Cardiff Life - Issue 198

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 198 / WINTER 2019 / £3 @CardiffLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

GREAT TASTE

CARDIFF’S TOP EATS

SPOTLIGHT ON

PONTCANNA ISSUE 198 / WINTER 2019 / THE V SIGN

ANIMAL MAGIC

STYLE ON THE WILD SIDE

SUNNY DAYS IN DOHA

LIFE ON THE VEG

WITH THE DIRTY VEGAN

EDITOR’S LETTER

Matt Pritchard’s harnessing the power of plants. Turn to page 60 for more.

BELOW: Create a dream inducing boudoir for National Sleep Month. See page 42.

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efore we go any further, let me say an absolutely massive “Congratulations!” to all the finalists of this year’s Cardiff Life Awards (a full list of which you will find on page 74). I know that it was a super-hard job to narrow down the list of brilliant entries, but it’s great to see all the fantastic work that’s going on in businesses and organisations all over the city. Now we really can’t wait for the big night on 21 March!

But while it’s wonderful to have a night that’s dedicated to celebrating all that’s brilliant about Cardiff actually, that’s what we try to do in every single magazine. This issue it’s Pontcanna’s turn to be in the spotlight (p.16) and we find out more about some of the people and businesses that make this area quite so special. We also get the lowdown on some of the city’s tastiest spots (p.52) and chat to wild man turned Iron Man, Matt Pritchard, about his new cook book and hosting the BBC’s very first vegan cooking show (p.60). Bascially, there’s plenty to get excited about. Enjoy!

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yn mynd gam ymhellach, hoffwn longyfarch pawb sydd wedi cyrraedd y rownd derfynol yng Ngwobrau Cardiff Life eleni (mae rrhestr hestr lawn o’r sawl sydd wedi bod yn llwyddiannus i’w gweld ar dudalen 74).

Rwy’n gwybod bod y dasg o lunio rhestr fer, ar ôl cael cynifer o enwebiadau rhagorol, wedi bod yn anodd tu hwnt ond mae’n braf gweld yr holl waith gwych sy’n digwydd mewn busnesau a sefydliadau ledled y ddinas. Rydym yn awr yn edrych ymlaen yn eiddgar at y noson fawr ar 21 Mawrth! Ond er ei bod yn fendigedig cael noson i ddathlu’r hyn sy’n wych am Gaerdydd, dyna yw ein nod ym mhob un o rifynnau’r cylchgrawn, mewn gwirionedd. Yn y rhifyn hwn, tro Pontcanna yw cael ein sylw (ar dudalen 16) lle’r ydym yn cael cyfle i ddod i wybod mwy am rai o’r bobl a’r busnesau sy’n gwneud yr ardal hon yn un mor arbennig. Rydym hefyd yn cael blas ar rai o leoedd bwyta gorau’r ddinas (ar dudalen 52) ac yn sgwrsio â Matt Pritchard - sydd wedi newid ei ffordd o fyw’n gyfan gwbl - am ei lyfr coginio newydd ac am ei waith yn cyflwyno sioe goginio gyntaf erioed y BBC ar gyfer feganiaid (ar dudalen 60). Mae digon yma i dynnu dŵr o’ch dannedd, felly. Mwynhewch!

EMMA DANCE

Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 3

Issue 198/Winter 2019 Cover Could Cardiff’s Matt Pritchard be the new face of veganism?

featureS

66

16 Street Life Why we’ll fall for the charms of

Pontcanna over and over and over again!

52

the arts

23 INTRO Did you know that Dinosaurs Definitely

Don’t Dig Dancing?

24 WHAT’S ON Clear the diary... then fill it up again...

32 Shakin’ Stevens He’s coming home

shopping

42 Editor’s Choice We’re snuggling up ready for

National Sleep Month

46 FASHION Bring out your inner animal 49 The Style File Penarth fashion designer Nathan

Palmer shares his stylish wisdom

food & DRINK

52 Taste of Cardiff Get the lowdown on some of

the city’s tastiest joints

60 Matt Pritchard The journey from Dirty

Sanchez to Dirty Vegan

TRAVEL

66 Great escapes Escape to the sun in Doha

Business

72 business insider Who’s moving, shaking,

innovating and inventing this issue?

Property

76 showcase A drop-dead gorgeous Penarth

apartment

© JAKE MORLEY

Regulars

16

10 sPOTLIGHT Newsy nuggets 35 Wyburn & Wayne What have the dynamic duo

been up to now?

38 sNAPPED The parties and the pictures 82 CARDIFF lives Luca Malacrino shares his secrets

Editor Emma Dance emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors Charlie Rose, Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney, Nathan Palmer Advertising manager Mark George mark. george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Kate Butterfield kate.butterfield@mediaclash.co.uk Advertising executive Louis Grey louis.grey@mediaclash. co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager/production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@ mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Cardiff Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag). 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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 5

SPOTLIGHT

Everybody’s talking about…

STAR QUALITY

Hollywood star to support Cardiff charity Welsh Golden Globes star Matthew Rhys has pledged his support to musical charity Aloud and, fresh on the back of scooping a prestigious Critics’ Choice TV Award for Best Drama Series for The Amercians, has been named as the first ever Aloud Ambassador.

Cardiffian Matthew – who has just been named as Robert Downey Jr’s replacement in the title role of HBO series Perry Mason – has a jam-packed schedule which saw him play a lead role in BBC’s Death and Nightingales last month, and with upcoming film roles in A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood with Tom Hanks and The Report with Adam Driver.

He is happy to make time for Aloud, though, and says, “I’m delighted to be Aloud’s first Ambassador. Only Boys Aloud and Only Kids Aloud do inspiring work, not only because they sing so well but also because the experiences the boys and girls are given help them learn new skills, build self-confidence and perform to the highest standards. There’s plenty of evidence too that Aloud can transform lives.”

Aloud was established as a charity by choral conductor, arranger, composer and TV presenter Tim Rhys-Evans in 2012 with the shared aims of reinvigorating the Welsh male choir tradition and effecting real change in the lives of young people from areas of social deprivation.

For more: www.aloud.cymru

Matthew Rhys

Have a heart...

Charity

SEEING RED

As February is Heart Awareness month, businesses, schools and communities are being asked to take part in Welsh Hearts’ Big Red Heart Appeal and “go red” for Wales.

Hundreds die each year in Wales due to undiagnosed heart conditions and 8,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest outside hospital each year in Wales.

The Big Red Heart Appeal aims to raise awareness of heart conditions and raise vital funds so that Welsh Hearts can continue to provide life-saving CPR training, heart screening and defibrillators throughout Wales.

People are being asked to hold a red-themed event, take part in a red activity or simply wear something red to work to raise money for the charity.

For more: www.welshhearts.org

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

Music

SEEING STARS

Two of the UK’s most exciting music acts have been confirmed to play the Depot In The Castle festival at Cardiff Castle on Saturday, 13 July.

Tom Odell, the Ivor Novello-winning song writing sensation with multiple awards and 1.8 million sales under his belt, will support headliners Clean Bandit, whose 4bn global streams and string of top 10 hits make them one of the UK’s most successful bands.

This will be the first time that either has played within the iconic setting of Cardiff’s castle.

Festival founder Nick Saunders explains, “Last year we welcomed just over 5,000 people to the castle to party with us, but we want to take it to the next level this year, with not one, but two major acts, so we’ve increased capacity for an extra 3,000 tickets.

“We’ve also added a second stage which will host exclusively local talent, and expanded our street food village to include 15 different traders.

“There’s nothing quite like watching the sun go down behind the Castle whilst an incredible live soundtrack is being performed right in front of you – we can’t wait to do it all again!”

For more: www.depotinthecastle.com Clean Bandit INSET: Tom Odell

Get active

RESOLVE TO RUN

Taking part in a Stroke Association Resolution Run could help both yourself, and other people.

The charity has launched a series of runs across the UK in 2019, including a 5K run in Bute Park, Cardiff on 10 March designed to increase physical activity and raise money for the charity.

Professor Tom Robinson, President of the British Association of Stroke Physicians, has been carrying out research to discover how exercise can reduce the risk of a stroke. He says, “You don’t have to be an athlete to reduce your stroke risk, we can all do it as part of our daily routine. Simply taking part in at least 30 minutes of activity, which helps you break a sweat about three to four times a week will help. Remember, the more you do, the more you can reduce your risk. The preparation for and taking part in a Resolution Run could reduce your stroke risk. However, it is equally important to remember that you need to maintain this level of exercise to keep your stroke risk low. If you start small, training in short bursts and build up you are more likely to succeed and keep going in the long term too.”

For more: www.resolutionrun.org.uk

Best foot forward for the Resolution Run

Geraint Thomas and Team Sky visited the Maindy Centre last July

Arts

CELEBRATING SUCCESS

Seven Cardiff schools have been awarded a grant of £12,500 to celebrate the career of Geraint Thomas and the key role that cycling club, the Maindy Flyers, played in his development. The grant has been awarded as part of the Arts Council of Wales’ Creative Collaborations scheme and the funds will be used to develop artwork that will eventually surround the famous track on the grounds of the Better Cardiff operated Maindy Centre.

Children from Cathays High School, Albany Primary, Allensbank Primary, Gladstone Primary, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary, St Monica’s Church in Wales Primary and Ysgol Mynydd Bychan will all work collaboratively with a variety of artists, musicians and poets with the aim of creating a permanent visual reminder of the importance of Maindy Centre to the history of Welsh sport. The project will be supported by Arts Active Trust and will culminate with a Yellow Jersey Festival which will be held at Maindy Centre in July to coincide with this year’s edition of the Tour de France. The festival will feature musical contributions from schools involved in the project and will stage the official unveiling of the artwork that’s been created.

Better Maindy Centre is Cardiff’s only outdoor cycle track and the home of the Maindy Flyers, where 2018 Tour De France winner, Geraint Thomas started his career.

For more: www.better.org

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advertising feature

In a spin Lose weight, feel great and travel the world at the same time. Secret Spin, Cardiff’s first boutique spin studio is the perfect way to get in shape and ‘get away from it all’ at the same time.

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hink of Secret Spin as a spin studio/Tardis. Fitted with stateof-the-art spinning bikes, the classes are unique, creative and innovative. And if you opt for the MyRide class, one of nine spin styles on the class menu, you’ll find that the views are to die for. From the Grand Canyon to the tropical beaches of Zanzibar, it’s the perfect class for a Monday morning.

The dramatic lighting, the virtual reality special effects and the hand crafted music work together to get endorphins flowing and energy levels soaring – giving you a well earned break from reality as you build a better body.

Experts have long lauded spinning as brilliant all-round exercise – an exceptional calorie burner, working key muscles and boosting cardio health. Under the careful eye of highly qualified

instructors, the studio caters for all levels, from beginners to pro athletes.

"I know how nerve-wracking it can be starting something new so I wanted to create an experience that would work for everyone. Nobody should miss out on such life enhancing stuff!’ says Anna Reich, founder of Secret Spin.

For 2019, Anna and her team have created a new Wheels & Weights class, utilising free-weights to help work the upper body, in addition to the legs and lungs.

The studio is small, friendly, and located in the heart of Pontcanna. And whether you’re a busy multi-tasking mum who only has free time between school runs or you need an early class to get you fired-up before work, the timetable caters for all.

Intrigued? Drop the team an email and say you read about Secret Spin in Cardiff Life and get your first spin for free. n

Barney & Beau is a curated lifestyle store dedicated to sourcing and providing innovative, stylish and modern products for kids and the home.

With a collection of brands that are not only ethical & sustainable but also mostly sourced from small independent female/mum run businesses and a strong Scandinavian influence that includes apparel, decor, furniture, gifts & toys.

Pop along to the store or shop online and be sure to sign up to our newsletter for 10% off your first order!

New Baby Gift List Service Bespoke Gift Boxes made to order Personal Shopping

Unit 6, Pontcanna Mews, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9DH Tel: 029 2034 0022 Email: info@barneyandbeau.com www.barneyandbeau.com

Secret Spin, 200 King's Road, Pontcanna Mews, CF11 9DF. 029 2023 1800 Email: info@secret-spin.co.uk Online: www.secret-spin.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

From gate to plate For family butchers, ORIEL JONES, ensuring the highest animal welfare standards is key to ensuring they only sell the highest standard produce

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aving established a reputation as one of the best butchers in Cardiff within their first year of trading, Oriel Jones is fast becoming the go destination for ethically sourced local meat. The queues on a Friday and Saturday morning are evidence that the people of Canton are advocates of the quality produce on offer.

The Jones family promote and practice the gate to plate ethos. Oriel Jones’ director Shaun is a fourth-generation farmer and instigated the move into opening the craft butchery in Cardiff. Having started his career as a teacher before making the move back to run the family farm, Shaun implemented a grass based grazing system. This promotes both animals and the environment living in harmony and working together to help one another. Animals graze the fresh lush mountain pastures and are rotated around the farm to ensure pastures are rested.

The Jones’ have their own flock of sheep a herd of Hereford and Welsh Black cattle, and have an exciting project which will begin this summer, which will see Welsh pigs roaming the ancient welsh oak woodland. Their free range Welsh woodland pork will be available to buy from their butcheries during the summer months.

Oriel Jones is opening a brand new butchery and ethical meat emporium in Pontcanna in April 2019. This shop will build on the success of the original butchery and offer a wider selection of produce. Not only will customers be able to buy their fresh produce, they will also be able to buy the finest deli products, such as, pies, pates, terrines, restaurant quality dishes to take away and there will be a chef preparing meals on site.

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

“THE JONES FAMILY PROMOTE AND PRACTICE THE GATE TO PLATE ETHOS” animals and wildlife that lives on their farm is paramount and this forms the foundation of the family business. They make is very clear that they have no ambition to be the biggest farming or butchery business, but they believe that they are unique in their approach, and take great care to ensure everything is done to the highest of standards and with the utmost care.

The new Oriel Jones craft butchery and emporium will be a must visit for any meat lover.

Be sure to follow Oriel Jones on social media for regular updates on their progress and opening dates. ■

The emphasis is most definitely on offering the ultimate ethical meat eating experience.

Oriel Jones is a renowned for its dry-aged beef. The specialist dry ageing chamber allows the meat to mature and flavours to enhance. The enzymes break down the meat ensuring eating quality is of the highest order each and every time, it also ensures a reduction in moisture which enhances the flavour of the produce.

The passion and pride of Shaun and his family is evident, and they are extremely proud of their high animal welfare standards and free range grass fed ethos. The welfare of each and every

Telephone: 029 2023 0088 Email: info@orieljones.co.uk Online: www.orieljones.com

Stockists of: Air and Grace Wyse London Orwell & Austin Fabienne Chapot Uzma Bozai Essentiel Antwerp 360 Cashmere Lily and Lionel Toolally Tatty Devine Beck Sondergaard Swag and Tassel Baum Und Pferdgarten Coco Cashmere Veja Trainers Traffic People Hod Marella Rockins Scarves AG jeans Ba&sh Bellerose Stine Goya Onjenu Zakee Shariff Primrose Park Donna Ida Pyrus Velvet by Graham and Spencer

20% OFF TO NEW BARBER CLIENTS BOOK ONLINE AND QUOTE “CL20”

Cuts * Beard Trims * Cut-Throat Shaves * Fades * Male Waxing

ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE 175 Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9DF 02921 321211 / hello@gojihair.com www.gojihair.com FOLLOW US FOR ALL OUR OFFERS

T I F gojihair

Open Mondays and late nights

Unit 1, Pontcanna Mews, 200 Kings Road, Cardiff CF11 9DF Tel: 02920 225 522 | kiticymru.com | info@kiticymru.com Facebook- Kiti | Instagram- Kiticymru | Twitter- kiticymru

Streets ahead Who could possibly resist the charms of Pontcanna?

By Charlie Rose Photos by Jake Morley

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

STREET LIFE

“There are green spaces and a friendly community atmosphere ”

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t’s not difficult to see why Pontcanna is one of Cardiff’s most sought-after areas. Quite literally – because this leafy suburb is more than just a little bit easy on the eye.

From the Victorian mansions on Cathedral Road and the grand sweep of Plasturton Avenue, with its lovely communal gardens, to little two-storey terraces and pastel-coloured villas fronted by pretty gardens, the architecture here is both eclectic and attractive. And its open spaces are breathtaking too – there’s nothing quite like a gentle stroll over the open parklands of Llandaff Fields and Pontcanna Fields, lined with beautiful mature horse chestnut and lime trees. Looks will only get you so far, however, but Pontcanna’s got the beautiful soul to match.

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

STREET LIFE COMMUNITY FEEL

Ask anyone in Pontcanna why they love the area so much, and the mantra that you’ll hear time and time again is that there’s a real sense of community. Take Montserrat Prat, for example, who has lived there for 20 years, and is head chef at La Cuina. “Pontcanna has a unique community feel with a lovely social mixture,” she says.

“There’s a great sense of community,” echoes Betina Skovbro, owner of Brød Danish Bakery on Wyndham Crescent. “And wonderful neighbours. Right from our first day we’ve felt very at home here.”

Someone else who’s felt at home in Pontcanna since day one is Tommy Heaney, owner of Heaney’s restaurant which opened last October. And, in fact, it was the trademark Pontcanna warmth and friendliness that eventually swayed Tommy Heaney to open his restaurant in the former Arbennig premises on Romilly Crescent.

And has meant that he hasn’t looked back since. “When we were looking for a site for Heaney’s we were deciding between Cardiff, Swansea and Bristol,” says Tommy. “We were actually in Bristol when we got a message saying that this site was potentially on the market.

It was a little bigger than we had originally planned but the previous owners were super-friendly and we got the right energy from it.

“Pontcanna has a great community with lots of character and lots of independent businesses who all support each other passionately. We were blown away by the welcome we received.”

Feel at home in La Cuina

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

THE POWER OF THREE

We asked Pontcanna traders what three words best summed up their beloved suburb “Vibrant, pretty, friendly.”

Simon Daniel, salon director, Belle Toujours “Diverse, exciting, progressive.”

Mia Kowsor, company director, Barney & Beau “Friendly, independent, community.”

Tommy Heaney, head chef and owner, Heaney’s “Pretty, creative, friendly.”

Anna Reich, founder, Secret Spin “Community, proximity, green spaces.”

Montserrat Prat, executive chef, La Cuina “Vibrant, friendly, dynamic.”

Vicky Griffin, managing director, Goji.

INDEPENDENT SPIRIT

There’s certainly no shortage of independent businesses in Pontcanna – catering to just about every need you could possibly think of. When it comes to food, it’s all well and truly covered – as well as Heaney’s, La Cuina and Brød, you’ll also find (among many, many others) the likes of The Conway pub, Brava, Viva Organica, and tucked away in Pontcanna Mews – Canna Deli. Perhaps handily, if you’ve succumbed to one too many of the deli’s sweet treats, practically next door is the newly-opened state-of-the-art spin studio, Secret Spin, or if you’d rather have retail therapy than physical therapy, you can pop in too children’s store Barney & Beau or contemporary fashion boutique, Kiti – all in the Mews.

All your beauty needs can be taken care of in Pontcanna too.

Belle Toujours on Cathedral Road claims to be a “one-stop beauty destination offering hair, barbers, spa, non-surgical cosmetic treatments and make-up all under one glamorous roof” and has recently opened a new make-up studio in partnership with Bella Beaute. Or head to Goji on Kings Road for some top-to-toe pampering. “We are an organic salon with fantastic products, many of which are Welsh, cruelty-free and vegan,” says managing director Vicky Griffin. “Our emphasis is always on the client experience and giving our clients the space to relax, knowing they are in safe hands.”

“Creative, friendly, vibrant.”

Betina Skovbro, owner, Brød Danish Bakery “Place to be.”

Nathan Rees, general manager, The Conway “Vibrant, thriving, beautiful.”

Gwenno Penhryn, owner, Kiti

A trip to Kiti will ensure you’re always in fashion

“It’s a vibrant suburb full of wonderful independent businesses” www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

STREET LIFE Looking good at Goji

MUTUALLY INCLUSIVE

It might be a challenging time for businesses right now – especially small ones (dare we mention the dreaded Brexit?) but there’s clearly a lot of love and mutual respect between the Pontcanna traders.

“Pontcanna really has a mini village feel,” says Nathan Rees, general manager of The Conway. “There are green spaces, a friendly community atmosphere where everyone supports each other and a great choice of groceries, fashion, beauty, food and drink. You don’t need to leave!”

“Being surrounded by other exciting independent businesses, as well as our lovely clients, as well as being so close to the city centre gives the area a real energy,” adds Goji’s Vicky.

It’s a sentiment shared by Gwenno Penhryn, who owns Kiti.

“I love Pontcanna because it is a vibrant suburb full of wonderful independent businesses,” she says.

“Pontcanna is my favourite area of the city,” adds Mia Kowsor, company director of Barney & Beau. “The local businesses, including awesome restaurants, boutiques, bars and markets, make it diverse and current.” n

DIRECTORY FOOD & DRINK

Brava, 71 Pontcanna Street; www.bravacardiff.co.uk Brød, 126 Wyndham Crescent; www.thedanishbakery.co.uk Canna Deli, 2 Pontcanna Mews; www.facebook.com/cannadeliofficial Heaney’s, 6–10 Romilly Crescent; www.heaneyscardiff.co.uk La Cuina, 11 Kings Road; www.lacuina.co.uk The Conway, 58 Conway Road; www.knifeandforkfood.co.uk Viva Organic, 79 Pontcanna Street; www.facebook.com/VivaOrganic

HEALTH & BEAUTY Belle Toujours, 113 Cathedral Road; www.belletoujours.co.uk Goji, 175 Kings Road; www.gojihair.com Secret Spin, Pontcanna Mews; www.secret-spin.co.uk

FASHION

“The local businesses make Pontcanna diverse and current” 20 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Kiti, Pontcanna Mews; www.kiticymru.com

HOME & ACCESSORIES Barney & Beau, 6 Pontcanna Mews; www.barneyandbeau.com Beti Biggs, 1 Romilly Crescent; www.betibiggs.com

We are a local, independent family run business where your pet is guaranteed continuity of care from our team of vets and nursing staff. Our aim is to provide a unique and bespoke service to deliver a standard of care and service we believe will allow us to stand apart in the care your pet may currently be receiving.

Services PRACTICE APPOINTMENTS See one of our highly trained veterinary staff at one of practices in Barry or Pontcanna.

HOME VISITS Have your pet examined in the comfort of your own home.

EMERGENCY SERVICE In an emergency, have your pet seen by one of our on call vets outside of our normal hours.

VIP SCHEME Become a member of of VIP scheme and benefit from a number of extra services.

SPECIALIST THERAPIES Our specialist therapies include hydrotherapy, laser therapy and digital radiology.

Cardiff: 233 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9PP. E-mail: info@valevetcentre.co.uk | Phone: 02920 004007 Barry: 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Est, Cardiff Rd, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2BE. E-mail: info@valevetcentre.co.uk | Phone: 01446 739739 For more information please visit us online at:

www.valevetcentre.co.uk

Richard Williams BVSc BSc MRCVS

Opened Vale Veterinary Centre in 2014 after seeing a need for a local independent vets in the Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff area.

He went on to win the UK wide and highly prestigious Petplan ‘Vet of the Year’ 2016-17, thanks to all of his clients.

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F C A R D I F F ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

NOTE WORTHY

A new art exhibition showcasing a collection of illustrations from an original piano music book for children has opened at Insole Court.

The Dinosaurs Definitely Don’t Dig Dancing exhibition features original artwork from Welsh illustrator Rhiannon Howell as well as her illustrations for the original children’s piano music book, Magi the Dawg (and friends).

The book was created between Rhiannon and Tim Riley, a composer, pianist and Director of The Primo School of Music at Insole Court.

The two began their collaboration after meeting through the Insole Court Community Choir, and after finding inspiration in their pet dogs, the pair combined their love of music and art to work on a project to create an illustrated piano music book that would accompany Tim’s beginner’s course for group piano. The book’s name refers to Tim’s own dog Magi, who features throughout the book alongside Rhiannon’s dog, Towser.

The exhibition runs until 24 February in The Gallery at Insole Court.

For more: www.insolecourt.org www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 23

What’s on 15 February – 15 March

Let The Magic Flute whisk you away to a dream world

PLAYS/SHOWS/ PERFORMANCES Until 16 February

INTO THE LIGHT Into The Light is a powerful piece of physical theatre that has been devised by the Hijinx theatre company over the last three years. It explores the bittersweet attraction of the spotlight, and our constant desire for interaction and connection through social media. What does it mean to be in the light? Why do we strive for a presence and a need to be understood? Sherman Theatre; www.hijinx.org.uk

15, 17, 24, 27 February & 1 March

THE MAGIC FLUTE Welsh National Opera’s irresistible production transports you to a dream world where you’ll meet colourful characters including a newspaperreading lion and a fish doubling as a bicycle. Combined with a witty story, moments of enchantment and

Mozart’s sublime music, including the magnificent Queen of the Night aria, it adds up to an unforgettable opera experience for all ages.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

Dame of the Cardiff cabaret scene is back to entertain you with yet more stories from her showbiz life.

The Look Out; www.eventbrite.co.uk

17 February

comedy, Arcadia. Winner of the 1993 Laurence Olivier Award, Stoppard’s script is a sparky, intellectual masterpiece from one of the UK’s most talented playwrights. Proceeds to the Brain Tumour Charity.

The Paget Rooms; www.peculiarproductions.co.uk

UN BALLO IN MASCHERA Love, power and politics collide in Un ballo in maschera – based on the real life assassination of King Gustav III of Sweden who was shot at a masked ball in 1792.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

ANTON & ERIN – DANCE THOSE MAGIC MUSICALS Join the nation’s favourite ballroom couple in their new, show-stopping dance production. The world of ballroom meets musical theatre with stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography set to iconic theatrical favourites. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

16 February

18 – 23 February

BENIDORM LIVE! Book now for a dose of Benidorm sunshine and see your favourite stars from the Solana live on stage for the very first time.

New Theatre, www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

BILLIONAIRE BOY: THE MUSICAL Based on the bestselling book

by David Walliams this hilarious new musical is a triumphant treat for the whole family. New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

16 February

21 – 23 February

27 February

16 & 23 February

CRACKED Cracked is a moving, thoughtprovoking play about vulnerability and the universal need for love.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk ANOTHER AUDIENCE WITH MARY GOLDS Back by popular demand, the Grand

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

ARCADIA Peculiar Productions presents Tom Stoppard’s fascinating and witty

25 – 27 February

PEN-BLWYDD PEONUS PETE A sparkling and biting comedy for the whole family or class by award winning playwright Gary Owen.

Chapter; www.chapter.org

26 February – 2 March

DR MICHAEL MOSLEY In this informative and entertaining live show, Michael Mosley, the man

what’s on Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

behind the iconic 5:2 Diet, will explode common health myths and offer fascinating insights into the workings of the human body.

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

2 March

SMILE Augustus the tiger was sad. He had lost his smile. Told through magical, theatrical live music, performed by exceptional musicians, the award winning Smile takes the audience on a delightful musical adventure.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

28 February & 2 March

ROBERT DEVEREUX WNO’s critically-acclaimed production has a dramatic intensity and a striking design guaranteed to leave your heart racing.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

3 March

28 February & 1 March

above: It’s Benidorm! (But in Cardiff) left: Fatboy Slim’s hitting the decks below: Welsh National Opera’s Un Ballo in Maschera

GRAV Gareth J Bale reprises the role of ‘Grav’ in this award-winning oneman show exploring the life and times of one of Wales’ most loved sons, Ray Gravell. Known to millions for his legendary exploits on the rugby field, ‘Grav’ was and is so much more than that. An actor, a cultural icon, a father, a husband, a man with a life packed full of stories that deserve to be heard once more.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

28 February – 16 March

THE TAMING OF THE SHREW Turning Shakespeare’s original upside down, Jo Clifford’s razor sharp new version of The Taming of the Shrew invites us to imagine a world in which women hold all the power. Stepping into this world helps us understand our own, a world in which the patriarchy is being challenged and new possibilities abound. Get ready for a bawdy and riotous take on a contentious classic.

Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

1 March

THE GIANT JAM SANDWICH One hot summer’s day, four million wasps invade the quiet village of Itching Down. The picnickers panic and the farmer stops haymaking.

The wasps are noisy, nasty and worst of all, they don’t mind who they sting! That is until the baker has an ingenious idea...

Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

2 March

SHYLOCK Is Shylock the Jewish moneylender from The Merchant of Venice a villain or victim? See Shylock through the eyes of his only friend – and the only other Jewish man in the whole of Shakespeare – Tubal.

BRENDAN COLE: SHOW MAN The very first winner of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing is joined by an amazing team of professional dancers, singers and a live band to showcase the superb choreography and dazzling performance that has kept him in the public eye for 15 years.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

5 – 9 March

ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY: ROMEO AND JULIET The most famous story of love at first sight explodes with intense passion and an irresistible desire for change.

Will this spark a revolution, or will division continue to tear through generations?

New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

5 – 9 March

THE CHERRY ORCHARD The Cherry Orchard, Chekhov’s last and greatest play, deals with the hope, despair and change that was present in the years preceding the Russian Revolution. It is here performed in Trevor Griffiths’ vibrant and sharp 1977 version for Nottingham Playhouse which banished the English ‘drawing room drama’ approach to Chekhov for something altogether more powerful and meaningful.

Chapter; www.chapter.org

6 & 7 March

BING LIVE Don’t miss the chance to see your little one’s face as their favourite characters are brought to life in this brand-new show. Full of fun, laughter and music, Bing Live! is the perfect first theatre trip for preschoolers and their families.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

7 March

AN EVENING WITH THE HAIRY BIKERS

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 25

What’s on

All around to the Hairy Bikers’ for a night of cooking and conversation with Si King and Dave Myers.

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

7 – 9 March

AGELESS Sherman Youth Theatre has rightly developed a reputation for being one of Britain’s most outstanding theatre ensembles. This year they perform Ageless, a new work by Benjamin Kuffuor about a miracle drug which quite literally changes the face of ageing.

Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

11 – 16 March

THE FULL MONTY This “chuffing brilliant” production about six out-of-work, impoverished steelworkers from Sheffield with nothing to lose, took the world by storm and has become one of Britain’s most successful shows.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

12 – 13 March

ANWELEDIG: THE FINAL CHAPTER A powerful and harrowing Welsh language production that follows the journey of Glenda, played by Ffion Dafis, as she battles to live with severe depression. In this new, fiercely relevant version we witness Glenda's harrowing confrontations with the illness. Will she find light at the end of the deepest and darkest tunnel?

Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

13 March

NO SUCH THING AS A FISH A weekly podcast in which the QI researchers share their most interesting recent discoveries.

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

COMEDY 17 February

CARL HUTCHINSON – I KNOW I SHOULDN’T BEHAVE LIKE THIS From buying a house to having kids, Carl takes his unique adolescent approach to grown up issues. Join Hutchinson with his stories and observations that’s had crowds laugh their heads off year after year.

Glee Club Cardiff; www.glee.co.uk

28 February

MARK THOMAS – CHECK UP: OUR NHS AT 70 Mark is 54, the NHS is 70, and the UK national average life expectancy is 84. If Mark makes it to 84, the NHS will be 100. What will they both look like?

Based on a series of interviews with leading experts in and on the NHS, residencies in hospitals and surgeries, and with theatre director Nicolas Kent, Mark uses his own demise to explore the state we’re in; what's going wrong in our NHS, how it can go right, and what the future might hold for us all.

Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

2 March

ROD WOODWARD – I’M NOT BEING FUNNY BUT… Award-winning Welsh comedian Rod Woodward takes to the road again in spring following his invitation to repeat his barnstorming performance at the Royal Variety Performance 2018.

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

5 March

TOM STADE – I SWEAR TO… Following last year’s smash-hit UK tour, the Canadian comedy legend is back with a new show.

Expect the customary Stade flair; uncompromising humour, insatiable mischief and heaps of inspired improvisation.

Glee Club Cardiff; www.glee.co.uk

6 March

HAL CRUTTENDEN – CHUBSTER Hal’s literally filled our screens recently on Have I Got News For You, The Apprentice: You’re Fired, Bake Off: Extra Slice, and Live at the Apollo.

His daughters chose the title of his new stand-up show. He’s now on a diet.

Glee Club Cardiff; www.glee.co.uk

10 March

LOL (LADIES OF LAUGHTER) WITH NOREEN KHAN Noreen Khan hosts a night of comedy with some of the UK’s favourite female acts. Come along for an evening of fun & laughter.

This event is not just for ladies.

Gents are welcome too!

Glee Club Cardiff; www.glee.co.uk

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

Talented duo Ward Thomas

Music

15 February

SIR ANDREW DAVIS CONDUCTS L’ENFANCE DU CHRIST Sir Andrew Davis conducts Berlioz’s L’enfance du Christ to mark the 150th anniversary of the composer’s death. Hoddinott Hall; www.wmc.org.uk

17 February

BARB JUNGR – HARD RAIN Barb Jungr has been described by Billy Bragg as “possibly our greatest interpreter of Dylan’s songs”.

Fortunately, she’s no slouch with Leonard Cohen’s either. In Hard Rain she brings together these two colossal talents, to reinterpret some of their most political and monumental work.

Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk

19 February

COMPOSITION: WALES CULMINATION CONCERT Come and hear the latest in composition in Wales, as composers worthy of wider exposure have the opportunity to hear their works performed by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

Hoddinott Hall; www.wmc.org.uk

19 February

JIM MORAY For 15 years Jim Moray has been at the forefront of a new movement in English traditional music. His debut

album Sweet England changed the sound of folk song and won a brace of awards for its innovative melding of orchestration and electronica.

Subsequent albums embraced everything from grime to Johnny Marr-esque guitar pop, but at their heart was always Jim’s unmistakeable soulful and yearning voice; singing old songs in a new way.

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

21 February

ANOTHER SKY Straight outta Goldsmith’s, Another Sky use their combined talents to create mystical and progressive indie rock with uniquely elegant vocals at the driving wheel.

Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net

22 February

OQUES GRASSES This seven piece Catalan sensation have had a meteoric rise to become one of the most popular live bands in Europe. Their music is a combination of reggae, pop, boundless energy and musicianship which produces an uplifting live experience that will have you dancing all night with your hands in the air and a smile on your face.

Chapter; www.chapter.org

22 February

X FACTOR LIVE The X Factor Tour has thrilled over three million people since it began

14 years ago, making it one of the UK’s most successful annual arena tours.

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

23 February

FATBOY SLIM Expect a big production, a revolving stage, rave ushers and a live smiley face experience.

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

23 February

JOAN BAEZ The career of legendary artist, activist and 2017 R&R Hall of Fame inductee, Joan Baez has spanned more than 50 years during which she unselfconsciously introduced Bob Dylan to the world, marched on the front lines of the Civil Rights movement with Martin Luther King, inspired Vaclav Havel to fight for a Czech Republic, and continues to this day to stand passionately on behalf of causes she embraces.

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

24 February

RODNEY BRANIGAN Texas-raised Londoner who learned to play in Austin, perform in Los Angeles, craft songs in Nashville, and put it all together in London.

Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk

28 February

THE MARE’S TALE: BERKELEY ENSEMBLE The Mare’s Tale is inspired by a series of drawings by Clive Hicks-Jenkins based on the theme of the Mari Lwyd, one of the oldest Welsh midwinter traditions embodying pagan beliefs in the cult of the horse. Scored for the instrumental forces of Stravinsky’s Soldier’s Tale with the addition of a viola, composed by Mark Bowden with libretto by Damian Walford Davies and performed by the Berkeley Ensemble.

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

28 February

MEGAN DAVIES Nashville artist Megan Davies become a Youtube sensation with her home-made Alt-Pop videos. In just 5 years she’s gained a massive 1.3 million followers.

Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net

1 March

ST DAVID’S DAY WITH THE GOULD PIANO TRIO Beethoven never came to Wales, but he knew its music – and his trio settings of what he thought were Welsh folk songs are one of the hidden treasures of the chamber repertoire. In this concert by the College’s Chamber ensemble in residence the Gould Piano Trio, Beethoven's Miniatures serve as a lovely encore to one of Dvorak’s most personal – and passionate – masterpieces, the Piano Trio no.3 in F minor.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

1 March

ST DAVID’S DAY CONCERT BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales celebrate St David’s Day with a concert including music by: Arwel Hughes, Hoddinott, Mathias and Mansel Thomas.

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

4 March

WARD THOMAS Rising stars Ward Thomas (24 year old twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy) bring their new album, Restless Minds, to Cardiff. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

4 March

LEA SALONGA IN CONCERT Singer, actress and Broadway royalty, Lea Salonga, known across the world for her powerful voice, perfect pitch and her Tony Award winning role in Miss Saigon and critically acclaimed role as Eponine in Les Misérables comes to Cardiff on her first ever solo headline UK tour.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

5 March

BRYAN ADAMS The Grammy winning artist has seen success from a string of number ones in more than 40 countries and has sold an excess of 65 million records worldwide. His thirst for performing and unique take on live concerts have established him as one of the world’s best rock singers of our time.

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

6 March

SEA GIRLS The band recently celebrated one year since the release of their debut EP Call Me Out by releasing another EP out in to the world. The Adored

top:

TV doctor Michael Mosley The Hairy Bikers will be cooking and conversing

below:

EP was a new collection of songs that saw the band rise well above the chasing pack during their busy 2018 festival season, and they’ve followed quickly on its heels with huge new track All I Want To Hear You Say. Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net

8 March

10CC The legendary 10cc will be performing the hits which have singled them out as one of the most inventive and influential bands in the history of popular music.

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

9 March

AUDIOBOOKS The London based duo have developed a unique ability to conjure up magical aural snapshots

that wallop you like bong hits.

Each of their discombobulating observations comes stretched out over a series of discomfiting oscillations, like messages from the spirit world or pulp fictions found in a box at the end of your road or a crackling pop broadcast from a far-away galaxy.

Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net

9 March

STIFF LITTLE FINGERS Stiff Little Fingers are a punk rock band from Belfast, Northern Ireland. They formed in 1977, at the height of the Troubles. They started out as a schoolboy band called Highway Star (named after the Deep Purple song), doing rock covers, until they discovered punk.

Cardiff University Great Hall; www.cardiffstudents.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 27

What’s on 10 March

BBC Big Band Multi award-winning jazz vocalist and Radio Presenter, Claire Martin OBE, joins the internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band for a unique celebration of the legendary leading ladies of the Big Band, including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, Peggy Lee and their contemporaries.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

10 March

JAKE MORRELL Jake Morrell could have come straight out of Nashville, or even from the Californian sunshine, as his music suggests; but Jake is from Norfolk, England!

Jake was ‘discovered’ by Dermot O’Leary, who featured him on his Radio 2 Show. One influential listener just so happened to be Glastonbury boss Emily Eavis, who immediately asked Jake to perform at the iconic festival.

Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk

12 March

CALVA LOUISE Laying down a firm marker within London’s raucous punk scene over the last 18 months, the rising trio have since earned support slots alongside the likes of Albert Hammond Jr, Spring King and Anteros and recently finished an extensive UK tour with label-mates The Blinders.

Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net

ART, CRAFT, PHOTOGRAPHY & EXHIBITIONS Until 28 February

RICHARD BARRETT: NEW PAINTINGS Richard was born in Cardiff in 1963.

Although now based in Yorkshire, much of the inspiration for his work comes from spending time walking the coastline of Wales.

Martin Tinney Gallery; www.artwales.com

Until 9 March

KARL DAVIES, PETER KETTLE FRSA,RCA, EUAN MCGREGOR PAI From ink and wash drawings of miners and farmers, and beautiful landscapes of Wales and Patagonia to modernist images including Barry Island’s colourful beach. This exhibition has something to suit every taste. The Albany Gallery; www.albanygallery.com

16 – 28 February

DESIGNS FOR OPERA EXHIBITION An exhibition of designs for opera, produced by students on the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Design for Performance course.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

27 February – 1 March

THE WEARABLE ART SHOW

One of the College’s most eagerly anticipated events of the year, this avant-garde catwalk show contains plenty of outrageous characters constructed by theatre designers from scrap and recycled materials.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

www.celticdragonsnetball.com

9 – 10 March

WALES V ENGLAND Six Nations, KO 4.45pm Principality Stadium; www.wru.co.uk

CARDIFF FILM & COMIC CON Some of your favourite stars of TV, films and comics as well as a whole host of fun activities including photo shoots with the stars, panels, autograph sessions, retro video gaming, cosplay masquerade and hundreds of stalls full of TV and film memorabilia for you to browse.

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

sport

Saturday 16 February

CARDIFF BLUES V GLASGOW WARRIORS Pro 14, KO 7.35pm Cardiff Arms Park; www.cardiffblues.com

Saturday 16 February

CARDIFF DEVILS V MK LIGHTNING League, Face Off 7pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Monday 18 February

CELTIC DRAGONS V WASPS NETBALL Vitality Superleague; Centre pass 7pm Sport Wales National Centre;

Friday 22 February

CARDIFF CITY V WATFORD Premier League, KO 7.45pm Cardiff City Stadium; www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk

Saturday 23 February

Monday 25 February

CELTIC DRAGONS V MANCHESTER THUNDER Vitality Superleague; Centre pass 7pm Sport Wales National Centre; www.celticdragonsnetball.com

Tuesday 26 February

CARDIFF CITY V EVERTON Premier League, KO 7.45pm Cardiff City Stadium; www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk

Wednesday 27 February

CARDIFF DEVILS V GLASGOW CLAN League, Face Off 7.30pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Saturday 2 March

CARDIFF BLUES V ISUZU SOUTHERN KINGS Pro 14, KO 7.45pm Cardiff Arms Park; www.cardiffblues.com

Saturday 2 March

CARDIFF COMETS V SOLENT AMAZONS EIHL Southern Division One League, Face Off 3.30pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffcomets.co.uk

Sunday 3 March

CARDIFF DEVILS V SHEFFIELD STEELERS League, Face Off 4pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Friday 8 March

CARDIFF DEVILS V GUILDFORD FLAMES League, Face Off 7.30pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Saturday 9 March

CARDIFF CITY V WEST HAM Premier League, KO 3pm Cardiff City Stadium; www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk

Saturday 9 March

Ready for The Full Monty?

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

CELTIC DRAGONS V LOUGHBOROUGH LIGHTNING Vitality Superleague; Centre pass 4pm Sport Wales National Centre; www.celticdragonsnetball.com n

T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY

KARL DAVIES PETER KETTLE EUAN McGREGOR 14th February –­9th March View the exhibition on our website www.albanygallery.com 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

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The biggest-selling singles artist of the 80s tells Charlie Rose about discovering the brother he never knew he had, the challenges of evolving as an artist and why he’s looking forward to coming back to Cardiff 32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Š Tim Smith

Musical roots

one to one

I

t’s been almost four decades since he rocked and rolled his way into the charts and, it seems, the beat is still very much going strong for Shakin’ Stevens.

Now in his 70s, he’s just about to embark on his Greatest Hits and more! tour and the Cardiff-born crooner is looking forward to playing to his home crowd at St David’s Hall on 3 March.

“It’s is a venue where I feel very at home,” says the biggest-selling singles artist of the 80s. “Cardiffians are so friendly and I always enjoy a very warm welcome and great gigs when I come to the city. I’m the youngest of 13 children and playing in Cardiff gives me the chance to see friends and family too.”

The Cardiff of today, howver, is a very different city to the one in which Shaky, as he is known to his millions of fans, grew up.

“Cardiff has changed immensely,” he says. “When I was growing up there were no motorways linking Cardiff with other cities.

The improved transport systems have brought a more cosmopolitan feel to the city – the street cafés, shopping areas and general buzz is very exciting, especially when there’s a match on.

The absence of tolls on the bridges has really made a difference to the travelling time to Cardiff and the surrounding areas, which is a great result for Wales.”

As the name suggests, the new tour will see Shaky performing songs spanning his 40-year career. Naturally, his musical style has evolved over the years. He moved on from the sound that many remember from

“Cardiffians are so friendly and I always enjoy a very warm welcome and great gigs when I come to the city”

Quick fire round with Shaky Looking back at your career, is there anything you would have done differently?

Everyone has regrets. I was very naïve when I started out. I’m still learning, but I wish I knew then what I know now. I’m sure this applies to most people in all aspects of life.

Where would we find you when you’re not working?

I love listening to music, going to shows in the West End, and gigs of other artists. Golf is something that I really enjoy, although sadly I don’t get time to play as much as I would like. It probably won’t come as a surprise that I love history, and that must have contributed to the spark that started off my family history research. I also love walking, and always make time to watch rugby when I can, especially the Six Nations.

If you weren’t able to sing, what job do you think you’d be doing?

I’ve been performing since my school days, so it’s difficult to imagine not singing as it’s in my blood. I guess if I couldn’t sing, I would have been drawn more to full-time song-writing and producing. With Echoes of Our Times I got even more pleasure out of the fact that not only are these songs very personal to me, but also that others can relate to them. It really was a labour of love.

Did having a heart attack change your approach to life?

I don’t believe you can have an experience like that, without it changing your life. You realise that you never know what’s around the corner, and it makes you be more aware about your health, what you eat and how you live. I had given up smoking six years before it happened. I don’t drink, and I try hard to avoid stress. I go to the gym twice a week, and see a nutritionist. All that really works for me, and I feel better than ever!

Merry Christmas Everyone years ago, now using a mandolin, banjo, dobro and harmonica when playing live, and veering into rootsy blues and Americana. And his 2016 album Echoes Of Our Times was perhaps the biggest departure to date and he says that the new, deeper direction was inspired by finding out the truth about his family.

“Some years ago, I was forced to slow down for a while, and at that point in my life I started asking questions about my family, and quickly realised that I knew very little,” says Shaky who, during this time, discovered he had a half-brother, along with 13 uncles and aunts he didn’t know existed. “So we started to research my roots – and I’m really so glad I did this as I feel I now know more about myself. I didn’t know that until the 1870s my paternal ancestors had all been copper and tin miners.

“I learned more about their lives – including the life of my grandfather, who worked the mines from the age of 10 – and what they had to put up with,” he adds. “These stories formed the lyrics of the album.”

He says he couldn’t help but be inspired as these stories unfolded, and the music just seemed to flow. For instance, Down in the Hole intentionally sounds dark, the rhythm structure based on the sound of hammer-on-metal sounds from the mines, and, artistically, he says the whole album has been his most satisfying to date.

“It’s a very personal album and I’m extremely proud of it,” he says. “It’s certainly a lot different to what people would normally expect from me – many who’ve listened to it don’t recognise it’s me.”

When you’ve got so many classic, muchloved hits to your name, however, getting audiences to evolve with you can be something of a challenge.

“My musical style in the 80s was different from everyone else out there at the time, which led to developing a strong image – one I’ve spent the last 20 years trying to change, to allow me to move on,” he says. “Evolving as an artist to a new style is very, very difficult to bring about. The styles of music on Echoes Of Our Times are very much blues, roots, Americana and classic rock – but if you think about it, rock and roll is an umbrella for many styles of music, and that includes all of these and more!”

With 33 hit singles and four UK number ones to his name, the platinum selling entertainer certainly won’t be short of material to choose from.

“The title of the tour says it all really,” he says. “There’ll be hits, of course – some of which I haven’t performed on stage for a long time – together with songs from my record collection and newer songs, including from Echoes Of Our Times, which is full of stories.”

And we can’t wait to hear those stories…

See Shakin’ Stevens on 3 March at St David’s Hall.

For more: www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

Wyburn & Wayne Cardiff’s dazzling answer to Ant & Dec, Morecambe & Wise, or more accurately Edina & Patsy, giving you their take on what’s been HOT in and around our city

Shows and shenanigans

J

anuary has already been and gone, and what a busy month it was. We said we’d have a little chill time during January because of how manic our end of year always is, but did it happen? No! That’s what we love about this city though – it never stops, so why should we?

We mentioned briefly in the last column how amazing the pantomime at the New Theatre was this year, well we managed to grab some time with this year’s star, Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley. We chatted for ages about showbiz life and she’s the sweetest lady!

Nathan then presented her with her portrait in gold glitter – which she’d previously requested on Twitter. She said she felt like she was receiving her BAFTA again!

How cool?

St David’s Hall was rocking recently as the incredible Michael Jackson tribute Ben came to town.

His non-stop, high energy show

was second to none. We were knackered watching him! We also fitted in an interview for our Radio Cardiff show prior to the event and he was very humble, considering he’s thought of as one of the world’s greatest impersonators! It was a “Thriller” of a night... OK, that was “Bad”! *wink* Staying on the topic of live music, our best friend Kath (she’s 67 and absolutely fabulous) is the biggest Bryan Ferry can you could ever meet. So we treated her to the Roxy Music Bryan tribute show over at The Globe! Not only do we always love going there, but it was an incredible evening.

He was a true gent and came over to chat to Kath for us during the interval. If she hadn’t had her glasses on she’s probably have hyperventilated thinking he was the real thing. Cheers Specsavers!

The Globe have many amazing shows lined up, as do St David’s Hall, so be sure to check out their

The pair meet Lisa Riley

above: Fun in the ‘Dam right: Hangin’ with Charles Venn

websites for all the latest listings.

Looking back now it appears to be the month of tributes.

Nathan booked Tania Alboni as Cher to show up at The Golden Cross for Wayne’s 44th birthday.

Again, what a show! We both love Cher and have had the ultimate pleasure of having VIP tickets to see her in her Vegas show – there’s a funny story there that we probably shouldn’t tell, but anyway, she was great! Anyone ever looking for an epic Cher show, get to see Tania. It was also the landlord Rob’s birthday, so as well as the Cher antics, we had a wonderful meal at Côte Brasserie on Mill Lane. They have such a brilliant menu choice and the staff were extremely attentive.

One highlight of recent weeks was actually at our weekly Wednesday karaoke night at The Golden Cross. Our friend Amanda, who plays Robyn on BBC’s Casualty, brought along some of the cast, including Strictly’s Charles Venn and former Britain’s Got Talent star Shaheen Jafargholi. He’s so good he sang at MJ’s funeral, and Amanda can really belt a tune too.

Wales number one attraction

(voted for, don’t just take our word for it) Escape Rooms turned three years old so we popped along to their birthday bash and had a ball – they’re opening two new scary rooms with zombies galore.

We can’t not mention the fact we did take a mini break recently with our besties Rhian and Nathan, for Nath’s birthday. Not Wyburn’s – Rhian’s Nathan – this could get confusing! We went for a few days to Amsterdam. It’s been on our to do list for a while now and it didn’t disappoint in the slightest. We may have had a little too much Heineken though... We did boat rides and museums and of course visited Anne Frank’s house. Wyburn made a coffee painting of her in a local coffee shop out there and left it in the house with a message for someone to keep as a gift. It went down a storm on social media when the official Anne Frank accounts were tweeting it. Amsterdam, we will be back. And Cardiff Life readers – over and out, until next time!

To keep up to date with Wyburn & Wayne follow them on Facebook, Twitter @WyburnWayne and Instagram @wyburnandwayne.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 35

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away...

Cardiff Life team 01225 475800

SNAPPED AC ROSS C A R D I FF, O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E

Keira Lewis and Cherith Morrison

Richard and Maria Ford

Craig Vardon, Candice Weymouth and Ricki Srivastava

Keith Davies, Megan Ford, Allison Davies and Oliver Ford The Fitness Space team

GOOD FIT

Christian Malcolm, Oliver Ford and Tim Benjamin

Fitness Space Cardiff officially opened with a launch party at its Windsor Place studio on 16 January. Local Olympian and World Champion sprinter Christian Malcolm, now a renowned coach, cut the ribbon to formally open the studio supported

by Cardiff born, Olympic finalist and founder of the Fitness Space concept, Tim Benjamin. The event showcased the state-of-art equipment and facilities available.

Photos by Dave Horne – Express Imaging

Em Atherton

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

The Fitness Space studio

Iestyn Williams

SOCIETY

Guests enjoy the food

Nathan Wyburn paints portraits of Cardiff Devils players using barbecue sauce

CHICKEN TONIGHT

It’s all about the Insta

It was a real case of winner, winner chicken dinner, at the Slim Chickens official launch on 10 January in the St David’s shopping centre.

Guests were invited to sample the menu accompanied by musical entertainment, while artist Nathan Wyburn painted portraits of Cardiff Devils players Bryce Reddick and Evan Mosey using barbecue sauce.

Photos by jamjar

Lynsdey Jenkins and Gemma Gwilym

Cardiff Devils Bryce Reddick and Evan Mosey with their “saucy” portraits Lloyd Williams

Kacie Morgan, Josh Richards and Emma Dance

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 39

SLEEPY MOON AND STARS BABY MOBILE, £27.50 Let your little one gaze at the stars as they slip into sleep.

From Barney and Beau, Unit 6 Pontcanna Mews, Pontcanna; www.barneyandbeau.com

SLEEPY TIME

All you need to doze your way through National Sleep Month (which is in March BTW)

BABY ALPACA BLANKET, £190 Snuggle up with this oh-sosoft alpaca wool blanket.

From Natuzzi, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; www.natuzzi.co.uk

CALM BALM, £13 Made from Welsh Lavender, this is the balm you want beside you when it's time to unwind.

Its anti-stress, peace-inducing blend of lavender, camomile and sandalwood oils heals and comforts. Keep it beside the bed to help you drift off.

From West Hampton, Penny Lane, Cowbridge; www.westhampton.co.uk

STUDIO LANTERN, FROM £60 Bathe your bedroom in a soft glow…

From Athena Interiors, www.athenainteriors.co.uk ORLA KIELY SYCAMORE SEED DUVET COVER, £75 This stylish bedding will make your bed look even more inviting than usual!

From Leekes, Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun, Rhondda Cynon Taff; www.leekes.co.uk

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

ED’S CHOICE CAMOMILE TEA, £5/35G Cherished for its calming properties, brew yourself a cup of camomile to help clear your mind and unwind at the end of the day.

From Waterloo Tea, Wyndham Arcade, Cardiff; www.waterlootea.com

GOOD NIGHT STORIES FOR REBEL GIRLS, £25 Inspiring girls around the world to dream bigger, aim higher and fight harder, Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls 2 is an entirely new collection of one hundred bedtime stories that celebrate extraordinary women from Nefertiti to Beyoncé, Rosalind Franklin to JK Rowling.

From Oliver Bonas, 37 The Hayes, Cardiff; www.oliverbonas.com

SOOTHE SLEEP OIL, £9.99 A true “lullaby in a bottle”, this contains 100% natural essential oil of lavender to relax and calm, as well as the oils from grape seed, sweet almond, bitter orange flower and Mandarin orange peel to balance the mind and deliver a gentle fragrance.

From Shore, The Esplanade, Penarth; 029 2132 1818; www.shorecoastal.co.uk

VELVET EYE MASK, £14.99 Close your eyes and drift away to the land of nod.

From Hamptons, Ludlow Lane, Penarth www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk

VENERE BED, £3,530 A bed that looks as good as it feels.

From Natuzzi, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; www.natuzzi.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 43

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE While trends come and go, animal print is here to stay, remaining a staple in every stylish woman’s wardrobe

W

ith high streets packing everything from leopard to snake and zebra prints, this versatile trend will continue to be a must-have this year. Whether you’re after head-to-toe looks or incorporating a top or accessories into your outfit, we’ve got everything you need to rock this feisty trend.

Head-to-toe A chic animal print dress is a great way to embrace the trend. Try this gorgeous All Saints leopard print dress (1), perfect for a casual occasion during the day, or throw on a simple leather jacket for a classy evening look! Or if you prefer a subtler print look, opt for this flowing turquoise Oliver Bonas dress (3), which gives just a hint of the wild trend. Feeling adventurous? Why not take it one step further with this bold Whistles jungle cat jumpsuit (7), available at John Lewis, which is, sure to give you an extra edge.

Touch of print There are tons of ways to incorporate a subtle touch of print in your outfit. We absolutely adore this stylish All Saints tiger print jumper (8) that would go perfectly with a casual pair of jeans! Similarly, opt for this pink Oliver Bonas number (9) to add some brightness to your outfit. We are lusting after this leopard print skirt from M&S (2) that can be teamed up with a simple black top. Finish off the look with this elegant Vivienne Westwood bomber jacket (5) that will add a touch of glamour to your look.

Finishing dashes Don’t be afraid to go wild with animal print accessories this month! Try a pair of these Karen Millen stiletto heels (10) to spice up your look. Alternatively, go for these Kurt Geiger loafers (4) to complete your work outfit. Add this amazingly soft M&S faux fur scarf (6), which will add some sass and keep you warm!

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

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

Karen Millen snakeskin print midi dress, £199

FASHION 1

3

2

4

5

SHOPPING LIST 1. Claria leopard print dress, £168, AllSaints 2. Animal print a-line skirt, £35, M&S 3. Teal animal print midi stress, £69.50, Oliver Bonas 4. Koby leopard print loafers, £49, Kurt Geiger 5. Wilma bomber leopard print, £356, Vivienne Westwood 6. Faux fur animal print scarf, £25, M&S 7. Jungle cat utility jumpsuit, £129, Whistles at John Lewis 8. Tiger print jumper, £148, AllSaints 9. Animal print jumper, £49.50, Oliver Bonas 10. Patent collection stiletto heeled court shoes, £95, Karen Millen

7

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10 9

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 47

THE STYLE FILE Nathan Palmer

Fashion February!

Penarth-based fashion designer Nathan Palmer’s created suits for the likes of Graham Norton, Mel Giedroyc and Rudimental.

Safe to say then, that he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to style. Here Nathan uses his expert insight to predict what we’ll be wearing this spring and summer

L Nathan (left) created a suit for Charles Venn to wear at the National Television Awards

“I’m humbled by the success I’ve had”

ife can be a crazy thing.

If someone had said to me three years ago, “Nathan – take a breath and relax – you don’t need to worry about your business as in a few years you’ll be making suits for Rudimental, Graham Norton, Boyzone and stars from Strictly Come Dancing, and everyone, even royalty, will be seeing your creations on shows like the National Television Awards and Sports Personality of the Year,” I think I would have just laughed and said, “Yeah, right. Nice one mate.” But that’s exactly what’s happened. And I’m making a suit for Idris Elba next!

Not only that – my work sees me collaborating with Virgin Holidays, the University of South Wales and Cardiff University. I have associations with the Sinclair Group, Sinclair Mercedes, the Indigo Group and Cass Bespoke Solutions, and ITV have even covered my fashion shows.

I am humbled by the success I’ve had. I’m like so many people – I’m

a young chap and a father of three.

I was born in St David’s Hospital in Cardiff and grew up in Cardiff.

I went to Lansdowne Primary, then on to Fitzalan High School and then Whitchurch High School, before doing the college and uni thing and eventually setting up Nathan Palmer Bespoke in Penarth.

Despite everything I have achieved, it can be challenge being self-employed. And, like many others in my position, I wear many hats (or should I say suits?) in my business. But I am learning to let go and go with the flow a bit more.

And, the beautiful thing about being self-employed is that you can create many collaborations that can add value to your business and the opportunity to move forward positively.

But back to fashion, and what we can expect to see hitting the high streets this spring/summer.

For many, January is a joyless month. Not if you work in the fashion industry however, as this is when a lot of collections are shown.

Get ready for plenty more animal prints and for a recurrence of tiedye! Alas, it seems as if the 60s print is truly back in fashion – although 2019’s take is admittedly a helluva lot more chic. Thank goodness.

These 2019 fashion trends generate new ideas, without ignoring their respective heritage.

There are multiple examples of fashion that we draw inspiration from previous eras, and my next collection will be inspired by the 1600s. The concept is the infusion of imagination and creative exploration through beautifully designed silhouettes. Additional elements include sustainability, luxurious quality, collaborative work, and more.

My tip for the upcoming season?

Look for gender-neutral leather shapes that are explored through new forms and fun colour ways.

Neon is not one for the fainthearted but vibrant zesty hues are back with a bang this year after endless seasons of the fashion pack drooling over all things pastel.

The experimental nature evokes a sense of progression, encouraging new perspectives of a traditional material. Another fashion trend is the collaboration between White Mountaineering and Adidas – this duo focus on functionality through sportswear silhouettes. The collection delivers durable qualities through its GORE-TEX materials and flexible structures, bridging the gap that lies between fashion and function. n For more: www.nathanpalmer.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 49

Our dedicated team create fresh food daily.

Hay Smoked Brecon Venison, swede puree, Haggis and skirlie bonbon, soured blackberry puree and baby beets (pictured)

Llanerch Vineyard is a working Welsh vineyard in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Boasting an award winning restaurant, elegant wedding and banqueting facilities, 5 star accommodation, with daily vineyard tours and picturesque views at every turn.

We endeavour to use seasonal Welsh produce to showcase the best that Wales has to oer.

Call: 01443 222716 Email: info@llanerch-vineyard.co.uk Visit: www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk

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Liquid innovation When is a cocktail not a just cocktail? When it’s been created by LAB 22 of course!

Y

ou might think you know your way around a cocktail menu. But the chances are you’ve never seen one quite like Lab 22’s cocktail menu. That’s because it’s not like any other cocktail menu. It’s better – one of the best in the UK, in fact – and that’s official since their boundary-

pushing “Discovery and Progress” menu won the title of Best Themed Menu at the Imbibe Drinks List of the Year awards. And with ingenious concoctions such as Cloning Unicorns, Ffission Chips and Industrial Oil – many created using handmade ingredients, and all served with Lab 22’s signature flair and side of imagination – it’s not hard to see why.

Sure, they’ll knock you up a classic mojito or a dark and stormy if that’s what you really want (and it’ll probably be the best version of it you’ll ever tasted) but it seems a bit of a waste of the mixologists’ talents when you consider the host of other awards and accolades the team has scooped in the last 12 months, including the bar being ranked as number 31 in the list of the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars, and bar manager Alex Mills being named as Bartender of the Year.

Whatever you order though, you can be sure that it’ll come with a full multisensory appeal.

After all, nothing at Lab 22 is just a drink... n

22 Caroline Steet, Cardiff, CF10 1FG Tel: 02920 399997 Email: info@lab22cardiff.com www.lab22cardiff.com. @Lab22Cardiff

Flavours of the Med, fruits of the Atlantic @ La Cuina

Catalan restaurant La Cuina, 11 Kings Road, Cardiff, CF11 9BZ 029 20190265 – info@lacuina.co.uk

www.lacuina.co.uk

Great taste Take a look at some of Cardiff’s tastiest offerings…..

Taste-full platefuls at Heaney’s

taste of cardiff

T

here’s no doubt about it.

Cardiff’s foodie scene is properly booming right now.

From posh nosh to world class pizza, the city’s got it covered!

Best for…Bangin’ beef Asador 44

We’ll have all of this please! (At the Admiral St David)

14–15 Quay Street, Cardiff; www.asador44.co.uk Why we love it: When Asador 44 burst on to the scene in 2016 it was one of the first Spanish grill restaurants in the UK. Since then, more may have opened, but few can match Asador’s consistently top-notch food and first class service making it a firm favourite.

What we’re ordering: The signature dish of 60 day dry-aged chuleton sharing steak is something very special indeed. It comes from Rubia Galega cattle – a breed renowned for their marbling which enhances the flavour.

And, we’re told, they live a longer life than most British breeds which means they can be fattened up more resulting in a steak which provides a much more intense “almost primeval” flavour.

Failing that, the whole chargrilled turbot is pretty epic too. There are so many different textures from various parts of the fish it’s a real gastronomic treat!

Best for…

A pizza the action Dusty Knuckle

Topping top pizza at Dusty Knuckle

in the know Some of Cardiff’s top foodies share their favourite spots…

“As someone who eats out a lot (I love Milkwood, Heaney’s and The Heathcock) I’m very fortunate to have Penylan Pantry on my doorstep. They work with like-minded ethical suppliers to produce super tasty meals. Their salads are superb.”

Rhidian Dafydd; www.bwytaynybrifddinas. blogspot.com “The Heathcock pub in Llandaff does everything I want a restaurant to do. Bigflavoured and well-priced seasonal cooking

is served in a relaxed dining room alongside a cracking selection of wines and real ales.

I’d expect nothing less from the team behind Aberthin’s acclaimed Hare and Hounds.

Highlights of head chef Dave Killick’s menu include their signature rabbit pappardelle (loaded with tender shreds of bunny, golden breadcrumbs and crisp lardons), sharing dishes like braised shoulder of Torgelly Farm lamb and their cloud-like seasonal fruit soufflés.”

Ed Gilbert; www. gourmetgorro.blogspot.com

70 LLandaff Road, Cardiff; www.dustyknuckle.co.uk Why we love it: Not only is the pizza some of, if not THE best in the UK (and that’s official BTW – the Guardian said so) but sustainability is right at the heart of the Dusty Knuckle ethos – from the provenance of the food, to the reusable metal pizza boxes that were introduced to help reduce waste.

What we’re ordering: The Blas Y Mor. Made using the famous Dusty Knuckle dough then topped with San Marzano tomatoes, Fior Di Latte cheese, cockles, laverbread, lardo and samphire you’re unlikely to find anything quite like it anywhere else. And it was named one of the top eight pizzas on Snapchat dontcha know?

“You’re unlikely to find anything quite like it anywhere else” www.mediaclash.co.uk I cardiff LIFE I 53

taste of cardiff Best for…Welsh produce with an exotic twist THE Admiral St David

voco St David’s Cardiff, Havannah Street, Cardiff; www.admiralstdavid.co.uk Why we love it: The combination of the best Welsh produce and the eclectic food culture and bold flavours of Australasia makes for a genuinely mouth-watering menu.

What we’re ordering: The chicken and prawn laksa – it’s the very definition of comfort food.

Best for…

Food with a view

A space for chillin’ at Twenty Nine Park Place

Pier64 Wine Bar & Steakhouse

Penarth Marina, Penarth; www.pier64.co.uk Why we love it: Location, location, location!

Fronting the ever-pretty Penarth marina there’s few places with such a glorious outlook.

It’s been taken on by new owners and the kitchen and dining areas have been refurbed, making it an even more delightful dining spot.

What we’re ordering: Pan fried scallops.

There’s just something rather lovely about eating seafood beside the sea.

Best for…

Pasta perfection Piatto by Giovannis

The Flourish, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff.

Why we love it: Set to open its doors any day now, Piatto is the latest venture from Cardiff foodie stalwart Giovanni Malacrino (of Giovanni’s on the Hayes and Park Place) who’s been cooking up top class Italian fare for 35 years. This one will be specialising in pasta – you create your own dish by selecting your choice of pasta and adding a sauce.

What we’re ordering: If Giovanni’s other restaurants are anything to go by the nosh here will be top. We’ve heard that they’ve developed bowls made from Parmesan cheese in which to serve up the pasta and we can’t wait to try them! Not do they sound delicious, but eating the bowl cuts down on the washing up. Winner.

Best for…Pub grub plus Twenty Nine Park Place

29 Park Place, Cardiff; www.knifeandforkfood.co.uk Why we love it: The grand townhouse setting has the aesthetic of a traditional pub, and plenty of special finishing touches such as the open kitchen to watch chefs at work, a cosy log fire and an ever-evolving ale list. The cool, yet comfortable interiors make it a great space for eating, drinking and generally relaxing.

What we’re ordering: There’s so much choice on the ever-evolving menu it’s too hard to pick just one dish. But we’re definitely having a pint of something to go with it!

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

The only thing that makes a plate like this even better is a wine pairing. Luckily that’s what you can get at Llanerch Vineyard

“Opened in 2017, Milkwood in Pontcanna is a popular, independent modern Welsh bistro; and a personal favourite of mine in Cardiff. Boasting a cosy, neighbourhood charm, the customer service you receive is impeccable, and the team go all out to make you feel welcome. Offering a continually changing menu informed by top notch Welsh produce, the dishes at Milkwood demonstrate a genuine passion for food, by chefs who have an excellent knowledge and understanding of local ingredients and flavours. And with both an à la carte and a lunch menu offering two courses for £15, I love that it’s the perfect restaurant for any occasion.

Helen Wilson; www.octopusdiaries.co.uk “At Asador 44, the ace card is long-aged Spanish beef, the Rubia Gallega they learned to cook at León’s renowned El

Capricho. Simply seasoned, grilled over the fierce heat of their parilla grill – the heartbeat of this place – and ideally served very, very pink, it will rewrite your ideas about the possibilities of steak. Welsh beef features too, of course: but don’t think this is ‘just’ the area’s premier steakhouse.

The lunchtime deal – two courses for £10, three for fifteen – is, without doubt, one of the best deals in the city, where fish and vegetables are given equal billing with meat (their chargrilled butternut squash is almost illegally good) – with no dilution of the Asador 44 experience. It has quickly established as one of the region’s best restaurants: it continues the hot streak which means everything Owen and Tom Morgan do deserves your serious attention. Highly recommended.”

Jonathan Swain; www.theplatelickedclean. blogspot.co.uk

TASTE OF CARDIFF “I love Wrights Wines, the natural wine shop on the balcony in Castle Arcade. Because it’s such a tiny spot it feels a bit clandestine, and at lunchtimes you can get a thick, Welsh cheese sourdough toastie with a glass of wine to eat in for £10. It’s becoming my regular Friday treat, although it’s pretty difficult to leave without buying a bottle of something to take home!”

Jane Cook; www.hungrycityhippy.co.uk “My go-to for some time has got to be Bar 44 Cardiff. The everchanging menu, which is always beautifully cooked, and the excellent drinks options ranging from gin to sherry, and attentive service make this city centre venue perfect for drinks, a light bite or full on feast. Pass me the fino!”

Imran Nathoo; www.kitchenclonc.com “I have lots of favourite foodie spots in Cardiff, but if I had to choose just one, I’d pick Madame Fromage. Tucked away in a corner of Castle Arcade, this quaint little cafe-deli serves what I believe to be the best Welsh rarebit in Cardiff – and don’t even get me started on the cawl. The cheese and meat platters are just as inviting.”

Kacie Morgan; www.therarewelshbit.com

Could it be magic? Quite possibly. Those Lab 22 mixologists are drink wizards dontcha know

BEST FOR…TRYING SOMETHING NEW HEANEY’S

Giovanni Malacrino’s the master of Italian cuisine

6–10 Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna; www.heaneyscardiff.co.uk Why we love it: Heaney’s only opened in October (thanks to a super-successful crowdfunding campaign) but is more than making its mark thanks to Tommy Heaney’s innovative small plates inspired by seasonal produce.

What we’re ordering: If we’ve got time then we’ll have the 10-course tasting menu.

We’re never leaving though, without chowing down on a plate of barbecue Welsh lamb with anchovy emulsion and sea vegetables. The sea vegetables change seasonally, so the dish can evolve, but the balance of flavour between the lamb and emulsion is just to die for.

Oh, and the homemade duck ham, made by dry ageing the meat for two weeks before curing it in salt and maple syrup and smoking with applewood, is also a must-try.

BEST FOR….

GOOD LIBATIONS LAB 22

22 Caroline Street, Cardiff; www.lab22cardiff.com Why we love it: As well as making drinks that are as weird and wonderful as they sound, the Lab 22 team designs all the cocktails with

“Because it’s such a tiny spot it feels a bit clandestine”

a multi-sensory appeal in mind so you get a whole experience rather than just a drink.

Plus, they’ve scooped a sizeable haul of awards and they’ve taken steps to boost sustainability by using biodegradable straws, swapping paper napkins for resusable coasters and upcycling waste products from service into cocktail ingredients.

What we’re ordering: The Botany cocktail on the signature menu is a standout and encompasses everything Lab 22 is about – high quality premium alcohol brands and homemade ingredients all served with a hefty side of imagination.

We’re also rather partial to the espresso martini made with a special blend of coffee from Uncommon Ground in the Royal Arcade, and used coffee grounds (that would otherwise be waste) which are transformed into coffee bitters adding a unique flavour and depth to the drink. It might be the best espresso martini not just in Cardiff, but anywhere!

BEST FOR…RAISING A GLASS LLANERCH VINEYARD

Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol; www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk Why we love it: You can tour the vineyard (and enjoy the picturesque views) before dining on dishes paired with the venue’s very own wines.

What we’re ordering: When it’s in season the hay-smoked venison with haggis is a firm favourite. The Dukkah goat’s cheese – a creamy Welsh Pant Ys Gawn goat’s cheese coated in middle eastern spices and hazelnuts, accompanied by textures of beetroot – is always a good choice.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 55

taste of cardiff

What’s occurring?

We asked those who work in (and run) restaurants and bars in the city for their take on the dining scene “It’s a very tough and competitive environment in which to succeed but where quality and excellence can continue to excel but there is absolutely no room for complacency.”

Stephen Jones, owner, Pier64

“As Cardiff expands and develops, it of course attracts the attention of big companies and chains. Whilst this is great for the city, it is the independent businesses which define the individuality and culture of a place’s food and drinks scene, so it is important to make sure that they are not left behind as we all move forward.

“It would be fantastic to see Cardiff’s food and drink scene achieve the national recognition it deserves. In this city we have such a diverse range of high quality restaurants and bars which we believe are worthy of travelling to from far and wide. We would also like to see venues outside the city centre getting more attention. Roath, Pontcanna and Cardiff Bay all have some great independent venues doing fantastic things, and are just as deserving of credit as the titans in the city centre.”

Max Hayward, bartender, Lab 22

“Guests are definitely are more open minded than they were 5-10 years ago. Whether that’s down to the rise in foodie TV shows like Great British Menu (that I appeared on), Netflix, and an increasing interest in restaurants from the media, it has encouraged people to pay more attention. What I’ve learnt though, is that it’s very important that with this increased awareness, I as a restaurateur and chef, need to cater to everyone and be flexible i.e. with dietaries and allergies. I don’t want to exclude anyone.”

Tommy Heaney, head chef and owner, Heaney’s

56 I cardiff LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“These days Cardiff has a really eclectic food scene which we should be proud of. It’s been great to see the street food scene start to thrive over the last few years and it’s certainly a big crowd pleaser.

“I would love to see the diversity and innovation in the city’s food scene continue to improve. Cardiff is an exciting, multicultural city and the food and drink scene reflects this with unique bars, tap houses and food choices, be it Lebanese, Caribbean, vegan and stonebaked pizzas, to a good range of fine dining. In many ways Cardiff seems to have it all, but we must continue to add and diversify to keep up with expectations of a capital city.”

David Tregoning, general manager, Twenty Nine Park Place

“The city’s food scene has become much more cosmopolitan and is evolving quickly as customers tastes and food choices become more sophisticated.

“I would like to think that staff welfare has also improved massively. Gone are the days when 60/70/80 hour weeks were standard.

It would be great if more talented youngsters saw hospitality as a career choice in South Wales. It’s a really challenging, but incredibly rewarding industry.”

city is even more popular than before. There has been an explosion of al fresco dining since I helped pioneer the first British built cafe quarter, on Mill Lane, and it excites me tremendously to see this trend continuing to evolve throughout the city. As well as this, the introduction of vegan menus as well as an array of diverse cuisines from around the world is another great sign for our city.”

Giovanni Malacrino, managing director, Giovanni’s restaurant group

“Cardiff’s food scene has a strong sense of individuality and a noticeable emphasis on local produce. Over the past few years the importance of supporting local has become more and more apparent.”

Martyn Watkins, head chef, The Admiral St David

“I would like to see more food outlets take real responsibility for sourcing their ingredients.

I consistently encourage diners to actively enquire about what they are eating, and how their ingredients have been treated on their journey to the plate. As a nation, we need to have a stronger connection to our food and that can only start if we understand what we are eating and hold food providers accountable for their sourcing decisions.”

Phill Lewis, owner, Dusty Knuckle

Tom Morgan, owner, Asador 44

“I believe it’s an exciting time for the Cardiff food scene with various new restaurants having opened in 2018 and with the city ever expanding and becoming more cosmopolitan, I believe Cardiff will one day rival Bristol’s food scene.”

“The one thing I love about this city more than anything else, is the community within it. Despite it being one of the fastest growing cities in the world, we have not lost the feel and relationships within it. The Cardiff food and drink scene has evolved enormously since I first started out in 1983. It is growing more than ever, and I am delighted to say that the

This scallop dish from Pier64 looks mighty enticing

Michael Hudson, executive head chef, Llanerch Vineyard

one to one

Food for thought Just because he’s vegan, it doesn’t mean Matt Pritchard’s vegging out…

I

By Emma Dance

f you were making a list of candidates to host the first vegan cookery show on the BBC, the front man of a prank show probably wouldn’t be top of your list.

And yet, Matt Pritchard of Dirty Sanchez fame, has done just that.

If you’re not familiar with Dirty Sanchez, the cult MTV show that amassed viewers all over the world (and therefore why Matt just might not have been a bookie’s favourite for this particular gig), let’s get you up to speed. Basically it saw Matt and three of his mates pranking each other in the most extreme and often downright dangerous ways possible, pushing – it’s fair to say – the boundaries of both pain and taste, all in the name of entertainment. We’re talking taking 104 paintballs to the body at close range, dragging bare buttocks over sandpaper, stapling tongues and consuming bodily fluids.

Pleasant, right? And not exactly very BBC… But all of that was more than a decade ago, and now Matt, who owns the Sleep When You’re Dead tattoo and barber shop in Cardiff’s High Street Arcade, is practically a poster boy for the clean living lifestyle, completing Ironman triathlons and adopting a vegan lifestyle.

“I am a completely different person

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

to what I was 10 years ago,” he says. “Back then I didn’t give sh*t about anyone. I didn’t give a sh*t about myself. I just went into a mad destructive mode. I had a lot of fun, but there comes a point in life when you just have to have a word with yourself and you have to calm down.

“Before I used to enjoy going out and getting wrecked. Now I enjoy going out for a run with my dog. Don’t get me wrong – the lunatic is still there, and he gets released now and then. But I’m quite enjoying the new me!

“If you’d told me when I was in college that when I was 45 I’d have a vegan book and a TV show though I would have just laughed.”

His college-self would be in hysterics now then since four episodes of Dirty Vegan aired on BBC Wales in January, (and are now available on iPlayer) and there’s also an accompanying recipe book, and Matt’s already in talks about the possibility of another series and another book.

Making a cooking show for the BBC however was a rather different kettle of fish (or maybe veg in this case?) to filming Dirty Sanchez.

“It was a massive culture shock,” he admits. “There’s no swearing, and everything you say has to be correct – which is how it should be – but it was a real eye

“In some ways I almost feel like Fanny Craddock.

It’s weird!”

main image: “I made this, I did!”; opposite: Don’t look so surprised. Vegan chocolate cake is seriously delish

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

ONE TO ONE

Let them eat cake!

opener. And actually, I’m not very confident in front of a camera.

Doing Sanchez was different because I had three other people around me, but everyone at the BBC made me feel really comfortable and you could see that the whole team was really working their backsides off. I really enjoyed it, and I’m really proud of how it turned out. Seeing the fantastic results and the feedback – it just goes to show that hard work pays off.”

Was there any extra pressure knowing that this was the BBC’s first vegan cookery show? “To be honest, I didn’t even really think about it,” says Matt. “It was only after it aired and people started talking about it being the first that it really hit home. In some ways I almost feel like Fanny Craddock! It’s weird.”

Both the show and the book are garnering some serious love if the reactions on social media are anything to go by.

“I didn’t see it coming,” says Matt who, despite his celeb status is endearingly humble. “But it makes me really happy to see that people are enjoying the show and cooking my recipes. I don’t like preaching – I’d rather educate, and Dirty Vegan is a bit comedy, and a bit education.

If we all just do a bit – even if it’s just making one meal a week vegan – it all makes a massive difference.”

The show saw Matt challenged to create vegan food for people with certain nutritional needs – including the Llanelli Scarlets women’s rugby team, GSCE students and a mountain rescue team. His highlight, however, was baking with the Glamorgan federation of the WI. “I really like old people,” he says. “They have got manners and

respect. It’s nice to see that in a world where people – especially the younger generations – are so disrespectful. I just liked hanging out with those sorts of people and sitting down and talking about cake!

“I’m sure when they saw me walk in they wondered what they had let themselves in for, but they were very welcoming, and we had some good banter, talking about soggy bottoms and stuff.”

Matt’s the first to admit that he doesn’t exactly look like your stereotypical tree-hugging, kalecrunching vegan.

But it’s something that he thinks can work to his advantage.

“Lots of people think vegans are all hippies,” he says. “Then they see this guy who’s tattooed from head to toe and it knocks that stereotype right down.

They look at me and think ‘If he can be a vegan, so can I.’ “Actually, I think I’m becoming a bit of a hippy. Although looking after myself and looking after others – that’s not being a hippy, it’s just being a decent human.”

Looking after himself is a big part of Matt’s life these days and you’re far more likely to find him out running than partying. Back in 2016 he broke a world record, completing 30 half Iron Mans (that’s a 1.2 mile swim, 56-mile bike ride and 13.1 mile half marathon run) in 30 days.

Even while Matt was filming, and simultaneously writing his book he was deep in training for another challenge – swimming, cycling and running around the coastline of Wales in just 14 days. (You can see how he got on in the documentary Wild Man to Iron Man available on iPlayer). “It was a mad three months,” he says. “But also and enjoyable

“There comes a point in life when you just have to have a word with yourself and you have to calm down”

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

ONE TO ONE three months. My motto is ‘Sleep when you’re dead’ and I really was actioning it.”

Clearly not someone to do anything by halves, Matt (along with his business partner Simon Webb) is also organising the SWYD sprint triathlon taking place on Barry Island in May and he’s already back in training for his next challenge – an Iron Man Deca – that’s 10 full Iron Mans in 10 days.

It’s a pretty massive challenge by anyone’s standards, but Matt’s pretty blasé about the whole thing.

“I just enjoy training,” he shrugs. The he adds with a laugh, “It’s just a mental challenge and luckily enough I am as mental as f***.”

Jokes aside however, there’s a serious element to all Matt’s physical challenges.

“I’ve had mental health issues in the past,” he says. “But it can really lift my spirits to do a work out. The other day I got really anxious about somewhere I was going so I just went out for a run, came back, had a cold shower, and I was a new person.

“I’m actually very shy, so doing book signings and things can be quite difficult. But I think it’s important to push yourself out of your comfort zone, and if I didn’t do that stuff I would sit and rot away.”

It was getting into sport that actually prompted Matt to start his vegan journey.

“I was doing a lot of ultra endurance events, and I realised that quite a lot of the athletes were vegan. I started researching the reasons behind it, and the more I found out, the more it started making sense for me to go that way – as a dog owner and an animal lover. I mean, where do you draw the line between and dog or a cat and a pig or a cow?

“I began my giving up meat and became a pescetarian, but then I watched a documentary called Cowspiracy and that was it. It was the most eye-opening thing I have ever seen and the next morning I went totally vegan.

“That meant that I had to find new ways of cooking.

When I finished school I went to college for two years to train to be a chef and I always enjoyed cooking and when I went vegan I got into it a bit more again. After about two months I got into the swing of it. I think it was a bit easier for me than some people though, because my training means I understand food a bit more. I know a lot of people who went vegan and lived on potatoes and then ended up getting ill.”

As veganism becomes increasingly mainstream however, there’s more and more options readily available to those taking up the lifestyle.

“There’s vegan aisles in the supermarkets now,” says Matt. “It’s good to see. There’s no excuse to drink cow’s milk, because there’s about 10 different types of plant milk out there.

“Yes, a lot of the vegan food in the supermarkets is processed, but I’m not going to knock it, because it’s giving people an easier stepping stone into veganism.

“It’s a positive thing to see these big companies investing millions into plant-based meals and menus.

“In Cardiff the vegan food scene is definitely growing. There’s Anna Loka, Milgi, Clancy’s and The Spice of Life – my mother has been going there since the 80s. It’s a really great place with really good prices but I always end spending a fortune in there on ingredients. The Greazy Vegan opened recently too and the food in there is insane, especially the Big Moc. You can get vegan junk food too!

“Food is completely changing, and I believe that the future of food is veganism. For the environment, and many other reasons, it has to be.” n

“The future of food is veganism.

It has to be”

For more on the SWYD sprint triathlon; www.allornothingevents.co.uk top: Back to school; middle: The training never stops; bottom; Matt’s running partner

Dirty Vegan is available on iPlayer and the Dirty Vegan cook book published

by Octopus is out now, RRP £20.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

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History in the making The rise and rise of the desert city of Doha

By Emma Dance

T

hese days it’s rare that you’ll get the chance to see a city in the making, but in Doha you will get exactly that. It wasn’t long ago that the Qatari capital was little more than a small pearling and fishing community, then the discovery of oil happened and over the last 50 years or so Qatar has been propelled from relative obscurity to the richest nation on earth (not bad for a country a little more than half the size of Wales) and Doha has become a dazzling desert metropolis.

Futuristic skyscrapers dominate the everchanging skyline, and there’s been a surge of luxurious new hotel openings as Doha bids to take on neighbouring holiday heavyweight Dubai as the next tourism hotspot.

It’s going to be helped in this endeavour, of course, by the 2022 World Cup which is to be held in Qatar – the first time the event has ever been held in the Middle East – and is sure to attract thousands of spectators from

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

all over the world. Now, work is ongoing on building brand-new state-of-the-art stadiums to host the matches, as well as a brand new metro system to ferry around the footie fans. The decision to hold the tournament there hasn’t been without controversy, however. First there were allegations of corruption during the bidding process (Qatar was cleared of any wrongdoing by Fifa), and the decision to switch the dates from June and July to November and December in order to avoid the soaring summer temperatures.

Then there was the plight of the migrant construction workers who were reportedly dying after being made to work in the scorching heat, prompting the introduction of labour reforms. The organising committee is working hard, though, to put any negativity

behind them, and there’s no doubt that when the eyes of the football-loving world fall upon the country in just over three years, they’ll be going all out to impress.

Football aside, there’s plenty of other reasons to put Doha on your “must see” list, and despite the speed at which the city is growing and changing there’s still very much a sense that it’s not prepared to leave its sense of identity and heritage behind.

The city is tiny and almost all the main attractions, from souks to art galleries are within a short taxi ride of each other.

Most of the iconic landmarks, as well as several of the swankiest hotels, are found along the Corniche, the seven kilometre walkway which hugs the waterfront. In a city not known for its pedestrian friendly streets

“Doha has become a dazzling desert metropolis”

great escapes

main image: The bright lights of the Doha skyline;

inset: Stroll down La Corniche; Doha from the air;

Souk Waqif

Where to stay: The Four Seasons Hotel offers some of the most luxurious accommodation in Doha with many of the rooms offering walk-out balconies with views of the sea and the city skyline. There’s a private beach, pool and an opulent spa as well as a bunch of food and drink options including a chilled out beachside grill and the world’s largest Nobu restaurant. www.fourseasons.com/doha

it’s a great spot to take in the views, and to get your bearings. Evenings are the best time to head out when the sweeping crescent becomes a buzzing multicultural jumble of expats, locals and tourists and you’ll avoid the intense daytime sun.

At one end of the promenade is the distinctive pyramid-shaped Sheraton hotel the country’s first five star hotel, while at the other is the equally eye-catching Museum of Islamic Art. A work of art in itself, it was designed by the same architect behind the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris and inside is housed the world’s largest collection of Islamic art, drawn from three continents.

It’s a symbol of the kind of serious investment the Qatari authorities have been making in the cultural side of the country.

Just north of the centre is Katara, a cultural village with theatres, galleries, Qatar’s only opera house and an impressive Grecian-inspired marble amphitheatre overlooking the Persian Gulf, as well as two

impressive mosques (one covered in gold, and the other a vision in blue) and a public beach.

Head west, and you’ll find Education City, a sprawling 2,500 acre campus home created by the Qatar Foundation to provide worldclass learning facilities. Several international universities have outposts there (including University College London), but it’s the ubermodern national library (which opened a little more than a year ago), Damien Hirst’s controversial The Miraculous Journey sculpture outside the Sidra Medicine Hospital, and the Al Shaqab equestrian centre dedicated to the breeding and training of the magnificent Arabian horses that are the must-sees.

If you want to rub shoulders with the locals then head to Souk Waqif at dusk, when it becomes the city’s social hub. Built on the site of an ancient Bedouin market, it’s been relatively recently restored to give an authentic old-world feel and in fact, some ancient buildings still remain and it’s here that you’ll find the Hotel Bismillah – the very www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 67

great escapes

Qatar Airways Business Class cabin

Getting there (and back) Qatar Airways’ direct flights from Cardiff mean that it’s never been easier to reach Doha. Not only is there no necessity to travel to London to get there, but there’s all the extra advantages of a more bijou airport – like swift check-ins, little to no queues at security and only a minimal walk to the departure gate.

Qatar Airways has won all kinds of awards, so you’re always certain of a comfortable ride. If you’re able to splash out on a business class ticket however (and I’d highly recommend you do if you possibly can) you’re in for a proper treat – there’s a reason why it’s been named as the World’s Best

Business Class. Forget about jostling for space with your neighbour, here you’ll have more than enough personal space. If you need to work, there’s more than enough room for a laptop, and some handy USB charging points. But if, like me, you like to use flights as a time to disconnect from the real world then there’s a ton of movies, games and music all available at the touch of a button (or screen).

Food is actual, proper food – there’s a menu and everything – delivered when you want it, and with real cutlery and crockery and even a little electric candle. It’s probably about as close to a restaurant experience as you can get

on a commercial aircraft at 30,000 feet.

Perhaps the biggest luxury though is the seats that don’t just recline (and have a back massage feature just FYI) but lie fully flat which means that you can get some proper shuteye which is a real blessing on an overnight flight.

At the other end Hamad International Airport is almost a destination in its own right. It only opened in 2014 so it still super new and shiny. There’s designer boutiques galore, restaurants, cafés, works of art and a hotel with a spa, gym and even a swimming pool which anyone can pay to use if they have a long enough layover.

© the four seasons

first hotel to open in Doha back in the 1950s.

If you want to pick up a few souvenirs, the souk is the place - it’s more chilled out than its Moroccan counterparts and although if you want to try your hand at bartering you can, there’s no real need as everything’s pretty cheap. Just wandering through the maze of corridors however is entertainment in itself, and for some serious people watching take a seat at one of the cafés among the plumes of shisha smoke and watch the world go by over a cup of karak chai – strong tea perfumed with cardamom and other spices.

Of course, the guaranteed sunshine is always going to be one of Doha’s major draws. In the peak of summer temperatures can set the mercury soaring to 40ºC and beyond, but from October to March everything gets a lot more comfortable and with golden beaches and a sea the temperature of bathwater, Doha is a treat for sun worshippers. Yes, it’s a Muslim country, but most of the hotels have pools and private beaches where swimsuits and bikinis are fair game – just dress respectfully when venturing outside.

Perhaps the real beauty of Doha lies in its contrasts; the sleek shopping malls and the dusty labyrinthine souks, the skyscrapers and the desert, the sunrises on the beach and the bright city lights and night. And with such major investment being ploughed into the city, and the development showing no signs of slowing, there may never be a more exciting time to visit Doha.

Return flights from Cardiff to Doha cost from £411 return economy and £3,497 return business.

The flight time is around 6 hours 45 minutes. www.qatarairways.com www.cardiff-airport.com

Nobu Restaurant at the Four Seasons

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

BUSINESSINSIDER CARDIFF GETS SERIOUS

Quote of the issue

“AN INDIVIDUAL’S MENTAL WELLBEING IS CRUCIAL AND CAN AFFECT THEIR PATH THROUGH LIFE” To find out who said this and why see opposite Stacey Davies from Gestamp Talent, Llanelli; Vikki Howells, AM for Cynon Valley; Iestyn Davies, Colegau Cymru chief executive; Cassy Taylor, Qualifications Wales associate director (Vocational Qualifications); Sarah John, NTfW chair and Angela Jardine, Education Workforce Council chair

The Big Number

900

VOCATION, VOCATION, VOCATION Star learners, trainers and employers in Wales who have used technical, practical and vocational qualifications to achieve success are being urged to step forward for national recognition

T

his year’s Vocational Qualification (VQ) Awards in Wales, which celebrate and reward individuals and organisations for their commitment, hard work and achievements, were launched on 16 January at the Senedd in Cardiff.

The organisers are seeking nominations in four categories: VQ Learner of the Year (Intermediate), VQ Learner of the Year (Higher),

VQ Trainer of the Year and VQ Employer of the Year. From the entries, a panel of judges will select the category finalists for a highprofile awards ceremony to be held at the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff on 15 May to coincide with VQ Day. Minister for Education Kirsty Williams says, “A VQ award is a symbol of dedication towards a chosen profession, demonstrating to others a real commitment

The number of additional m2 of exhibition space which will be created at Techniquest. For more see opposite, right

towards personal and professional development.

“The purpose of these qualifications is to provide individuals with skills that are applicable in the workplace and have a direct and immediate effect on productivity and consequently economic growth.

“Vocational qualifications have never been more important to the economy and the individual, as they deliver the trained, talented employees that businesses need and

ensure that individuals have the right skills to succeed in education and work.

I would encourage Welsh employers, learners and trainers, who are going that extra mile to help us demonstrate the essential contribution that skills and high standards of competence can make to the bottom line and individual fulfilment, to get their nominations in as soon as possible.”

Entries to the awards close on 8 March.

For more: www.vqday.wales

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Nigel Owens will once again be returning to the Cardiff Life Awards podium

A vision for Techniquest

EXCITEMENT SURGES AS FINALISTS REVEALED The all-important finalists for the Cardiff Life Awards are unveiled on pages 74–75 and excitement is ramping up ahead of Cardiff’s biggest-ever business awards.

Hosting the prestigious ceremony is Welsh international rugby union referee and MBE, Nigel Owens. Returning to present the awards once again, Nigel will announce the Cardiff Life Awards winners at the ceremony in City Hall on 21 March.

“We’re thrilled to have Nigel involved with the awards this year,” says Steph Dodd, event director at MediaClash, Cardiff Life’s publisher. “It’s been fantastic to see the support coming from across the city since finalists were announced, and the event is shaping up to be an incredible evening once again.”

Tickets to the event have been in high demand for some time, and with announcement of finalists are now in even shorter supply. Businesses wishing to attend the ceremony are being urged to secure their tickets as soon as possible as they’re expected to sell out soon.

Before the big night, finalists are invited to meet other hopeful winners and their category sponsors at a special sponsors’ and finalists’ reception on 26 February.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and already showing their support for the Awards are headline sponsors Cardiff Airport, platinum sponsors Jelf, and an impressive list of category sponsors which includes: Cardiff Blues, Cardiff BID, Capital FM, Genero, Park Plaza Cardiff, Savills, Robertson Solicitors, Chapel 1877, WSET, Lexus Cardiff and Hotel Indigo. To join the impressive list of sponsors and benefit from a highly targeted marketing campaign, contact Mark George on mark.george@ mediaclash.co.uk.

For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk @CardiffLifeAwds

GIVEN THE GO-AHEAD The expansion of Techniquest’s science discovery centre in Cardiff Bay has been given the go ahead by Cardiff Council.

Planning permission has been granted to extend the educational charity’s current building on Stuart Street to create an additional 900m2 of exhibition floor space.

The scheme will also include a new vibrant public entrance, café and shop, in addition to a designated community space and roof terrace.

It is anticipated that work will start on the extension in spring this year and it will be open to the public by summer 2020.

Lesley Kirkpatrick, CEO of Techniquest says, “For the last two years we have been working really hard behind the scenes on the next phase in our evolution and we are delighted that planning has been granted for this exciting transformation.

“It means that our aspirations to extend and

diversify our audiences, making science accessible to all, can progress in earnest.

“The approved design will give our much-loved facility a contemporary look and dynamic welcome to our loyal and new visitors. It’ll give our charity a new lease of life, while ensuring a sustainable and long-term future in Wales.”

Local architects HLM put together the approved plans, working alongside planning consultants Wardell Armstrong and project managers Lee Wakemans.

Patrick Arends, leisure and culture sector lead at HLM says, “We are very proud of our design for the new extension and thrilled that it has been approved.

The new extension will create a dynamic space that will complement and enhance Techniquest’s current building, enabling it to expand its offer to visitors of this much-loved facility.”

For more: www.techniquest.org

HEAD SPACE One of Cardiff’s leading creative agencies has launched a new partnership with a mental health charity in Wales.

Orchard Media and Events will be working with the Mental Health Foundation for the next two years on a range of training materials and campaigns to help raise awareness of their important prevention work and the support that’s available for people to access.

The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) works to improve mental health services and promotes mental wellbeing for everyone in Wales.

Focusing on preventative measures, MHF works with the public sector, third sector, businesses, schools and communities across Wales.

Jenny Burns, Mental Health Foundation’s programme lead for Wales says, “An individual’s mental wellbeing is crucial and can affect their path through life – their work, relationships, family – everything. Mental illness doesn’t discriminate and it’s great that people are talking more about it but there’s still a lot to be done to tackle the issues. Our work concentrates on preventing mental ill-health and supporting people to learn about

The Mental Health Foundation team in Wales will be working with Orchard for the next two years

mental wellbeing and to build their resilience. We’re really excited to be working with Orchard. Their knowledge and experience will help us promote our work in new ways to help support more people in Wales, which is the ultimate goal.”

Orchard will work closely with MHF to deliver specific training to support its staff alongside innovative PR campaigns to promote existing and brand-new nationwide initiatives.

For more: www.mentalhealth.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 73

advertising feature

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

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PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

DESIGNER LIFESTYLE Here’s a home that’s sure to turn heads…

By Charlie Rose 76 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

property

Y

ou know when you’re walking down the street and you see someone who is so impossibly glamorous that they look like they’ve just stepped out of the pages of a fashion magazine?

This Glebe Street penthouse style apartment in Penarth is the home equivalent of that person.

Designed and completely renovated by the award-winning Project One, it’s fabulous in the extreme. So fabulous, in fact, that not only has it won awards, but its swoon-worthy interiors have even featured in the pages of Cardiff Life before. Now though, there’s the chance to make this supermodel of an abode your very own home.

Even the entrance hall to this place is something a bit special, with its feature panelled walls and contemporary lighting. As you walk in, in one direction is the master suite (more on that later), with the rest of the accommodation in the other, all reached via what some would call a hallway. Nothing here is ordinary however, and so the impressive gallery space has been dubbed the “runway”, with daylight coming in through a custom glass box.

The main living area is a fantastic open plan space.

With vaulted ceilings, chandelier, feature exposed brick

wall and double doors which lead on to a balcony at the front of the property, it’s just crying out to be filled with people swanning around with champagne flutes at, say, a house warming party for example… The kitchen (also in the space) is a long way from your average cooking area with form just as much a priority as function. If there’s an appliance or gadget that you’ll need, there’s a pretty good chance it’s been integrated in here and been complemented by sleek, stylish units and clever lighting.

To mark the area from the rest of the living room there’s an area of striking black heated flooring which, along with the lighting, is controlled by an app – naturally.

On a practical note, there’s a utility room too with space for a washing machine and tumble drier.

There’s the potential for three bedrooms in the apartment – although currently only one is used as such.

And what a bedroom it is – positively oozing glamour and luxury. Divided into three areas, it’s definitely a “suite” rather than simply a bedroom. The sleeping portion has been fitted with a mini media wall with Sonos sound making it a wonderful chill-out zone and the down-lit curtain wall provides complete privacy and an opulent atmosphere. From the bedroom there’s an open plan dressing/makeup room with built in storage and dressing table as well as mirrors galore and a shimmering chandelier, and this in turn leads to the walk-in wardrobe

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 77

property

with built-in shelving and hanging space.

The room that could make an excellent second bedroom is currently being used as a gym and has been fitted out with industrial gym flooring, feature AstroTurf wall and built-in speakers and TV. There’s also an ultra-modern wet room with walk-in shower.

The main bathroom is simply extraordinary, and is perhaps better described a personal spa. There’s an infinity bath, built-in drench shower head, recessed spotlights and speakers and even a sauna.

Bedroom three is found upstairs on the mezzanine level.

At the moment it’s being used as a home office and is a gorgeously bright and sunny space thanks to bi-folding doors which open on to a roof terrace.

With fence boundary and bamboo planting the terrace is secluded spot to catch some rays or just chill out with a morning coffee or a well-deserved sundowner.

This place is, quite literally, wall-to-wall wow-factor and proof that not all apartments are created equal. n

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House numbers Bedrooms 3 Roof terrace 1 Mini spa

1

Guide price

£599,950

For more: Jeffrey Ross, 38 Wellfield Road, Cardiff CF24 3PB; www.jeffreyross.co.uk

www.pablack.co.uk Prestige homes from Peter Alan

Havenwood Drive Thornhill ÂŁ525,000 EPC = D pa black Llanishen 02920 618552

Delightful select quiet cul-de-sac location, backing onto pretty woodland, exceptionally large and lovely private level sunny gardens. Excellent design with large generous principle lounge, separate study/snug, open plan kitchen and breakfast room, separate double glazed sun lounge conservatory, open plan sitting room and dining room with bespoke log burner, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, double private drive, garage, gas heating and double glazing.

Outstanding location with one of the largest gardens in Thornhill. Superb.

www.pablack.co.uk Prestige homes from Peter Alan

Westminster Crescent Cyncoed ÂŁ799,999 EPC = E pa black Albany Road 02920 462246

Fully modernised four bedroom family residence, stunning location with charming private level enclosed landscaped gardens. 25ft bespoke fully fitted open plan sigma 3 new kitchen & breakfast room, contemporary 22ft sitting room, generous 21 ft lounge, downstairs cloak room, large utility room, two bathrooms including a luxury new bespoke ensuite shower room, cardiff high school catchment, walking distance to cardiff golf club and Cyncoed village centre.

Outstanding location, must be seen!

CARDIFF LIVES

“I daydream about pasta from my dad’s restaurant”

Luca Malacrino From Cardiff to Coronation Street...

Hi Luca! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a Cardiff boy – I was born in Heath hospital – but I’ve been based in Los Angeles for the last few years. My dad owns some Italian restaurants in the city – Giovanni’s and Park Place and I started in the family restaurant from a young age, working my way up from cleaning the pans to managing each of the departments. At the age of 16 I founded my first business, an events company called Gel Promotions.

After years of experience in filling and operating bars, it was time to open my first nightclub at the age of 19, The Ladybird Lounge & Club.

Following that, my team and I designed and opened Cardiff’s first Tiki Bar, Kapu.

Business was great but I soon realised that I did not want to be in nightclubs for the rest of my life. I decided to take an acting class that would see my life take an enormous 180 degree turn. I sold both clubs and moved to Los Angeles to learn my craft and chase my new found dream. Four years later I have had the honour of working on stage, in

multiple hit television shows, filmed with some of my childhood heroes and have just released my first self produced movie, Elephants under my production company, The Chameleon Effect. Oh, and you can also see me in Coronation Street!

How do you like to spend your free time?

Hiking, cooking, trying new wines and walking around talking to myself in different accents…

What makes Cardiff special?

Cardiff is special to me as it is a city filled with big personalities and an even bigger sense of human warmth. Despite the weather and day-to-day life problems, the people of Cardiff seem to always be happy and welcoming. I often have friends visit from the States and they always comment on how everyone is so polite and happy.

It’s special.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Besides currently filming on Coronation Street, it was just before

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filming started on Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders. I was extremely nervous, sitting at CBS Studios around a table full of well know actors and around 40 other individuals associated with the show/network. I knew that it’s never too late to be replaced and was praying that I didn’t mess up my first big role. Then to top it off Paul Sorvino, an idol of mine growing up, took a seat directly opposite me and I realised that he was playing the part of my father. I’m sure he could feel the tension and nerves in the room so he looked up at me and started belting out Nessun Dorma as loud as he could. His voice was incredible!

He carried on going for at least one minute and the room fell silent. He finished the song, everyone clapped and he winked at me before announcing to the room that he was ready to start.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

It was my first time filming a video game, the latest Battlefield, and once again I was learning as I was going along. I was in the sound booth alone while the director and other members of staff were on the other side of the glass giving me direction. At one point I had my main line of dialogue, which was a big order to a group of soldiers before going into war. He asked me to embody a big animal, like a lion, before delivering the final line.

Then just before action was called he then asked me to take a few bites from an apple. I gave it everything I had – I started eating this apple as if I was a lion, fully committing to the part and nailing my big line.

I then looked up for validation, to see all five people in the opposite room crying with laughter. When I say crying, I mean the one guy was actually on the floor laughing. I was then informed that apples are put inside the rooms to help clean your palate and improve your diction.

Who would you invite to your

dream dinner party?

This is something I have thought about in a lot of detail. I would love to be at a dinner party with Sir David Attenborough, Snoop Dogg and Danny Dyer. Don’t ask me why, but I have this vision of Danny Dyer asking David Attenborough for the salt and then giving Snoop a cheeky wink.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Hmmm… this is a tough one as it would be so close to my heart.

For some reason my mind keeps jumping to Colin Farrell? Would it be weird to play myself in a story about my own life? Never really thought about that one…

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

I remember being sat on a hospital bed next to my mother at a very young age. I had tried to push Blu Tack into one ear, hoping it would come out of the other. Before you judge me, I saw it happen on Tom and Jerry, which means it obviously has to be real.

Favourite places to eat/drink and shop in Cardiff?

I want to say Jamie’s Italian just to see my dad’s reaction! But in all honesty I daydream about pasta from my dad’s restaurant whenever I am away. Both, Giovanni’s on the Hayes and Park Place are great!

Tell us about a secret/ underrated Cardiff spot we might not be aware of…

There is a new wine bar on High Street that I have been going to recently called Fly By Night. It’s got a great atmosphere and a seriously good selection of wine.

We’d better let you get on….

What are you doing as soon as you’ve done this?

I am going to order an Indian takeaway, watch The Bodyguard and get ready for tomorrow’s filming on Corrie. n For more: www.lucamalacrino.com