kommune is now gone – and in its place comes Department.

Ahead of its planned May opening, we spoke to Department’s Jon Perry to get the lowdown on the all-new project rising from the ashes of Kommune and setting out to offer something altogether more ambitious.

Housed in the same landmark building but shaped by a fresh team and a new approach, Department is putting culture, creativity and collaboration at the heart of Sheffield’s evolving city centre.

Led by Jon, one of the original minds behind Kommune, Department is carving out an identity all of its own. “It’s a totally new venture, with a new company, new partners and a new way of doing things,” Jon explains. “We’ve gone back to the drawing board and asked, ‘What does the city need now?’”

The result is a space built on collaboration and year-round programming – part food destination, part creative hub, and fully committed to making something that feels truly Sheffield.

While the bricks and mortar remain familiar, the

vision behind Department has changed. Gone is the purely food hall model. In its place is a hybrid of events space, creative workshops, local food and drink, and grassroots culture. “What we’re doing now is more about nurturing talent, offering up space to creatives and makers, and getting back to that original idea of cultural programming,” says Jon.

A major point of distinction for Department is its pivot towards events. Where Kommune once served primarily as a dining destination, Department is designed to host a calendar of live music, comedy, screenings, workshops, talks and more. “Programming is key this time round,” Jon explains.

“We’re planning on hosting gigs, festivals, intimate spoken word nights and other events that reflect Sheffield’s independent spirit. We want it to feel like something’s always going on.”

Already, the team is working with local promoters and organisers to make Department a hub for Sheffield’s cultural output. “The idea is to keep the space dynamic,” Jon adds. “We

THE IDEA IS TO KEEP THE SPACE DYNAMIC. WE DON’T WANT TO JUST OPEN THE DOORS AND HOPE PEOPLE TURN UP. WE’RE CURATING AN EXPERIENCE.”

don’t want to just open the doors and hope people turn up. We’re curating an experience.”

While food will still play a central role, Department is moving away from the food hall it was formerly known for. Instead, they’ll be working with a smaller selection of independent kitchens, focusing on quality, consistency and connection to the city. “It won’t be 12 food

traders anymore,” says Jon. “We’re looking at around four or five key partners who we can work with closely. That allows for more collaboration and gives them the chance to really thrive.”

There’ll also be a renewed focus on the drinks offering, including a curated bar programme and ties to local breweries. “The idea is to make it feel like a proper hangout –

somewhere you’d want to spend time even if you’re not eating,” Jon adds.

That sense of comfort and flexibility extends to the space itself. Department has been reimagined with more seating, softer lighting and warmer materials throughout. “It needed to feel more welcoming,” says Jon. “We’ve made choices that prioritise atmosphere and comfort, so people feel encouraged to stay a bit longer, hang out, maybe catch something unexpected.”

One of the biggest shifts is the bar — now more central, open and better equipped to serve a range of drinks with speed and style. “We’ve made it a focal point,” Jon explains. “It’s not just functional, it’s part of the experience.”

Jon acknowledges the challenges faced by Kommune, but is clear that lessons have been learned. “We were very aware of what didn’t work last time,” he says. “This time, we’ve taken a slower, more considered approach. We’ve spoken to the community, listened to people’s feedback and built something

new from the ground up.”

That includes everything from staffing and operations to how the space will be run day to day. “We’re setting it up to be more agile, more community-led and more responsive.”

And while the name might evoke echoes of the building’s former use as a store, it also hints at its broader ambition – to serve as a multi-use destination with many moving parts. “There’ll be food, drink, events, creative residencies, co-working, even retail pop-ups. It’s a department store of ideas.”

Ultimately, the aim is to recapture the buzz that initially surrounded the Castlegate regeneration — and give people something to be excited about.

“We want people to walk in and discover something unexpected,” says Jon. “Whether that’s a local artist showcasing work, a workshop upstairs, or a gig you didn’t know was happening. It should feel alive.”

Department is set to open in phases overthe spring, with an events calendar announced later in the year.

@department.sheffield

DID YOU KNOW WE OFFER CORPORATE, WEDDING AND EVENT CATERING?

Here at Molly’s we are proud to offer event catering options to suit all occasions, and want to help you create a day to remember. Whether its Corporate catering, Wedding graze tables, a birthday party or a business launch, we’ve got you covered - from freshly prepared graze tables, bridal breakfasts, sharing boxes and catering platters, we deliver all over Sheffield and south Yorkshire.

Our corporate buffets start from £12per head, and for larger grazing tables, prices start from £14.95 per head. Please contact the team directly for a quotes

T: 07925 432 394 E: mollyscafedeli@gmail.com W: www.mollyscafesheffield.co.uk

Looking for the perfect spot to unwind with friends, enjoy a fantastic pint, and soak in some genuine local vibes? Welcome to The Ranmoor Inn—Sheffield’s cosy, community-driven pub that’s got something for everyone! 330 FULWOOD RD,

Whether you’re here for the ale, the atmosphere, or just to see what all the buzz is about, The Ranmoor Inn is your new favourite hangout. Come see us soon!

FB: The Ranmoor Inn // Insta: @the.ranmoorinn

We Bring Materials, You Bring Magic Welcome to Miss Crystal's Workshop!

Explore our range of workshops - perfect for parties or a day out!

DIY Crystal Jewellery

We invite you to explore the beauty and power of gemstones in a fun and creative way! Our walk-in bracelet-making session offers the perfect opportunity to design your own unique piece of jewelry using over 150 different types of crystals. Whether you're looking to create something meaningful, stylish, or simply enjoy the process, we've got everything you need.

Bespoke Jewellery

Unleash your creativity with our bespoke service. Whether you're looking for gold, silver or platinum, we offer a range of designs customisable with a range of precious stones. just tell me your budget, Book your free consultation with our jewelley designer.

DIY Silver Making

It's good time to put your ideas into a jewellery, and learn how to design and production, this is an experience of jewellery from the idea to the birth of the whole process, from which you will learn a series of knowledge about jewellery design, such as how to design, if soldering and polishing, etc.

Miss Crystal Unit 4, St. Pauls Parade

IT A GO

FINDING THE FIRE

A first-timer’s dive into Soul Fire Studios’ hottest offering

I’m the wrong side of 30 these days (quite a long way over that particular line in the sand, actually!) and as the ascending wave of 40 threatens to break on my horizon, I would like to be surfing that crest, rather than seeing my old bones crash to the bottom of the ocean.

Strained metaphors aside, the point is, I’m trying to be good to myself. I quit drinking five years ago (shoutout to NA beers!), I’ve started playing footy again, and I recently joined the dreaded gym – all in an effort to move and preserve my ageing muscles.

For this reason, as well as the spiritual implications of the practice, something I’ve always liked the idea of is yoga. However, I’ve never actually tried any type of yoga before, so beyond knowing names like 'Downward Dog' and 'Tree Pose', I’m an illiterate, if inquisitive, yoga novice.

As such, when the opportunity to join Anne Marie for a Hatha Fire session at Soul Fire, her yoga studio and holistic wellness centre just off Abbeydale Road, presented itself, I signed myself straight up.

Naively, I hadn’t fully comprehended what a Hatha Fire yoga session actually is. A quick Google told me that Hatha Yoga is about cultivating internal heat and energy and is practised at a relaxed pace, holding poses for longer for a more in-depth examination of posture and improved flexibility. So far, sounds so doable.

However, while Soul Fire Studios offers an impressive array of styles – from aerial to yin,

and dharma wheel to dynamic vinyasa – it is also recognised as the hottest yoga studio in the city. Their brand of Hot Yoga (Hatha Fire or Vinyasa Fire) sees classes pushing up towards 40°C. It was going to be a sweaty one.

So, with mild trepidation, I packed my towel and, as instructed by Anne Marie, drank endless bottles of water throughout the day. I arrived early to chat with her beforehand, and she immediately put me at ease. As you’d expect from a yogi who spends a lot of time practising yoga, she’s super chill.

She takes me on a tour of the Tardis-like studio – unassuming from the street, but inside it opens into a generous space spread across several floors.

There’s the main yoga rooms, the Rose Room used for events and workshops, and therapy rooms tucked away upstairs.

“Soul Fire Studios is actually an amalgamation of a few things,”

this space,” she says. “It feels like it belongs to the community now. People come here to feel safe, to feel seen, to feel respected for what they want to do – or not do.”

Anne Marie explains. “It’s the physical space – the studios, café, therapy rooms – but it’s also the community. It’s a place where people can come and find what they need, whether that’s a strong flow class or a quiet restorative moment.”

Finally, we arrive at the studio where the class is due to be held. As I step in, a rush of heat licks my face and, truthfully, I sort of love it already. I’m built for warmer climes, so I’m optimistic this will suit me.

It’s a beautiful day, and the temperature in the room is bolstered by a spring heatwave – we’re hitting around 38°C. Outside, we sit for a moment in the studio’s stunning rooftop garden, a surprising oasis above leafy Edgedale Road. Anne Marie shares more about her journey, having opened her first yoga studio in 2014 and rebranded this space to Soul Fire in 2019. “I’ve offered a lot of myself to create

It’s then time to begin the session. The class is busy with enthusiastic participants – a mix of regulars and curious newbies like me. We ease in with some breathwork, taking long, deep inhalations and releasing them with full, audible out-breaths. It takes some getting used to, but it quickly becomes a grounding practice, one I could see becoming a helpful tool in everyday life.

Soon, we move into the poses. I’ll be honest – I’m pretty terrible. But I don’t feel left behind. Anne Marie’s teaching style is calming, supportive and never pushy.

“We’re not here to just freak you out,” she had told me earlier. “It’s about inviting the heat in and feeling how your body needs that to loosen up. It’s not a gimmick –the heat can really help you drop out of your thinking mind and into your body.”

That definitely checks out. Somewhere around the 30-minute mark, as sweat starts pooling beneath me, I stop thinking about what I look like or whether I’m doing it right and just start being in the moment. That, I’m learning, is kind of the whole point.

The 75-minute session breezes by at a manageable pace. Anne Marie’s soothing voice gently guides us through the sequence,

and while my balance definitely isn’t where it needs to be, I’m amazed at how connected I feel with my body for the first time in ages. It’s less about smashing it, and more about tuning in.

“Yoga is presence,” Anne Marie had said. “We want people to feel connected to themselves. To feel welcome. To feel like they’re enough just by showing up.”

That sense of ease and openness isn’t by accident. It’s something Anne Marie and her team consciously cultivate. “We try to constantly find ways to help people feel connected to themselves – and we want to feel connected to them,” she explains.

“We love knowing everyone’s name, checking them in, having those little moments. It’s all part of building that community.”

It’s clear that Soul Fire isn’t about exclusivity or performance, but about curiosity and connection. “We’re not here to be judgemental. We just want people to feel welcome and maybe start to get curious about what yoga really is.”

I leave feeling – for want of a better word – zen. There’s no pressure, no ego, just people showing up for themselves and each other. It’s easy to see why Soul Fire Studios has built such

a loyal following over the years. “We know that if someone needs Yin one day and a fiery Vinyasa the next, they can find it here. We love that people feel they can make their own flow and be supported whatever they choose.”

Eager to keep the flame burning, I check out their package options. First-timers can access two weeks of unlimited classes for £39, a great way to try out different styles and teachers. After that, memberships start from £66 a month, depending on how often you want to practise. For more flexibility, there are 10-class passes, and everything’s easily managed online. If you’re just after a one-off class or want to dip into workshops or breathwork events, you can do that too. Not all of the classes are ‘hot’ either, so there really is something to suit all your yoga needs.

As I cool off on the roof garden post-session, sipping my water and basking in the glow of both sun and savasana, I feel something shift. I’d come looking for a way to keep my creaking limbs limber, but I left with a little more than that – a sense of grounding, clarity and, dare I say it, soul. soulfirestudios.co.uk

Summer’s landing, Sheff – and with it comes a packed season of festivals ready to take over the Steel City. From big-top madness in Don Valley to genre-hopping brilliance across a number of city centre spots, there’s something for every kind of punter – whether you’re in it for the music, food, culture, film, general vibes or just the chance to drink some warm, overpriced bevvies in a field with pals.

Here’s a handy little guide to the best of what’s coming up.

OPEN UP SHEFFIELD 2025

When? 3–5 and 10–11 May

Where? Various artists’ studios across Sheffield Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant art scene with Open Up Sheffield, an annual open studio event where over 100 local artists and makers will open their creative spaces to the public. Taking place over two weekends in May, this free event offers a unique opportunity to meet the artists, discuss their work and get a glimpse of where the artistic magic happens. Visitors will also have the opportunity to purchase original artworks from the studios and workspaces.

FREE – PROGRAMME AT OPENUPSHEFFIELD.CO.UK

SHEFFIELD CHAMBER

MUSIC FESTIVAL 2025

When? 16–24 May

Where? Crucible & Playhouse, Sheffield

Celebrate 20 years of Ensemble 360 with nine days of intimate, world-class classical performances at the Sheffield Chamber Music Festival. Hosted by Music in the Round, this year’s festival promises a rich, welcoming programme for all ages. Kicking off with Schubert’s rousing Octet, the week will feature iconic chamber pieces and exciting guest artists, including the Elias String Quartet, sitar virtuoso Jasdeep Singh Degun and legendary percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie.

TICKETS: musicintheround.co.uk

GET TOGETHER

When? 17 May

Where? Various venues across Kelham Island and Neepsend Celebrating its fifth anniversary, Get Together Festival returns for a vibrant day of music, art, food and drink.

Headlining are Mercury Prize winners English Teacher, with the likes of BC Camplight, The Moonlandingz, Katy J Pearson, Divorce and Swim Deep also joining the bill. Beyond the music, punters can indulge in a curated selection of street food at Peddler Food Village, get stuck into the Kelham Beer Mile and enjoy specially created work from this year’s artist-in-residence Cold War Steve.

TICKETS: gettogetherfestival.com

SHEFFIELD COCKTAIL FESTIVAL

When? 17 May

Where? The Steamworks

Sheffield’s inaugural Cocktail Festival is shaking up the city’s drinks scene, bringing 25 top bars under one roof for a celebration of local creativity and cocktail culture. Expect signature serves from Sheffield’s best bartenders, exclusive masterclasses – think Negroni sessions, beer-cocktail fusions and even Bloody Marys with Henderson’s Relish – plus seasonal bites from Bench, juicy burgers by Cowboy Burger and sweet treats from Bullion. With live DJs and low-/no-alc options thrown into the mix, it’s the easiest bar crawl you’ll do all year.

TICKETS: sheffieldcocktailfestival. co.uk

SHEFFIELD FOOD FEST

When? 24–26 May

Where? Peace Gardens

The city’s largest free-to-attend – and undeniably tastiest – event of the year is back in town and ready to serve up a culinary storm. This year’s Sheffield Food Festival is bringing together 60plus street food stalls, local bakers and artisan producers serving up everything from regional favourites to sizzling global eats. Expect a wide mix of wares

from independent traders, live music and DJ sessions, plus the chance to watch top chefs show off their skills. Come hungry!

FREE – MORE INFO @ SHEFFFOODFEST

MIGRATION MATTERS FESTIVAL

When? 20–28 June

Where? Various venues

Ten years ago, the first Migration Matters Festival launched in Sheffield as a way to celebrate sanctuary while bringing people together. A decade on, it has grown into a vibrant celebration renowned for its eclectic multi-genre programming and dedication to platforming under-represented artists. This year’s line-up includes Mercury Award-nominated singer-songwriter Nadine Shah, electronic dub legends the Asian Dub Foundation on their 30th anniversary tour, mesmerising Tanzanian band The Zawose Queens and British-Moroccan comedian Fatiha El-Ghorri. There’s also a community brunch, art exhibitions, fashion shows and comedy nights included in the action-packed programme of 45-plus events.

TICKETS: migrationmattersfestival. co.uk

DOCFEST

When? 18–23 June

Where? Various locations

It’s time again for six days of bold storytelling, big ideas and 100+ brilliant documentaries ranging from featurelength deep-dives to engaging shorts. The UK’s top documentary festival is bringing filmmakers, artists and curious minds from across the globe to Sheffield. Expect gripping world premieres, immersive VR experiences, live talks, social gatherings and art installations – all in venues dotted around the city. Interested? Keep an eye out for the public programme announcement later this month!

TICKETS: sheffdocfest.com

KELHAM PRIDE 2025

When? 21 June

Where? Kelham Island

Kelham Pride is back for another year following its hugely successful inauguration in 2024 which saw over 10,000 people visit the event and a 600 person-strong pride parade walking through the streets of Kelham Island and Neepsend. The free-to-enter day festival is run by a local charity working with local businesses to create a fun and safe space delivering a progressive, inclusive and respectful celebration.

FREE – MORE INFO AT KELHAMPRIDE.COM

CROSSED WIRES

When? 4–6 July

Where? Various locations

The UK’s biggest podcast party is back! Crossed Wires Festival is serving up a three-day celebration of the podcasts you love and the voices behind them. Expect live recordings, exclusive performances, big-name guests and behind-the-scenes insights from shows across comedy, true crime, current affairs, sport, culture and more. Podcasts heading to Sheffield include Dish, Help I Sexted My Boss, No Such Thing as a Fish, Not the Top 20 and Richard Herring’s Leicester Square Podcast.

TICKETS: crossedwires.live

BASSFEST

When? 20–21 July

Where? Don Valley Bowl

One of the UK’s biggest bass music festivals returns to Don Valley Bowl this summer for a weekend of heavy drops and high-energy sets. Bassfest brings together top names from the worlds of drum and bass, house, bassline, garage and more, with artists such as Aitch, Shy FX, DJ Q, TS7, Andy C, East End Dubs and DnB Allstars all going in hard over booming sound systems.

TICKETS: bassfest.co.uk

TRAMLINES

When? 25–27 July

Where? Hillsborough Park

Sheff’s biggest bash is back with some of the biggest names across the live music and comedy circuits heading to S6. Tramlines 2K25 is bringing a jampacked three days of indie, rock and pop favourites to Hillsborough Park, with a special homecoming for Pulp slated for the Friday evening. Across the weekend, expect sets from Kasabian, Reytons, Franz Ferdinand, The Last Dinner Party, Rizzle Kicks, John Grant and much, much more across five stages – including a comedy tent headlined by Lucy Beaumont, Russell Howard and John Shuttleworth.

TICKETS: tramlines.org.uk

SHEFFIELD MELA

When? 3 August

Where? Firth Park

Get ready for a vibrant celebration of culture, community and unity at Sheffield Mela! This colourful one-day festival brings together music, dance, food, fashion and art from South Asian and global cultures. Expect live performances, delicious street food, family-friendly activities and a joyful atmosphere. Timed to coincide with South Asian Heritage Month celebrations, the festival is all about showcasing the city’s rich diversity. FREE – MORE INFO AT SHEFFIELDMELA.CO.UK

ROCK N ROLL CIRCUS

When? 27–31 August

Where? Don Valley Bowl

Where music meets circus, and the spectacle never stops! This year’s immersive rock ’n’ roll experience under the big top will feature Queens of the Stone Age, The Wombats, James and Reverend and The Makers, alongside special guests like Viagra Boys, Fat Dog, Pete Doherty, Jenny Beth and Groove Armada. Expect high-energy sets, dazzling acrobatics, jaw-dropping circus entertainment and plenty of top-notch scranning and supping.

TICKETS: rocknrollcircus.co.uk

LICK OF PAINT FESTIVAL

When? 6–7 September

Where? Various locations

Sheffield’s first-ever mural festival is landing this year, bringing bold colour, big ideas and global talent to the city’s streets. Lick of Paint will see local and international artists transform walls, underpasses and overlooked spaces with large-scale murals and street art. Led by local artists Peachzz and Alastair Flindall, the weekend will also spotlight community projects, augmented reality technologies and sustainable creativity –all with a proper Sheffield twist. Expect plenty of striking new visuals and lasting impact.

TICKETS: lickofpaintfest.com

ART IN THE GARDENS

When? 6–7 September

Where? Botanical Gardens

Returning for its 22nd year, Art in the Gardens transforms the Botanical Gardens into the largest outdoor art market in the North. Showcasing work from professional artists, makers and local creatives, the event features thousands of pieces across fine art, sculpture, ceramics, photography and more. With open exhibitions, live demos and locally-sourced food and drink, it’s a perfect day out for art lovers and anyone after a unique handmade find.

TICKETS: welcometosheffield.co.uk

SHEFFIELD’S NEW LIVE MUSIC COLLAB POWERED BY EXPOSED AND JOE GREEN

THE NEXT INSTALMENT OF THE RED LIGHT SESSIONS – OUR MONTHLY LIVE MUSIC COLLAB WITH JOE GREEN – FEATURES SHEFFIELD SINGER-SONGWRITER ED COSENS.

ED COSENS

Each month, we invite a local artist to lay down a stripped-back live session in Greeny’s rehearsal space. One take. No do-overs. You can watch Ed’s session now over on the Exposed Instagram channel (@exposedmagazine) and read on for our interview with the main man himself...

A few weeks after Ed’s session with Joe, we sit down over a brew at Steam Yard for a bit of a debrief. The café’s mid-morning lull has a laid-back vibe that suits the calm, thoughtful energy of the man himself, as we chat about the experience of laying down a couple of live tracks with our enigmatic drummercollaborator.

“The session was fun – a lot of fun, actually,” says the Sheffield singersongrwiter and former Reverend musicmaker. “Greeny suggested doing it, and I’ve known him a long time, played with him in various bands. It was just nice to play with him again.”

The setup of the session is intentionally raw and off-the-cuff, and a trio including Ed, Joe Green and Jono West from Bromheads Jacket, performed Ed’s song 'Fortunes Favour' in a bluesier style. “I didn’t want to just play it like I normally do. We slowed it down, gave it this kind of bluesy trio feel. I think we just about pulled it off.”

The three-piece also tackled a cover of Johnny Cash’s 'Ring of Fire' – a nod to Joe Carnall’s festive show at Yellow Arch where Ed belted it out to a packed room. “I like to think I do a decent Johnny Cash impression,” he jokes. “We were running through it in rehearsal and Jono turned to me and asked if I’d used AI to get Johnny’s voice on the demo. I was like, ‘Nah, mate – that was me!’”

The relaxed, live nature of the Red Light Sessions added to the appeal. “I like that it’s in a rehearsal space – it’s not polished. It’s a one-take live job, which is really fun. It adds a bit of energy. It is what it is.” That kind of freedom felt

especially refreshing for an artist who’s long straddled the line between studio perfection and onstage electricity.

Since releasing his second solo album Somewhere Between Dark and Light in May last year, Ed’s spent time processing the emotional themes behind the record – much of which touches on mental health. “The title reflects that in-between place – mentally flicking between dark and light. I think a lot of people can relate to that,” he says. “For me, it came out of lockdown and learning to understand my own mental health, which I’d never really addressed before.”

The album, which in large part was written in tandem with his debut, took on a more cohesive feel as he explored his inner world more deeply. “I had a few wobbles over the past year or so. It’s something I’ve probably had for a long time, but I never really understood it. Talking about it helped a lot – just saying it out loud helped me make sense of it. Even just going for a pint or a walk with someone you trust and being honest –that stuff makes a difference.”

It’s a reflection mirrored across the music industry, he adds, where support systems are still lacking. “In creative industries, especially music, people are wired differently. The highs are really high, and the lows can be really low. There’s no safety net, so when you stop or step away, it’s a big adjustment.”

Which brings us to a pivotal change in Ed’s career – his decision to leave Reverend and the Makers after nearly two decades. “It wasn’t sudden. It had been coming for a while. Jon and I have known each other since we were 11. We did everything together. But things change – families, priorities – and you start to drift a bit. I wasn’t excited in the same way anymore, and I just needed to step away.”

Despite being an integral part of the band’s songwriting and musical identity, Ed says he was always a quieter presence.

“I’m not the frontman type by nature. I’m happy at the back, behind the scenes. But I look back and wish I’d stepped forward a bit more. Doing my own records has helped with that. I’ve found my voice – and I’ve found the confidence to use it.”

The move has also opened up new opportunities, including working with Joe Carnall on his upcoming musical. “I remember him saying he was writing a musical and I thought, ‘Alright, cool!’ Fast-forward a bit, and now we’ve done a first run of Act One with a band, and we’re putting on two shows at the Drama Studio in May.” Ed’s played a key role in arranging, recording and coaching the cast through the music. “It’s a completely different process. You’re cueing off actors mid-scene, trying to time the music perfectly. It’s intense – but so good. Being in that room when it all comes together is magic.”

There’s a third solo album on the horizon too – writing is already underway, with recording pencilled in for this summer into autumn. “I want to go a bit more soulful with this one. Think old-school Stax, bit of a retro soul vibe. I’ve been writing with other people too, getting different perspectives and moving away from writing just about me.”

Though he’s fully embracing his solo chapter, Ed hasn’t lost touch with his collaborative roots. He’s recently been producing a new record for White Horses (featuring ex-members of The Blinders) and playing guitar for rising indie-folk artist Annie Dressner. “Even when I’m not playing, I just love being in the studio, creating something from scratch. And then taking it out on stage

– that’s the other side of it. Both are important to me.”

Upcoming gigs include sets at Tramlines and a special acoustic support slot at Bromheads Jacket’s Leadmill gig, something he’s excited about: “It’s nice that they asked me. I’ll just get up there and play a couple of ballads – calm before the storm!”

Life post-Reverend has its challenges, he admits – financially, logistically, emotionally – but also a renewed sense of purpose. “It’s a different kind of stress now. But it’s the kind you want. The kind that pushes you in the right way.”

And right now, with a soulful new album on the horizon, a musical in motion and a Red Light Session that reminds us why he’s one of Sheffield’s most quietly brilliant musicians, Ed Cosens looks every bit at home stepping into the spotlight.

I LIKE TO THINK I DO A DECENT JOHNNY CASH IMPRESSION. WE WERE RUNNING THROUGH IT IN REHEARSAL AND JONO TURNED TO ME AND ASKED IF I’D USED AI TO GET JOHNNY’S VOICE ON THE DEMO. I WAS LIKE, ‘NAH, MATE – THAT WAS ME!'"

When Vito Vernia started working in a UK restaurant back in 2013, he barely spoke a word of English. A drink runner at Piccolino in Birmingham, he was learning fast – not just the language, but the structure, culture and rhythm of British hospitality. Just six years later, he opened Grazie in Sheffield city centre, a restaurant focused on Southern Italian pasta dishes that would become the cornerstone of a venture built with old friend and business partner, Giacinto Di Mola.

Today, the duo run four venues across the city: Grazie, Paesani, La Bottega and Borgo. Each reflects a unique aspect of Italian cuisine, and together, they form a kind of edible map of their culinary roots – the sun-drenched town of Polignano a Mare in Puglia, famous for its cliff-diving and its most celebrated son, Domenico Modugno, who gave the world the song ‘Volare’.

“It started with family,” Vito tells Exposed. “I grew up in a bar – my parents had Zanzi Bar back in Polignano. From there, we moved into restaurants and resorts. That’s how I met Giacinto – he was the manager at one of the resorts. We already knew each other, but that’s where we started working together.”

Giacinto’s own hospitality background is as picturesque

as it is prestigious – he worked for seven years at the five-star Grotta Palazzese, a famed cave-based hotel and restaurant carved into the cliffs of Polignano. “I always loved the hospitality industry,” he says. “But moving to the UK gave us a different perspective – more structured, more formal. We wanted to bring something authentic from Puglia here.”

Vito’s solo venture with Grazie launched in 2019, specialising in handmade pasta and dishes inspired by southern Italy. “In the beginning, people would ask, ‘Where are the meatballs?’” he laughs.

“We’d have to explain – this is a different part of Italy. We wanted to show the real variety, the regional culture of the food.”

The turning point came in 2021, when the pair reunited in business to open Paesani in Crookes, a bustling pizzeria with a focus on Neapolitanstyle pizza. “That was our first venture together,” says Vito. “It went really well, straight from the start.” The success led to two more venues – La Bottega, serving small plates and wine on the corner of Leopold Street, and Borgo, a Fulwood-based restaurant which channels the feel of a traditional neighbourhood trattoria.

“We didn’t want to open four of the same thing,” says Vito. “Each place has its own identity.

Words: Joseph Food

If you want pizza, you go to Paesani. If you want fresh pasta, it’s Grazie. If you want wine and small plates, La Bottega. And if you want a proper homemade Italian meal , you go to Borgo.”

The model is working and growth has been swift. “We started Grazie with four staff,” Vito recalls. “Now, across all the venues, we have around 55.” They’ve explanded quickly, but not recklessly. “There are always challenges – finding the right staff, keeping them, especially after Brexit,” says Giacinto. “But we’re always there, every day, working inside the business and enjoying it.”

That hands-on ethos, they agree, is what sets them apart. “It’s not just business. It’s passion. We love food, we love wine and we want to share that. We’re behind everything we do – we don’t want to let it run itself.”

A strong sense of place defines their menus too. Many of their products come direct from Italy – some from producers they’ve known since before they left. “Even the sundried tomatoes, even the wine – it comes straight to us, no supplier, just from our regions,” explains Giacinto.

That connection to home remains central, even as their presence in Sheffield expands. Polignano a Mare may seem a world away from South Yorkshire, but the philosophy –

simplicity, authenticity, warmth – travels well. “In our town, everyone knows everyone. It’s about community, food, enjoying time together,” says Vito. “That’s what we try to recreate here.”

The local response has been enthusiastic. All four restaurants have developed a loyal following, and Vito is keen for people to fully explore their offering. “We like having places in different areas of Sheffield, so if you enjoyed a meal at Borgo, you will almost definitely enjoy one at Grazie. Or if you liked pizza at Paesani, then you should try small plates and wine at La Bottega in the city centre. They all have the same overall ethos.”

We’re proud of what we’ve done,” beams Giacinto. “To create something authentic, to bring a piece of our home here – that’s what matters.”

And as for what’s next? They’re cautious. “For the foreseeable, we’re focusing on what we’ve got,” Vito says. “We want to keep the standards high, not spread ourselves too thin. We always have ideas in our heads, so who knows? But for now, it’s about enjoying what we do – and doing it really well.”

TO CREATE SOMETHING AUTHENTIC, TO BRING A PIECE OF OUR HOME HERE – THAT’S WHAT MATTERS.”

SATURDAY 17 MAY

THINGS WE’VE LEARNED ABOUT

KAPITAL

SHEFFIELD’S BOLD NEW EURO BEER HALL

This summer, Sheffield’s food and drink scene is getting a continental upgrade. The team behind Abbeydale Road fave Two Thirds Beer Co are stepping things up with their second venue: Kapital, a sprawling, euroinspired beer hall and restaurant poised to open in the city centre. We caught up with the owners to get an early peek into what to expect – and it’s safe to say, it’s going to be a gamechanger…

1. IT’S BIG – REALLY BIG

Kapital isn’t just a second site, it’s a serious scale-up. The venue will feature a mezzanine, extensive indoor seating, and a dedicated restaurant area. There’s even an expansive outdoor beer garden that wraps around the building – ideal for summer sessions. With 33 taps across two floors, this won’t be a quiet side project – it’s shaping up to be one of the largest, most ambitious beer venues in the city.

2. EXCLUSIVE CZECH TANK BEER IS COMING TO SHEFFIELD

Kapital will be one of just a handful of UK venues serving unpasteurised tank Pilsner direct from Czech brewery Budějovický Budvar. The team have secured four 500-litre tanks, meaning thousands of fresh pints delivered straight from the brewery each week. It’s the first set-up of its kind in Sheffield, and an exciting nod to the bar’s European inspiration.

3. THE FOOD OFFERING IS FULL-ON PAN-EUROPEAN

Forget pretzels and bratwurst clichés – Kapital’s menu takes a much broader view of continental cuisine. Think Austrian-style grilled chicken, Bulgarian paprika stews, and even a dark beer-fuelled goulash. Sunday roasts will be a major focus too – something the owners feel is underserved in the city centre. Expect hearty, elevated pub food that leans into comfort and quality.

4. IT’S NOT A UK-STYLE BEER HALL – AND THAT’S THE POINT

Kapital won’t be a Bavarian kneesup with fake lederhosen and cheesy oompah music. The owners are keen to distance the venue from the typical beer hall tropes found elsewhere in the UK. Their motto? “Grown-up drinking”. It’s all about creating a warm, atmospheric space where good beer and good food

go hand in hand – with a touch of sophistication.

5. THE VIBE WILL EVOLVE WITH THE DAY

From laid-back lunches to late-night sounds, Kapital promises an atmosphere that adapts. DJs will feature most weekends, and there are plans for house bands on Fridays and more chilled Sunday sessions. Music will be central, but always in service to the vibe – think mood-setting rather than overpowering.

6. THE JOURNEY HERE HAS BEEN ANYTHING BUT SMOOTH

Opening Kapital has taken patience, persistence and more than a few bureacratical setbacks meaning that the build has been delayed more than once. But with work now underway and opening set for mid to late June, the finish line is in sight – and anticipation is high.

@kapitalsheffield

BITES, BEATS AND BIG VIBES ARE BACK!

Sheffield Food Festival returns this May Bank Holiday with its biggest and boldest edition yet – more traders, more music and more of the city to explore. Running across the late May Bank Holiday weekend (24–26 May), the free-to-attend celebration of street food, craft drinks, local talent and community culture is promising “something for everyone” say organisers Swans Events.

Now in its third year under their stewardship, the festival has continued to evolve, shaped by community feedback and fresh ambition. “We’ve listened to what people loved last year and what they wanted more of,” explains Noemi from Swans.

“That’s meant making sure the music line-up is even more

diverse and representative, and expanding our food and drink offer to cater for different tastes and dietary needs.”

This year’s festival features over 60 food and drink traders – the most ever – spread across a newly expanded footprint that stretches from the Peace Gardens to Fargate, Town Hall Square and Upper Pinstone Street. The city centre’s ongoing redevelopment has opened up fresh opportunities, with the newly paved Fargate area giving the festival room to grow.

“Works on Pinstone Street mean that we’ve been able to embrace Fargate, which is starting to look really smart,” says Noemi.

“There’s still a natural flow between the areas, and there’ll be something to see or engage with at the very corner.”

Returning trader favourites include Cowboy Burgers, The Greedy Greek, Gurdev’s Indian Street Food, the everpopular Yee Kwan Ice Cream, Carribean Fusion, and Paradiso, specialists in silky tiramisu. Sweet-toothed newcomers include Chocolate Bar, run by the Bullion Chocolate team and bringing milkshakes, bakes and their signature hot chocolates to the city centre, alongside The Coffee Cabin, a Chapeltown gem serving up boozy hot drinks, brews and indulgent shakes. There’s also Homeboy Pizza, bringing Neapolitan-style pies to the party for the first time, and plenty more to discover.

On the drinks front, Kelham Island Brewery and Thornbridge Brewery are confirmed partners for the festival’s main bar in the Peace Gardens – located right next to the main music stage. Meanwhile, The Cocktail Reserve will return in its signature horsebox to sling out a wide range of tasty concoctions over the weekend.

Music has become an integral part of the festival’s identity in recent years, and thanks to renewed Arts Council England grassroots music funding, this year’s line-up aims to be the most inclusive yet. “We’ve really focused on variety – culturally and musically,” says Noemi. “We’re programming with the help of organisations like the Yorkshire Sound Women Network and other local partners to help with the lineups.”

There’ll be two main music hubs: the Peace Gardens main stage and the busking tent at Town Hall Square, plus walkabout acts performing across the site. The team have picked performers from talentspotting at local open night mics and you can expect to see few well-known names from the South Yorkshire scene, as well as some exciting up-and-comers.

DJ sets are also a highlight, with DJ Kavita returning on Bank Holiday Monday to bring her party-starting energy to the city centre. Other behind-thedecks talent comes via Sheffield’s music colleges and local collectives.

A renewed commitment to inclusivity extends to the menus too. After fielding plenty of questions last year, organisers have worked hard to ensure that all dietary options are well represented across the festival. Each trader has been encouraged to offer accessible alternatives, and dietary info will be listed clearly online ahead of time.

Last year’s edition saw around 50,000 people attend across the weekend, and this year’s event is shaping up to be even busier –and tastier. “There’s a real buzz around the city on May bank holiday weekend,” says Noemi. “And we want the festival to reflect that. There’s another amazing line-up of food, drink and music ready to take over the city centre.”

Sheffield Food Festival takes place 24–26

May. Entry is free. Full trader and music lineup coming soon at sheffieldfoodfestival.co.uk. @shefffoodfest

MAY’S COFFEE & TEA

Exposed visits an off-the-beaten-track find for coffee lovers and lunchtime explorers

Just a short stroll from West Street, tucked away on Broad Lane, May’s Coffee & Tea offers something a little different from your typical city-centre café. A welcoming spot with a distinctly relaxed vibe, it has quietly built a reputation among coffee lovers and those looking to expand their tastebuds beyond the usual.

Their crayfish bagel has become a firm favourite with regulars. Served warm in a toasted bagel and coated in a house-made spicy mayo, it’s packed with bold Chinese flavours and a touch of mystery. “Crayfish is really popular in mainland China,” explains Pui, who runs the café. “We use Chinese spices instead of Western ones – a kind of powder blend – and people love it. Some say it’s a bit spicy, but we describe it as srirachalevel. If you’ve got a mild spice tolerance, you’re fine.”

At £6.95, it’s a great-value lunch option, and it sits alongside the more familiar avocado bagel (just £5.95), while toastie lovers can grab a weekday meal deal – any toastie with a hot drink for just £7.50. Options cater for both meat and veggie eaters, designed with Sheffield’s students, city-centre workers and passing lunchtime trade in mind.

Then there’s the drinks. Sure, you can get a cracking latte or flat white made with green beans from local roaster Cuppers Choice, but May’s really shines when you stray off the beaten track. Fancy an iced yuzu espresso tonic? They’ve got you. A black sesame latte, nutty and earthy with the option of some syrup additions? It’s right there on the menu. Curious about the iced coconut water matcha? Or the intriguingly named ‘liquid cheese’ flat white, brewed using beans from Chinese

roaster Killbean which produce an espresso with delicious cheesecake and toffee flavour notes? May’s is the place to explore a little.

“Our special drinks are like a new experience we offer for customers,” says Pui. “They’re for people who want something different in their day. They’re not your usual café orders – and that’s the point.”

Tea drinkers are equally well catered for, with a carefully selected range of traditional Chinese teas, including pu-erh and fragrant black tea with osmanthus, served simply to let the natural flavours shine –perfect for sharing a pot with a

companion.

The space itself, with its laidback atmosphere, natural light and custom-built wooden benches, is ideal for remote working too. As such, May’s has built up a loyal following of regulars who come back for a slice of relaxation and walletfriendly lunches.

Whether you’re on the hunt for your next favourite coffee, want to spice up your lunch break or simply fancy a quiet corner to hang out, May’s Coffee & Tea is well worth seeking out. It’s the kind of place you stumble across once and like to keep in your back pocket – but that’s not what

we’re about here at Exposed, which is exactly why it’s earned a place as this month’s Hidden Gem.

ADDRESS:

May’s Coffee & Tea, 76 Broad Lane, S1 4BT

SOCIALS: @mays_coffeeandtea

SPECIAL OFFERS

Open weekdays and weekends

Meal deal (toastie + hot drink): Mon–Fri only // Bagels from £5.95 // Iced drinks + outdoor seating available

MAY’S COFFEE & TEA

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Mon - Fri 8-5 / Sat 9-5 / Sun 9-4

76 Broad Lane, Sheffield S1 4BT Insta:mays_coffeeandtea

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

In the heart of Oughtibridge, there’s a new buzz in the air – and it smells distinctly of freshly made focaccia, sizzling grilled meats and strong Italian coffee. Greetaly, tucked away at the crossroads on Langsett Road South, has quietly been making waves since opening its doors a couple of months ago. With word of mouth fuelling its popularity, it’s already fully booked on weekends and drawing food lovers from right across South Yorkshire. The secret? A soulful blend of Greek and Italian cuisine passed down through generations – and served up with real heart.

The vision came from seasoned restaurateur Michael Hayes, who co-owns the restaurant alongside Danilo Mirko Maugeri, an Italian chef with a winning culinary background. Together, the two are no strangers to Sheffield’s food scene. Michael previously launched two popular foodie ventures – Urban Pizza Co and The Greek – both of which developed cult followings among city-centre diners looking for high-quality, authentic scran with soul.

“It was never about just slinging out pizza or gyros,” Michael says. “We focused on flavour, freshness and getting the details right. Both Urban Pizza Co. and The Greek were our testbeds – they gave us confidence in what we could do, and the response was amazing.”

That early success planted the seed for something bigger. “We always had this idea – what if we took the best of both and brought them together, under one roof, as a proper restaurant?

We had incredible Greek and Italian chefs working for us, so why not unite them in the kitchen?” The result is Greetaly, a concept that feels both fresh and familiar. “It’s a natural blend,” says Michael. “Greek and Italian cuisine isn’t that far apart – they’re both Mediterranean, full of flavour and familyorientated. They complement each other beautifully.”

The family connection runs

deep and is big part of the ethos. Danilo is Italian through and through, while his is wife, Adriana, is Greek. And when it came to designing the menu and fine-tuning the recipes, they went straight to the source.

“We flew over Danilo’s aunt from Italy – she’s been in the restaurant business for 35 years,” Michael explains. “She worked with our kitchen team to teach them how to prepare dishes properly – everything from perfecting sauces to layering flavours.”

On the Greek side, Adriana’s mum came over from Greece to do the same. “She’s in the kitchen, passing on family recipes – things like fresh feta pies, zucchini fritters and homemade moussaka,” Adriana says proudly. “It’s the food I grew up with. We’re not just copying dishes – we’re recreating them, the way our families made them. It’s passing down tradition.”

The building, which Michael had had his eye on for nearly five years, offered the perfect setting for the project. A former restaurant, it sits right in the heart of Oughtibridge – a village that’s quietly becoming something of a social destination in its own right. “There’s a good foodie feel about the place here,” Michael says. “People are coming to Oughtibridge for a night or afternoon out – it’s no longer just about the city centre.”

It's part of a wider shift that hasn't gone unnoticed. “Eating out culture is changing. People want to support independents in communities and discover hidden gems away from town centres – and they want proper food. We’re giving them that. Everything here is made from scratch. Everything fresh every day.”

The menu is a neat split –roughly 25 items from each side of the Med, not including desserts – and it’s intentionally flexible. “Some people come in and go full Greek. Others mix and match – maybe a Greek starter, Italian main. It all works together,” Michael says. “Especially for families – the kids can have cheesy pasta, the parents can have gyros or lamb chops.”

Downstairs, they’ve created a more laidback coffee and lunch spot, where you can grab

a morning espresso and a warm pastry, settle in for a lunchtime feta pie and glass of wine or tackle a stacked schiacciata sandwich.

Drinks-wise, the theme continues – Italian wines, Greek beers, Aperol, Ouzo, and house cocktails with a Mediterranean twist. For dessert, don’t miss the baklava or the pistachio tiramisu. “We’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth here,” Michael laughs. “We work with Bullion Chocolate as well, and sell their brownies and cookies fresh every day. The smells in the morning are incredible.”

In the back of house, Danilo's brother Mario is creating his own legacy –crafting the marinades and sauces that are fast becoming a signature part of the experience. “He’s got a real knack for flavour,” Michael says. “You can taste the difference and

his secret sauce for the lamb chops is unreal... but I can't give anything more away!”

While the Greek dishes are currently just edging ahead in popularity, the seasons could swing the balance. “In winter, we might see people going for those hearty Italian pastas more often,” explains Michael. “But right now? With the meats and marinades, it’s like a barbecue, so Greek works well for the summer. You can smell it from the street. People will often decide their order on what they can smell when they sit down!””

Rooted in family, fuelled by flavour and already turning heads well beyond S35, it seems that this Greek–Italian love story is just getting warmed up…

@thegreetaly 9 Langsett Road S S35 0GY

Mandala Café & Eatery

Safe Place / Events Space / Community Hub

Award Nominated Cafe

TripAdvisor Top #3 of 116 Cafés in Sheffield Close To Meersbrook Park

Open 7 Days

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Meaty, Veggie, Vegan & Gluten Free Options

Locally Roasted Coffee

Acoustic Events & Group Activities

Doggy Friendly

Fully Licensed

Visit Us: 85-87 Chesterfield Road, Meersbrook, S8 0RN

Voted ‘Best Traditional Pub 2024’ in the Exposed Awards / Top 10 UK Guinness / Irish food Spice bags…The tasty Irish ones / Dog friendly / Irish measures and lots of Irish drinks... 56 Trippet Ln, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4EL

MANDALA-VERSARY

Just under three years ago, Adam Heyes opened the doors to a cosy 12-seater cafe, fuelled by a long-held dream and a post-pandemic crowdfunding push. Since then, Mandala has grown in size and is now approaching its third birthday (or Mandala-verseary, if you will), having become one of the city’s most cherished community hubs – serving up comforting brunches, Indianinspired plates, weekend DJ sets, creative workshops, and a strong sense of belonging.

“It’s insane how big this place has got, in many ways,” Adam says, reflecting on the café’s journey. “Obviously, we’ve doubled the size, but the attention it’s got, the support we’ve had from the community and all the lovely local singers and artists that come down – it’s just been overwhelming.”

Over the past year, Mandala expanded into the unit next door (formerly The Bhaji Shack), a move that allowed them to elevate their food offering while still honouring their roots. “We still use the bhajis on the menu – they’re so tasty, and people kept asking for them,” Adam explains. Now, alongside brunch staples, you’ll find comforting thali plates, zingy homemade slaw, dhal, curries and more, all crafted with care. “I’m not a chef, so watching the food side of things grow has been amazing.”

But it’s not just the food that’s evolved – Mandala has also transformed into a fully licensed evening venue, adding yet another new dimension. “We started doing Saturday night bar sessions, got the premises licence sorted, and now we’ve got DJs and live music coming in regularly,” Adam says. “We’re not trying to be a bustling bar, but if people are out for the night, maybe they’ll pop in for one and then head on. It’s just about adding a bit of choice around here.”

The thing that sets Mandala apart, though, goes far deeper than dhal or DJs. It’s the atmosphere: inclusive, comforting, and completely unique. “I always said if I had my own place, nothing would match, and everything would

feel like I’ve exploded into a space,” Adam laughs. “I want people to feel like they’re in my house.”

That ethos has nurtured a loyal following, particularly among Sheffield’s LGBTQ+ community. “I think people feel comfortable and safe here. We’ve become more than just a café – it’s a lifeline for some. People come in who’ve been signed off work, who maybe don’t have family around… and this is the thing they do that day.”

From mother-and-baby groups to poetry nights, acoustic gigs to lazy Sunday DJ sessions, Mandala is now as much a community space as it

is a café. “The biggest part of the role is just being there for people,” Adam adds. “The food and drinks are great, but the connections you make here –you don’t get that everywhere.”

Running an independent venue in 2025 is no mean feat. Costs are up, pressures mount and many small businesses have struggled to stay afloat. But Mandala’s still here, and still growing. “It’s staggering, really,” Adam admits. “We’ve faced the same challenges – rising bills, post-pandemic difficulties – but the love and support from the community have carried us through. That crowdfunding three years ago? Those people still come in. They feel like part

of this.”

And the reviews speak for themselves. Mandala currently sits in the top three cafés on TripAdvisor for Sheffield, thanks in no small part to its welcoming vibe and Adam’s hands-on social media presence. “I post all the time, and people share their own pictures too. It all helps spread the word.”

Adam is keen not to get too ahead of himself though. “I try to be present. There’s always a temptation to do more – more events, more changes – but I don’t want to spread myself too thin. I just want to keep making this a safe, vibrant, joyful place. If the bar side grows, great. If we can put in some beer taps and host more nights, amazing. But I’m happy with where we’re at.”

As Mandala heads into its birthday celebrations – another day-long mini-festival is on the cards – there’s a sense of real pride in what’s been built. “It’s not just a job anymore,” Adam says. “I can’t imagine doing anything else. I’m just glad we’re still here – and grateful for every single person who walks through the door.”

@mandelasheffield

WORDS: SEAN JOHNSON PHOTO: @MADEINERROR.MEDIA

It’s a hazy autumn night in the Shakespeare’s beer garden. Vodka coke, vaporised smoke and metalcore rewrites are some of the topics of interest that myself and Sheffield band Dusthouse discuss during our pint-fuelled rendezvous. As darkly tinted liquids leave our glasses at an alarmingly rapid rate, I found myself in awe of the band’s tenacity for trendsetting. Bedroom studio dwellers turned Radio 1 regulars, Dusthouse have seemingly captivated the Sheffield metal scene with their electro-infused anthems, delivering an unprecedented live set that stands apart from any other act in the city.

“Dusthouse are three lads – two from the North East and one from the East Midlands,” says Dominic Whillians, guitarist and primary songwriter.

A pint glass slams, albeit comically, as Chesterfield-born drummer Joe Moore interjects.

“Don’t be stupid, I’m from Yorkshire! Well, interestingly, I have a Sheffield postcode, so you could categorise me as South Yorkshire, but it’s actually Derbyshire within the Sheffield postcode region. How does that make any sense? Well, it’s a story for another time.”

Their story started three years ago in a Kelham Island flat, previously occupied by Dom. Having moved to Sheffield in 2019 from County Durham but continuing to play guitar in a previous project back in Newcastle, he decided to leave his former band and embark on his own musical voyage.

“Up to that point, I’d been through two metal bands, so I just had to try something a bit

different, y’know? I started a bedroom project with a couple of mates that was heavily electronic, pop rock-inspired, but nothing ever came to light with it.”

“I spent ages writing whatever I wanted. It could have been a dance song, a pop song, a drum‘n’bass tune, literally anything. Anyway, me and me mate Michael had the idea to start a new band together, so we put an advert out for a vocalist.”

“I was sat in my living room with Ethan and his partner Monica, and they were both like, well, Ethan can sing. I literally said, ‘Don’t be stupid man!’. I’d known him for three years at this point and never once heard him mention he can sing.”

“Well, he sent some videos through to Michael of him singing and screaming, and he was amazing. So him and Monica moved to Sheffield and we immediately started writing together in my flat.”

A quick refill on our drinks before we decipher the Dusthouse sound; two Guinness for Joe and Ethan, a pint of lager for myself, and for Dom, his signature double vodka diet coke. The band’s second single, ‘Original Soundtrack’, catapulted them onto BBC Radio 1. The track serves as a fascinating concoction of blaring metal and Eurodance, a homage to Dom and Ethan’s North East origins.

“It’s The Prodigy meets Slipknot. Metal meets hardcore, mixed with a bit of 90s rave culture,” says Dom, underneath a cloud of vapour.

“The songs are like dance tracks. We wrote ‘Original Soundtrack’ in about an hour. Thematically, it holds the tone of a metalcore track, building upon

itself with repeated riffs, but it progresses like a dance track rhythmically.”

Primary screamer Ethan, eager to explain how he enters the picture, exhumes a huge gulp of Guinness before unearthing his resounding enthusiasm. “Before I met Dom, I had absolutely no idea how to scream. So, when we recorded our first single, Mindset, Dom gave me some guidance on technique – I think I blew my vocal cords! Still, I was so proud of the demo, because it was the first time I’d recorded myself as a singer.”

Unlike Dom and Joe, Ethan hasn’t played in bands prior to Dusthouse. The band is his first musical project, although his passion for music and art dates back to his childhood.

“For a decent amount of time, I was a theatre kid. I was obsessed with Disney movies. The Prince of Egypt, yeah, the tunes in that are absolutely mad. I kept singing random Disney songs in my living room until one day, my grandma said, ‘y’know, we’ll get you introduced to some theatre’. So there I was, the theatre kid.”

“A lot of what I remember hearing when I was young is similar to Dom’s taste. If you grow up in the North East, you grow up on Clubland.”

“As I got older, I discovered metalcore, which led me to finding Bring Me the Horizon, the absolute biggest influence on my voice. Through hearing Oli Sykes’ vocals, I discovered that you can do these abrasive, alternative screams alongside a clean singing voice.”

As for Dom, he has had a wealth of musical experience, performing with metal bands

since his teenage years. However, his first experiences with music differed stylistically from the current chaos he pursues.

“The first music I can remember hearing were Clubland classics, like, Cascada, y’kna? I didn’t really form a music taste from an early age, but that’s what I was first listening to. It might have been because I fancied the women on the cover!”

“When I was around ten, I got into guitar. My dad had just passed away. I was there, with me brother Ronnie, during the moment he died. My older brother has loved music his entire life. I’m not going to go into why, but it literally saved him.”

“Me brother listened to bands like The Libertines and Babyshambles, a lot of 2000s indie stuff. He also loved guitar and used to play a fair bit. Yeah, he was the first person to show me how to play, although at the time, I wasn’t particularly bothered.”

“So, in 2007, I remember seeing Babyshambles in Glasgow and thinking… this is just amazing. Then, around the same time, I got a hold of this Oasis DVD. I remember first watching the ‘Cigarettes and Alcohol’ performance and hearing Liam’s voice, with this proper fucked, raspy singing. It was just so destroyed sounding and the music was so distorted, I’d never heard anything like it.”

“Seeing that DVD, with the crowds bouncing up and down, it was just crazy man. I dreamt of doing something like that, even if it was just in front of one person. From that point onwards, I started taking guitar more seriously.”

Some musicians first meet each other in the pub, some touch ground at a show. Some may be introduced to one another through a friend, and some manage to find each other online. The story of how Dom and Ethan first met is as unique a band origin story as the music they create. Around five years ago, the pair were matched together in a Call of Duty lobby through a mutual friend. The conflict was palpable, as Ethan recalls.

“We didn’t really get along at first. In fact, I thought he was a bit of a knob, but that was mainly just Call of Duty chat. I quickly discovered how passionate he was about music and the rest is history.”

Fast-forward a few years later and Joe enters the picture. After leaving his former band two years ago, he found himself wanting to express his drumming capabilities within a new environment. A demolitions operative by trade during his day job, he channels that same explosive energy within his drumming. After finding Dom through a Sheffield musicians’ group on Facebook three years ago, he auditioned for the role, practising his drum parts on his lap during his train journey into Sheffield.

“Some of the original demos were impossible to play,” he laughs, “because Dom wrote them on his computer. ‘Excerpt’ for instance, you’d need six arms and three legs to play the demo version! So I took a drummer’s standpoint, rather than a guitarist’s, and locked in on that sorta shit.”

“It’s when you get to the final breakdown, like in ‘Excerpt’, where Dom’s drenched in sweat, Ethan can barely scream anymore. My brain’s scrambled, I hardly know what’s going on anymore, but we’ve all sort of got that togetherness onstage, y’know?”

Experiencing a Dusthouse show is like walking into a warehouse rave, illuminated through the backdrop of a horror film set. Red strobes and razoring synths are featured throughout, along with astronomical distortion, hysterical shouting and screaming, all supported by sensational drum sequences.

The band’s first show came in the form of an all thriller, no filler onslaught at Yellow Arch Studios in September 2023.

“People just got it from the get-go. I mean, people immediately felt that we were doing something different within the Sheffield metal scene. Those electronic influences make the setlist sound unique –you can mosh with Dusthouse, but you can also dance to us,” says Dom.

Joe credits his dad for much of his musical inspiration. Some of his earliest memories date back to 2004, listening to ACDC in the back of a Kia Sorento.

“I suppose this a bit of a soppy one. My dad passed in 2021, the day before his birthday. He’d said to me, ‘I want to see you perform on a big stage somewhere before I’m

play on a big stage may never arise, but if it does, that’s the whole reason I want to do it.”

“It’s a weird one, yeah. I think, to be fair, all three of us resonate with that, because we’ve each got that one person that’s kinda pushed us towards what we want to achieve.”

As for 2025, Dusthouse are set to continue on their upwards trajectory, adding more shows and recording sessions to an already packed schedule. The band are focusing on releasing a series of new singles, as well as debuting in various new cities from March onwards. Dom’s vision for the band is one of constant reinvention.

“If you hear our first EP, the tracks sorta sound different to each other. With our upcoming singles, there’s a much more consistent theme throughout these new tracks, sonically, but I think that we’ve massively progressed with our sound and live set.”

“Ultimately, we’re still writing signature Dusthouse tracks, but if you like Ethan screaming his bloody head off, then there’s loads more of that to expect in the near future.”

For some musicians, it’s a cut-and-dry struggle of the loop: form a band, write a song, play a small gig, write another song, record said song, struggle to get plays and radio airtime, play more gigs – then that fizzling sensation of an irritating lack of traction. But not for Sheffieldbased singer-songwriter Harri Larkin. Since moving from her hometown of Cornwall, frontwoman Harri and her band have been steadily moving up, being featured on BBC Introducing, Radio X and opening up the Tramlines main stage for giants like Sam Fender, Declan McKenna and The Snuts.

Ahead of their upcoming EP launch show at Sidney & Matilda, Harri and co are showcasing their latest single, ‘Too Close to the Sun’. I had a chat with Harri about the days that led her here, what the music means to her and what else lies ahead for the band.

So what’s the story behind the new single? Where’d it all come from?

So the song is really all about my best friend, Robbie – it’s a love letter, really. He died very suddenly and tragically in October 2023. We were best mates all through college, when I was writing a lot of this music, and we used to dream big – huge dreams of what we would be. He was the frontman of this ska band called Skata Tones – they supported bands like Madness and the Dub Pistols – they were really huge to me at the time. When I found out what happened to him, it sent me on a huge spiral and for two months it was pretty touch and go. I started to drink badly, But in the last eight months, I got sober, and I did it not just for me but for Robbie. The song is really all about me processing that grief and loss and getting out of that downward spiral. When I wrote it, it really brought me back out of it. It’s emotionally charged, for sure.

What sort of thinking went into creating the EP sonically? Was there a process or goals you had in mind?

It’s funny really – you’ll listen to it and think, wow, there’s a lot of different music and genres in there. It’s hard to explain. What I wanted to make was quite intricate, authentic and emotive.

But because there’s no binary or conditions of genre, you’ll hear something that’s quite jazzy and upbeat with some trumpets and brass, but then you’ve got quite a bit more of a dark and grungy type of thing. I really feel that the emotion and feeling that you get from it is all there. That’s what I wanted to tie it all together –more than genre or style. So even though there might be a sad feeling or subject, I wanted to bring out some joy, some hope.

You’ve mentioned that you write a lot solo – what’s the process of bringing that to the band?

It was always solo, until I met Tom Wylie, our lead guitarist. He’s like the Slash to my Axl Rose. I never thought that someone else could change me so much and change the music so much. He’s really incredible, but so is the drummer, Danton Laromani. The musicians I work with are just at such a different level – they’ve just blown me away. And so there’s a lot of trust in there, because the songs are always my babies. I’ll write the lyrics and have an idea fully formed, but they’ll come back with harmonies and drums and it just turns out the idea I had was just the base for what we do. Tom helps with so much, Danton’s got genius ideas and Abby Middleton, the bassist, is just amazing.

So with the EP launch around the corner, what are you most excited or maybe nervous about? What do you want people to take away from it? I really want people to just listen to the songs and really feel them – that’s all I really care about – and just for them to basically feel hopeful from them, but also understand. That’s what I felt like I was lacking when I was really lost and stuff. I had problems, I fought through them and that was massive for me. If I can give someone that bit of hope and understanding, then that can mean the world to someone. It changed me, and I hope it can change them.

Too Close To The Sun is out now, with all profits going to the charity Addiction Family Support. Harri Larkin will launch new EP Slowburn at Sidney & Matilda on 24 May, tickets available now at harrilarkin.com.

LISTEN: TOO CLOSE TO THE SUN

WORDS: JOSEPH MURPHY PHOTO: RICCARDO CENCI

saturday 3 may 2025 30 years of pop tarts day party!

£7.00, Doors 4:00pm, 18+

monday 19 may 2025 the sherlocks

£13.50, Doors 7:00pm

thursday 22 may 2025 footprints jazz club: blue lab beats & fuji speedway

£12/14/16, Doors 7:30pm

wednesday 25 june 2025 migration matters festival asian dub foundation

friday 27 june 2025 migration matters festival nadine shah

friday 4 july 2025 rob mullholland

£18.00, Doors 7:00pm, 18+

saturday 5 july 2025

clann an drumma

£17.50, Doors 7:00pm

thursday 28 aug 2025 martha wainwright

£33.00, Doors 7:30pm

thursday 4 sept 2025 george lewis

£21.00, Doors 7:30pm

SATURDAY 13 sept 2025 antarctic monkeys

£20.00, Doors 7:00pm

SATURDAY 27 sept 2025 float along festival

£35.00 (early bird), Doors 12:00pm

thursday 16 oct 2025 hollie mcnish

£18.00, Doors 7:30pm

friday 14 nov 2025

Craig charles funk & soul house party

£19.00, Doors 7:00pm

saturday 22 nov 2025 amble

£22.50, Doors 7:30pm

thursday 4 dec 2025

inspiral carpets

£28.50, Doors 7:30pm

SATURDAY 6 dec 2025

808 state ex:el live

£30.00, Doors 7:00pm

saturday 25 april 2026

one night in nashville

£24.00, Doors 7:30pm

friday 1 may 2026

just radiohead

£17.50, Doors 7:00pm

all shows open to the public (14+ unless stated otherwise) tickets available from foundrysu.com box office: 0114 222 8777

foundry, sheffield students’ union western bank, s10 2tg foundrysu.com - foundry@sheffield.ac.uk @foundrysheffield scan for tickets

LUNGHORN @ SPRING TANK STUDIOS

WORDS/PHOTO: ALEXANDER LONGMORE

Late last month, Sheffield was introduced to a brand-new act in a relatively new-tothe-scene venue. Lunghorn performed their debut gig down at Spring Tank Studios, and they delivered banger after banger, let me tell you.

Supporting Lunghorn, in order of appearance, we had Monqi, Daniel Whitehouse and Blue John. With the tempo and buzz increasing band after band, the three excellent acts paved the way expertly for Lunghorn to finish off. Monqi started proceedings with her melancholic, elegant and dream-inducing tunes. Daniel Whitehouse then came in with a cool and collected energy, giving us some great rhythms, a killer backing bass and drum beat, tied together by mature and experienced vocals – a three-piece that felt akin to a slightly softer, more British version of Viagra Boys. The final of the three supports, Blue John, rocked the socks off the venue with a gentle alternative rock sound accompanied by superb lyrics and vocals.

A perfect crescendo for the evening to finish on following

the last few hours of great tunes, the frontman who brought Lunghorn out of his mind and into reality is one Joe Zain. Joe and his assembled band (Frazer Spooner on lead guitar, Richard Lewis on bass, and Joe Sooklall on drums),

in only a month and a bit, have managed to bring to life the emotionally engaged and heavy-hearted songs of Sheffield’s newest addition to the alt rock scene.

You wouldn’t know it was Lunghorn’s debut live performance; they held the energy of the room effortlessly. Singing and playing passionately in reference to deep heartbreak, emotional scars, and the struggles and pains of addiction, the real-life pain was evident on the face of the frontman as he beautifully channelled those negative emotions from the past and turned them into music – an escape, a salvation at the end of a road well-travelled. The kind of music that can illicit feelings

in you which are an axiomatic truth of life as a human, as an emotionally engaged entity.

Spring Tank Studios was the perfect place for Lunghorn to debut, and hopefully gigs like this will help put the studio more on the map as a standout music venue for grassroots performances throughout Sheffield. The good vibrations were kept on high through the whole four-hour event.

Lunghorn will continue to write emotionally in-tune music, hopefully for a very long time, and I have no doubt in my mind that they will make the world a better place for having done so. If I were you, I’d give them a listen and keep an eye out for their next gig. You don’t want to miss this band.

SHREDDLER FESTIVAL ARRIVES!

WORDS/PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIPPA REVITT

When Shreddler was first announced, it felt like something special was brewing in Sheffield. A collaboration between Loz Taylor of While She Sleeps and BBC Introducing’s Christian Carlisle, this brand-new alternative festival promised a full day of heavy music, community vibes and a celebration of the city’s buzzing underground scene. Held at Peddler Warehouse and Factory Floor, the event marked its debut with a scorcher of a Saturday –blazing sunshine and a sea of black-clad crowds made for a glorious contrast.

Over at Factory Floor, Divine Hatred kicked off the chaos with the first pit of the day. With just an 80-capacity room, it was already overflowing – bodies spilling out the door. That level of intensity so early on really set the tone.

On the Peddler Warehouse stage, INDEVTH brought the riffs early, sparking up circle pits and setting the tone with their stomping metalcore. Eville stepped up next and fully embraced their brat metal label.

Angel Number brought a dreamy break in the chaos with their electro-gaze sound,

floating over the crowd with ethereal melodies and big drums. Then came Still In Love, snapping things back into a heavier space. The crowd were already singing along and vocalist Nick delivered every word with sheer passion. There’s something addictive about a band that refuses to be boxed in.

Graywave’s dream-gaze sound was hypnotic. The blend of distortion and delicate vocals was haunting in the best way – like Cultdreams

filtered through massive walls of reverb. Bodyweb kept the momentum going, fusing posthardcore with experimental effects and a swagger that made it hard to look away from any one member.

And then came Rough Justice. Easily one of the standout moments of the day, they brought proper Sheffield energy to the stage – circle pits, shoulder climbs and frontman James right in the crowd. Nothing beats a thick Yorkshire accent screamed into a mic with that much heart.

The hometown pride was real, and the fans gave it right back.

Tropic Gold layered in some synthy, nu-metal flair – think movie soundtrack vibes with some big questions asked, like ‘Are you sick of everything?’. Then came Oversize, who packed out the floor with their shoegaze-heavy sound. Guitars were thick, drums were tight and the vibes were immaculate.

As the sun dipped, Sick Joy

stepped in with their grungy, heavy pop edge. Mykl’s voice had a gravelly sadness that hit hard live – sad bangers that somehow made you want to dance and sulk at the same time.

Lake Malice? Absolute chaos in the best way. They had one of the best-received sets of the day – massive pits, massive energy and a whole lot of screaming back at vocalist Alice. They might’ve been the penultimate band, but they brought headliner energy.

Delilah Bon closed things off like the feminist firestarter she is. Straight out of Barnsley, she gave us brat punk, nu-metal and TikTok-era rage anthems in one glorious whirlwind.

All in all, Shreddler’s first outing was a belter. It championed diversity – on stage and in the crowd – and proved there’s still a massive appetite for heavy, alternative music in the Steel City. Here’s hoping it’s the first of many!

DIFFERENT CLASS

Not only are Pulp playing Tramlines this year, but after nearly a quarter of a century, the Sheff legends have officially confirmed they’re back with a brand-new album. Titled More, the record will land via Rough Trade Records on 6 June 6, marking the band’s first studio release since We Love Life in 2001.

Recorded and mixed at Orb Studio in over just three weeks, More is a unexpected jolt from a band many thought had said all they needed to. Jarvis, ever the understated frontman, put it simply: “This is the shortest amount of time a Pulp album has ever taken to record. It was obviously ready to happen.”

Produced by James Ford (Arctic Monkeys, Fontaines D.C.), the album brings together old ideas and new spark. There’s a track co-written by Richard Hawley, another by Jason Buckle (Relaxed Muscle), string arrangements from Richard Jones played by the Elysian Collective, and even the Eno family dropping in for backing vocals. Cocker adds, “These are the facts. We hope you enjoy the music. It was written and performed by four human beings from the North of England, aided & abetted by five other human beings from various locations in the British Isles. No A.I. was involved during the process. This album is dedicated to Steve Mackey.”

First single Spike Island offers a swirling, cinematic taste of what’s to come. Buckle, who attended the Stone Roses’ infamous Spike Island gig,

planted the seed for the track. “A DJ there shouted ‘Spike Island, come alive!’ all day, getting on everybody’s nerves,” Jarvis recalls. That line stuck and became the unlikely muse for a song about a gig he didn’t even attend. Packed with synths, violins and a dreamy slide guitar, it’s both classic Pulp and something new.

On the physical front, fans are in for a treat. More will be available in several limited vinyl formats, including a black LP and four coloured pressings personally named by Jarvis. There’s a “Theresa” green version across all retailers, a “Blue Sky Thinking” marble exclusive to indie shops, a “South Yorkshire Sunset” marble only available in Sheffield, and “Isha Kriya”, an ink spot edition from Pulp and Rough Trade’s online stores. There’s also a double LP cut at 45rpm, exclusive to their webstores for the true vinyl heads.

It’s been a long wait. But they’re back. And it sounds like they’ve still got plenty more to say…

SUPERGRASS

The Octagon Centre // 12 May // £35

With 90s Britpop reunions cropping up left and right, Oxford originals Supergrass are back to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their debut album, I Should Coco. The Brit Award winners will perform their 1995 record in full for the first time ever, making sure every corner of The Octagon feels quite ‘Alright’.

octagoncentre.sheffield.ac.uk

BETH MCCARTHY

Foundry // 4 May // £22.40

York-born pop-rock bi-con Beth McCarthy burst onto the scene in 2021 with the hit single ‘She Gets the Flowers’. Now, on her EU and UK tour, she brings her latest EP IDK How to Talk to Girls to Sheffield Students’ Union. foundrysu.com

BROMHEADS JACKET

The Leadmill // 9 May // £20

Post-punk trio Bromheads Jacket return to The Leadmill, riding the momentum of new single ‘The Grind’. Expect noise, big riffs and a heavy dose of chaotic charm from a band once the toast of Noughties indie scene. However, after what they call a “momentous selfimplosion”, they’re looking squarely ahead.

leadmill.co.uk

FOOTPRINTS JAZZ: BLUE LAB BEATS

Foundry // 16 May // £14.70

Producer NK-OK and multiinstrumentalist Mr DM form the powerhouse duo Blue Lab Beats. From bedroom beat-makers to remixers for Dua Lipa and Rag’n’Bone Man, they now bring their fusion of jazz, hip-hop, soul and electronica to Foundry’s stage for a night of bold, genre-blending brilliance. foundrysu.com

50 YEARS OF SONIC SHOCK: CELEBRATING CABARET VOLTAIRE

Drama Studio // 15–18 May (Exhibition) // 16 May (Live Show) “Shock, experimentation and sonic terror” are promised at this fanled celebration of Cabaret Voltaire. Expect a multi-day exhibition of rare memorabilia alongside an evening of live performances from Russell Haswell, Prangers and Synth Club, honouring Sheffield’s experimental electronic pioneers. sheffield.ac.uk/drama

RHYMES AND REASON

With grassroots music platform Slambarz at its core, Slam City is a new documentary spotlighting Sheffield’s rising rappers, producers and lyricists. We spoke to Dom Heslop and Jack Godfrey about making the film and why telling these stories matters now more than ever.

Words: Joseph Food Photography: @lili_takesflickis

Slambarz began as a small idea with big ambitions – a space where emerging voices could meet, collaborate and be heard. Founded by Dom Heslop, also known in creative circles as The 1Devotion, it started as a community-rooted music platform and quickly evolved into something much more expansive: a movement that offers mentorship, exposure and belonging to a new generation of artists across South Yorkshire.

Now, some of the people at the heart of Slambarz will be stepping into the spotlight with Slam City, a documentary directed by award-winning local filmmaker Jack Godfrey and produced by Heslop himself. This grassroots film shines a light on the lives of six young artists who’ve grown through the event and its network, telling the stories that are all too often absent from mainstream narratives about Sheffield’s creative scene.

“From the start, [Slambarz] was about giving attention to people who don’t get showcased or heard enough,” Dom explains. “That’s where the doc comes in. But this is more than Slambarz; it’s a celebration of Sheffield and the culture we have here.”

The documentary, due to premiere at Showroom Cinema next month, isn’t just a profile piece. It’s a multi-layered portrait of the city’s present – as seen through the eyes of young people finding their voices, often against the odds. It captures daily realities, personal spaces and moments of growth in the lives of these young artists.

Filming took place over a concentrated two-week burst, with Dom coordinating locations and artists while Jack took the lead behind the lens.

“We’d meet at the office, chat

for an hour, prep everything, then go – tram, taxi, whatever it took,” says Jack. “We did it all in day blocks, just immersing ourselves entirely in each story.”

Though originally timed for a Sheffield DocFest submission, the team made the conscious decision to step away from the pressure of deadlines. This allowed them to focus on telling the story their way – with care and clarity, rather than rushing to the finish line.

The narrative follows South Yorkshire artists Kid Blu3, AJE, NB, Balby, DNO and Harris Lih, who together represent a broad spectrum of experiences and perspectives. This diversity is key to the film’s power, helping it avoid the trap of reducing life stories behind genres like rap and grime to one of solely gritty origins. Instead, it presents a range of realities, challenging the idea that struggle is a prerequisite for authenticity.

“You’ve got people from tough areas and upbringings, and others who’ve grown up with comfortable home lives,” says Jack. “But the music, the community – that’s what brings them together.”

Sheffield’s cultural storytelling often leans into nostalgia –and not without good reason.

In recent years, the city’s influential role in the rise of noughties indie, bassline and eighties electronic music has been covered in multiple documentaries and across thousands of column inches. But Slam City pushes back against the tendency to look back instead of around. “Everyone knows how good those scenes were,” says Dom. “But if we’re always retelling those stories, we miss the ones happening right now.”

They explain that the film is, in many ways, a love letter to the city – not just in its subject matter, but in its making. Jack and Dom are both self-taught, products of the DIY, go-andget-it ethos that has long defined Sheffield’s creative identity. “You don’t need a five-year film degree to tell real stories,” says Jack. “You just need a camera, some vision and the drive to keep going – even when the weather ruins your audio, as we found out!”

Something that sets Slambarz apart is how it gives equal weight to the talent behind the scenes.

As much as it’s about music and performance, it’s also about the scaffolding – the organisers, producers, videographers, photographers and audiences

– that make it all possible.

The premiere itself will reflect that community mentality. That night is coming on 16 May, with a screening at Showroom Cinema. Expect a full experience – film, Q&A with the artists, a chilled space with DJs and maybe a few surprise performances. “It’s about letting the audience connect with the people who made this documentary possible,” Dom adds. “It’s bigger than us.”

And beyond that? More films. More stories. Jack and Dom are already in the process of developing future projects, including Move Dem, a global documentary exploring the role of music in healing trauma, filmed in three countries. There’s even talk of establishing a production company in Sheffield – one that could offer opportunities to other creatives and strengthen the city’s growing media landscape.

The message behind all this is simple: you don’t have to leave Sheffield to make something happen. If anything, staying rooted might be your greatest strength. “We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the stories – why should we lose people to London?” Dom asks. “We want to be part of something here. To build something that lasts.”

Slam City will premiere at Showroom Cinema on 16 May, followed by a Q+A and live performances. Tickets available now from showroomworkstation.org. uk/slamcity.

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES

Sheffield recording artist and Milburn frontman Joe Carnall talks about making the leap into musical theatre with How Could I Forget? – a heartfelt production set in his home city and inspired by personal experience, exploring the emotional and intergenerational impact of Alzheimer’s disease.

What made you fancy having a go at writing a musical? Did it scratch a different creative itch? I’m from a weird group of friends. There’s Chris McClure taking over the world as Steve Bracknall, James O’Hara running every bar in Sheffield, Ed Cosens being musically brilliant, Jon McClure putting out record after record, Tom Rowley making incredible music too. We’re a group that gives everything a go, and I’ve always had this thing of ‘why not me?’, rightly or wrongly. Creatively, I’ve made some solo records I’m proud of, but I was ready for a change. I’ve always thought a really good musical can hit the spot emotively, and since having kids I’ve been sat at home watching Frozen and Encanto for eight years – so it just felt right.

How Could I Forget? is inspired by your grandad’s experience with Alzheimer’s – that’s a deeply personal starting point. What made you decide to turn that story into a musical? There were a few things happened over a 10 to 12-year period. My Glaswegian grandad died with Alzheimer’s, which was a harrowing experience for the family. It’s awful – you’re essentially grieving someone who’s still there. Around that time, my wife bought me a piano and I started messing about on it. A few years later, I watched a documentary about Glen Campbell, who went on a goodbye tour after his diagnosis, and it floored me. It triggered this idea – not a new one, of course – that music lives somewhere deep in the brain and can still connect even through this disease. It was powerful. Losing my other grandparents and reflecting on what they’d achieved also planted the seed. It's basically a love letter to grandparents.

Writing songs for a stage production must’ve felt pretty different to writing for a band or solo project. What was that shift like?

I’ve absolutely loved it – it’s been incredibly liberating and I feel like I’ve got more in me. Once the scene is set with the dialogue, there’s your brief for the song. The hardest bit is getting the concept right because the music has to match. There was a real experimental process – there’s some doo-wop, some skiffle, a ballad written for a female vocalist. It’s been great.

How collaborative has the process been? Were you quite hands-on in shaping the story and how it plays out on stage? With a story so personal, there was no other way than being hands-on. I wanted it to be something both I and my mates would feel comfortable going to – or maybe get dragged to and end up enjoying! It’s still a work of fiction but there’s a lot of me and my life in there. I’ve had to be trusting and hand it over in parts, but I’ve tried to allow the people involved to have creative input and a stake in it.

Alzheimer’s is such a heavy subject – but the show’s got a lot of warmth and humour too. Was it a challenge striking the right balance?

Yeah, there’s no getting away from it – in places, the show is really heavy, but hopefully in a beautiful way. In the end, it feels euphoric; it’s about intergenerational legacy and what you get from your grandparents. We’ve tried to lighten it up at times because when you’ve been

through trauma, you can’t cry all the time. It’s often punctuated by moments of clarity and, sometimes, hilarity. Bits of that make their way into the show.

Is this just the start for How Could I Forget? Or is it a oneoff passion project? Would you want to take it on tour, or even write another one? It is a passion project, but I believe in it and want as many people as possible to see it. The dream is the West End – it’s got to be! The story is set in Sheffield but the themes are universal. Hopefully it’s going to tour. I’m currently reading more about how to construct and write plays and I’ve already got one or two ideas in my head. It’s a new direction and I feel like I’ve got the confidence to give it a good go – why not?

How Could I Forget? runs 13–15 May at Uni of Sheffield Drama Studio. Head to hcifmusical.co.uk and follow @hcifmusical for the latest updates.

Lost At Sea

Uncle Harry

Was lost at sea, There was only one picture in the house (he looked a bit like me).

Harry as a young man, Without a care in the world. Eating candyfloss, next to a young, smiling girl. Oh, that pink fluff, His ecstatic grin, The faint image of a merry go round

Behind him.

On his 15th birthday, Carefree! And in youth’s bloom

The picture on the mantelpiece, In a frame

In the front room.

Well, the next year, War broke out.

‘And I can still hear young, courageous Harold shout: “I’m signing up! You just stop me!” And lied about his age

To serve King and Country’. He flew through basic training

Despite being sea- sick, Next thing he knew he was on a frigate

In the middle of the Atlantic.

Well, he fought for the allies, and he gunned down the hun, and we’ve still got the letters he sent from the land of the rising sun. How I yearned to learn more, About this familial ghost! Who set off brave and underage, One day from the south coast But there was no answer to my questions

To my whys and wherefores Just: ‘he was lost at sea, we never heard nuffin’ more’.

In my boyish mind he became a ragged Ben Gunn a Robinson Crusoe still my enquiries were shunned. Just Harry and Man Friday He was bereft and left Washed up on the shore of my mind

Or some forgotten salty inlet.

Then one Christmas I heard Grandad say ‘A twenty year stretch for armed robbery Is not what I’d call Lost at sea.'

Taken from David Venn’s recently released collection of poems, Hell’s Angel Coffee Morning (@hellsangelcoffeemorning). Signed copies available from davidvennwriter.wordpress.com.

Illustration: Helen Frank (@helen___frank)

LITTLE WOMEN

Lyceum // 6-10 May // £15-£46.50

Louisa May Alcott’s enduring classic novel Little Women is adapted for the stage by Anne-Marie Casey, letting audiences step into the Civil War era tale of sisterhood, bravery and struggle. This gripping celebration of heroines in their own story is a captivating rendition of the paragon of feminist literature. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

STEEL

Playhouse // 13-14 May // £12-£14

This tale of first loves, identity, class and those awkward, laddish teenage years follows James and Kamran, two lads from an unemployment blackspot who discover themselves and ask the big questions in this deep yet comedic story from director Liz Stevenson. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

…EARNEST?

Crucible // 20-21 May // £15-£32

Perfect for fans of The Play That goes Wrong and Noises Off! this one-ofa-kind adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy The Importance of Being Earnest swings awry when the lead actor fails to arrive on cue and an audience member is chosen to be the star! If you fancy a spot of impromptu Bunburying this one is sure to be a hit.

sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

THE JOURNEY BY DAVID MAYNE

Cupola Gallery // 26 April-31 May // Free

Steel sculptures in the Steel City! David Mayne brings his newest collection back to one of his artistic homes, showcasing his extensive exhibition and commission catalogue. The collection, called Journey, is David’s story of creating sculptures of the places, landscapes, sanctuaries and things which inspire his work. cupolagallery.com

& JULIET

Lyceum // 20-31 May // £15-£55

From Emmy-winning writer of Schitt’s Creek, David West Read and featuring music from #1 pop hitmaker Max Martin, this roaring comedy watches a retelling of Shakespeare’s classic but with a twist - what if it didn’t all end for Juliet? With three Olivier Awards and six WhatsOnStage Awards, this story has had audiences up on their feet since 2019.

sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

Venn+Frank

LOVE WHAT THEY’VE DONE WITH THE PLACE (AGAIN)

After a buzzworthy debut that drew a wide mix of culture vultures – and even a visit from the plod – We Love What You’ve Done with the Place is back. The group exhibition, originally co-curated by local artists Kieran Flynn and Melville, returns this spring with a fresh lineup and a renewed mission to showcase some of the city’s most exciting visual artists. Now led by Flynn, the show will again transform Two & Six Micropub on Snig Hill into a celebration of collaboration, creativity and community. We caught up with him to talk about the second edition, the artists involved and why Sheff’s DIY art scene is in rude health.

This is the second We Love What You’ve Done with the Place. What made you want to do it again?

The first one was super successful. I organised it with Sheffield artist Melville and we were really pleased with how many people turned out. It got so busy the police turned up to see what was going off! Melville’s had lots on with his own artwork, but I really enjoyed putting on the last one, so I’m taking it forward by myself. I’m sure Melville will be back exhibiting again soon. He better be after his Fagan’s show – that was mint!

So, are you hoping to make this a more regular occurrence?

Absolutely! There are so many great artists working in Sheffield and making interesting and original artwork. I’m hoping to establish We Love as an art night where people know they’ll enjoy seeing something a bit different.

What’s the meaning behind the title of the show?

It was originally an ironic title that Melville and I came up with. The last show was very politically charged – it was a dig at the state of the nation. I just really like it, as I think it still applies to artists making a group show. We take over the space together and hopefully

the people who come along will love what we’ve done with the place.

You’ve got some great artists exhibiting this time around. Tell us about them. Peaches – I’m sure everyone in Sheffield is aware of her. She painted that chuffing massive and incredible mural Reverie by Pound’s Park. Her stuff is super expressive, with hints of realism all done in a bold colour palette. She often juxtaposes images of nature against stark industrial buildings, so I’m excited to see what she produces for a gallery setting. She works all over the world, from the USA to the Middle East, so I’m happy we’ve managed to get her into a little white box space on Snig Hill. I just hope her work fits!

Proper Skint is a photographer who’s primarily interested in documenting working-class life and culture. She grew up in a single-parent family on a council estate, and she’d tell you herself that this has really influenced her work. Defiance in the face of struggle is a big theme – whether that’s in the people or the places she photographs. She doesn’t just shoot Sheffield either, she explores other workingclass communities all over the country. This is her first exhibition, which is a massive coup for us. You saw her here first!

Ethan Lemon I know from Kelham Island Arts Collective, where he has his studio. His paintings are done in a graffiti or street art style. He merges landscape, portraiture and abstraction with a distinctive colour palette. He’s another one with murals all over the world, with a few now popping up in Sheffield. He draws inspiration from his travels and everyday life, often working from the photos he’s always taking. We recently got him to do us a mural on the front of the studio and it looks wicked.

Kate Burden makes both 3D and 2D work. She deconstructs old children’s toys and rebuilds them into playful and often quite absurd sculptures. Her collages are cut from old children’s books. I love this idea – we all know what children’s books are, they’re a reference point we all have. Yet the images she creates are very bizarre and unexpected. There’s a real sense of humour and strangeness in all her work, which I really love. She’s also got a great eye for colours.

Sara Prinsloo is a multidisciplinary artist, so I’m not sure what to expect. I know she fuses fine art with illustration in her 2D work. She’s influenced by subcultures like skateboarding and DIY culture. Her pictures are bold, energetic, youthful and fun. Themes of recklessness, mental health and chaos often run through her work – all done from a female working-class perspective. Her last Instagram art reveal was both brilliant and brutal. I urge anyone reading this to go check it out. It had me in stitches.

And what about your own work?

For my own stuff, I’m in a bit of transition with what I’m doing. I’m still painting buildings and creating my own worlds, but I’m using different materials and trying to find more narrative in it all. There’s a definite feeling of isolation in it, which is probably a reflection on how the world is currently making me feel. I’ve no idea what I’ll put in the show –which is both liberating and terrifying.

What’s next? Do you have any more shows lined up?

The next one I’ve got in the pipeline is a Pride edition of the show. I’ll be doing it at Gage Gallery in Kelham Island in conjunction with Kelham Pride. It’ll be the same alternative style artwork, with all the artists coming from the LGBTQ+ community. I’ve already got some exciting artists confirmed, so watch this space.

We Love What You’ve Done with the Place returns to The Two & Six Micropub from 9–11 May. Drop in: Thursday 19.00–22.00, Saturday 12.00–22.00, Sunday 15.00–21.00.

AN INSPECTOR CALLS @ THE LYCEUM

It’s not every night that a GCSE English staple can still leave a grown audience gasping – but An Inspector Calls did just that at Sheffield’s Lyceum. Stephen Daldry’s multi-award-winning production (on a major UK tour and nearing the end of its run) proves that J.B. Priestley’s classic thriller has plenty of fire left. This is a play most Brits slog through in school, yet on stage it feels anything but dusty.

The moment the lights go down, Daldry’s unusual and striking set commands attention. The Birling family’s posh Edwardian house dominates the stage – a dollhouse-like structure perched on tall stilts above a rain-slicked cobblestone street. Below, in the shadows and swirling fog, shabby figures drift in and out of view, silently watching. It’s a haunting image: the rich literally partying above while the poor gather below. You don’t need an A* in English Lit to get the point, but it’s delivered with such bold, theatrical flair that it sends a shiver down your spine. The atmosphere is cinematic – think Hitchcock meets gothic fairy tale – with ominous music humming and a giant streetlamp casting shadows through the mist.

Beyond the spectacle, An Inspector Calls still packs a hefty social commentary. Priestley’s 1945 script is a full-throated indictment of complacent privilege – and in 2025 it feels even more relevant. As Inspector Goole grills the Birlings about their role in a young woman’s tragic fate, themes of social responsibility and collective guilt ring out loud and clear. The play might wear its message rather too readily on its sleeve (“we are members of one body” and all that), but this production makes it feel urgent and fresh. There’s an allegorical depth to the whole experience: the Inspector isn’t just solving a mystery, he’s

a moral avenger calling out entrenched inequality. Given the state of the world – growing class divides, “never had it so good” business moguls vs. struggling families – Priestley’s plea for compassion could have been written yesterday. It’s no wonder schools keep it on the curriculum. But fear not: this isn’t a dry civics lesson on stage; it’s a gripping thriller that happens to leave you pondering your conscience on the way out.

The performances carry the weight of this message with gusto (for the most part). It’s a small cast tackling big material – six actors holding the stage without an interval, firing off intense monologues and dramatic confrontations.

On opening night in Sheffield, a couple of the ensemble felt slightly off their game (perhaps the long tour is taking a toll) – there were moments where energy dipped or lines lost a bit of punch.

As mentioned, Treloar’s Inspector is a commanding force – equal parts gritty detective and ghostly conscience –anchoring the show beautifully.

Jackie Morrison, as Sybil Birling, delivers a masterclass in haughty disapproval; she plays the family matriarch with such icy, aristocratic smugness that you relish seeing her put on the spot. George Rowlands also shines in a role that can be tricky – his Eric starts as a tipsy, immature young man, mostly in

the background, but ends up an emotional wreck as secrets are revealed.

Crucially, this production nails the eerie tone that elevates An Inspector Calls from straightforward drawingroom drama to something otherworldly. The combination of Rick Fisher’s stark lighting (watch how it shifts from warm dinner-party glow to harsh interrogation spotlight) and Stephen Warbeck’s menacing score keeps the tension simmering throughout. Sudden blackouts, the echo of a distant air-raid siren, the way the Inspector seems to materialise out of thin air whenever a character tries to escape – it all creates an uneasy, hyper-real mood.

Overall, this adaptation of the famous play offers an immersive theatrical feast with plenty of moral bite, and even if you know the tale inside out, there are enough hidden depths to make it well worth watching.

PT 4/5