Cardiff Life - Issue 185 by MediaClash

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property Issue 185/June 2018/£3

@CardiffLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

IN FINE VOICE Don’t miss dates for this year’s Festival of Voice ISSUE 185/JUNE 2018/ SING UP

A BIT TASTY

Get ready for Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival

WEDDING DAZE

You’ve got the questions. We’ve got the answers

vote! She’s got our

The life of LADY RHONDDA

editor’s letter / Issue 185 / JUNE 2018

Girl power Here at Cardiff Life we like to think that most of what we do is celebratory – shouting about all the things that are so great about our city and why we love it as much as we do. This issue is no different, but we’re taking a closer look at two events that are celebrating something that’s even especially special – 100 years of women’s suffrage. Rhondda Rips It Up! is a brand new work by the Welsh National Opera which tells the story of the life of Lady Rhondda, Margaret Haig Thomas (Wales’ answer to Emmeline Pankhurst) while PROCESSIONS encourages women of all ages to come together and join in a participatory artwork to mark the centenary milestone. It can be easy to forget just how much some of the women like Lady Rhondda went through to win us women the right to vote, but events like these remind us why we should always remember. We owe them so much.

Photo by Betina Skovbro

Menywod cryf

Standing her ground The Welsh woman who ripped up the rule book

Yma yn Cardiff Life rydym yn hoffi meddwl ein bod gan amlaf yn rhoi pwys ar ddathlu ac ar glodfori holl agweddau gwych y ddinas a’r rhesymau pam yr ydym mor hoff ohoni. A dyna a wnawn yn y rhifyn hwn hefyd, ond rydym yn bwrw golwg fanylach ar ddau ddigwyddiad sy’n clodfori rhywbeth mwy arbennig o lawer nag arfer, sef 100 mlynedd ers i fenywod gael yr hawl i bleidleisio. Mae Rhondda Rips It Up! yn waith newydd sbon gan Opera Cenedlaethol Cymru, sy’n adrodd hanes bywyd Margaret Haig Thomas, Arglwyddes Rhondda (sef ein Emmeline Pankhurst ni yma yng Nghymru). Mae PROCESSIONS yn annog menywod o bob oed i ddod ynghyd i ymuno mewn gwaith celf cyfranogol sy’n coffáu’r canmlwyddiant. Mae’n hawdd anghofio cymaint y bu’n rhaid i fenywod megis Arglwyddes Rhondda ei ddioddef i ennill yr hawl i ni, fenywod, bleidleisio ond mae digwyddiadau tebyg i’r rhain yn ein hatgoffa o’r rhesymau pam na ddylai eu haberth fyth fynd yn angof. Mae ein dyled iddynt yn fawr. EMMA DANCE Editor emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @CardiffLifeMag

CONTENTS / ISSUE 185 / JUNE 2018

FEATURE 16 Weddings Wedding planning dilemmas dispatched

THE ARTS 29 Arts Intro Quirky, independent and original – it’s the Cardiff Fringe Theatre Festival!

30 What’s On Your month of entertainment, sorted. You’re welcome Our pick of some of the highlights from this year’s event

38 Processions How you can get involved in this participatory piece of art

Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW; 01225 475800, mediaclash.co.uk, @The MediaClash

OPINION

PROPERT Y

54 Fim

78 A man’s world

100 Property Showcase

Chapter’s getting pretty animated!

Cardiff Blues’ Blaine Scully on how sport can offer life changing experiences beyond the field of play

Contemporary cool meets classic styling in this modern family home

58 Editor’s Choice Flamingoes, pineapples and palm trees – tropical trinkets to add an exotic element to your home

64 Fashion As the wedding season gets underway we’ve got some shopping suggestions to ensure you’re the best dressed guest

DEPARTMENTS 10 Spotlight

FOOD 82 Food news Bite-sized chunks of tasty titbits

84 Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival All you need to know about the two-day foodie extravaganza

BUSINESS 89 Business Insider Our regular biz news round up

100 84

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Megan Price, Blaine Scully, Charlie Rose Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Kate Butterfield kate.butterfield@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Lorena Cussens lorena.cussens@mediaclash.co.uk Advertising executive Louis Grey louis.grey@mediaclash.co.uk

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

44 Rhondda Rips It Up!

SHOPPING

Editor Emma Dance emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager and production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

34 Festival of Voice

The Welsh National Opera prepares for its new production, telling the story of the rule-breaking Lady Rhondda

M EET T H E T EAM

Dinosaurs, DJs and a whole lot more

71 Snapped! Party pics from hot happenings around the city

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrate the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag). Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

106 Cardiff Lives Rebecca Salter from the Kip McGrath Teaching Centre shares her secrets

On the cover Celebrating a Welsh heroine. Cover image by Betina Skovbro

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e E D U C AT I O N

C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT

WEIRD AND WONDERFUL WALES

The mural has transformed the water tower

10 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

years; maiden Blodeuwedd, who was conjured from flowers by two magicians as a wife for Lleu, but was transformed again into an owl as punishment for trying to murder her husband; the goddess Rhiannon, whose horse-riding skills far surpasses those of the best horsemen of Pwyll, Lord of Dyfed; the noble stag, slain by the ghostly hounds of Arawn – Lord of Annwn (the Otherworld) and the crow, which features throughout the stories as a harbinger of death. Limited edition prints of the Water Tower Mural, signed by Pete Fowler, are available from www.landoflegends.wales. Profits will be used for creative workshops with marginalised communities.

Ruth Jones

THEATRE

For more: www.literaturewales.org

STAR QUALITIES

PHOTO COPYRIGHT SARAH VINING

A 50ft high mural celebrating Welsh legends has been completed on the Grade II-listed Water Tower outside Cardiff Central Railway Station. This stunning mural has been unveiled by Literature Wales, in partnership with Cadw, and has been illustrated by artist Pete Fowler who is best known for Super Furry Animals’ most iconic album covers. The mural comprises images from Welsh myths and legends, particularly inspired by The Mabinogion; the ancient oral stories of Wales which were written down in the Middle Ages. Among the characters and creatures depicted are the giant Bendigeidfran (‘Blessed Crow’), the King of Britain who fought the Irish and whose severed head talked to his men for 87

Actress, screenwriter and novelist Ruth Jones (most famous for cowriting and co-starring in Gavin and Stacey) has written a play that will be produced and performed as part of The Other Room’s Young Artists Festival which runs from 4-9 June. The festival is a week-long programme of workshops, masterclasses, mentorship and professional support from key figures in the industry. The week will culminate in the formation of a number of new companies assembled to produce, direct and perform five brand new ten-minute plays from five British playwrights, specially commissioned by The Other Room for the festival (with public performances on Thursday 7, Friday 8 and Saturday 9 June at 7.30pm). Ruth said, “I’m beyond excited that my first ever play is being produced by The Other Room’s Young Artists Festival. What a brilliant and inspirational forum this is - I’m a big believer in paying it forward and can’t wait to see what the bright, new talent discovered by this festival will bring.” For more: www.otherroomtheatre.com

Charlotte Church

CHARITY

A SAFE CHOICE A new ethical shop in Cardiff has been officially opened by Charlotte Church. The popstar turned campaigner cut the ribbon at the launch of the SAFE Foundation’s new boutique on Whitchurch Road. Originally founded by Barry twins Hannah Fitt and Lucy Dickenson, the SAFE Foundation works both abroad and in the UK to provide education and help the world’s poorest communities access basic human rights. The shop will be dedicated to fixing and upcycling second-hand items, and alongside selling second-hand and vintage clothes and furniture the charity shop will hold workshops to discuss topics including food waste, recycling and choosing ethical products. Practical workshops will also take place every month teaching people how to fix broken electrical goods and household items.

Ibiza vibes

MUSIC

IT’S SHOW TIME!

For more: www.thesafefoundation.co.uk

Dippy’s head

An irresistible combination of the UK’s most influential DJ with a 65-piece orchestra and a spectacular visual show with lasers will be coming to Cardiff this summer. On 28 July, superstar DJ Pete Tong and The Heritage Orchestra will perform Ibiza Classics in the gorgeous grounds of Cardiff Castle. The concept first came to fruition after a lot of hard work and careful curation at the massively successful BBC Proms show at

the Royal Albert Hall three years ago. Pete’s collaboration with the Heritage Orchestra conducted by Jules Buckley went on to play arenas around the world, including the Hollywood Bowl and two sold out nights at the O2, and spawned the album Classic House, which sold more than 200,000 copies and reached number one in the UK, and the follow-up, Pete Tong Ibiza Classics, which has so far amassed more than 120,000 sales. For more: www.orchardentertainment.co.uk

MUSEUMS

DEEPLY DIPPY National Museum Cardiff will be new tour partner venue in Wales for “Dippy on Tour”, the two-year tour of the London Natural History Museum’s iconic Diplodocus cast. Amgueddfa Cymru-National Museum Wales has been working in partnership with the Senedd, to bring Dippy to Wales since 2016. Initially the Senedd was to be the Cardiff host for Dippy but following discussions, and in conjunction with the Natural History Museum, it has been agreed that National Museum Cardiff is the right home for Dippy during the Welsh leg of his UK tour. Dippy on Tour will

be at National Museum Cardiff from 19 October 2019 until 26 January 2020. Director General, Amgueddfa Cymru, David Anderson said, “We are delighted to be hosting Dippy and look forward to giving him a warm Welsh welcome. Visitors to National Museum Cardiff will be able to marvel at Dippy and take the opportunity to meet his cousins in our natural history galleries, taking a journey from the very beginnings of time to the present day. They can explore how Wales evolved, coming face to face with dinosaurs and other amazing animals along the way.” For more: www.museum.wales

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 11

A fairytale wedding in your own castle... With exclusive use of the stunning 800 year old castle and almost three acres of beautiful grounds, at Fonmon Castle, you really will be Prince & Princess for the day.

- Enjoy gorgeous Georgian interiors and a bespoke marquee.

- Choose from three of South Wales ďŹ nest caterers

- Be spoilt for choice with hundreds of perfect spots for photographs

The experienced team will be on hand from the moment you ďŹ rst call to the day of your wedding to ensure that your day runs nothing short of perfectly

Fonmon Castle Fonmon, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF62 3ZN Telephone: 01446 710206 www.fonmoncastle.com fontmon_castle@msn.com

Marquee Offer! Up to 50% off venue hire. Now booking for Summers 2019

WEDDING SPECIAL

POPPING the QUESTION By E M M A DA NC E

etting married all begins with one question, “Will you marry me?” But it’s far from the last question you’ll ask, or answer, as you plan your big day. To help you out, we’ve asked some of Cardiff ’s finest wedding experts share the questions they’re most often asked – and the answers……

I have never planned a wedding before, I really don’t know where to begin can you help? Yes of course! Wedding venues have done this before and most will have a team who can help you. Here at the Vale Resort we will help you every step of the way and offer suggestions and advise from our years of experience to make you feel totally at ease with the whole process. Judy Rose, sales manager for conferences and events at Vale Resort What should I expect from an initial meeting with a venue? You can expect a detailed tour of the venue with an opportunity to sit down and talk in depth with your wedding co-ordinator afterwards to fully discuss your options. There is no such thing as a stupid question or an unacheivable goal at this point so bring as many ideas and questions to the meeting as you can. Agnieszka Grzegorzek, wedding co-ordinator and duty manager at Chapel 1877 If my venue is split into two floors: is that a disadvantage? It depends on what you want! At La Cuina, if your party is of around 30 people, we can do part of the event downstairs, with canapés and people standing and talking while drinking cava and 16 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

then the sitting meal upstairs with a bespoke menu, which will also give full privacy. If you are a larger group it’s quite interesting and charming to have two levels with people moving from one to the other, as you can treat La Cuina as your own home. Samir Boughlid, co-chef and events manager at La Cuina What does a venue need from me in order to supply me with an initial quote? In order to provide the most accurate quote possible it’s useful to know a provisional date, number of day/evening guests inc. children, what combination of ceremony/wedding breakfast/ reception is required and your current ideas regarding catering (how many courses, buffet etc.). Obviously this will change as plans develop and get more concrete, but it’ll provide you with a great starting point in terms of pricing. Agnieszka Grzegorzek, wedding co-ordinator and duty manager at Chapel 1877 What will be the flow of the day? I always recommend asking your venue how the day will run even before booking. The flow of the day is important and it allows you to plan elements such as photos, speeches, what time to invite evening guests, whilst allowing you to consider any long pauses / breaks in the day where guests may get a little bored. It’s also worth asking if there is anyone in the venue that can act as a w

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no such thing as a stupid question or an unachievable

Photo by Carla Anne Photography

goal

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

WEDDING SPECIAL master of ceremonies taking care of any announcements and ensure the day runs to plan, allowing you to relax and enjoy yourselves. Alexandra Thomas, events manager at Holm House Do we have to follow the traditional format of a wedding reception? Many couples come to us feeling pressured into purchasing the traditional wedding checklist, i.e. wedding cake, photographer, champagne etc. Newsflash! This is YOUR day, if you don’t want it, don’t have it! Here at Lanelay Hall we do our utmost to ensure your celebration is as unique and individual as you want it to be. Why not ditch the classic Champagne toast and opt for a new-fashioned gin fizz cocktail? (I personally recommend our exclusive cocktail, the Lanelay Sweetheart!) Or if the thought of a photographer makes you nervous, switch it up and hire yourselves a caricaturist instead. Don’t be afraid to just do you! Gemma Thomas, events coordinator at Lanelay Hall What should we do about kids? There are no hard and fast rules on this and its an individual choice BUT at Fonmon Castle our experience is that, bored, tired children aren’t a great addition to any wedding party so think carefully about whether you want to include children in your wedding party and if so, their ages and needs. We are very happy to help you plan for kids, we have lots of high chairs and a TV/DVD player that we can lend for you to put on a film for them. Make sure they get lots to eat during the day so they don’t go hungry. Little snack boxes are often useful and if properly supervised, we can arrange for kids to have early tea in another room. A little colouring book or simple toy can go along way to entertaining them at table. If you have lots of kids, we thoroughly recommend a crèche service, they keep kids safely and happily entertained and you can even ask parents to chip in if they want to extend the hours. Aliki Currimjee, owner of Fonmon Castle

We’re getting married in a hotel, can I book outside catering? It is always best to ask this question before paying any kind of deposits, whether it be for the actual wedding breakfast or evening reception. If the venue is happy for you to arrange alternative catering, we at Honey To The Brie can work closely with you and the venue to create something beautiful and memorable for all the right reasons. Kiley Greenaway, Chief Grazer at Honey To The Brie

Why am I talking about breakfast when discussing the main meal at the wedding? Many people misunderstand when I mention the “wedding breakfast” and assume I am offering a full English for the wedding! The meal is referred to as a wedding breakfast as it is your first meal as newlyweds. Rhiannon Parker, wedding and special events co-ordinator at The Principal St David’s Hotel

A few of our guests have severe allergies, what do I need to do? It is so important to let your venue/catering company know well in advance of any kind of allergy, whether it be small or severe. We work very closely with our suppliers as most of them are local and know their produce well. We cater for all kinds of dietary requirements as well as vegan and vegetarians. Kiley Greenaway, Chief Grazer at Honey To The Brie

Honey To The Brie caters for your every foodie need!

What colour French macarons are most popular this year? We’ve seen an increase in orders of white and blush pink French macarons but also our gold, and rose gold French macarons. Every week we have these on order! We can also make themed macarons. A few weeks ago, we made light pink with white polka dots for a Disney wedding (Minnie Mouse). But we can also use edible prints of your favourite character or logo and add them to the top of the macarons. Elena Floarea, founder of Majestic Macarons

Cutting the cake with flair at Fonmon Castle

18 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

When selecting a cheese wedding cake that will be used to feed guests in the evening, how much cheese do we need per person? We generally recommend between 80g and 110g per guest. If the cheese is being served as the main evening food then towards the top end of that range will be best, but if it will be served as a final course in your wedding breakfast around 80g will be fine. Our cakes will serve anywhere between 20 and 200 people. Tom Pinder, owner of The Welsh Cheese Company

‘Rowe’ dress by Amy May Couture, from Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique

Photo By Jon Turtle Photographer

This is your day. If you don’t want it, don’t have it

PHOTO BY MRS MASHUP PHOTOGRAPHY

WEDDING SPECIAL

The stunning backdrop of Gileston Manor

What’s the best way to decorate a wedding cheese cake? We always say that simplicity is the best policy when it comes to decoration. Our cakes are made up of artisan cheese truckles that have developed beautiful natural rinds as they’ve been aged, so simple decoration will allow the cheeses to be shown off at their best. Flowers can often be used to great effect, and if you’re using a florist for other parts of your wedding they might be able to help with this, or an arrangement of fruit, nuts and other cheese accompaniments can work really well too. Tom Pinder, owner of The Welsh Cheese Company How long does it take to make a wedding dress? It varies but at Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique we ask for a six month lead-in time as this gives our designers plenty of time to work their magic! Rachel Burgess, owner of Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique What style / shape dress should I wear? The one you feel most like YOU in! It’s so important to us that you’re comfortable in your dress – if you’re comfortable then you’re confident! If you want to be a Boho Queen then go for it! If you want to be in the ultimate fitted number– then go for it! Be YOU! Rachel Burgess, owner of Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique

What should I look for in a photographer? Look at the style of photos they have done before, are you looking for very informal, relaxed photos? Then make sure your photographer is well practiced in that style. Eloise Staniforth, weddings and events manager at Gileston Manor We are the most un-photogenic couple ever. We hate the camera so what do we do? Be yourselves! My style is more documentary than traditional. I’m not a pose and shoot photographer and I will be more a fly on the wall at your wedding making sure I capture real moments and emotion. If you don’t realise the camera is pointing at you, I’m able to create real, emotional images that you’ll fall in love with, regardless of whether you like the camera or not! Carla Anne, photographer and owner of Carla Anne Photography

SET YOUR BUDGET AND TRY TO STICK TO IT!

Can I just turn up to a boutique or do I need to book an appointment? I would always recommend booking an appointment. At Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique a bride has the boutique exclusively to herself (and her nearest and dearest) for two hours. We close the 20 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

curtains so it’s lovely and private and we have tea and cake on tap! Rachel Burgess, owner of Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique

Is a band or DJ better? This really comes down to each individual couples preferences and really what vision you have for your evening party. If you want a large variety different styles of music then it can be better, to stick with a DJ and create your playlist for them. But if you want that big band theme, or something only bluegrass or jazzinspired, try going with a live band that dives right into that sound, before booking a band though it’s worth checking with the venues about their licensing agreements, and it’s also worth checking if the

WEDDING SPECIAL band have any specific requirements, such as set up times. Alexandra Thomas, events manager at Holm House

All loved up at Lanelay Hall

What metal should I choose for my wedding ring? The main metals tend to be, yellow, white and rose gold, as well as platinum and palladium. Matching the metal to your engagement ring creates a more traditional look, but the mix-and-match look has become more popular. If you do go for different metals it’s important to keep in mind that they will wear differently over time, particularly white gold and platinum, so over time they may begin to look slightly different. Another thought to consider is whether you want your wedding ring to match your husband’s, any easy way to achieve this is by matching the metals and profiles of the ring. Katie Keefe, assistant manager at Laings in Cardiff What’s the difference between white gold and platinum? Clients are often confused about the difference between these two metals as they see white gold looking the same as platinum rings on the high street and mainly see a big price difference. I have seen many fiancées who have been given a white gold engagement ring and see that there is a different darker yellow colour coming through underneath the ring. This is because white gold is often rhodium plated to look like platinum and the plating can start to wear away within a few months. Always consider that although initially cheaper, white gold will have to be replated every two to three years with general wear and tear and over a lifetime this may work out more expensive than platinum. So my advise would be to invest in the material you prefer. Natural white gold is beautiful and when I show clients I get such a positive reaction. Emma-Kate Francis, owner, designer and creator at Emma-Kate Jewellery What options are there for men’s rings? Don’t forget that the groom’s wedding ring is just as important as the bride’s! This could be the first piece of jewellery that he has worn so you want to make sure that it is comfortable, keep it on in the shop for a while and take a walk around the shop floor. For gents a simple and classic band will always be popular, however there is an array of options if he’s looking for something a little different. From mixed metals to rings decorated with grooves, as well as diamond-set rings a distinct design may be the one that catches his eye. Katie Keefe, assistant manager at Laings in Cardiff Does a bespoke ring cost more than buying one on the high street? This is really subjective! I get asked all the time how much does a wedding ring cost? It all depends on the design, materials and labour. The beauty of going bespoke is that you’re going directly to someone with a lot of knowledge and who will work with you to create exactly what you want. I advise my clients if all they want is a ‘simple band’ then you can certainly find one cheaper online or on the high street but clients come to me for my wealth of knowledge, design ideas and above all the experience! It means a lot more to my clients to tell a story about their rings and who made them rather than buying off a shelf, it’s a much more personal experience and one that doesn’t have to break the bank. Just factor in that the process will be longer as there’s a lot more processes from initial consultation, designing to producing the rings, so allow around two to three months for bespoke wedding rings. Emma-Kate Francis, owner, designer and creator at Emma-Kate Jewellery What’s your top piece of advice when planning a wedding? Set your budget and try and stick to it! Shelley Oliver, events manager at Cottrell Park Golf Resort

DIRECTORY: Carla Anne Photography, Gloster House, Whitcombe Street, Aberdare; www.carlaannephotography.com

La Cuina, 11 Kings Rd; www.lacuina.co.uk Laings, 27 The Hayes; www.laingsuk.com

Chapel 1877, Churchill Way; www.chapel1877.com Cottrell Park Golf Resort, St Nicholas; www.cottrellpark.com Emma-Kate Jewellery, No 5 The Balcony, Castle Arcade; www.emmakatefrancis.com Fonmon Castle, Fonmon, Vale of Glamorgan, Barry; www.fonmoncastle.com

Lanelay Hall, Lanelay Road, Talbot Green; www.lanelayhall.co.uk Majestic Macarons, 8 Llanmaes Street; www.majesticmacarons.co.uk The Principal St David’s Hotel, Havannah Street; www.phcompany.com

Gileston Manor, St Tahan, Barry; www.gilestonmanor.co.uk

Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique, 2 Victoria Bridge, Penarth; www.rachelburgessbridalboutique. com

Holm House, Marine Parade, Penarth; www.holmhousehotel.com

Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol; www.valeresort.com

Honey To The Brie, Penarth; www.facebook.com/honeytothebrie

The Welsh Cheese Company, Moy Road, Taffs Well; www.welshcheesecompany.co.uk

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SE CA 8 s 01 ide OW SH pm NE 2 all Br G 4 r IN m - H JU nk fo D i a ED 11 Y 9T e dr m W DAwelco R TU and SA ntry e

Nathan Marshall Photography

e Fre

For your dream wedding · One wedding per day · · All inclusive wedding package available · · Licensed for civil ceremonies · · Wedding co-ordinator available 7 days a week · · Spectacular grounds for your photos · · On site accommodation now available · · Free round of golf for the Groom and 3 guests · 01446 781781 | www.cottrellpark.com St. Nicholas, Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan CF5 6SJ

All Inclusive Package Offer only £4850 Based on 60 Daytime & 100 Evening Guests. For all remaining 2018 Friday & Saturday dates T’s & C’s apply, New Bookings Only

Free Ceremony Room for all remaining dates in 2018

10% off

Marquee hire only for 2019 weddings

WB THE LONGEST ESTABLISHED BRIDAL BOUTIQUE IN BRIDGEND COUNTY “We’ve been dressing Bridgend brides for over 23 years”

1 HE OL MOST YN | PYLE | BRIDGEND | CF33 6BJ | 01656 744 3 2 2

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WIDE RANGE OF GOWNS FOR EVERY BRIDE UP TO SIZE 32 WE ALSO HAVE AN EXCELLENT SALE RAIL WITH GOWNS FROM £250 Hilary Morgan • Kenneth Winston • Veromia • Sincerity • Ronald Joyce • Maggie Sottero • Sophia Tolli • Bridal Accessories, Veils & Tiaras

PHOTO BY DAVE DAGGERS

Music/theatre/film/more

ON THE FRINGE

Cardiff Fringe Theatre Festival is returning for the third time from 31 May–16 June. The community festival, created and run by a team of volunteers, brings together performance artists for a two-week showcase across six venues in and around the city. The CFTF celebrates the existing community of quirky, independent, original, and up-and-coming artists on the ‘fringe’ of the commercial entertainment industry in Cardiff. Venues such as AJ’s coffee house, Chapter Arts and Big Top will host an explosion of creativity that includes, theatre, poetry, drag, seminars and workshops, including artists such as Avant Cymru and Eddie Summers. People will be able to preview some of the talent on show during the festival on 26 May when many of the artists taking part will be performing in front of Mary’s on Queen Street. For more www.cardifffringetheatrefestival.co.uk

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18 May – 18 June

Turn of the Screw; Detox will perform when RuPaul’s Drag Race comes to St David’s Hall; Lydia Bright will be making a VIP appearance at Polo at the Manor

Plays/Shows/ Performance 22 – 2 6 M AY

TURN OF THE SCREW 1840. A young governess agrees to look after two orphaned children in Bly, a seemingly idyllic country house. But shortly after her arrival, she realises that they are not alone. There are others – the ghosts of Bly’s troubled past. The Governess will risk everything to keep the children safe, even if it means giving herself up to The Others. Years later, confronted by the past she is compelled to account for what actually happened to her and the innocents under her protection. New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

2 2 MAY

LET’S NOT BEAT EACH OTHER TO DEATH Inspired by tragedy and driven by hope, Halifax’s Stewart Legere pays tribute in this provocative, participatory work to queer people around the world who have suffered bigotry and violence. It’s a genre-defying celebration where theatre, memorial and dance party collide in a beautiful, sweaty, cathartic act of deliverance. Chapter; www.chapter.org 2 5 MAY – 2 JU NE

CANDIDE Candide is an optimist. A dreamer. He believes that everything is for the best in the best of all possible worlds. But that belief is about to be tested as Candide’s comfortable life is overtaken by an endless barrage of misfortune.

30 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

How will Candide’s optimism fare when it collides with life in the 21st century? Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk 28 MAY – 2 J UNE

ART Starring Nigel Havers, Denis Lawson and Stephen Tompkinson. Art is a phenomenon and one of the most successful plays ever. Having opened in 1996, it took both the West End and Broadway by storm, won Olivier, Tony, Moliere and every other major theatre award, and has been packing in audiences worldwide for more than 20 years. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk 29 MAY

RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE Your favourite drag stars return with a fierce new show for 2018

in The Official RuPaul’s Drag Race World Tour! Hosted by celebrity judge Michelle Visage with sickening performances by Detox, Kennedy Davenport, Kim Chi, Latrice Royale, Sharon Needles, Valentina and Violet Chachki! St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 30 MAY – 3 J U NE

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG Take a fantastic musical adventure with an out-of-thisworld car that flies through the air and sails the seas. New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk 1 – 2 J UN E

TOM THUMB Outwitting his parents and the ogre, Tom shows everybody that even though he is small he is still mighty as he protects

W H AT ’ S O N

his brothers, finds the treasure and makes sure they’ll never be hungry again. Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk 4 JUNE

ACOSTA DANZA: DEBUT Following his exceptional career, international dance icon Carlos Acosta has launched his brand-new company, Acosta Danza. The Havana based company will perform new and existing pieces by Cuban choreographers and commission new pieces from international choreographers. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk 7 – 9 JUNE

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES NDCWales Dancers and RWCMD Designers come together to make four fresh dance works in which design is the beating heart, made by artists who have their finger on the pulse of Cardiff’s creative and collaborative culture. Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk 8 JUNE

SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK A brand new theatre production celebrating the life and career of Rod Stewart, one of rock music’s greatest icons. Starring Paul Metcalfe and featuring a fantastic live band with impeccable credits, the show takes the audience through Rod’s incredible story, from his humble beginnings learning his trade in the r ‘n b clubs of the 60s through to worldwide superstardom and record sales in excess of 250 million! St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Comedy 1 8 M AY

CONNIE ORFF Having trained with Pride in London host, Michael Twaits, at London’s Royal Vauxhall Tavern (the RADA of Drag), Welsh Drag LL-ensation Connie Orff brings you a brilliantly bilingual evening of comedy, special guests and music in two languages... Perhaps more! Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

ARTS

2 4 MAY

BARA CAWS: BRÊCSHIT Doris Morris’s family has been farming at Bryn-Cwd-yr-Arian for generations, but following the Brexit referendum, poor Doris has had to find alternative means of making ends meet. By now she is running a therapeutic clinic which is also a haven for people with all sorts of problems. Liberal Club, Canton; www.wegottickets.com 2 4 MAY

BRIDGET CHRISTIE: WHAT NOW? Brexit. Trump. Nuclear apocalypse. Environmental catastrophe. Is rolling news affecting your ability to enjoy the simple things? Like baking, gardening and autoerotic asphyxiation? Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk 1 JU N E

BILL BAILEY: LARKS IN TRANSIT Larks in Transit is a compendium of travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans of 20 years as a travelling comedian. With musical virtuosity, surreal tangents and trademark intelligence, Bill Bailey tackles politics, philosophy and the pursuit of happiness. Plus, he fashions a symphony from a ringtone, tells the real story of Old McDonald, and re-imagines the Stars and Stripes. Two decades of touring larks from a comic described by the Daily Telegraph as ‘the brainiest comic of his generation’. Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

Music 1 9 MAY

BEVERLEY CRAVEN The BRIT Award-winner will be performing her new songs alongside timeless classics. Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk 2 0 MAY

GLEN MILLER ORCHESTRA Ray McVay presents the world’s greatest Big Band show featuring the fabulous harmonies of the Moonlight Serenaders as well as Miller Jazz sounds from the Uptown Hall Gang.

Above: Acosta Danza at Wales Millennium Centre Below: Up close and personal with Toyah Wilcox

St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 22 MAY

ISLAND The breakthough London fourpiece bring their sublime debut album to Cardiff. As championed by R1s Huw Stephens and Annie Mac and BBC 6 Music, the band have already notched up more than 1.6 million streams on Spotify with no sign of slowing up soon. Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net 24 MAY

NATIONAL OPERA STUDIO The Young Artists of the National Opera Studio and the WNO Orchestra perform scenes and

excerpts from some of the world’s best-loved operas. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk 24 MAY

THE BLOOD CHOIR Robin Maddicott and Joe Mountain reassume their joint moniker once more in anticipation of the release of their first album in six years. Gwdihw; www.gwdihw.co.uk 25 MAY

KILLER QUEEN Killer Queen have been performing their tribute to Queen’s concert since 1993. Their expert musicianship, extraordinary energy w

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and accurate portrayal of the world’s greatest live band have rightfully earned Killer Queen the title of Queen tribute royalty. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 JUNE

CONDUCTORS’ SHOWCASE: RUSSIAN ICONS A programme of Russian orchestral favourites in this colourful showcase directed by the College’s finest young conductors. Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk 2 JUNE

PASHA KOVALEV: THE MAGIC OF HOLLYWOOD BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing star Pasha Kovalev returns with his brand new show The Magic of Hollywood alongside fellow Strictly pro Anya Garnis. This amazing new show will be jam packed with sequins, glitz and glamour as Pasha takes to the stage with his sensational dancers. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 2 JUNE

TOYAH WILCOX: ACOUSTIC, UP CLOSE & PERSONAL This is a unique chance to experience Toyah in an intimate setting where music and stories take centre stage. This lively, entertaining and revealing show comes in the form of Toyah performing an unplugged set of her well-loved hits and classic songs, alongside recalling stories from her colourful, 35-year career. Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk

rock and blues legends who have lined up to work with him.Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk 1 3 JU N E

PSYCHEDELIC FURS Born out of the post-punk UK rock scene, the Furs quickly developed as one of the premiere bands on US college radio scoring a multitude of Number 1 singles. TramShed Cardiff; www.tramshedcardiff.com

Art U N TI L 2 JU NE

SIR KYFFIN WILLIAMS CENTENARY EXHIBITION Kyffin Williams is regarded as Wales’ pre-eminent and most influential artist of the second half of the 20th century and one of Britain’s greatest landscape painters of that period. The paintings in the show span the artist’s career from 1950 to 1995, a period during which many would agree he produced his strongest work. Martin Tinney Gallery; www.artwales.com 8 JU N E

STUDENT SHOWCASE Cardiff and Vale College’s Student Showcase feature student work from across the creative department including a fine art exhibition, a fashion catwalk, live music, performances and an interactive showcase. Cardiff and Vale College, City Centre Atrium; www.cavc.ac.uk

7 JUNE

TRIO HLK WITH EVELYN GLENNIE This unique collaboration sees pioneering Scottish ensemble Trio HLK team up with the world’s leading percussion soloist, Dame Evelyn Glennie. Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk 9 JUNE

MIKE SANCHEZ Mike’s indelible image as a frenetic front man, pumping powerful boogie-woogie from the piano, has won him fans from all over the world and attracted a following from many famous

U N TI L 2 4 JU NE

KAREN INGHAM: DELUGE DELUGE explores the consequences of a deluge of globalisation. Internationally exhibited and published interdisciplinary artist Karen Ingham has translated complex scientific, philosophical and artistic ideas into the language and materials of design. She has structured her exhibition around three interconnected elements – Of Sea, Of Plant & Insect, Of Earth & Elements. Craft in the Bay; www.makersguildin wales.org.uk

32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Psychedelic Furs will be doing their thing at TramShed

Book now

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

19 NO VEMBER

W EDNE S DAY 2 3 M AY

BJÖRN AGAIN To celebrate the huge 30th anniversary of Björn Again, Australian director and musician Rod Stephen will be taking the internationally acclaimed show on tour. The enduring appeal of ABBA is reflected in the ongoing success of the show having amassed 5,000 performances in 72 countries in 30 years. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 21 DEC EMBER

THE SOUND OF MADNESS One of the top 20 selling UK groups of all time, Madness will be coming to the ‘Diff to play the hits and fan favourites as well as a selection of new material. Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

Sport SUNDAY 20 MAY

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, bring their spectacular show to Cardiff. Every game will showcase incredible ball handling wizardry, rim-rattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy and unequaled fan interaction.

GLAMORGAN V MIDDLESEX Royal London One-Day Cup, 2pm SSE Swalec; www.glamorgancricket.co.uk F R IDAY 2 5 M AY

CELTIC DRAGONS V MANCHESTER THUNDER Vitality Netball Superleague; 7pm. Sport Wales National Centre; www.celticdragonsnetball.com F R IDAY 1 J U NE

GLAMORGAN V SUSSEX Royal London One-Day Cup, 11am, SSE Swalec; www.glamorgancricket.co.uk SATURDAY 9 J U NE

CELTIC DRAGONS V WASPS NETBALL Vitality Netball Superleague; 4pm. Sport Wales National Centre; www.celticdragonsnetball.com SATURDAY 1 6 J U NE

CELTIC DRAGONS V SIRENS Vitality Netball Superleague; 4pm. Sport Wales National Centre; www.celticdragonsnetball.com SATURDAY 1 6 J U NE

POLO AT THE MANOR Players from across the UK compete in a series of thrilling matches at Celtic Manor, all officiated by the renowned Cirencester Park Polo Club. www.celtic-manor.com

HEARING VOICES

Festival of Voice is back! From Grammy-Award winners to emerging artists, there’s a voice for everyone

Here’s 10 events you really won’t want to miss…

2LUMP

Friday 8 June, 8pm

ELVIS COSTELLO & THE IMPOSTERS

Sunday 17 June, 7.30pm

PHOTO CREDIT: BERNIE MCALLISTER.ARGYLL IMAGES

Wales Millennium Centre Tickets £37.50 - £66.50 Grammy Award winner Elvis Costello will close this year’s festival with a fabulous finale at Wales Millennium Centre. It also happens to be Father’s Day – the perfect experience gift for a music-loving Dad.

34 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO CREDIT: PARRI

ardiff will come alive this June with world-class music artists, daring new theatre, engaging talks, an interactive street game, pop-up street food stalls and a top-secret bar in a city centre location. There’s plenty to discover around the city with the 11-day programme from Wales’ biennial international arts festival. As well as the plethora of performances there are also opportunities to make your own voice heard with a new Talks programme at Jacob’s Antique Market, plus a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for those who identify as women to take part in Processions, a mass participation artwork in Cardiff city centre to celebrate one hundred years of votes for women. Created by Wales Millennium Centre, Festival of Voice takes place at various venues and locations around Cardiff from 7–17 June.

Wales Millennium Centre Tickets £17.50 - £29.50 A new surreal and dreamy collaboration between producer Mike Lindsay (Tunng, Throws) and three-time Mercury-nominated songwriter Laura Marling. One of only a handful of tour dates this June – get your tickets before they all sell out.

3UTOPIA – CURATED BY CHARLOTTE CHURCH Saturday 16 June, 6.30pm

Wales Millennium Centre Tickets £20 Utopia brings together a contrasting line-up of voices under one roof, all chosen by Charlotte Church, turning the Wales Millennium Centre’s stage into a joy-fuelled club for the night! Featuring Sweden’s ionnalee (iamamiwhoami), Malian singer Fatoumata Diawara, drag artist Le Gateau Chocolat, spoken word artist Talia Randall plus more…

MUSIC

KIDJO’S REMAIN 4ANGÉLIQUE IN LIGHT Saturday 9 June, 7pm

LOVECRAFT (NOT 5 THE SEX SHOP IN CARDIFF)

7 – 16 June, various times (previews 5 & 6 June)

ffresh at Wales Millennium Centre Tickets £15 Ever wondered about the neuroscience of love and loneliness? So has Welsh actress and singer, Carys Eleri. Drawing on her own personal experiences, Carys will premiere her one-woman-science-comedy-music show at Festival of Voice.

PHOTO BY BY CARYS ELERI

Wales Millennium Centre Tickets £17.50 - £24.50 Angélique Kidjo’s latest project is a genre-bending reinterpretation of the classic Talking Heads album Remain In Light. Hear iconic songs such as Once in a Lifetime as you’ve never heard them before - with electrifying rhythms, African guitars, and layered backing vocals.

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PHOTO CREDIT: SONIA AND MAURO

TIGER LILLIES – THE BALLAD OF 6THE SEXUAL DEPENDENCY Friday 15 & Saturday 16 June, 7pm

Sherman Theatre Tickets £20 The godfathers of alternative cabaret perform a live soundtrack to Nan Goldin’s deeply personal photographic narrative, The Ballad of Sexual Dependency, a UK premiere. Including over 700 images, the show functions like a film, looking at the beauty, pain, joy, tragedy and sorrow of relationships.

7ATLANTIC ARC ORCHESTRA Thursday 14 June, 8.30pm

Sherman Theatre Tickets £20 A supergroup of some of the most respected traditional musicians and singers from across Ireland and the UK, under the musical direction of Dónal Lunny – winner of this year’s BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Lifetime Achievement Award. w

“One thing is for sure. Festival of Voice 2018 is going to be another week and a half of remarkable experiences.” Rich Chitty, from independent record label Bubblewrap Collective

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FESTIVAL HUB 8 – FOOD, DRINK & FREE EVENTS Open daily from 12pm

Outside Wales Millennium Centre Free Enjoy great street-food, DJs and a special Festival of Voice cider created by Glamorgan Brewing Company at the new Festival Hub, based outside Wales Millennium Centre. On Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 June, you can also enjoy storytelling and music in a 360-degree dome from artists from India and Wales (free but ticketed).

9A FILETTA

Friday 8 June, 7pm

The Tabernacle Tickets £20 Soaring vocals, heavenly harmonies and complex three-part polyphonic songs. A Filetta are a 6-piece Corsican vocal ensemble, formed to preserve the traditional music of their region. Feel the power of the voice as they perform brand new work in the beautiful Tabernacle.

“My perfect world has voices from the most diverse areas of world music, grime, cabaret, electronica, all snuggled alongside each other as comfortable bed fellows. I want to explore concepts of utopia and dystopia with the audience, whilst having unhealthy amounts of fun. But in my utopia, there’s always a rave at the end of the night. Just a very vocal rave…! It’s also great to be involved in Festival of Voice again this year – the festival offers artists and audiences new opportunities to explore, discover and find their own powerful voice – and all in Cardiff.” Charlotte Church, on Utopia – a unique event curated by Charlotte as part of this year’s Festival of Voice

10MAQUIS

Open daily, 5pm – 12.30am

Top secret city centre location Follow @DTAcardiff #Maquis for clues It wouldn’t be a festival without a late-night hang-out for friends, old and new. Maquis will be popping up in a city centre location for the duration of Festival of Voice. Expect DJs, décor and drinks. We can’t tell you any more… The revolution is coming.

Download the Festival of Voice programme, book tickets and discover more at www.festivalofvoice.wales 36 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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PROCESSIONS

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STEPPING OUT PROCESSIONS, a mass participatory artwork, will be taking place in Cardiff on 10 June to mark 100 years of women’s suffrage. Here’s everything you need to know…. By E M M A DA NC E

O WE ARE

INVITING WOMEN AND GIRLS TO JOIN US TO CELEBRATE WHAT WAS ACHIEVED 100 YEARS AGO

It is hoped that PROCESSIONS will create rivers of colour through the streets of Cardiff

ne hundred years ago women won the right to vote. Now women of all ages are being asked to mark this momentous anniversary by joining in PROCESSIONS, an event that’s part art and part celebration, that will be simultaneously taking place across the UK’s four capitals on 10 June. In each city women will process through the streets, past the seat of government, wearing the suffragette colours of violet, white and green, to form flowing rivers of colour. In Cardiff, PROCESSIONS will form part of the Festival of Voice (see page 34 for more on that), and it’s being produced by Artichoke (a company which aims to work with artists to create unique, large-scale experiences that appeal to the widest possible audience) in partnership with the Festival and Wales Millennium Centre. Helen Marriage, artistic director at Artichoke, says, “For PROCESSIONS in Cardiff we are inviting women and girls to join us to celebrate what was achieved 100 years ago and ask what it means to them today. “We are delighted to be working with some amazing Welsh organisations and community groups, including Aberystwyth Arts Centre, MOSTYN, Ruthin Craft Centre and Theatr Clwd, who make a real and discernible impact on contemporary women’s lives every day. The ambition is to commemorate the centenary of women’s suffrage by creating banners that reflect the issues that women still face in terms of gender equality.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 39

Banners were an important

suffragettes

Can men join in? Men are welcome to stand on the sidelines and cheer on their wives, daughters, aunts, nieces etc but actually taking part is just for the girls! Why banners? Banners were an important campaign strategy used by the suffragettes, and the vision is for PROCESSIONS to create artwork which draws on this rich history of banner-making and reflects the experiences and concerns of contemporary 21st-century women. For example, there will be banners exploring the ongoing battle that some women still face to have their voting rights recognised (ie homeless women who are often not registered to vote due to not having a permanent address or refugee women or women in prison who are not eligible to vote). Organisers are asking that people bring soft, cloth banners, rather than placards. 40 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Do I have to make a banner? No, you will still be very welcome without a banner. However, banner making is very much encouraged! At the centre of the procession will be 100 banners made by 100 artists, community groups and organisations across the country.

Above: The Coronation Procession, 1911; below: Ticket to WSPU procession on Sunday 21 June 1908; wear a badge with pride

How can I get involved? It’s entirely free to get involved in PROCESSIONS all you need to do is register online. By registering, you’ll be sure to get all the information relating to the event, including the route, and since every participant will be given a scarf in either violet, white or green to help create the rivers of colour, it will ensure that there is enough for everybody.

I want to make a banner but I’m not sure where to start. What should I do? There are banner making workshops taking place in Cardiff, including one at Twin Made in Canton on 28 May from 12pm to 4pm. Sara Constable is one of those that has already registered to take part, and she joined in a banner-making workshop at Inroads in Cardiff. She says, “Joining in the PROCESSIONS banner making, has given me the opportunity to explore and celebrate women’s roles as peace campaigners and instigators of change. Our banner reflects this in its slogan ‘Women Rise For Peace’ and its visual story is inspired by the key role Welsh women played in the Greenham Common Peace camp when they marched from Cardiff in 1976. Some of our group also attended an International Women’s Day event at St Fagans National Museum of Wales, and were taken back by the beauty and strength of the women’s banners on display. We saw banners carried by Welsh suffragists from Cardiff and district to London in 1911 in the march for votes, and banners made by Thalia

campaign strategy used by the

PROCESSIONS

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Clockwise from below: Join in a banner making workshop; Suffrage procession, Frederick Street; Emmeline Pankhurst, PROCESSIONS 2018; Procession of the religious leagues for women’s suffrage, c.1914

Campbell for the Greenham Common Peace campaign. Making our banner at Inroads has been a fascinating process of creating, crafting learning and celebrating the legacy of women’s rights to vote.”

What if I can’t make it to a workshop? There is also an online banner toolkit which has been designed to be used by people of all levels of craft ability. The PROCESSIONS toolkit was created by Clare Hunter, an artist specialising in sewing and banner-making. Clare created the toolkit using suffragette Mary Lowndes’ 1909 Banners and Banner-Making pamphlet as inspiration. Mary was a trained stained-glass artist and founder of the Artists’ Suffrage League and was responsible for creating some of the most iconic suffrage banners, many of which survive in the London School of Economic’s Women’s Library. How long is the procession? The processions will take around an hour, but there will be joining places around the route for those that don’t want to walk the whole distance. All the route details will be available to everyone who has registered. For more: www.processions.co.uk

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A WOMAN’S WORTH The story of a pioneering Welsh woman is brought to life in the Welsh National Opera’s latest production By E M M A DA NC E

his summer will see the Welsh National Opera putting on a production unlike anything they have done before. Rhondda Rips It Up! is a brand new opera telling the story of the life of pioneering suffragette and businesswoman Margaret Haig Thomas, better known as Lady Rhondda. And WNO has ditched the classic opera style for the show, instead taking inspiration from classic music halls, with original songs inspired by the suffragette slogans all performed by an all-female cast led by Lesley Garrett and Madeleine Shaw. WNO’s artistic director David Poutney, says, “Lady Rhondda, Margaret Haig Thomas, ripped up the rule book for women of that time. “We are proud to bring the life of one of Wales’ unsung heroines of the suffragette movement to the stage. Lady Rhondda was instrumental in the fight for women’s equality across 40 years of passionate campaigning and it is important that her life is celebrated. Our all-female team of talented performers and creatives have worked closely with Margaret’s biographer Angela John, and taken inspiration from songs and speeches of the suffragettes as well as the sounds of the Edwardian music hall, to create a highly original and bold new work which is a real departure 44 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO

HIGHLIGHT THE LIFE OF THIS TOUR DE FORCE

for WNO.” Part of the aim of the show is to bring opera to new audiences, and WNO will be bringing it to venues that may not have hosted such shows before. It premieres in Newport on 7 June, before embarking on a tour throughout June, coming to Cardiff’s New Theatre on 14 June, and then touring further afield in the autumn. “Rhondda Rips It Up! is a real celebration of independent women,” says director Caroline Clegg. “As well as campaigning for women’s suffrage, Margaret Haig Thomas was a pioneering business woman and a strong independent woman in her own right. We hope audiences will learn more about Lady Rhondda, but it’s also a damn good show with lots of vibrant fast-paced funny songs and dialogue. Audiences are going to have a lot of fun!” Charged with far-from-easy task of writing all the words and music from scratch were librettist Emma Jenkins and composer Elena Langer. “It’s a merry romp – a thigh-slapping, ripping yarn,” says Emma. “Rather than a traditional opera it is an Edwardian music hall style production with lots of double entendres and risqué humour. “The words of the songs are written in rhyme which gives them a great rhythm. It was certainly challenging to write in rhyme but also very liberating as you have to be rigorous with yourself w

Photo by Betina Skovbro

Madeleine Shaw as Lady Rhondda and Lesley Garrett as Emcee

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PHOTO BY BETINA SKOVBRO

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to avoid anything too generic or lazy. “The libretto was inspired by the words that Margaret Haig Thomas spoke. I have taken elements of her life and certain words she said and we have made it into something completely new.” “The music is a hybrid of styles,” continues Elena. “I was inspired by the English music hall but there is a contemporary feel. “The ladies’ chorus play all the roles and I have enjoyed writing for them because that’s not something I have done before. It’s quite a dynamic show – the chorus are women, men, suffragettes, anti-suffragettes, husbands, lovers and politicians – and so the music is also dynamic and fast-paced.” “The music is very much ever-present,” adds musical director Nicola Rose. “It underscores the dialogue and enhances the drama to create atmosphere – like in a film when you don’t realise it’s playing. “The singers won’t have microphones. In opera they don’t have microphones but when they are speaking there is no music. In a musical they always have microphones, but in the music halls they didn’t so part of the rehearsal process is ensuring that everything can be heard clearly.” But, of course, a production is so much more than just tunes and lyrics and there’s a talented team working behind the scenes to make everything else that’s needed to bring a show to life for an audience. Lara Booth has designed both costumes and sets for everything from small-scale touring theatre to major operas, and her interest in period and contemporary adaptations made her 46 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Lesley Garrett is full of zeal for her role as Emcee

THE

SUBJECT FEELS VERY RELEVANT FOR WOMEN AT THIS

MOMENT

an ideal candidate to create the on-stage world for Rhondda Rips It Up! She says, ”It is always exciting to work on a new piece of writing and the subject feels very relevant for women at this moment. “Finding a level of simplicity that allows the action to move with ease between multiple locations has always appealed to me as a designer. My aim with Rhondda Rips It Up! was to blend the world of the Edwardian music hall with the world of Temperance Hall and the House of Lords whilst keeping the identity of Wales, and of course the suffragettes themselves, present at the heart.” Guiding the audience through the story will be one of Britain’s best known opera singers, Lesley Garrett, as the Master of Ceremonies (Emcee) in a character based on real-life pioneering music hall entertainer Vesta Tilley – a female compere impersonating a male. “Rhondda Rips It Up! is a great celebration of a wonderful woman; a pioneer; Wales’ equivalent of Emmeline Pankhurst. All women in Britain should be grateful to her,” says Lesley. “The show is completely unique. It is not a musical and it’s not an opera – it is unlike anything I have ever known. It is full of that vibrant and powerful world-changing energy that was around at that time.” Bringing the role of Lady Rhondda to life is Madeleine Shaw. “What an opportunity being Lady Rhondda in this production AND in this year celebrating women getting the vote,” she says. “It’s so important to highlight the life of this tour de force Lady Rhondda and her courage and phenomenal journey. w

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In rehearsals

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Madeleine Shaw gets into character

The creative team at the launch of Rhondda Rips It Up!

PHOTO BY BETINA SKOVBRO

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“The whole piece, the music, the libretto, and the whole production is cheeky, sassy and utterly thought provoking and will never be more relevant!” The production will be accompanied by a full programme of free events for everyone to join in with and activities underpinned by the suffragette slogan ‘Deeds not Words’ as WNO works with schools and other community groups to celebrate the life of Margaret Haig Thomas. Young people will work with WNO’s creative team to develop their own music hall style pieces on the themes of protest, rebellion and human rights; and community choruses of amateur singers will perform at some of the venues, with an opportunity for the audience to join in and sing along with WNO. On the day of the premiere, WNO will also host a symposium in Newport on the challenges faced by women in the classical music world involving a range of high profile speakers and delegates from across the UK and Europe sharing experiences, challenges and exploring ways to make a difference for the future. An online documentary series, curated by librettist Emma Jenkins, will explore the story and adventures of Newport suffragette Margaret Haig Thomas and will raise the curtain on what it takes to get a very modern musical comedy from page to stage. WNO will continue its innovative and creative use of digital technology with the company’s most ambitious and experimental project to date featuring a site specific, Mixed Reality (MR) installation. This is a first for WNO, blending together music, theatre and performance. Audiences will be transported from the physical space to an augmented environment via an iPad to explore The Session House in Usk – where Margaret Haig Thomas was tried and sentenced for blowing up a Newport post box with a home-made bomb – through virtual images and technology. 48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WHO WAS LADY RHONDDA, MARGARET HAIG THOMAS? Margaret Haig Thomas (later Mackworth) was born on 12 June 1883 and lived until 20 July 1958.

Sessions House in Usk. She was sentenced to the prison there and was released after going on hunger strike.

She was the daughter of David Alfred Thomas, first Viscount of Rhondda – a Liberal politician with coal, shipping and publishing business interests – and Sybil Haig, a suffragette.

In May 1915 she survived the sinking of the ocean liner RMS Lusitania which was torpedoed by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland. It sank in 18 minutes with 1,198 people dying and 761 surviving. The sinking contributed to America entering the war and became an iconic symbol on military recruitment campaigns of why the war was being fought.

She was born in London although lived in Llanwern near Newport until she was 13 when she went to boarding school, first to Notting High School and then to St Leonards School in St Andrews. In 1904, at the age of 19, she attended Somerville College in Oxford where she studied history. Records show she was achieving well with her studies but she left after two terms to return to her family in Llanwern. In 1908 she married Sir Humphrey Mackworth. They divorced in 1923. She never remarried but she did have significant relationships with Helen Archdale the journalist with whom she founded Time and Tide magazine in 1920; author Winifred Holtby; and spent 25 years living with writer and editor Theodora Bosanquet. In 1908 she joined the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) – the militant organisation campaigning for women’s suffrage in the United Kingdom founded and run by Emmeline Pankhurst. Margaret became secretary of the Newport branch and a supporter of its militant campaigns. She organised the first major women’s suffrage meeting in Wales, inviting Emmeline Pankhurst to speak at the Temperance Hall in Newport. From 1908 to 1914 she campaigned for suffrage across South Wales. She protested with the Pankhursts – even jumping onto the running board of Liberal Prime Minister Henry Herbert Asquith’s car in St Andrews. She attempted to destroy a post-box with a chemical bomb – which resulted in a trial at the

When her father died in 1918 she inherited his title. However, women were not allowed to sit and vote in the House of Lords – a fact Margaret repealed based on the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act of 1919 which allowed women to exercise “any public office”. It wasn’t until 1958 that women entered the Lords for the first time thanks to the Life Peerages Act 1958. The first peers were announced four days after Margaret died in July 1958; finally entering the House of Lords in October 1958. She was a director of 33 companies throughout her life, having inherited 28 directorships from her father, the majority of which were in coal, steel and shipping. She campaigned for equality for women and for the rights of children helping to set up the Six Point Group, one of the first to campaign on women’s issues, including equal pay and equal opportunities. She was passionate about increasing the number of women in the corporate world, helping create and chair the Efficiency Club, a networking organisation for British businesswomen. She was elected as the Institute of Directors’ first female president in 1926. In 2015, the annual Mackworth Lecture was launched by the IoD in her honour. In 2011 a portrait of her painted by Alice Mary Burton in 1932 went on display in the House of Lords Royal Gallery.

All women should be

grateful to her

Margaret Haig Thomas, Viscountess Rhondda, by Mary Alice Burton

T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY KYFFIN WILLIAMS RA Centenary Exhibition 9th May - 2nd June 2018 Bronzes by David Williams Ellis Ceramics by Phil Rogers To celebrate the centenary of Sir Kyffin Williamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; birth, a selling exhibition of oil paintings, watercolours and drawings of his beloved Wales. Catalogues available. View the exhibition on our website www.albanygallery.co.uk 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm

Beautiful handmade kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and more...

DESIRE

def: DESIRE: a strong feeling of wanting to have something; to set one's heart on; to crave; to aspire to; to feel passion for...

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ARTS

FILM (Clockwise from left) Song of the Sea; Sherlock Gnomes; and The Breadwinner Below: Peter Rabbit

ANIMATION AND IMAGINATION Chapter celebrates the magic of imagination By M EGA N PR IC E

ere at Chapter, ‘Anim18: A Celebration of British Animation’, continues, and there is no shortage of fantastic animated films to choose from over the next few weeks. The wonderful The Breadwinner (12A) (25 May–7 June) follows the story of a young headstrong girl in Afghanistan who disguises herself as a boy in order to provide for her family. The film received nominations for Best Animated Feature at the

F I L M O F T H E MO NT H

ON CHESIL BEACH (15) (1–14 June) Saoirse Ronan and Billy Howle star in this adaptation of Ian McEwan’s novella, which follows Florence and Edward through their idyllic courtship before the fiasco of their wedding night which has devastating consequences.

54 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

90th Academy Awards and the 2018 Golden Globe Awards and is a beautiful but unflinching tale of a young girl’s courage under Taliban rule. Mary and the Witch’s Flower (U) (1–7 June) is the story of another young girl, this time from Japanese studio Ponoc. Mary is transported to a land of magic when she discovers a rare flower in this animation based on Mary Stewart’s classic The Little Broomstick. Described by Empire magazine as “bewitching and visually dazzling”, this is a gorgeous adventure suitable for all the family. Other animated family features coming up include: the beautiful new animated adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit (PG) (27–30 May); the classic Watership Down (U) (27–31 May); Song of the Sea (PG) (31 May–3 June) in which Ben and his shape-shifting little sister go on an adventure to save the spirit world; Brave (PG) (9–10 June) about the defiant and courageous Merida; and Sherlock Gnomes (U) (9–10 June), which sees Gnomeo and Juliet turn to legendary detective Sherlock Gnomes to help find their missing family and friends. For more information and a full schedule, visit www.chapter.org/season/anim18

TOTALLY TROPICAL IT’S ALL GETTING RATHER EXOTIC

1. IN THE MIST

2. PIN UP

3. TEA TIME

4. SOFT TOUCH

5. CUTE CREATURE

Jo Malone London Cattleya Flower Body Mist, £45 With notes of cattleya, orchid, citrus fruit, gentian and vetiver, this is a spritz of pure sunshine! From Jo Malone London, St Davids Dewi Sant; www.jomalone.co.uk

Pineapple enamel pin, £7 Simple, stylish and fun! It’s the perfect pin to add a tropical touch to any outfit. From Home By Kirsty, 64a Glenroy Street, Roath; www.homebykirsty.com

Sarah Miller Flamingo Collection mug and tray set, £19.99 Tea time might be an English institution, but there’s no reason you can’t add a tropical twist! From Hamptons, 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; www.hamptonspenarth. com

A Lovely Little Company watermelon cushion, £16.50 With a tasty watermelon print this gorgeous cushion will brighten up any kid’s room or play space. From Barney & Beau, Unit 6, Pontcanna Mews; www.barneyandbeau.com

Contemporary Dombo Wall Lizard Ornament, £19.99 Let this lovely little lizard adorn a garden wall this summer. From Trendy Products, Unit 4, Havannah Street; www.trendy-products.co.uk

58 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

8 7

9 10

6. HEAD TO TOE

7. GIN GIN

8. SHINY THINGS

9. SCRUB UP

10. HANDS ON

Onjenu palm print top and skirt, £65 & £69 Take those tropical vibes wherever you go with this bright, bold print. From Kiti Cymru, Unit 1, Pontcanna Mews; www.kiticymru.com

Spit Roasted Pineapple Gin with lemonade with pineapple, £8 The gin in this concoction is made using whole pineapples, which are roasted on a spit with Demerara sugar until they are gloriously caramelised. From Gin and Juice, 3-5 High Street Arcade

Mother of pearl pineapple trinket storage box, £38 A pretty place to put pretty things. From Oliver Bonas, 37 The Hayes; www.oliverbonas.com

Mango sugar scrub, £13 This gorgeous scrub smells so good you’d be tempted to eat it – but don’t! Instead, scrub your skin to leave it silky smooth. From Miss Patisserie, 7 High Street Arcade; www.miss-patisserie.com

Tropical Fiesta Cocktail Napkins, £3.50 Turn any party into a fiesta with these paper napkins! From Kitchens Cookshop, 14 High Street; www.steamer.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 59 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

ad v ertising feat u re ta i l o r i n g

“We can work with anything, from suits and shirts to wedding dresses”

Suits you! The team at NEW STITCHES can have you looking sharp in no time

here’s few people as handy with a sewing machine and a needle and thread as Kasim and Murat at New Stitches in the High Street Arcade. The Turkish-born brothers learned their tailoring trade from their father, and now they are using their knowledge and more than 30 years of experience to help the men and women of Cardiff look as sharp as possible. Thanks to their superior workmanship skills the pair can complete almost any alterations to give garments the perfect fit. “You can buy a suit off the peg and bring it in here and we can make the alterations so it will look and feel like it has been made especially for you,” says Kasim. “Or we can make repairs to

bring new life into a old favourite. “We can work with anything, from suits and shirts to wedding dresses. We can even make a bespoke suit form scratch for you if you can provide the fabric.” Kasim and Murat have some top credentials, having made suits for the likes of Gareth Bale and the Welsh football team. They’re super-speedy workers too, and offer a same day service so if you bring something in first thing in the morning it can be ready for you to hit the town in that evening. “There is no charge until we have completed the work,” says Kasim. “If you bring something in and tell us what you need we’ll be able to tell you if we are able to do it and what it will cost,

then it’s up to you to decide if you want to go ahead. We don’t charge for a consultation.” If you think you recognise the pair’s smiling faces, you’re probably right. They previously worked in Stitches, in Wyndham Arcade, but now they’ve branched out on their own and are looking forward to welcoming you to New Stitches soon.

4-6 High Street Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BB 029 2022 7784 newstitchescardiff-clothingalterationservice.business.site/

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 61

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E G A R D E N

HISTORICAL GARDENING IN MODERN TIMES DYFFRYN GARDENS share historical gardening practices that will help you to get the most out of your allotment or veg patch at home

“HOME GROWERS OFTEN PREFER TO PUT THEIR ENERGY INTO GROWING MORE INTERESTING CROPS”

yffryn Gardens, just 15 minutes from Cardiff, is a haven for those passionate about growing their own produce. With two walled gardens and an enormous glasshouse set within 55 acres of gardens it is the spot in South Wales to get you inspired about your garden this spring. This year the team at Dyffryn are looking back to 1918 in order to celebrate historical working practices, specifically with their creation of a 10 perch allotment. A perch is an old unit of measurement used for measuring land. One perch measures 16.5ft x16.5ft. The team are following the planting plan described by Arthur Cobb (Head Gardener Dyffryn Gardens in 1917) in his article published in the Barry Dock News ‘How to crop a ten perch allotment to ensure a year round supply of vegetables’. Aimed at beginners the article was to support the government’s ‘Grow Your Own’ campaign. It encouraged people to grow their own veg in an effort to feed the population

during the food shortages during the latter part of World War One. Arthur Cobb’s crops provided subsistence food – lots of potatoes, especially main crop varieties that could be stored easily over winter. With these basics now available year round home growers often prefer to put their energy into growing more interesting crops, crops not easy to buy or those that are very expensive. In this vein the gardeners are growing vegetables such as the sweet tasting Italian onion’ Long Red Florence’ and the very popular purple salad potatoes alongside some 1918 subsistance varieties. The 10 perch model uses successional planting to use the space as much as possible. Early crops such as broad beans, harvested in June were followed by Brussel sprouts planted out in July. Winter cabbages followed early potatoes. July sown spring cabbage was planted in September in land vacated by the main crop onions. For those without a glasshouse brassicas and leeks can be sown outside in a seedbed then

transplanted to their final position once they are large enough and the ground becomes available. This month is the perfect time to visit Dyffryn Gardens as the main crops will be being sown, including beetroot, carrots, parsnips and fennel. Towards the end of the month the team will sow runner beans and net the soft fruits and those varieties especially delectable to birds and squirrels. Visitors to the garden are welcome to stop a gardener to get some tips from the experts on getting the best out of your own garden or allotment. You can visit the gardens seven days a week all year round.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyffryn-gardens 02920 593328 a @NTDyffrynG f @NTDyffrynGardens

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SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

Be our GUEST With Harry and Meghan kicking things off on 19 May the summer wedding season is fully underway, which means now is the time to start planning your perfect guest outfit!

his season, spring fashion is brighter than ever with bold shades of blues, reds, yellows, and the hottest shade of 2018, purple. We know choosing the best outfit can be a tricky one, so we’ve t hand picking our favourite summer wedding guest dresses. From popular bright colours and prints to softer, subtle pastels, there are plenty of options. All you have to do is choose the right one… No-one wants to outshine the bride, but that doesn’t mean you have to damp down your colour choices. Bold brights are having their moment and we are totally on board! We adore this botanical print dress from Whistles (5), available at John Lewis. Or how about this graphic printed shift dress from Oliver Bonas (10)? Pair with these coral Reiss heels (8) to channel the colour blocking trend. If you’re not feeling a frock, then why not opt for a jumpsuit? We love this super chic and bold jumpsuit from Whistles (1), available at John Lewis, with a wrap waist that is flattering for all shapes and sizes! Easy to pair with some flat, or some killer heels, there’s not much room for error with this one! Not feeling up to rocking the bold hues this season? There are plenty of soft pastel options for you instead! For those summer weddings we are lusting after this ethereal purple number from Whistles (4), available at John Lewis. Pair with a contrasting black clutch, like this one from Coast (6) and some black sling back heels from Marks & Spencer (7) for a pared back, chic look. If you’re feeling daring this wedding season why not try rocking a killer two piece? For those that are super fashion forward, Ted Baker’s slim fitted suit (2 & 3) is a must, plus the pastel pink hue is perfect for a spring/summer wedding. Pair with some statement earrings, like this pair from Oliver Bonas (9), to perfectly polish off your look. All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff or online at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest trends, news and offers, see St David’s on Instgram, Facebook and Twitter (@StDavidsCardiff) or at www.stdavidscardiff.com 64 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Carta backless halter detail jumpsuit, £225, Reiss

FA S H I O N

SHOPPING

1 5

6 9

8 7

1. Etta linen jumpsuit, £159, Whistles 2. Dornaj lapel suit jacket, £199, Ted Baker 3. Dornaj lapel suit trousers, £199, Ted Baker 4. Luisa satin midi dress, £249, Whistles 5. Palmyra print wrap dress, £135.20, Whistles 6. Camilla Bow Bag, £45, Coast 7. Collection courts, £49.50, M&S 8. Katya stiletto heel court shoe, £155, Reiss 9. Anabeth statement earrings, £45, Oliver Bonas 10. Block print tunic dress, £69.50, Oliver Bonas www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 65

The Whites Dental Centre Tell us your story. Dr Pamela White BDS GDC 52754 Dr Matthew White BDS GDC 52753 Ian Seddon BDS GDC 64868 (Practice Limited to Dental Implants) The Whites Dental Centre in association with Seddon Dental Implant Practice Ltd. 3 Station Road Radyr, CardiďŹ&#x20AC; CF15 8AA

Tel 02920843658 info@white-smile.net www.white-smile.net

Limited to private practice.

More adventures in party-going

Hazel Foster and Jason Foster

SNAPPED!

Lydia Whitfield and Natalie Thomas

AC ROS S CA R D I FF, O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

HAVING A BALL

Stuart Price (Quantum Advisory)

South Wales-based financial services business, Quantum Advisory, raised ÂŁ10,000 for Welsh childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospice, Ty Hafan, with a fundraising ball at The Celtic Manor. The black-tie event on 16 March saw around 180 colleagues, clients and friends of the Cardiff company come together, with Welsh Rugby Union legend Paul Thorburn hosting the evening. For more: www.quantumadvisory.co.uk

Scott Edmunds, John Plenderleith and Francesca Allen

Andrew Reid-Jones, Emma ReidJones, Daryl Morris and Joanna-Louise Evans

Alastair, Sara and Will Milburn

Vannessa Hathaway and Bubble Events team

Catrin Finch, Rhiannon HarvardJones and Emma Wordley

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 71

SOCIETY Billie Horsey, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Welsh Ambassador, telling her inspirational story

FOR THE WIN The annual Wales HR Awards, created by Darwin Gray and Acorn, took place on Friday 23 March at The Exchange Hotel. The ceremony and dinner was hosted by the BBC’s Sian Lloyd. Fundraising at the event was in aid of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and entertainment from Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band rounded off a wonderful night with a packed dance floor of finalists, winners and their teams. For more: www.waleshrnetwork.cymru Photos by Michael Hall Photography

Fflur Jones with host Sian Lloyd

Triple award winners Tai Tarian

2018 winner Cath Day (second from right) and 2017 winner Sophie Cecil (far right) with colleagues from New Directions

Karen Birch, Joanna Adams, Ita McNeil-Jones and Damian Phillips

The team from Darwin Gray

72 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The Exchange Hotel’s sumptuous ballroom, with 350 guests at the sold out event

SOCIETY

Judges and speakers on the top table with Sian Lloyd and senior people from Darwin Gray and Acorn The team from Bluestone with their Employer of the Year trophy The team from Gower College Swansea, with winner Sarah King holding her trophy and Principal Mark Jones in the centre

The team from Acorn Recruitment

Big Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wholly Soul Band kept the dancefloor bouncing all night

Fflur Jones, Kelly Mordecai (winner of Best HR Professional in the Public/ Third Sector the overall HR Star Award), Sian Lloyd and Lewis Fawsitt (Acorn)

All the Wales HR Awards 2018 winners with Sian Lloyd, Fflur Jones and Lewis Fawsitt

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SOCIETY

Jill Salter, Caroline Cooksley, Calvinn Jones and Andrew Cooksley

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS First Minister Carwyn Jones called on responsible companies to help deliver a positive difference in Wales at Business In the Community Cymru’s launch of Responsible Business Week at St David’s Hotel on 23 April. Speakers included Matt Appleby, Jane Wood, Chris Nott OBE and Jane Wood and the event was sponsored by Capital Law. For more: www.bitc.org.uk

Lynsey Holley-Matthews, Andrew Lycett and Jane Wood

Matt Appleby, FM Carwyn Jones, Jane Wood and Chris Nott

Wil Williams, Gerald Kelly and Debbie Powell

Scott Sanders, Neil Ingham, Amanda Davies and Simon Jehu

FM Carwyn Jones speaking at Responsible Business Week

Matt Lewis and Peter Evans

74 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A MAN’S WORLD

Robben

Island

BLAINE SCULLY

THE BIG, WIDE WORLD Blaine talks travel, experience and opportunity

ne of the truly unique aspects of rugby is its global nature. Our changing room at Cardiff Blues, for instance, is a mix of Welsh, English, Pacific Islanders, and New Zealanders with a South African, Georgian and an American sprinkled in… The game is a mix of cultures and people that provide such depth and quality to the experience. This provides an interesting blend of flavours and a multitude of different personalities. Through the game, we travel to compete. One week in Ireland, the next week in Italy and then a quick trip to France. A few weeks back the Cardiff Blues travelled to

South Africa for two matches. We played in Bloemfontein, trained in Cape Town and finished our “mini-tour” in Port Elizabeth. We were able to visit places such as Table Mountain – Cape Town’s stunning backdrop – and Robben Island, the long-time prison of Nelson Mandela. The opportunities to see the world through sport, meet new people and try new things are a few of the reasons I believe rugby is so special. Competition is our passport and although we might not speak the same language, we understand each other through our shared love of the game. Blaine Scully plays professional rugby for Cardiff Blues – follow him on Twitter @BlaineScully1. For more: www.cardiffblues.com

THE OPPORTUNITIES TO SEE THE WORLD THROUGH SPORT, MEET NEW PEOPLE AND TRY NEW THINGS ARE A FEW OF THE REASONS I BELIEVE RUGBY IS SO SPECIAL

Table Mountain is a dramatic backdrop to Cape Town 78 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N C A R D I F F

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Pizza restaurant Dusty Knuckle has introduced reusable takeaway pizza boxes specially imported from Italy. The light aluminum pizza boxes will be available for take-away customers to purchase for a one-off cost of £2. Each time they are used to collect a pizza, the buyer will be able to claim 50p off the price. It is hoped that the initiative will help cut down on the number of grease-stained pizza boxes that are mistakenly put into recycling bags every year, which can’t actually be recycled because of contamination. Dusty Knuckle founder and chef Phill

A magical creation from Lab22

Lewis explains, “In our restaurant we try to be as sustainable as possible. Our courtyard at The Printhaus is full of reclaimed and recycled materials, so we never liked giving out single-use, cardboard pizza boxes; it felt wasteful which isn’t something we – or our customers – like to be. “Closed cardboard pizza boxes also don’t allow for any ventilation, meaning that our pizzas didn’t travel as well as a takeaway. The new re-usable boxes mean our pizzas stay warmer longer thanks to the conductivity of aluminum, so they’ll taste better too!” For more: www.dustyknuckle.co.uk

MIXING IT UP

A chorizo & basil pizza in one of Dusty Knuckle’s new reusable box

CAFFEINE FIX Coffee Planet opened its first UK store on Newport Road on 15 May serving 100% Arabica specialty coffee. They say, “Our mission is to provide customers with the finest Arabica coffee, roasted and delivered perfectly every time. We roast our own premium coffee in our UAE roasters and have been supplying customers in foodservice, retail and business across the Middle East and beyond since 2005.” For more: www.coffeeplanet.co.uk

82 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Massive congrats to The Dead Canary and Lab 22, both of which have been named among the UK’s top 50 cocktail bars. The list has been compiled by hospitality industry publication, the Morning Advertiser, with a team of bartenders, bar managers and drinks industry experts from across the UK, voting for their favourite bars. The full list, along with the placings, will be revealed at a ceremony in Manchester on 4 June. For more: www.thedeadcanary.co.uk and www.lab22cardiff.com

Coffee Planet

T Eat up!

Get ready for Cowbridge’s annual fiesta of flavour!

84 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

he award-winning Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival returns from 27–28 May for another family-friendly, foodfilled bank holiday weekend. Now into its 14th year, the community-centric festival will once again entice crowds to the traditional market town and provide a platform for more than 100 small, local food and drink producers and suppliers to showcase their exceptional products. Firmly established as a must-attend event for Welsh foodies, Cowbridge’s rich offering of entertaining activities and educational demonstrations, has proven increasingly popular. To incorporate the ever-growing line-up, this year’s festival will spread across several sites including, for the first time, The Duke of Wellington Car Park which will host a variety of exhibitors, and the ball room which will introduce an all new craft fair. Crafters from Cowbridge and neighbouring areas will be offering the chance to buy their unique creations as well as demonstrating their skills such as handmade clothes, home made greeting cards, pottery and lots more.

F E S T I VA L

WHAT’S COOKING?

Throughout the Sunday and Monday, chefs from local establishments will share top recipe tips for families cooking on a budget, with live demonstrations from the likes of Wasteless Suppers, Sian Bassett-Roberts, Hare and Hounds and Tomos a Lilford Brewery. For those wanting to watch something distinctively different, Live Fire displays will be taking place on both days from Meat and Greek, Hang Fire, Bar 44 and others. Hare & Hounds at 1 Town Hall Square will be serving up burgers and lobster alongside a pop-up outdoor Bacardi Mojito bar and a Birra Moretti UK beer tap in their courtyard. The Vale of Glamorgan Inn will be hosting its annual Real Ale Festival from Friday evening to Monday evening and guarantees a great atmosphere day or night. Taking place at the start of half term, there’s also plenty going on for the younger visitors, including experienced children’s entertainer Simon Sparkles dazzling with his unique fun blend of comedy, magic, games, puppetry and music. Old Hall Gardens is host to face painting, the chance for children (and adults!) to make their own clay pot, do some hand sewing, willow weaving, stained glass and an opportunity to use a real spinning wheel. Visitors can also make a plant pot from recycled newspaper and plant some fruit or flower seeds.

Making food the oldfashioned way!

IT IS

FIRMLY

ESTABLISHED AS A

MUSTATTEND EVENT FOR WELSH

FOOD

Wales’ foodie background, festival goers will be able to delve into the story behind our nation’s most well-known and best loved recipes, some of which have been handed down from generation to generation, from Welsh cakes and bara brith to laverbread and nettle pie. Throughout the festival, Old Hall Gardens will transport guests into a bygone era, teaching them about the traditional preparation methods and the history of the country’s famous dishes in a series of professional live demonstrations over the weekend. Demos will be run by ITV’s Fran Donovan who has a strong passion for all things food and history related and will help bring the demonstrations to life. Taking to the stage are Penylan Preserves making a delicious damson pie, Cwm Farm Charcuterie showing the art of artisan charcuterie, local seaweed company Mr Laverman who is set to reveal traditional uses of laverbread, Shelly’s Foods creating Welsh cakes and bara brith, Lia’s Kitchen concocting a nettle and wild garlic pie, and Michele at Edible Landscaping will be explaining how to safely forage for food without disturbing natural habitats. Visitors should make time to see local chef duo and ancient history specialists, The History Chefs, who rewind the clock and look at feasts from the past, showcasing techniques and giving people a unique insight into foods that once formed the basis of Welsh diets. Guests are invited on a taste tour of secret eras of the past in a series of historical food sampling sessions which include exploring less mechanised means of production and harvesting. Polly Wilson, Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival Manager, says, “The Forgotten Foods project is something that is truly unique and is a definite must-see at the festival. Visitors can not only watch, but take part in an interactive insight into the origins of Welsh food and drink and experience how it was made and what it tasted like. The sessions premiered last year and proved extremely popular and we can’t wait to revive them, with new time periods and original compelling content for a brand new audience.” w

FOODIES

FORGOTTEN FOODS

After receiving a Sharing Heritage grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund last year, the Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival launched the fascinating ‘Forgotten Foods’ project, stepping back in time and exploring historical skills and traditional methods of food production and storage. Embracing one of the oldest market towns in www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 85

FOOD

F E S T I VA L

BOOMING BUSINESS

Part of the festival’s unique appeal, and one of the ways Cowbridge continues to grow year on year, is its focus on new businesses, producers and suppliers. This not only gives the start-up companies the opportunity to exhibit their products to thousands but also keeps the festivals’ content fresh each year. For 2018, of the 100 or so stalls, more than 20% have been trading for less than three years, and more than 30% have been trading for less than five years. Among those local businesses crediting the festival with raising their profile when starting out is Non Rhys, founder of flourishing company Tast Natur. Non says, “As a new business with a new type of product to the market, such as foraged syrups, Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival has been invaluable to get direct feedback from customers who are really interested in, and appreciate, quality produce. It’s also a great opportunity to increase profile and experience, and meet other like-minded businesses.” Sian Miguel, of the Bearded Taco, says, “We are so excited to be making our Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival debut this year. As a newer company it can often be hard to get into the more established food festivals, so it’s fantastic that this event helps to support and nurture smaller businesses. This is such a popular staple in the food festival calendar and offers us a great platform to show people what we can do and reach a wider audience who are willing to try new things. We also cannot wait to have a wander around, meet some great local suppliers and eat ALL the yummy food!”

And here’s what the regulars say about the festival… SAM EVANS, HANG FIRE

What do you eat when you go to the festival? We work over the festival selling our own brand of smokey goodness, so if we’re not munching on our own supply, the best thing is the food swaps with other stall holders – you get to try some amazing produce. Any tips for first time Cowbridge festival goers? The festival is spread over the back streets of Cowbridge, and the layout can change year to year. It’s worth taking the time to thoroughly explore and orienteer yourself. Grab a map and find some hidden gems! Previous festival highlight? We started a ‘Live Fire’ demonstration area last year, and asked the best of the Vale chefs to step out of their kitchens and cook over coals. This year we’ll be covering everything from dinner to desserts. Hang Fire will be curating and hosting with very some special guests on Sunday and Monday. What’s different about the Cowbridge Food & Drink festival? 86 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Lia’s Kitchen

Myfanwy Edwards, of Artisan Cakes, will be introducing her new company, Cowbridge Food Assembly, to festival goers. The eco-friendly ‘click & collect’ on-line Farmers Market allows customers to buy on a single website directly from local farmers, growers and a whole host of food producers all within 30 miles. The innovative initiative aims to change people’s perception of food shopping. Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival actively promotes all businesses throughout the whole town and surrounding areas, particularly with new companies opening and encourages them to become part of the event. This year Master of Wines, Richard Ballantyne, will be hosting a winebased quiz instore at The Noble Grape along with wine tasting and special offers. Tickets cost £5 for a day pass, and £8 for both days. For more: www.cowbridgefoodanddrink.org.

This festival has a track record of supporting and nurturing new businesses and giving them a chance to shine. The vibe is amazing and the festival goers are inquisitive and friendly - and it’s almost always sunny that weekend (have we jinxed the weather now?!)

VICKY CRITCHER, CHIEF BROWNIE MAKER AT THE CHOCOLATE BROWNIE COMPANY

What do you eat when you go to the festival? Normally I go for savoury as I’m selling sweet chocolate brownies! Any tips for first time Cowbridge festival goers? Make sure you have a good wander around – and try a brownie pick ‘n’ mix! Tips for first time exhibitors Enjoy yourselves! Previous festival highlight? Selling out! What’s different about the Cowbridge Food & Drink festival? Definitely the event organiser, Polly.

MELANIE CONSTANTINOU, BAKED BY MEL

What do you eat when you go to the festival? Anything from Samosa Co but at least one scotch egg onion bhaji!! They are seriously good! Any tips for first time Cowbridge festival goers? Bring a shopping bag, wear comfy shoes…and elasticated trousers!! Tips for first time exhibitors Don’t forget your eco-friendly packaging. And be prepared to trade and taste stuff from your stall buddies! Previous festival highlight? A lovely customer fetched me a glass of prosecco when I was snowed under and couldn’t leave my pitch for refreshments. So civilised. What’s different about the Cowbridge Food & Drink festival? I love that it’s on my doorstep. I only live a few miles away in Llantwit so a lot of visitors know me. It’s like a big open air party with lots of fabulous food…lush!!

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S S ER I O US

(l-r) Jacques Colgate and Olivia Barry from Hijinx; Deb Barber, CEO of Cardiff Airport; Rachel Jones CEO Arts & Business Cymru

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

THE BIG STORY

A BIT OF ROLE PLAY A serious side to play-acting An initiative that will see staff at Cardiff Airport being trained by actors with learning disabilities to help improve their communications skills is the 100th project to benefit from a funding injection by Arts & Business (A&B) Cymru’s CultureStep programme. The forward-thinking scheme will see 20 members of the airport’s security staff undergoing training with six learning disabled actors from Hijinx Theatre, who will role-play scenarios from daily life. As well as improving the security’s team ability to communicate with a wide-range of customers, the initiative aims to complement existing customer service practices and further enhance the travel experience of vulnerable passengers at Wales’ national airport. If the project is successful, there is scope to roll out the training to other frontline teams and develop a customer-facing filmed guide for more staff members at Cardiff Airport. It is one of 12 projects from across Wales that have just received funding through A&B Cymru’s

CultureStep programme – and is the 100th project to be funded since CultureStep was launched in May 2014, thanks to funding support from The Hodge Foundation and the Moondance Foundation. Deb Barber, Chief Executive of Cardiff Airport said, “We are very committed to delivering the best possible customer experience for everyone choosing to fly from Cardiff, and we are particularly proud of our PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) service – it incorporates everything we’ve learned so far from our partners which include Autism Puzzles and Age Cymru. “It’s great to continue on this path and further expand our knowledge with the support of Hijinx Theatre. The scheme is a unique and dynamic way to engage our staff and I’ve no doubt this is the beginning of an exciting chapter in our training and development.” The next CultureStep applications will be considered at a panel meeting in July 2018. For more: www.aandbcymru.org.uk

“HISTORICALLY, IT WAS ALWAYS MEN WHO LOOKED INTO THIS AHEAD OF THE MARRIAGE, HOWEVER THAT TREND HAS DEFINITELY SHIFTED AND MORE WOMEN ARE LOOKING TO INSTIGATE THIS NOW” What’s being talked about? Turn over to find out more

1.5m THE BIG NUMBER

The number of people who used Cardiff Airport in the last 12 months. Find out more over the page.

Got a business news story for us? Email emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk

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TRAVEL SPECIAL PHOTO CREDIT SBW-PHOTO

Central Park onboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas

The new Cardiff Airport Departure Lounge unveiled by Sam Warburton OBE and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport Ken Skates

READY FOR DEPARTURE A new look departure lounge was officially opened by The Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport Ken Skates and Welsh international rugby union and Lions star Sam Warburton OBE, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque made from Welsh slate last month. Guests enjoyed a tour of the new-look Departure Lounge, sampled products and enjoyed entertainment by Only Boys Aloud. Guests were also treated to a limited edition goody bag filled with ‘Super CWL’ gifts, created in partnership with I Loves the ‘Diff to celebrate the terminal developments. The £4 million investment into the improvement of the customer experience has seen developments to both the terminal and the airport’s surrounding infrastructure including more seating, a new look executive lounge and brand new Business Lounge, increased retail and café space and a new car hire centre. Deb Barber, CEO at Cardiff Airport said, “The latest investment will significantly transform the experience for customers, offering more choice

and quality in modern, welcoming surroundings. This is especially important at a time when we are experiencing passenger growth and working with our airline partners to introduce more choice in services for our customers. Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport, said, “Since the Welsh Government acquired Cardiff Airport it has gone from strength to strength with passenger numbers now at nearly 1.5 million a year, and flights from the airport landing at more than 50 destinations.” For more: www.cardiff-airport.com

Sn-ap happy

The new departure lounge

A new facility in the city centre is allowing people to look around a cruise ship, without even having to leave dry land. The WOWcruise Experience Centre is equipped with 3D virtual reality glasses that allow customers to explore the interiors of a range of high-end cruise ships, and a ‘captain’s lounge’ serving champagne, beer, coffee, tea and refreshments. George Johnson, Managing Director of WOWcruise, said, “Opening our first Experience Centre in our home town of Cardiff marks a special moment for us. The launch was a huge success and we’re grateful to everyone who supported us on the day, including our partners P&O, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean.” For more: www.wowcruise.com

COACH CLASS An on-demand coach provider has launched a Cardiff to London service. Sn-ap connects intercity travellers with high quality premium coaches usually reserved for elite sports teams, executive travel and luxury tours. Thomas Ableman, founder of Sn-ap, has spent the last 14 years working within the transport sector and set up Sn-ap in 2016 after spotting a widening gap in the market. He said, “Problem number one with transport is a severe lack of choice, which leads to high fares, inflexible timetables and poor service. I could see rising demand, yet intercity travel is exactly like it was 30 years ago.”

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JUST CRUISING

“Coach is the ideal intercity travel solution: it’s environmentally sound and cost-effective to run. We can pick-up and drop-off at a variety of flexible locations, rather than taking you to a fixed terminus, you don’t want to go to and – thanks to new technology – you can manage the whole experience on your mobile.” To promote the new service, Sn-ap is offering a free trial return trip between Cardiff and London to all new customers, which can be redeemed via Sn-ap’s website. For more: www.sn-ap.com/cardiff

BUSINESS INSIDER

SAY “I DO” TO PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS MANAGING CHANGE Educational charity, Techniquest, has appointed development consultancy Lee Wakemans to manage its ambitious £5 million expansion plans. Cardiff-based Lee Wakemans is experienced in construction projects across a wide range of sectors including leisure, education, health and commercial. Paul Wong, Director at Lee Wakemans said, “We are proud to have been appointed as project managers on the extension and reimagining of Techniquest. This project will touch the lives of thousands of people in Cardiff and the surrounding area for years to come.” Lesley Kirkpatrick, CEO of Techniquest, said, “After a competitive tender process, we chose Lee Wakemans to partner with us as it was obvious that not only could they do an excellent job, but they really understand us as a business and demonstrated ways that they could support and add value to our charity.” For more: www.techniquest.org

Wales’s brides-to-be are increasingly ready to sign a prenuptial agreement ahead of their vows, an expert family solicitor has revealed. Jodi Winter, partner at CJCH Solicitors and head of Family, Matroidal and Childcare law, said the firm had seen a definite increase in engaged women entering into a prenuptial agreement before saying “I Do” in recent years. A prenuptial agreement is a formal written agreement both parties enter into ahead of the marriage, which details ownership of any property, assets and finances and outlines how they will be divided in the event of a divorce. Ms Winter, who works at the firm’s Barry office, said the influx in women consulting a solicitor could be attributed to people choosing to marry later in life. She said, “At CJCH Solicitors we have seen a definite increase in women entering into prenuptial agreements. “Historically, it was always men who looked into this ahead of the marriage, however that trend has definitely shifted and more women are looking to instigate this now. “I think this comes down to the fact that they are getting married later in life, having pursued their careers and ensuring they are financially stable. As such they want to ensue the property, assets, and finances they have acquired are protected in the event of a divorce.” Ms Winter, whose legal specialisms also include

cohabitation agreements, said overall the firm had seen an increase in the number of people in Wales entering into a prenuptial agreement ahead of their wedding, with both men and women making more enquiries. She said that as women and men married later in life they were more cautious about protecting themselves financially as they entered into marriage. She added, “We see a lot of people getting married for the first time in their mid to late 30s now, who have got their own properties, business and other assets. “Equally, there are a lot of more mature people entering into their second marriage, having already gone through divorce once. “I think that age is a definite factor in the decision to enter into a prenuptial agreement, and I think the gradual rise we have seen in drafting agreements can be linked with later marriages.” For more: www.cjchsolicitors.co.uk

IN THE MONEY Business woman, author and star of Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire Gill Fielding (left), will be giving a free seminar on gaining financial liberation at Cardiff’s Jury’s Inn on 6 June. The event coincides with the release of her new book Solving the Financial Success Puzzle. For more: www.fieldingfinancial.com

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Meet the Family Lawyer Cardiff has hundreds of law firms, all offering conflicting statements and slightly different services – our handy guide helps you to find the right one for your family’s legal needs...

Gaynor Dickens Geldards LLP 029 2038 6524; 07714 093 465 Gaynor.Dickens@geldards.com; www.geldards.com What’s your favourite part of the job? Unknotting legal tangles, minimising stress and encouraging respect between couples. What are the biggest misconceptions surrounding family law? That it’s expensive. The costs of not having a good lawyer can be enormous. For example, Dale Vince married in 1981 and separated after three years when neither party had any money. 27 years later he was the multimillionaire owner of Ecotricity but didn’t have a final financial remedy order, so when his ‘very’ ex-wife took him to court he had to give her hundreds of thousands of pounds. Also, that common law partners have the same rights as married ones. There is no guarantee that you will be entitled to a share of the property you call home, even if you’ve spent years living there – getting a cohabitation agreement will help. What do you specialise in? I have 30 years’ experience dealing with high net worth divorce and separation, pre and post-nuptial agreements and complicated children’s matters. What key advice would you give to someone considering a divorce? Keep communicating. It helps keep costs down and hopefully allows you both to attend your children’s weddings!

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Sandra Horwood

Catrin Stephens

QualitySolicitors J A Hughes 029 2061 9700 www.qualitysolicitors.com/jahughes

Peter Lynn & Partners 02920 600799 www.peterlynnandpartners.co.uk

Which aspect of family law do you specialise in? I have specialised in financial settlements following relationship breakdown and children matters for more than 30 years, although as a firm we deal with all aspects of family law. I am a member of the Law Society’s Family Law Advanced Panel and I am also a trained Collaborative Lawyer, working with families to resolve issues outside of court wherever possible to avoid extra stress and uncertainty.

What do you specialise in? I specialise in financial issues in divorce and separation. I regularly deal with cases which include family business, farms, property portfolios and inherited property and I have a lot of experience dealing with police, fire service and military pension division on divorce.

How has family law changed in the last few years? The biggest change is that Legal Aid is largely no longer available except in limited cases e.g. where domestic violence or child abuse is involved. What professional accomplishment has made you most proud? We are one of the few firms to obtain exceptional Legal Aid funding for a client with a disability, who otherwise would not have qualified for public funding and wouldn’t have been able to have professional legal support. It is always a rewarding moment to go above and beyond for clients. What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making? Many clients believe that the Decree Absolute also covers financial arrangements in a divorce, which is not true. We advise every client to obtain a final financial order to avoid claims against finances in the future.

What advice would you give someone considering divorce? Firstly, I would say choose a lawyer who is a specialist family practitioner with expertise in the area that you are looking for. Also look at the firm as a whole. At Peter Lynn and Partners we have lawyers with a wide range of expertise, for example we have Wills, Trusts, Company and Commercial departments which can help with the finances on divorce. What is the biggest mistake you see clients making? The most difficult thing for most people going through a divorce is to try and separate their negative emotions and hurt about the relationship breakdown from their finances. They need to take a rational approach to financial division. It is important to be realistic about settlement and not waste money on chasing a settlement that is clearly unrealistic. If you could change one area of family law, what would it be? I would definitely change the fault-based divorce system and I think that most family law practitioners would agree that the present system leads to futile court battles.

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jacqui Davies Sara Plant Peter Lynn & Partners 02920 600799 www.peterlynnandpartners.co.uk What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making? The end of a relationship is generally accompanied by a sense of grief, and possibly anger or guilt. Any of these emotions can lead to a person making rash decisions as to how to deal with the financial aspects of their divorce. Some people just want to conclude the divorce and financial proceedings as quickly as possible and will often look to reach an agreement without having full knowledge of their spouseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial position. People can rush in to a decision only to regret it a few months or a year later. It is essential to be able to make an informed decision so that you can plan for your and your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial future. Tell us something about yourself. I have been qualified as a Family Solicitor since 1993 having worked in firms in Cardiff and Swansea. I have been a Partner at Peter Lynn & Partners for some 20 years. During that period, I have obtained a wealth of experience dealing with relationship breakdown, cohabitation, same sex relationships, pre-nuptial and post nuptial agreements and matters relating to children. If you could introduce a one new law what would it be? It is something that is mooted regularly but is yet to be introduced and that is no fault divorces. Many people simply fall out of love and wish to bring the marriage to an end without apportioning any blame. Currently, to commence proceedings immediately the divorce has to be fault based and this often gives rise to unnecessary acrimony and stress.

JNP Legal Solicitors 02920 763211 www.jnplegal.org How has family law changed in the last few years? Family law has changed recently because a large area of family law that used to be funded by legal aid has been taken away. Also many areas of the Divorce Petition has changed to make it more user friendly for the public to access a divorce themselves. What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law? The biggest mis-conception surrounding family law is that not having a legal representative will save them money and time. Often problems can be resolved quickly and fairly cheaply with a lawyer. What do you specialise in? I specialise in all types of relationship breakdowns including divorce, civil partnerships, separations and finances those relationship breakdowns. Also children matters on breakdown. What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce? Consider legal representation at the outset. Listen to the advice given and try to make decisions based on the advice and not your emotions. Clients often react to relationship breakdowns rather than what is best for the future and what you would like to achieve long term. If you could introduce one new law what would it be? Non Blame divorce What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making? Not instructing a solicitor from the outset of the breakdown of the relationship. Allowing their emotions to make their decisions.

LEE DAVIES JNP Legal Solicitors 02920 763211 www.jnplegal.org What do you specialise in? I am the head of the Family Department, I specialise in all aspects of family law and in particular representing parents who are in dispute around the living arrangements and contact arrangements for their children following separation. I also act for parents in care proceedings when the local authority has become involved with their family and are seeking the removal of their children. What is your favourite part of the job? Resolving family law disputes can be extremely hard work as you are dealing not only with the legal problem but also the emotional side of matters. But it is extremely rewarding when you conclude a case and know that you have made a real difference to your clientÂšs life and their future. What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making? An increasing number of clients begin their case representing themselves and instruct us late on in proceedings when they have reached a difficult stage iand realise they can no longer resolve their dispute without legal representation. It is difficult when you enter the case at a later stage as ideally you would be representing the client from the very start to ensure that the case is run effectively from the outset and this also ensures the best outcome for the client. Family law disputes are extremely emotive matters and it is usually a mistake for separating couples to delay seeking legal representation.

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Meet the PRE-NUPtial LAWYER Relationships can be tricky things, and sometimes you may want to seek legal advice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our handy guide helps you to find the right lawyer for your needs

LUKE DIXON Martyn Prowel Solicitors 029 2047 0909 www.martynprowel.co.uk Why should someone consider a prenuptial agreement? If people are bringing unequal contributions of wealth into the marriage they may think about preparing one to ensure a simpler division of the assets if the marriage sadly ends. What sort of things should and should not be included? Anything within reason can be included. This is of course an agreement and should reflect what both parties consider is important. There should always be a schedule of assets attached to the agreement so each party knows what the financial situation is between them and what is being proposed by the agreement. What should you do if you are asked to sign a pre-nuptial agreement? Take advice from an experienced divorce solicitor. It is crucial that each party has good independent legal advice to ensure that the agreement reflects what they want to happen in the event of a marriage breakdown. Are you seeing an increase in the number of people wanting a pre-nuptial agreement? If so, why do you think this is? Yes. The trend is showing that people are marrying later in life or marrying for a second or third time and often will have accumulated wealth prior to the marriage and therefore want provision to protect this if the marriage were to unfortunately breakdown. Stating the obvious, it is not the most romantic thing to do in the lead up to the big day but the reality is that people are not going into these agreements presuming the marriage will end but just want peace of mind knowing what would happen if it did.

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jodi elizabeth winter Jennie Read Howells Solicitors 02920 404020 www.howellslegal.com What does drawing up a pre-nuptial agreement entail? Each person’s situation is different and a pre nuptial agreement needs to be fully and carefully considered and tailored to the parties’ individual requirements. Pre-nuptial agreements are not legally binding in England and Wales. However, they may influence the outcome and in one landmark case known as Radmacher v Granatino [2010] UKSC 42, the court upheld the pre-nuptial agreement. What sort of things should and should not be included? Amongst other things, the agreement should include: full details of each party; the jurisdiction in which the divorce shall take place; and, the nature of the financial disclosure that has been exchanged. It should not include obligations on a third party without their express agreement. Any term that seeks to oust the court’s jurisdiction will be void on the grounds that it is contrary to public policy – the agreement cannot contain a promise by either party not to make an application for financial provision from the court What should you do if you are asked to sign a pre-nuptial agreement? Seek independent legal advice about the implications of the agreement. The costs are minimal compared with the financial implications that can arise otherwise. Are you seeing an increase in the number of people wanting a pre-nuptial agreement? If so, why do you think this is? Yes – I think many people worry about the financial implications of marriage, particularly those who have all or most of the assets.

CJCH Solicitors 033 3231 6405 www.cjchsolicitors.co.uk Why should someone consider a prenuptial agreement? Both parties should consider a pre-nuptial agreement for the simple reason that it provides peace of mind going into the marriage that all aspects of their finances, assets and property are protected. It isn¹t a matter of trusting each other, but rather a matter of being responsible and planning for your own future, for any eventuality. It can also protect one partner against the other’s debt, protect inherited assets or children’s inheritance, and ensure control over business interests. What does drawing up a pre-nuptial agreement entail? A pre-nuptial agreement consists of a formal written agreement which is entered into between the partners to the relationship ahead of the marriage. It outlines what each party is entitled to should the marriage end, as well as any related conditions. What sort of things should and should not be included? It is best to assess this on a case by case basis as it is largely related to the value of the item to the individual, both from a financial and a sentimental perspective. There aren¹t specific rules as to what should not be included, per se, but rather just that as much is discussed and agreed as possible, and nothing is left to chance. What should you do if you are asked to sign a pre-nuptial agreement? Before signing you should seek advice from someone who is informed and qualified. This doesn¹t mean that you do not trust your partner, but it is important to protect your own interests as well as your collective interests. Ensure that the agreement takes your circumstances into consideration and is as much for your own good as much as it is for your partner’s.

Are you seeing an increase in the number of people wanting a prenuptial agreement? If so, why do you think this is? We definitely are see a marked increase in people seeking information on pre-nuptial agreements. Interestingly, in the past the trend was often male clients wanting information on this, whereas this trend has shifted significantly towards female clients. We believe it is due to the fact that people are getting married later in life having first pursued a career, which is leading to their interest in putting the necessary measures in place ahead of saying ‘I do.’

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TANYA THOMAS HCB; 02920 291 704 www.hcbgroup.com/site/contact/cardiff/ What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law. Contrary to what is often reported in the media, there is no such thing as a “quickie divorce”. Firstly the parties need to have been married (or in a civil partnership) for at least one year before either can apply to the court for a divorce (or dissolution). Secondly, most divorces will include issues regarding the separation of the parties’ assets. It goes without saying that if the marriage is coming to an end then a formal disentangling of assets, income and pensions will also need to take place. A financial agreement will sometimes take more time than the parties think because of mistaken beliefs about who owns what, financial complexity and failing to disclose the right information. Because divorce severs the legal relationship between the parties it is almost always better to apply for the decree absolute (or final order) after a financial agreement is in place. If it is obtained too soon then the parties may lose valuable benefits. What is the biggest mistake you find your clients making? The biggest mistake is getting bogged down in tit for tat behaviour and instead of moving forwards. Divorce is often a very distressing process for everyone involved and it is in the best interests of both parties to ensure that it does not become protracted. Whilst it is impossible to remove all emotion from such a process it is best to avoid engaging in delaying tactics or anything else that is likely to annoy the other party (and get you nowhere). The trouble with family law issues becoming clouded by emotion is that they almost always result in delay and the parties themselves paying more in legal costs. I don’t think any client seeking family law advice thinks “I’d like to spend a little more on this than I have to”.

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Katie Mccolgan Berry Smith Lawyers 029 2034 5511 www.berrysmith.com

Why should someone consider a prenuptial agreement? Whilst you should always enter into marriage prepared to emotionally and financially invest to make it work, this important step can provide peace of mind, that assets which you or your family have built up over years, would not be lost if the marriage ended. What does drawing up a pre-nuptial agreement entail? There needs to be full mutual disclosure of your income and assets, so that the other party knows, and can take advice on, what they might overwise have been entitled to had there been no such agreement. What sort of things should and should not be included? I would include particulars of properties, potential inheritances, heirlooms etc which you want to safeguard. I would not use it to set out day to day details of how you are going to manage your financial affairs together. What should you do if you are asked to sign a pre-nuptial agreement? Take legal advice! Whilst not technically legally binding, you need to be aware that the courts could well uphold such an agreement against you in the event of a breakdown of your marriage. Are you seeing an increase in the number of people wanting a prenuptial agreement? If so, why do you think this is? Whilst still relatively small when compared to the number of marriages, such agreements are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in second marriages or where there is a large disparity of assets being brought to the marriage. Many still view marriage as desirable with, for example, the numbers of marriages amongst the over 65’s actually going up this year but wish for protection against anything going wrong.

BEN EVANS Slater and Gordon Lawyers 0292 192 1818 slatergordon.co.uk Why should someone consider a prenuptial agreement? Unfortunately, marriages can and, as the statistics suggest, often do end. Entering into a pre-nuptial agreement could protect you and your partner from serious financial and emotional stress if the worst did happen. What sort of things should and should not be included? Pre-nuptial agreements are put in place to protect the parties’ financial position. It can include the division of property and finances on separation, protection of a family heirloom or that one spouse should not be liable for the others debts. Pre-nuptial agreements cannot for example, include a clause preventing the requirement to pay child maintenance in the future. What should you do if you are asked to sign a pre-nuptial agreement? Ask yourself, do you feel pressured to sign? If so then you should not sign an agreement that you are not comfortable with. Pre-nuptial agreements are meant to be voluntary and an agreement between couples. If you are going to sign a ‘pre-nup’ we always suggest that you seek legal advice. Are you seeing an increase in the number of people wanting a pre-nuptial agreement? If so, why do you think this is? Whilst people are now more aware of the term “pre-nup” there is still a lack of understanding of the implications and requirements for entering into a valid agreement. People are now more likely getting married older or entering into a second or third marriage, which means there are often substantial assets before entering into a marriage which they want to protect.

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

MODERN FAMILY

A charming home combining traditional character with contemporary flair By C H A R L I E ROSE

100 112 II CARDIFF CLIFTON LIFE LIFE II www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A WONDERFULLY SOCIABLE SPACE THAT HAS BEEN CREATED WITH MODERN FAMILY LIVING IN MIND

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

nglewood is one of those elusive homes that exudes contemporary coolness, yet still manages to retain plenty of charm. It’s a rare quality, and one which makes this home exceptionally desirable. Set back from the road, behind a mature lawned garden, it offers plenty of privacy, while still being within easy reach of the city. Stepping through the oak front doors you find yourself in a large, light and bright hallway. The sitting room is a lovely space, with a feature fireplace and with windows at one end, and French doors opening on to the garden at the end, there’s a wonderful flow of light. Across the hall there’s a study, and a dining room, both of which overlook the front garden. At the back of the house is fantastic open-plan dine-in kitchen and living room which is a wonderfully sociable space that has been created with modern family living in mind. The kitchen has been finished to a high standard, with high-gloss black units and solid walnut worktops with a host of integrated stainless steel Bosch and Siemens appliances that will delight keen cooks. From this room, double doors lead to a cosy family room which offers a wealth of possible uses such as a cinema and games room. Also on the ground floor is a useful utility room as well as two cloakrooms. Upstairs there are six good-sized bedrooms, including an impressive master with en-suite bathroom. The main family bathroom is a luxurious affair with a freestanding bath as well as a walk-in shower, but there’s a second slightly more compact bathroom too so there will be no need for arguments over whose turn it is in the shower in the morning! Outside, there’s a well-maintained garden with a lawn, shrub borders and a wooden decked seating area which is 102 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise from top left: A light, bright dining area,; Room to relax; The dine-in kitchen is a sociable space; Sleep tight Right: The garden is ideal for al fresco dining

HOUSE NUMBERS Inglewood, Lisvane Road, Lisvane, Cardiff CF14 0SF

bedrooms

reception rooms

bathrooms

£1,150,000 guide price

4,360 sq ft

crying out for some al fresco entertaining. There’s a garage which offers direct access to the house (so no struggling with shopping bags through the rain!) and a large driveway so there’s plenty of parking space for the whole family as well as the guests that are sure to want to come and visit you in your new home. The house has been decorated in neutral tones so is ready for you to move in and make your mark, and the wealth of accommodation on offer means that this is a truly versatile home that can accommodate the needs of the whole family.

For more: Savills, 5th Floor, 2 Kingsway, Cardiff F10 3FD; Tel: 02920 368900; www.savills.co.uk

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Lisvane Road, Lisvane ÂŁ660,000 EPC = C pa black Llanishen 02920 618552

Semi-detached Victorian style residence built in 2004. Golden Oak PVC double glazed windows. Five large bedrooms, fitted kitchen & breakfast room, downstairs cloak room, large utility room. 20FT Dining room, 16 FT Lounge, Three bathrooms two ensuite, double garage, 80 FT rear gardens, private gated entrance drive. No chain!

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Cotswold Avenue, Lisvane ÂŁ585,000 EPC = D pa black Llanishen 02920 618552

Detached 4/5 bedroom double fronted family house. New Anglian double glazed windows and French doors, new gas combi boiler. New Mandarin Stone Porcelain tiled floors, downstairs cloak room. 22 FT lounge, 18 FT kitchen, 14 FT sitting room, dining room, utility room. Two bathrooms.

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

ebecca Salter is the director of the Kip McGrath Cardiff West Tuition Centre near Whitchurch, along with her husband Aziz.

What has been the highlight of your career so far? I taught in London for almost 10 years and four years ago I moved, with my husband, back to Wales, where I grew up. We opened our Kip McGrath Tuition Centre and this is has been the best decision I have ever made. I love working with the children and I love what I do (despite the long hours sometimes). Anyone who said running your own business was easy, was definitely telling fibs! What’s your most embarrassing moment? I wish I could tell you, but it’s classified. It does, however, involve a Dalek, some traffic cones and some chocolate fudge cake. Who would you invite to your dream dinner party? I’m a big history fan so I would invite Eleanor of Aquitaine, Leonardo da Vinci and Anne Boleyn (with head attached!) Which words or expressions do you use the most? I’m not sure about expressions, but it’s only when my students mimic the way I talk with my hands that I realise quite how much I flail my arms around. I’m sure they are making it all up… Who would play you in a film about your life? My favourite actresses are Emma Watson and Jennifer Lawrence, neither of whom look anything like me! Anyone with a good sense of humour and a good amount of middle age spread would do nicely. How do you relax? It’s hard to find time to relax as I teach a lot, but I am learning to play the guitar. It’s a fantastic way to take your mind off any stresses of the day. I’m still very much a beginner though. What’s on your bookshelf at the moment? I enjoy fantasy and history books most of all. I have just started the first of a fantasy series by Joe Abercrombie called The Blade Itself. It’s really pacey, with some quite interesting and twisted characters. I would highly recommend it.

REBECCA SALTER

She’s all about cats, cake and karaoke…. What do you never leave home without? Definitely a scarf. I have a bigger collection of them than is strictly necessary for any one person – they are the ultimate accessory!

What’s your favourite shop in Cardiff? I like Rules of Play in the centre of town. You can get some really interesting and different board games there.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure? I love karaoke. I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea but I will sing anywhere and everywhere. It’s even better if there’s an audience…

And your tip for the best place to eat out? I love going to Sweet, a bakery in Whitchurch. They make fantastic cakes, lovely lunches and the coffee is perfect.

Which piece of music always sends a shiver down your spine? Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel is the song I play when nothing else will de-stress me or take away a bad headache. I think it has magical powers sometimes. It means a lot to me.

Tell us about a secret Cardiff spot we might not be aware of… I recently had afternoon tea at Feline Good, the Cardiff Cat Café. It was amazing! They have 10 rescue cats there and you can fully interact with them. It’s run by lovely people and again, I highly recommend the cake.

What are you listening to at the moment? I have many, many playlists that I can turn to, depending on my mood. Music is a huge part of my life and I listen every day.

Surprise us with a revelatory fact about yourself… Well, from these questions I appear to be a geeky, singing, crazy cat lady who likes to eat cake in coffee shops around Cardiff. Sounds about right.

What’s your favourite television programme? Currently I am watching the new Netflix sci-fi series called Star Trek: Discovery. It’s really good, but doesn’t beat my all-time favourite – the BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Who doesn’t love Mr. Darcy?! 106 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk