Cardiff Life - Issue 259

@CardiffLifeMag

ISSUE 259 / MID-AUGUST 2022 / £3

RESIDENCE REVAMP

THE

ISSUE 259 / MID-AUGUST 2022 / TO CREATIVITY AND BEYOND

ART ISSUE

A UNIQUE AND MODERN RENOVATION IN LLANDAFF

DO YOU BELIEVE?

THE CHER SHOW COMES TO THE CITY

IT’S ALL RELATIVE OUR FAMILY BUSINESS SPECIAL

CUTTING EDGE A SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL ARTISTS, CREATIVES AND GALLERIES*

TUNE IN

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF THE CARDIFF PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

3D PAPER ( *ANDCREATIONS )

EDITOR’S LETTER

Inside TEN gallery in Roath; for more arts, turn to page 11

W

elcome to our arts issue of Cardiff Life. Of course, we always have an arts section, but this annual themed issue likes to burst at the binding with the work of local imaginative folk and with the upcoming exhibitions and pop-ups in the city and beyond. On our front cover, you’ll find masterful paper installations from Cardiff’s CARTA & WOOD, an independent brand which crafts its fragile pieces for bespoke set designs and campaigns. Turn to page 11 and immerse yourself in creativity.

Elsewhere, we have some thought-provoking in-depth chats with various interesting personalities: first up, we have showbiz legend Arlene Phillips who is directing The Cher Show, which is coming to Cardiff at the end of August (page 29); next there’s Elio Pace, who’s taking his award-winning show, The Billy Joel Songbook, on tour and is stopping in the city soon (page 31); our Big Interview centres around sustainability, and we hear from St.John Peace-Burke, the founder of TOTM (Time of the Month) about his Cardiffbased period care company which is breaking taboos and doing its bit to save the planet (page 36); and we celebrate The Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra’s 40th anniversary with its founder Michael Bell MBE (page 66).

We also have part two of our family business focus, this time featuring the sibling trio behind 44 Group, the power couple at Adamo Gallery, and the wonderful Bloomfull sisters (page 60).

As always, there’s plenty more where that came from; have a flip through to find property, food, shopping, travel, wellness, business and the biggest What’s On section of the year.

Enjoy! #CardiffTogether, always

C

roeso i’n rhifyn o Cardiff Life sy’n rhoi sylw arbennig i’r celfyddydau. Wrth gwrs, mae gennym adran bob amser am y celfyddydau ond mae’r rhifyn thematig blynyddol hwn yn hoffi bod yn orlawn o wybodaeth am waith pobl ddychmygus leol ac am yr arddangosfeydd a’r arlwy mwy byrhoedlog sydd i’w mwynhau yn y ddinas a thu hwnt yn awr ac yn y dyfodol. Ar ein clawr blaen fe welwch chi greadigaethau meistrolgar o bapur gan CARTA & WOOD o Gaerdydd - brand annibynnol sy’n creu ei ddarnau bregus o waith ar gyfer ymgyrchoedd a dyluniadau set wedi’u teilwra. Trowch i dudalen 11 i ymgolli mewn creadigrwydd.

Fel arall, rydym yn cael sgyrsiau manwl a phryfoclyd â sawl person diddorol: yn gyntaf rydym yn sgwrsio ag Arlene Phillips, un o sêr y byd adloniant, sy’n cyfarwyddo The Cher Show a fydd yn cyrraedd Caerdydd ddiwedd mis Awst (ar dudalen 29); yna rydym yn cael cwmni Elio Pace sy’n mynd â’i sioe arobryn, The Billy Joel Songbook, ar daith ac a fydd yn ymweld â’r ddinas yn fuan (ar dudalen 31); yn ein prif gyfweliad sy’n canolbwyntio ar gynaliadwyedd, mae St.John Peace-Burke, sylfaenydd TOTM (Time of the Month), yn sôn wrthym am ei gwmni gofal mislif yng Nghaerdydd sy’n garedig i’r amgylchedd, sy’n chwalu tabŵs ac sy’n ceisio helpu i achub y blaned (ar dudalen 36); ac rydym yn dathlu pen-blwydd Cerddorfa Ffilharmonig Caerdydd yn 40 oed gyda’i sylfaenydd, Michael Bell MBE (ar dudalen 66).

Rydym hefyd yn rhoi sylw unwaith eto i fusnesau teuluol. Y tro hwn rydym yn cwrdd â’r ddau frawd a’r chwaer sy’n rhedeg Grŵp 44, y pâr pwerus yn Oriel Adamo, a’r chwiorydd Bloomfull sy’n wych (ar dudalen 60).

Yn ôl yr arfer, mae yna ddigon o bethau eraill i’w mwynhau yma: ewch i chwilio am yr erthyglau am eiddo, bwyd, siopa, teithio, lles a busnes, ac adran fwyaf y flwyddyn am ddigwyddiadau.

Mwynhewch! #CaerdyddYnghyd, bob amser

LISA EVANS

Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

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

Issue 259 / Mid-August 2022 ON THE COVER Conscious Consumerism paper art by Cardiff’s CARTA & WOOD. See page 11 for more.

FEATURES

31

54

11 THE ART OF CREATIVITY An impressive showcase of local

artists’ work and upcoming gallery exhibitions

36 BIG INTERVIEW Sustainable period care chats with Cardiff’s

TOTM (Time of the Month)

ENTERTAINMENT AND EVENTS

20 WHAT’S ON Arts, shows and events, it’s all going on around

these parts

29 ONE TO ONE Show business legend Arlene Phillips on directing

The Cher Show at New Theatre

31 MUSIC Elio Pace brings The Billy Joel Songbook to the city 48 SCENE Papping some of the most popular events locally –

can you spot yourself ?

SHOPPING

33 PLATE UP A closer look at Matthew Jones Ceramics in Barry 34 EDITOR’S CHOICE Rainbow-themed treats ready for Pride

Cymru’s return

FOOD & DRINK

39 TASTY BITES Plenty of foodie news morsels for you to chew on 43 JANE COOK Our food and drink columnist spills the tea 44 RESTAURANT REVIEW An Array Events brunch at

Le Monde

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

60

46 SPA REVIEW 24 hours of luxury at voco St David’s Cardiff

PROPERTY

53 PROPERTY NEWS What’s building momentum in the city?

54 SHOWCASE A peep inside a unique renovation in Llandaff

BUSINESS

57 CARDIFF WORKS News and views and brilliant businesses 59 CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2022 A chat with one of our

brilliant winners

60 WE ARE FAMILY An insight into working with loved ones

REGULARS

9 SPOTLIGHT Just a handful of feel-good stories 27 WYBURN AND WAYNE Our columnists have been out and

about again

64 TRAVEL A visit to the Malmesbury country hotel 66 CARDIFF LIVES Celebrating The Cardiff Philharmonic

Orchestra’s 40th anniversary with founder Michael Bell MBE

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@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 Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney, Jane Cook Commercial manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk 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, Carriage Court, 22 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 and Exeter. 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 7

SPOTLIGHT JUST A HANDFUL OF FEEL- GOOD STORIES

Weddings

Cardiff will host the first ever World Supercross British Grand Prix

GOOD MANORS

Celtic Manor Resort, just up the road in the Usk Valley – at the gateway to South Wales – has been announced as the fifth most popular wedding venue in the entire world, and second in the UK. The new research, conducted by money.co.uk, looked at TripAdvisor reviews and Instagram hashtags to find the most loved destinations.

For more: www.celtic-manor.com

Sports

WHEELY COOL Later this year, Cardiff will host the first ever World Supercross British Grand Prix. For one historic night – 8 October – at the Principality Stadium, the sport’s biggest stars Lush views across its 2,000 acres

Entertainment

INSIDE THE BOX

Nature

The first space of its kind in a Welsh arts centre, Bocs (Welsh for ‘box’) is soon to open at Wales Millennium Centre. The purpose-built space will present a programme of 360° films and projections as well as extended reality (XR) experiences – including augmented reality, mixed reality and virtual reality (VR).

The immersive digital experiences will begin on 27 August with Ripples of Kindness, a Wales Millennium Centre and All Seeing Eye Production which has received international recognition. Designed to accompany the emotional stage play The Boy with Two Hearts, the communal VR experience tells the true story of the Amiri family who fled from Afghanistan to Cardiff.

The inaugural Bocs autumn season will also include the award-winning GOLIATH: Playing with Reality, exploring schizophrenia, gaming and connection, narrated by Tilda Swinton; LGBTQ+ VR Museum, the world’s first virtual reality museum dedicated to preserving queer personal histories; and A Signal Across Space, the first ever bilingual Welsh/English 360° virtual reality experience that follows the story of the first ever wireless signals sent over open water in south Wales.

For more: www.wmc.org.uk

IMAGE © WMC AND BR AD CALEB LEE

TREE GUARDIANS

Thanks to an army of volunteers, 20,000 new trees – together covering an area equivalent to 11.2 football pitches – have been planted in Cardiff since autumn as part of a programme aimed at supporting biodiversity and increasing tree canopy coverage in the city.

But new trees need a lot of water to survive and the recent hot weather has led Cardiff Council to ask more residents to come forward as Tree Guardians to help care for the thousands that line the city’s streets.

“You can generally Go on, spread spot when a tree is the love dehydrated by looking at its leaves,” says Coed Caerdydd project manager Chris Engel. “If they’re starting to wilt, their leaves are yellowing, or they’re losing leaves, then that’s a sure sign they need some water.”

Contact coedcaerdyddproject@cardiff.gov.uk to become a Tree Guardian.

For more: www.outdoorcardiff.com

will meet on the ultimate dirt bike battlefield, showcasing epic freestyle motocross stunts with live music and awe-inspiring pyrotechnics.

For more: www.principalitystadium.wales

Bocs is the first space of its kind in a Welsh arts centre

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 9

THE ALB ANY GALLERY

SUMMER SHOW 5th August - 10th September A changing exhibition of work by more than 30 artists.

View images on our website www.albanygallery.com 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2078 9171 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Tuesday - Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm | www.albanygallery.com

TS E C T JE SI O EB PR W R EW U N O N O

www.chalkhousekitchens.co.uk

ARTS

IN THE FRAME

Shining a light on some of our favourite local art galleries, inventive spaces and creative individuals

© PHOTO BY ALED LLY WELYN

By Lisa Evans

Inside the National Museum Cardiff

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ARTS

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hether you’re a fan of centuries-old paintings, modern performative photography, fantastical sculptures, imaginative installations, or portraits created from blood (more on that later…), read on to discover our pick of local artistic hubs and talented individuals.

NATIONAL MUSEUM CARDIFF

Having opened over 100 years ago by Royal Charter, this museum has gained the label ‘the home of Welsh art’ and hosts the national collection in its galleries. It features artwork from ceramics, paintings and sculptures to photography and film. It regularly has pop-up exhibitions, working with partners from across the world to display the most inspiring works. The museum also has the finest collection of impressionist artwork outside of Paris, featuring pieces by Renoir, Monet, Manet and Van Gogh.

Did you know...

Although the museum opened over a century ago, it received its highest visitor count fairly recently, in 2019, when it welcomed over 10.5k visitors in one day as Dippy the Diplodocus was on loan in the museum’s iconic Main Hall.

What’s on…

On now, until 29 August

DAVID HURN: SWAPS This is a new exhibition featuring photographs from the personal collection of noted Welsh documentary photographer David Hurn who swapped images with some of the world’s greatest photographers, many whose work has never been seen before in Wales. The exhibition shines a spotlight on David’s keen eye for photography and his appreciation for a variety of photographic disciplines during a above: A five-metre transcript recounting harrowing experiences in war-torn Syria, at the National Museum Cardiff; below: A photo from David Hurn’s collection at the National Museum Cardiff, featuring Dylan Thomas

stunning career spanning over six decades.

“Having an exhibition at National Museum Cardiff is a dream realised for me,” says David. “I’m humbled by being able to open my second exhibition there. I remember visiting the museum as a young boy with my mother; she used to tell me of all the works ‘donated’ to the museum – I’m very proud to be a donor of works to our national museum.”

© PHOTO BY G.B. WALES

On now, until 29 August

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

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR This world-famous exhibition – on loan from the Natural History Museum in London – showcases fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breath-taking diversity of the natural world.

National Museum Cardiff is the only museum in the UK outside of London to display the work in 100 exquisite light panels.

It’s the most prestigious photography event of its kind, having provided a global platform for over 55 years. The competition receives over 50,000 entries each year, highlighting its enduring appeal.

“It is wonderful to welcome the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition back to National Museum Cardiff,” says David Anderson,

director general for Amgueddfa Cymru.

“Never has the conversation about the importance of caring for our natural world been so relevant; it’s great to be making the connection with our own scientific collections in the museum.”

On now until June 2023

© PHOTO BY CL AIRE CURNEEN

THE RULES OF ART? This is the most ambitious, large-scale, cross-century art exhibition in the museum’s history, displaying over 500 years of artwork, including major new acquisitions for the first time. Expect work from artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, Thomas Jones and Gwen John.

A key piece is David Nott Interview, by Bob and Roberta Smith, a five-metre-high transcript of a conversation between Welsh consultant surgeon David Nott and broadcaster Eddie Mair where he ABOVE: The National Museum Cardiff has launched a new exhibition, The Rules of Art?, the most ambitious display in the Angels, at the National Museum Cardiff museum’s 100-year history; BELOW: Claire Curneen’s In the Tradition of Smiling Angels recounted the harrowing experience of working in war-torn Syria.

“This exhibition is about celebrating Wales’s national The exhibition includes two newly commissioned artworks collection of art, one of the finest in Europe,” says which will help reframe the legacy of Lieutenant-General Sir Thomas Picton (1758 –1815) and give a voice to Neil Lebeter, a senior curator at Amgueddfa Cymru, responsible for the exhibition. “It seeks to open up those most affected by his actions, and to those who questions around the structures that exist within art live with the legacy today.

“For generations, even up to recent years, saying that have shaped our collection over the last century.

“Many of the artworks have never been shown ‘Black Lives Matter’ has been controversial,” says together before. At its heart, this is a really exciting the Reframing Picton project team. “In the time experiment that will introduce new relationships we worked on this project, we made a point to across the centuries, while highlighting some of the expose – not erase – history, and it was essential contemporary social issues faced today. We often that we directly involved people connected to think of art in distinct and separate blocks of time.

Trinidad, where Picton entrenched his reputation for This exhibition is about throwing that idea out the barbarism during his tenure as Governor. window and seeing what happens.”

“One of our goals for this exhibition was to create a site of conscience rather than indoctrination; to create a On now, until September 2023 dialogue between museums, the governments that fund REFRAMING PICTON them and the communities they serve.; to create healthy An exhibition created with minoritised communities in ways of addressing trauma. We hope that this exhibition response to a portrait of Sir Thomas Picton – a war will encourage visitors of all backgrounds to listen and hero who also tortured and terrorised the island of learn from the past, and to put these learnings into Trinidad when he was Governor there at the turn of practice today.” the 19th century.

Cathays Park, Cardiff; www.museum.wales

MEET THE ARTIST Stephen Graham

International artist Stephen Graham is known for his self-coined ‘pop crystalism’ artworks – three-dimensional creations from metal pins, each individually crowned with exclusive crystals – as well as INK’D Diamond Dust paintings, which are created using layers of acrylic ink and diamond dust, which are finding success in some of the most esteemed galleries and art markets around the world.

“Pop Crystalism allows me to play with emotion and colour,” says Stephen. “Using crystals, I can transform hard-edged pins and an iconic image into something with a life of its own, with light, body, depth and movement.”

See his work at Whitewall Galleries Cardiff, where he is one of their permanent feature artists. www.stephengraham.co.uk

POP, a 3D piece by Stephen Graham created from pins and crystals

Given in the Dark, by Oliver Gaiger, at at Martin Tinney Gallery

The Martin Tinney Gallery was launched in Cardiff in 1992 with a clear vision: to showcase and celebrate the work of leading 20th century and contemporary Welsh artists. In its tenure, it has provided a platform for high-quality Welsh art and helped establish and nurture the careers of many of Wales’s best-loved artists.

The gallery moved to its current premises in 2002 after a major refurbishment of a 19th century townhouse, giving three floors of exhibition space, and it has become widely acknowledged as one of Wales’s leading commercial galleries, several times being nominated as the best British gallery outside London.

Its clients include public institutions such as The Tate Gallery and The National Museum of Wales as well as many private clients worldwide.

Did you know…

“The gallery holds the record for the most expensive sale of a single painting”

The gallery holds the record for the most expensive sale of a single painting from a commercial gallery in Wales at over half a million pounds.

What’s on…

The gallery’s 30th anniversary year will continue to celebrate with forthcoming exhibitions from some of the most exciting and successful Welsh painters past and present, including Augustus John and Shani Rhys James.

St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff; www.artwales.com

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

MEET THE ARTIST Beth Morris

Beth Morris runs Beth Morris Workshops, a community art school based in a converted dairy on the heritage site of Insole Court in Llandaff. It began in 2017, with the first session only drawing in two students; fast forward to today and there are hundreds attending weekly workshops every term, with waiting lists for all of them.

“The inspiration was to create a place where adults and children could come to learn new skills and meet new people,” says Beth. “Even in a busy city like Cardiff, people can still feel isolated. When I started the business, I was determined to do more than just teach.

I wanted to create a real community, where people felt a part of something. There are no exams, moderators or homework that you will encounter in an academic situation, so stress levels are non-existent.

“One of the passions is to make sure children of all ages foster a love of art. It’s amazing to see so many young Picassos taking part in the art clubs after school or in the holidays. It’s especially rewarding to see the teens committed to drawing, fashion, textiles and journaling. Yes, I know maths and science are important, but hats off to these kids engaging in their own time.

“Our latest collaborative community piece is an emotive art project displayed permanently in University Hospital of Wales’s main corridor. Over 50 kids, aged six to 16, drew, painted and stitched this meaningful, mindful artwork showing children from all walks of life. It’s heart-warming and beautiful, linking nature, wellbeing and art, and it’s seen by thousands of people every day.” www.bethmorrisworkshops.co.uk

© PHOTO BY CL ARE HARDING PHOTOGR APHY

MARTIN TINNEY GALLERY

ARTS TEN

Established in 2010 by Cat Gardiner, TEN is an independent commercial gallery which champions contemporary Welsh culture and Welsh artists.

TEN had nomadic beginnings, holding pop-up exhibitions across the city until settling on Windsor Place in 2012. The city centre gallery space closed its doors at the end of 2016 after the birth of Cat’s first baby, but the commitment to maintaining a platform for her artists saw the gallery move into the family home.

Two babies and four years later, the opportunity arose to purchase the Victorian coach house at the back of the family home. After months of converting the space from a mechanic’s garage, the coachhouse opened last year as the permanent exhibition space for the gallery’s artists.

“There is a certain aesthetic and feel to the gallery. I represent artists who shy away from the typical, cliché Welsh characteristics – dragons, miners, sheep and shepherds,” says Cat. “TEN artists have a strong Welsh connection but this is not immediately discernible in the artworks they create, and that has become the gallery’s signature.”

Did you know…

One of the most ambitious exhibitions curated off-site was the 2019 exhibition Squatters by Cardiff-born, internationally renowned sculptor Laura Ford (recently appointed the president of the Royal Society of Sculptors). The exhibition was held at Castell Coch, with Laura’s creatures in conversation with the castle’s fantastical architecture.

Coming up…

From 9 September

ANNIE MORGAN SUGANAMI Annie’s rich, flowing artworks proffer a contemporary take on classical subjects. Paintings are worked and re-worked, with layers of tones and textures built up and accented with strong outlines and unexpected flashes of neon.

21 October – 19 November

SOPHIE SOUTHGATE A recent Royal College of Art post-graduate, Sophie’s ceramic pills, lollies and vessels have been a popular staple in the gallery’s mixed exhibitions, with her artworks sent to the four corners of the world.

Donald Street, Roath; www.gallery-ten.co.uk

TOP: Laura Ford’s Cloud Girl bronze at TEN gallery; ABOVE: Inside TEN gallery

BOTTOM: Nathan Wyburn’s Aberfan memorial sculpture captivating Charlotte Church

MEET THE ARTIST Nathan Wyburn

Kate Shooter’s solo exhibition is coming up at Cardiff MADE

CARDIFF MADE

Zoë Gingell and her partner, Josh Leeson, started MADE gallery nearly 10 years ago. The aim was to shine a light on the thriving creative community in Cardiff that they found themselves reconnected to after having spent nearly 15 years or so living away from the city.

“We felt that Cardiff needed a more sustainable platform at a grass roots level,” says Zoë. “We focus on mentoring recent fine arts graduates through annual summer residencies as well as creating a professional milestone for artists through our biennial Solo Art Prize Award.

“We curated and exhibited Cardboard Household in 2012 with six weeks as resident artists in the basement at Milkwood Gallery – on the site where MADE Gallery now is. Created initially by Gail Howard, Helen Gubb and Helen Clifford from MADE in Roath, we valued the space’s existence as a place to foster artists.

“I had my first solo exhibition of work as a result of the residency; it opened so many doors – a legacy I wanted to extend. We opened Cardiff MADE in October 2013, to coincide with the annual MADE in Roath Arts Festival.

“Establishing Cardiff MADE as a community interest company, remodelling the space to include a café and stocking only locally made crafts and artwork in the shop was the strategy in building audiences, while working with local art schools and putting on a busy events programme to reach beyond one artform or creative pool.”

“The gallery used to be an urban dairy”

Did you know…

“The gallery used to be an urban dairy, where the milk was wheeled into the side courtyard in churns from local farms, pasteurised on site, bottled and sent out around the neighbourhood on a horse and cart,” says Zoë. “We found the old paper bottle labels under the floorboards when we were renovating the gallery.”

Coming up…

17 September – 22 October

WICKER WOMAN This is a solo exhibition for Kate Shooter – a winner of the 2021 MADE Art Prize.

Lochaber Street, Cardiff; www.cardiffmade.com

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

Nathan Wyburn is a local pop culture portrait artist who specialises in creating imagery using unconventional mediums – from food, make up and newspapers, to medication packaging and his own paint-covered footprints. He reached the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent and has had the honour of presenting his art to the likes of HRH Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, Dame Shirley Bassey, Catherine Zeta Jones and Mariah Carey. “Being commissioned to make art for such icons is a huge honour and it’s always a pinch-me moment when I meet them,” he says. “My dreams really have come true.

“Portraiture has always been a huge passion of mine since I was a child; I’m passionate about using my art as the voice I never had (being so shy growing up) and often art can speak to people in a way that words cannot.”

His stand-out, large-scale artworks include: his NHS Thank You collage – made up of hundreds of photographs of health workers – which he created at the start of the pandemic to pay tribute to frontline workers; his Aberfan memorial sculpture – on display at Rhondda Heritage Park – which contains 144 clocks, one for each life lost when a colliery spoil tip collapsed into the village of Aberfan, hitting Pantglas Junior School; and his Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas portrait, which he created using his finger prints dipped in fake blood to raise awareness for HIV – “Unveiling that artwork with Gareth at Cardiff Royal Infirmary will forever be ingrained in my mind,” he says . “It was emotional, powerful and amazing that art can have that effect.”

At present, Nathan is busy undertaking his biggest project to date: creating the artwork for a new-build hospital in Tredegar, near where he grew up in Ebbw Vale. He’s also in the initial planning stages of his fourth book. www.nathanwyburn.com

© PHOTO BY JOHN PAUL EVANS

BELOW AND RIGHT: A pair of Pansies, and They All Lived Happily Ever After, by John Paul Evans at Ffotogallery

FFOTOGALLERY

Since its formation in 1978, Ffotogallery has been at the forefront of new developments in photography and lens-based media in Wales and beyond, encouraging public understanding of, and deeper engagement with, photography and its value to society.

Did you know…

Alongside the gallery in Cathays, there are also many touring exhibitions and projects taking place outside of the building, particularly as part of their extensive education/ outreach programme.

What’s on…

On now, until 3 September

JOHN PAUL EVANS: WHAT IS LOST… WHAT HAS BEEN Exhibited together for the first time, this collection of Welsh artist John Paul Evans’ series of works poses questions about photography’s relationship with memory, love, loss and representation. John Paul’s practice serves as a reminder of the visible traditions and often invisible social structures which exclude groups subjected to oppression including, but not exclusive to, the LGBTQ+ community.

Fanny Street, Cathays; www.ffotogallery.org

© PHOTO BY SHUT TERHIRE PHOTOGR APHY

© PHOTO BY JOHN PAUL EVANS

MEET THE ARTIST Katherine Jones

Canton-based artist Katherine Jones uses her work to help others connect with the people, lost loved ones, places and moments they cherish. She does this in many ways – from crafting bespoke memory boxes filled with curated collections of people’s personal treasured objects, to creating intricately detailed drawings. Inspired by her experience as an architect, her work is precise and meticulous but has a big soft heart at its centre.

“After returning from a five-month trip to Central America with a rucksack full of tiny souvenirs, I crafted myself a wooden memory box

to house them all,” she says. “The box brought back so many fond memories, so I started making them for others too. They all feature curated collections of people’s own treasured objects – there’s been everything from a 17th century coin to a rare beer can, and babies’ teeth to grandma’s curlers. Each handcrafted box presents a curated collection of cherished items that give people a unique way to remember a person, place, or time that matters most to them.

“In the last two years, I’ve been commissioned by the likes of the National Trust, Tower Bridge, the National Museum of Wales and Microsoft, and I’ve been featured on BBC radio.” www.katherinemgjones.com

Katherine Jones creates memory boxes (and memory tables) to display clients’ keepsakes

ARTS MEET THE ARTIST Claire Wood

Claire Wood is the founder of CARTA & WOOD, a company specialising in bespoke paper installations for retail, hospitality and events, and set design for product photography and campaigns.

From her Pontprennau-based studio, she crafts often large-scale creations for small businesses and big industry-leading brands alike, including London’s Fortnum & Mason, Yellow TSE – a sustainable department store which has recently opened in Cardiff – and The Hay Festival of Literature & Arts.

“The sky’s the limit with what I can create,” she says. “I have worked on projects for album covers, Disneythemed props for product photography, and stop motion visuals for jewellery.

I engineer each element of a design; every new element can be unpredictable and can take up to 18 hours to design.

Installations often involve cutting and making hundreds of the same element. My work is mostly cut by machine and then made by hand by me. The paper will be scored, folded, curled – with an awl or even hair curlers – sculpted, shaped and glued to achieve the desired form.” www.cartaandwood.com

Paper rose art from CARTA & WOOD

ADAMO GALLERY

This independent, couple-owned contemporary art gallery, based in Cardiff’s historic arcades, represents a varied selection of enigmatic and dynamic artists from all over the UK, especially emerging Welsh artists.

Did you know…

There’s a permanent bar in the gallery and there are regular collaborations with Cardiff’s Lab 22 (AKA the recently crowned best cocktail bar in the UK) for art and social events.

Coming up…

10 September

KEALEY FARMER LAUNCH Award-winning contemporary mixed media artist Kealey Farmer’s autumn/winter collection of pieces will be revealed at this exclusive event.

Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; www.adamogallery.co.uk

BLACKWATER GALLERY

“The paper is shaped with hair curlers to achieve the desired form”

Launched in 2019, this contemporary gallery, coffee shop and event space is dedicated to supporting and developing the work of both emerging and established artists.

“To continue to fulfil my passion as an art collector, the next step for me was the realisation that art should be displayed and not hidden away as most of my art work is,” says founder Jamie Aherne. “For me, opening an art gallery was the logical thing to do and I can now concentrate on supporting the artists behind the canvas and exposing the artists to a wider audience. It really has been a learning curve; for example, answering interview questions for People Magazine in New York, and filming with BBC Breakfast the next day made for an interesting week at work!”

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

Conscious Consumerism paper art from CARTA & WOOD

MEET THE ARTIST Rich Appleby

Pontcanna-based Rich Appleby (or Baldhead Designs as he’s known in the art world) is an illustration artist and graphic designer. His drawing style, although not caricature, lends itself well to capturing likeness; his most popular commission requests are for personalised portraits for special occasions – such as weddings, anniversaries, engagements and birthdays. “I’ve even created family portraits to include loved ones no longer with us, and I recently created a card to be used as a way to pop the question,” he says. “Pet ‘pawtraits’ are popular too. The reaction to seeing something of yourself or a loved one in a drawing done by a stranger is why I love to do what I do.” www.baldheaddesigns.com

ABOVE: Rich Appleby, AKA Baldhead Designs; RIGHT: Light and Shade Under the Trees at Bute Park, by Eloise Govier, and Wales, Home Sweet Home, by Roma Mountjoy, both at The Albany Gallery

What’s on…

On now, until 1 September

OBJECTS A group exhibition showcasing the work of 40 UK artists who responded to Blackwater’s open call based on the theme ‘objects’.

16 September

Did you know..

Customers of the gallery include Bryn Terfel, John Barrowman, Matt Tebbutt, the former Archbishop of Wales, and several Welsh politicians.

And when we asked the Albany team what their most interesting fact about the gallery was, they said it’s that they stocked Sir Kyffin Williams’ RA paintings from the late sixties.

MAKENZY BEARD The much-anticipated solo show for teenage artist Makenzy Beard, who took up painting during lockdown.

What else…

Plus: Drag nights and comedy nights are coming soon.

Pendeen House, Cardiff; www.blackwatergallery.co.uk

What’s on…

THE ALBANY GALLERY

Launched in 1965 and recognised as one of Wales’s most successful and long-established privately owned commercial art galleries, The Albany Gallery hosts a monthly exhibition programme of leading Welsh and British artists, providing a platform for solo and group shows in a variety of media. Exhibitors include Royal Academicians, members of the Royal Cambrian Academy, the New English Art Club and the Society of Women Artists.

The gallery offers a free wedding account service for those who would like their guests to contribute to a special purchase from The Albany Gallery.

On now, until 10 September

SUMMER SHOW This changing exhibition includes a private collection of original works by some of the gallery’s top-selling artists.

16 September – 8 October

GWYN ROBERTS AND PAUL WEARING A showcase of Gwyn Roberts’ paintings of Welsh landscapes, with ceramics by Paul Wearing. ■ Albany Road, Cardiff; www.albanygallery.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

WHAT’S ON 19 August onwards

Pride Cymru is back this August

PLAYS/SHOWS On now, until 11 September

NOFIT STATE: SABOTAGE Sabotage brings a darker, grittier edge to NoFit State’s contemporary circus spectacular. Sophia Gardens, Cardiff; www.nofitstate.org

29 August

DRAGMANIA A touring drag convention for those who can’t travel to London for Drag Con UK. Tramshed, Clare Road; www.tramshedcardiff.com

2 – 3 September

THE IN-BETWEEN A world premiere comedy written for National Youth Theatre of Wales.

Sherman Theatre, Cathays; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

3 – 4 September

PROFESSOR BRIAN COX: HORIZONS Using state-of-the-art technology, arenas will be filled with images of far-away galaxies, alien worlds and supermassive black holes.

Motorpoint Arena, city centre; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

8 – 10 September

FRIENDSICAL TOUR An original parody musical inspired

by TV show Friends. This stage show crams all 10 seasons into 60 minutes of nostalgic fun. New Theatre, Park Place; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

11 September – 22 October

WNO’S AUTUMN 22 SEASON The Welsh National Opera has announced its new programme, including: Janáček’s The Makropulos Affair; Puccini’s La bohème; new opera Migrations; Shostakovich’s Cherry Town, Moscow; and new commission The Shoemaker. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wno.org.uk

COMEDY

MUSIC AND DANCING 30 August

SEAN PAUL Sean Paul is back with his first dates in the UK for three years.

Motorpoint Arena, city centre; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

31 August

JASON MANFORD: LIKE ME A new show for this nationally acclaimed comedian.

St David’s Hall, The Hayes; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

THE HANDSOME FAMILY TOUR During a 30-year career, The Handsome Family have written some of the most haunting songs in American music. The Globe, Albany Road; www.globecardiffmusic.com

10 September

2 September

11 & 12 September

3 September

30 August

JENNY ECLAIR: SIXTY! (FFS!) Having hit 60 (but still a year younger than Madonna), Jenny confronts a new decade of decrepitude.

Sherman Theatre, Cathays; www.shermantheatre.co.uk JOE LYCETT TOUR Joe (formerly known as Hugo Boss) explores: art, Instagram and online trolls. Motorpoint Arena, city centre; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

Every Friday and Saturday COMEDY NIGHTS Treat yourself to an evening of award-winning comedy.

The Glee Club, Mermaid Quay; www.glee.co.uk

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

THE CADILLAC THREE TC3 are known across the world for their unpredictable concerts.

Great Hall, Cardiff University Students’ Union, Park Place; www.cardiffstudents.com ION MAIDEN A fully-charged tribute to Iron Maiden. Fuel, Womanby Street; www.fuelrockclub.co.uk

11 September

CHAPTER FOUR: SUNDAY JAZZ Chapter’s in-house jazz group brings swinging tunes to the arts centre. Chapter Arts, Canton; www.chapter.org

15 September

LIAM GALLAGHER Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher will bring his solo tour to Cardiff for an outdoor gig supported by ‘90s indie legends The Charlatans.

Alexandra Head, Cardiff Bay; www.ticketmaster.co.uk

24 September

ONE NIGHT OF NEIL DIAMOND A collection of stars from London’s West End, backed by a nine-piece band, will celebrate the music of Neil Diamond. Sophia Gardens, Cardiff; www.glamorgancricket.com

30 September

ANTHEMS OF ROCK Allow this show – featuring fireworks, flames, West End credited vocalists and a five-piece band – to take you back to the heyday of 80s rock. Memo Arts Centre, Barry; www.memoartscentre.co.uk

Every Thursday

HAVANA FIESTA The Salsa party night is back! Get ready for Latin dance line-ups, Salsa, Bachata and Reggaeton hits until 1am. Revolucion de Cuba, The Friary; www.havanapeoplesalsa.co.uk

Every Friday

NUKE Party anthems, cult classics and dance floor bangers.

Clwb Ifor Bach, Womanby Street; www.clwb.net

WHAT’S ON 25 September

THE SUPERHERO DASH Run or walk the family-friendly, superhero fancy dress 5k before heading to the Heroes Village where there’ll be entertainment, food and music. Pontcanna Fields, Cardiff; www.noahsarkcharity.org

Most Fridays and Weekends

above: Amgueddfa Cymru Food Festival is coming to St Fagans left: Jenny Eclair: Sixty (FFS!) is on at the Sherman Theatre

The Cocktail Club, St Mary Street, Cardiff; www.thecocktailclub.com

FAMILY & KIDS

On now, until 2 September FREE FAMILY FUN Free activities to keep your kids entertained – from inflatables to arts and crafts and insect games.

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wmc.org.uk

FAMILY FUN PARK Expect outdoor funfair attractions, from Dodgems to the Pirate Party Fun House, as well as game stalls and street food. Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay; www.visitcardiff.com

FOOD & DRINK

20 – 21 August

THE LOLLY POP-UP A free ice cream lolly-making event with toppings such as Welsh cakes, gold dust, bacon, and edible insects.

St David’s shopping centre, Cardiff; www.stdavidscardiff.com

20 August & 24 September

CLUBBRUNCH This rooftop brunch features bottomless prosecco, a two- or threecourse brunch and live music.

The Botanist, Church Street; www.clubbrunch.co.uk

28 August

MAMMA MIA! BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH Say ‘I do’ to free-flowing drinks, brunch and show-stopping shenanigans. Tonight Josephine, Caroline Street; www.tonightjosephine.co.uk

Thursdays – Sundays

THE CORPORATION YARD An indie outdoor street food, drinks and social hub. The Corporation Yard, Cowbridge Road East; www.thecorporationyard.co.uk

All summer, various dates JACOBS ROOF GARDEN Find wine club tastings, rooftop cinemas, DJ sets, and sunrise Pilates and Yoga classes. W Canal Wharf, Cardiff; www.jacobsroofgarden.co.uk

Fridays and Saturdays

FUN AT THE MUSEUM From clog dancing to exciting performances, there’s a whole host of free activities for young people to enjoy at Museum Wales’s museums in Cardiff. Amgueddfa Cymru museums; www.museum.wales

21 August

PIZZA RUN Grab your family and friends for a fun run (2k, 5k or 10k) ending with pizza at the finish line. Coopers Field, Cardiff; www.bute-park.com

BEER AND STREET FOOD Outdoor afternoons of beer and street food, courtesy of Flowerhorn Brewery and Mr Croquewich.

The Bridge Studios, Western Avenue; Instagram: @boneyard_bridgestudios

25 August

Ongoing

28 – 29 August

COCKTAIL CLUB MASTERCLASSES Put your shaking skills to the test with an infamous cocktail masterclass in this new-to-Cardiff venue.

PAW PATROL LIVE The pups show that “no job is too big, no pup is too small”.

Motorpoint Arena, city centre; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk HEATH MINI RAILWAYS DAYS Ride miniature trains and trams in an enclosed, safe environment.

King George V Drive East, Cardiff; www.bglr.org

Ongoing

VICTORIA PARK SPLASHPAD Expect sprays, jets and a tipping water bucket in this splash park.

Victoria Park, Cardiff; www.outdoorcardiff.com

Ongoing

On now, until 4 September

On now, until 27 August

MOUNTAIN VIEW RANCH Here you’ll find Wales’s only Gruffalo Trail, as well as outdoor trampolines, a fairy forest, a Hobbit hill, zip lines and a dragon’s nest.

Heol Penybryn, Blaengwynlais, Cardiff; www.mountainviewranch.co.uk

THE MEADOWS This farm village retreat offers an interactive animal experience.

Caerphilly; www.pwthemeadows.co.uk

Ongoing

ALPACA MY BOOTS An hour outside Cardiff, trek with an adorable gang of fluffy alpacas (that you walk on leads!) while taking in stunning natural views.

Brecon Beacons; www.alpacamyboots.com

Ongoing

CEFN MABLY FARM PARK An indoor and outdoor attraction featuring a petting and feeding zoo, crazy mini golf, a park train and a new soft play area. Began Road, Michaelston-y-Fedw, Cardiff; www.cefnmablyfarmpark.com

Ongoing

FFOREST FAWR CIRCULAR WALK There are three heritage trails to choose from: a Sculpture Trail with wood carvings, old mining caves, and Castle Coch for touring. Fforest Fawr; www.outdoorcardiff.com

ARTS, EXHIBITIONS & CULTURE On now, until 29 August

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR The Natural History Museum’s acclaimed exhibition returns, showcasing Earth’s extraordinary

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

WHAT’S ON diversity. For more, see page 11.

National Museum Cardiff, Cathays Park; www.museum.wales

On now, until 1 September OBJECTS A new and dynamic exhibition showcasing over 30 individual artists’ work in a broad spectrum of mediums. Blackwater Gallery, Pendeen House; www.blackwatergallery.co.uk

On now, until 3 September SUMMER EXHIBITION A large changing exhibition by the gallery’s artists. Martin Tinney Gallery, St. Andrew’s Crescent; www.artwales.com

On now, until 3 September

JOHN PAUL EVANS: WHAT IS LOST… WHAT HAS BEEN Posing questions about photography’s relationship with memory, love, loss and representation. For more, see page 11. Ffotogallery, Fanny Street, Cathays; www.ffotogallery.org

On now, until 10 September

SUMMER SHOW This changing exhibition includes a private collection of original works by some of the gallery’s top-selling artists. The Albany Gallery, Albany Road; www.albanygallery.com

On now, until 5 March 2023

WALES IS… PROUD This display will include objects from Pride events held across Wales, from protest banners to LGBTQ+ campaign badges. St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff; www.museum.wales

17 September – 22 October WICKER WOMAN This is a solo exhibition for Kate Shooter – a winner of the 2021 MADE Art Prize.

Cardiff MADE, Lochaber Street, Roath; www.cardiffmade.com

Most weekends

CERAMIC WORKSHOPS Matthew Jones’ workshops cater for groups who want to try their their hand at pottery. Matthew Jones Ceramics Barry, Goodsheds; www.matthewjonesceramics.com

FILM

23, 25 & 30 August

SNOWCAT SHOWINGS Independent cinema at its best, featuring a full repertory and cult classics, contemporary films and lesser-known gems. Snowcat Cinema, Penarth Pier Pavilion; www.snowcatcinema.co.uk

27 August onwards

West Side Story, Grease and Rocketman under the stars. Cardiff Castle; Castle Street; www.thelunacinema.com

session is the Friday Night Ice Party, Fridays from 8.15pm. Ice Arena Wales, Olympian Drive; www.icearenawales.com

Ongoing

FESTIVALS

COSY CINEMA The world’s first Cosy Cinema Pod Park has landed in Cardiff. You’ll find private pods – big enough for couples, families and small groups – where you can stream media of your choice (from Netflix originals to boxsets, live sport or video games).

You can even stay overnight.

Caravan Park, Fields Parks Road, Pontcanna; www.cosse.co.uk

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 3 September

CLASH AT THE CASTLE – WWE The first major stadium event from WWE in 30 years. Principality Stadium; Westgate Street; www.principalitystadium.wales

BOCS IMMERSIVE DIGITAL EXPERIENCES The first space of its kind in a Welsh arts centre, Bocs will present a programme of 360° films and projections as well as extended reality (XR) experiences. For more, see page 9. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wmc.org.uk

Ongoing

2 – 4 September

ICE SKATING Get your skates on and take to the ice with the whole family. Our favourite

THE LUNA CINEMA See open-air cinema screenings of

WATER SPORTS Whether you fancy a spot of family white water rafting, gorge walking, hotdogging (inflatable kayaking) or SUP, head down to CIWW. Cardiff International White Water; www.ciww.com

Ongoing

On now, until September 2023

REFRAMING PICTON An exhibition created with minoritised communities in response to a portrait of Sir Thomas Picton.

For more see page 11. National Museum Cardiff, Cathays Park; www.museum.wales

9 September

ANNIE MORGAN SUGANAMI Annie’s rich, flowing artworks proffer a contemporary take on classical subjects. TEN Gallery, Roath; www.gallery-ten.co.uk

10 September

KEALEY FARMER LAUNCH The new collection from the awardwinning contemporary mixed media artist. Adamo Gallery, Morgan Arcade; www.adamogallery.co.uk

See the Butetown Carnival at the end of August

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

On now, until 20 August

CARDIFF SUMMER FESTIVAL A craft fair market along St John’s Church area, Working Street and the Hayes. Cardiff City Centre; www.craftfolk.com

On now, until 31 August

FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS Festival of Flowers is blooming in Cowbridge. Expect entertainment from the Flower Pot People, The Flowerfuls and a string quartet, as well as trails and workshops.

Across Cowbridge; www.visitthevale.com

20 August

SHANGRI-LA OPEN AIR PRESENTS: LF SYSTEM Taking over DEPOT’s new outdoor space is one of the UK’s hottest house acts, LF System.

DEPOT; Curran Embankment; www.depotcardiff.com

20 August

THE RIVERSIDE CHILLED OUT FESTIVAL Performance, arts and crafts and cookery. Despenser and Clare Gardens; Facebook: RivFest

28 August

PARTY IN THE PARK Entertainment for all ages, great food

Every Friday

BINGO LINGO They’ve taken bingo, shaken out the dust and turned it into one exhilarating, party, raving-mad event. DEPOT; Curran Embankment; www.depotcardiff.com

Year round

COIN, COAL AND CHEERS A new tourism experience has been launched by three of the region’s leading attractions. Hensol Castle Distillery, the Royal Mint Experience and A Welsh Coal Mining Experience at Rhondda Heritage Park have joined forces to create a new package which provides an action-packed day out for tour planners.

Various venues; www.visitthevale.com

Amgueddfa Cymru Food Festival is a firm favourite in Wales’s calendar

and live bands. Llwynfedw Gardens, Cardiff; Twitter: @llwynfedw

6 – 11 September

VALE OF GLAMORGAN WALKING FESTIVAL 30 walks of up to 14 miles and several themed walks with local history, geology and more.

Across the Vale of Glamorgan; www.valeofglamorganwalkingfestival.org.uk

10 – 11 September

AMGUEDDFA CYMRU FOOD FESTIVAL A firm favourite in Wales’ foodie calendar, St Fagans will come alive with over 80 food, drink and craft stalls. St Fagans National Museum of History; www.museum.wales

10 September – 16 October GOOD FOOD CARDIFF AUTUMN FESTIVAL An annual city-wide programme of events to celebrate the city’s good food movement.

Across Cardiff; www. foodcardiff.com

16 – 25 September

COWBRIDGE MUSIC FESTIVAL Welcoming world-class musicians – from Natalya Romaniw, to Kizzy Crawford – to the market town.

Cowbridge; www.cowbridgemusicfestival.co.uk

29 September – 2 October PONTCANNA MUSIC FESTIVAL A four-day music festival at Kings Road Yard (dates may change).

Pontcanna Market, Cardiff; www.pontcannamarket.co.uk

MARKETS

20 August (& every other Saturday)

GOODMARKET A local food and produce market featuring independent businesses.

Goodsheds, Barry; www.goodshedsbarry.co.uk

26 – 30 August

BANK HOLIDAY MARKET An art and craft market against the backdrop of Wales Millennium Centre. Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay; www.craftfolk.com

28 – 29 August

INSOLE COURT FARMERS’ MARKET A double-day market extravaganza.

Browse stalls packed with some of the best local produce South Wales has to offer. Insole Court, Llandaff; www.insolecourt.org

3 September

GREEN LIFE EVENTS A monthly market based on sustainability and wellness, featuring everything from beauty products to crystals and yoga. The Bone Yard, Canon; Instagram: @green_life_events

3 – 4 September

CURATED MAKERS MARKET Curated Makers Market is coming to Wales for the very first time. The collaborative retailer champions small businesses in their respective cities. St David’s Centre, Cardiff; www.curatedmakers.co.uk

Every week

RIVERSIDE FARMERS MARKETS

More than 100 farmers and small producers sell food and drink across three regular markets every week: Rhiwbina Farmers Market on Fridays, Roath Farmers Market on Saturdays, and Riverside Farmers Market on Sundays. Across Cardiff; www.riversidemarket.org.uk

COMING SOON… 1 October

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR Banff is bringing evenings of thrilling adventure films to venues around Wales. St David’s Hall, The Hayes; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Every month

2 October

GREEN TOP EVENTS Artisan food, craft, clothing and gift markets are held at Cardiff Garden Centre in St Mellons (on the last Friday of each month), and at the Norwegian Church in the Bay (on the first Saturday of each month).

Cardiff; www.greentopevents.co.uk

WIZZ AIR CARDIFF HALF MARATHON The iconic road race around the city is back for its second time this year.

Cardiff; www.cardiffhalfmarathon.co.uk

8 October

OTHER

On now, until 14 August

FOREVER FLOWERS DISPLAY Supporters of City Hospice’s Forever Flowers campaign purchased thousands of limited-edition handmade sunflowers to remember loved ones. The unique and lasting tributes now feature in a striking floral display. Cardiff Castle, Castle Street; www.cityhospice.org.uk

August 25 & 30 September CASTLE GHOST TOUR Explore the majestic castle at night where you will discover its ghostly goings on. Cardiff Castle, Castle Street; www.darkwalestours.co.uk

24 September

WALK FOR PARKINSON’S Starting and ending at Cardiff Castle, walk 1 or 5.5 miles around landscaped gardens in the heart of the city. Bute Park, Cardiff; www.events.parkinsons.org.uk

FIM WORLD SUPERCROSS BRITISH GRAND PRIX Cardiff will host the first ever World Supercross British Grand Prix later this year, where the sport’s biggest stars will meet on the ultimate dirt bike battlefield. For more, see page 9.

Principality Stadium; Westgate Street; www.principalitystadium.wales

OUR OWN VERY SPECIAL EVENT 18 November (Nominations now open!)

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS Nominations have opened for our Cardiff Property Awards 2022. Businesses ranging from architecture firms and developers to estate agents and interior designers are encouraged to enter. The Awards, celebrating the dynamic local property sector, will take place at Mercure Cardiff Holland House. www.cardiffpropertyawards.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 23

WHAT’S ON 11 – 16 October

IRIS PRIZE LGBTQ+ FILM FESTIVAL Iris is home to the largest short film prize in the world; the festival brings filmmakers from around the world to Cardiff. Across Cardiff; www.irisprize.org

21 – 23 October

SWN FESTIVAL This multi-venue music festival is based entirely in Cardiff’s city centre. Opening night takes place at Tramshed, with the BC Camplight playing their biggest Welsh headline show to date.

Across Cardiff; www.swnfest.com

26 – 30 October

LLAIS Formerly the Festival of Voice, Llais is an annual international arts festival inspired by the instrument that connects us all. The line-up includes John Cale in his 80th birthday year, Paraorchestra and Brett Anderson, Abdullah Ibrahim, Midlake, black midi, Cate Le Bon and Bombino. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wmc.org.uk

3 November

KAISER CHIEFS One of Britain’s most treasured bands is heading out on tour with The Fratellis and The Sherlocks.

Motorpoint Arena, city centre; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

14 November

BIFFY CLYRO The alternative rock trio are going back on tour!

Motorpoint Arena, city centre; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

22 – 26 November

SPIKE: UK TOUR Ian Hislop and Nick Newman’s comedy, Spike, sees Olivier Awardwinning actor John Dagleish reprise his role as Spike Milligan.

New Theatre, Park Place; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

1 December – 1 January 2023

CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK

Tickets are on sale for this year’s Christmas at Bute Park, a breath-taking festive festival of light – the biggest Wales has ever seen. www.christmasatbutepark.com

14 – 18 March 2023

THE MOUSETRAP The 70th Anniversary tour of The Mousetrap, the longest running play in the world, is visiting over 70 venues throughout the UK and Ireland from September.

New Theatre, Park Place; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk n

clockwise from left:

The Lion King is at WMC, Aqua Park Cardiff is still making a splash, Pride Cymru is returning

OUR TOP 5

Our pick of the most exciting events coming up in the city

1On now, until 27 August

327 – 28 August

2On now, until September 5

428 August

THE LION KING This worldwide theatrical phenomenon has been experienced by 100 million people globally and is still drawing sell-out crowds in its 20th year. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wmc.org.uk SUMMER OF FUN FESTIVAL A Summer of Fun festival will take place for the young people of Cardiff across the summer holidays. Expect free and low-cost opportunities and activities for 0–25-year-olds, from abseiling, cycle training, sailing and a junior triathlon, to plenty of arts and crafts.

Across the city; www.childfriendlycardiff.co.uk

PRIDE CYMRU’S BIG WEEKEND Wales’s biggest celebration of equality and diversity. Over two days, it hosts over 50,000 people to celebrate the LGBT+ community.

There will be three stages, a mile-long parade and family fun. See page 34 for more.

City Hall Lawns, Cardiff; www.pridecymru.com BUTETOWN CARNIVAL The Butetown Carnival parade will make its way along the waterfront area of Cardiff Bay, with various performance stops along the way, before arriving back at the Centre ready for outdoor live music.

Outside Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wmc.org.uk

5On now, until 18 September

AQUA PARK CARDIFF Bigger, better, wetter ‘n’ wilder than ever before, Wales’s biggest Aqua Park is in Cardiff Bay for the summer. The inflatable obstacle course features slides, trampolines, monkey bars and blast bags.

Cardiff Bay; www.aquaparkgroup.co.uk

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

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WYBURN & WAYNE

“We’ll be taking part in Pride Cymru”

Move over Ant & Dec. Make way Edina & Patsy.

Stand aside Batman & Robin. Our dynamic duo are in town and they’re here to give us the low down on the Cardiff high life

S

chool’s out for summer and we got to celebrate the end of term with the super talented students from Kinetic School of Performing Arts. Kinetic Fest was such a huge success with a sold-out concert in the grounds of St Teilo’s School. We are proud patrons of Kinetic and even performed a song at the event. Watching these youngsters gain confidence and nurture their talents is great to see.

We’ve also been announced as Hook and Smee in their panto this year; Kinetic is holding workshops for anyone interested in joining the cast, so check out their socials.

We seem to have spent most of our summer so far in Cardiff Castle; we’ve attended nearly every concert, and recently went to see West Side Story on the open-air big screen courtesy of Adventure Cinema. It’s great to see the amazing building and its surrounds

used for so many occasions, and this year’s Christmas festivities at the castle look bigger than ever.

For one reason or another, we’ve never made it to GlastonBARRY – the tribute festival in Romilly Park, Barry. However, this summer we were asked to host the three-day event, which included tribute acts to the likes of George Michael, David Bowie and Bob Marley. We had a blast! The venue was awesome – the biggest tent we’ve ever seen – and every single act was incredible.

The highlight of the festival for us was seeing The Valli Boys featuring our friend Ben Evans; they had the whole park singing and dancing.

We were honoured to host the first sell-out indoor concert at Cardiff Theatre Café, on Wellfield Road, this month. Singer-songwriter Zoey Allen performed an acoustic set to an intimate and enthusiastic crowd along with

support act Dani Pryor. Zoey also took part in a Q&A where she spoke about her journey as a transgender woman. The evening received several standing ovations, and Zoey has also been added to the bill at this year’s annual Pride Cymru (27 – 28 August), so be sure to check her out.

Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival completed another incredible six-week run at Sophia Gardens recently; we popped along to see Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Rich Tunley, and it was absolutely fantastic. We always say the festival is one of our favourite things to do each summer, and after a twoyear absence it was great just to be back.

We proudly support many Cardiff-based charities and are patrons and ambassadors for a few that mean a lot to us. This month we took part in the Cardiff & Vale Health Charity’s Do It Your Way 5K in Pontcanna Fields. Well done to everyone that turned up on that humid Sunday morning and raised money for this incredible charity.

Also well done to the Dreams & Wishes team which opened the new Celebration of Life garden at Heath Park. Making dreams come true for seriously sick children and their families, their motto is #SmilesOnFaces and they certainly achieve that.

We have a busy month ahead: we’ll be taking part in Pride Cymru; we’ll be tastetesting a pride-themed afternoon tea at The Angel Hotel; and we have been recording at Earl Lane Studios for upcoming events, which I’m sure are going to be fun! Plus, we have the super talented SJ Hill returning to St Andrew’s Coffee Court along with Black Elvis for a special fundraiser for Cardiff & Vale Health Charity.

See you next time!

About our columnists: Nathan Wyburn is a pop culture artist who uses non-traditional mediums such as Marmite, beans, soil and fake tan; and Wayne Courtney is a healthcare support worker at University Hospital of Wales. They are also Radio Cardiff DJs with their own show, and they run St Andrew’s Coffee Court in Cardiff. Follow them on social: @wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne

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

ONE TO ONE

ARLENE PHILLIPS Arlene Phillips talks to VICKY EDWARDS about girl power, refusing to act her age, and why The Cher Show – coming to Cardiff in August – is an unmissable and fabulously feel-good extravaganza

I

loved Cher’s music from the first time I heard it, but it’s more than that; Cher is an icon,” says Arlene Phillips, who is directing The Cher Show – a fiercely fabulous new musical, from the writer of Jersey Boys, to honour the original queen of sass – coming soon to New Theatre Cardiff.

“I am so excited! Cher is a woman who, right from the start of her career, was ahead of her time. She’s had hits in every decade, she’s a great actress and she’s whip-smart. She has also been a great pioneer for women’s rights.

If there’s something to shout about then Cher shouts about it.”

Having debuted on Broadway in 2018, earning two Tony Awards, Arlene’s production of The Cher Show now marks the European premiere. Telling the story of how ‘Cherilyn Sarkisian’ went from truck driver’s daughter with big dreams, to the Oscar-winning goddess of pop and queen of reinvention, the show takes the audience by the hand and introduces them to the influential people in Cher’s life – from her mother and Sonny Bono to fashion designer and costumier Bob Mackie.

Recalling how she battled the men who underestimated her and how she defied

convention, the story is told, Arlene explains, as if Cher is looking back on her life.

“There is a great story running through as she looks back at the moments where she made an impact, whether through a relationship, a hit, a movie or fashion,” she says. “We want the audience to embrace her story and have a good time.”

And can we expect a soundtrack of Cher’s hits? Arlene is quick to reassure, “Oh yes.

There are so many hits and the show will have a great party feel to it, as the story builds and builds, finishing in a full-on, full-out concert.”

Joining Arlene on the journey are some impressive names; it’s written by Olivier and Tony Award-winning Rick Elice; and choreography is by double Strictly Come Dancing champion Oti Mabuse.

“Oti’s choreography is so exciting,” says Arlene, one of the world’s most respected choreographers herself. “She is really gifted and people are going to see something that hasn’t been seen before.”

And, of course, you can’t have a show about Cher without tons of glamorous, sequin-heavy outfits, which are by Gabriella Slade, the super-talented creator of costumes for the likes of the Spiceworld tour.

“The impact Cher has made in fashion has been enormous,”

PHOTO BY OLIVER ROSSER

Showbiz legend Arlene

says Arlene. “She isn’t afraid to say ‘I want to stay as young as possible for as long as possible’ and she isn’t afraid to wear the fantastic clothes and look as glamorous as can.”

With a female icon as the subject of the show – played by Debbie Kurup, Danielle Steers and Millie O’Connell in the different stages of Cher’s life – and Arlene, Oti and Gabriella all adding their superpowers to the mix, there’s definitely a whiff of ‘girl power’ about the production.

“I love that,” beams Arlene, who says directing rather than choreographing does require a gear shift. “It is different, but mainly it’s about how you tell the story. With choreography you look at the story, but you listen to the music. As a director you look at the story and then you use the music to help you tell the story; you’re really conscious of seeing the arc all the way through. The audience have to fall in love with the star and find things out about Cher that they didn’t already know.”

“This is a show that brings pure postpandemic joy” Both she and Cher are fiercely independent women. Does Arlene identify with Cher? “I totally do, in that I want to continue doing what I do for as long as I can and not be defined by my age. I am enjoying life and if I can make an impact in some way then I will.”

Arlene says the show has had a little reinvention, having been reworked since its award-winning Broadway run. “We have clarified every detail and I can’t wait for people to see it,” she says, passing me a list of the venues that the show will play. “There are so many theatres on this tour that are special to me. I hope people will support their local theatre. There really is no substitute for live performance and I urge people to go and feel the love and warmth of this show.

“Escapism is a wonderful mind-healer, and that’s what you get with The Cher Show. We’re all more fragile than we’ve ever been before and the future feels unsure. This is a show that brings pure post-pandemic joy. People will go home having laughed, possibly having shed a tear, and having danced up the aisles. They can put aside their worries, and in that moment they’ll be wrapped up in this extravaganza of a show!” n See The Cher Show at New Theatre Cardiff from 23 – 27 August; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 29

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MUSIC Elio Pace knows how to put on a show

WHAT ELIO’S SUPPORTERS HAVE TO SAY…

“Only sensational” – Sir Terry Wogan “Elio rocks” – Brian May “Elio is tremendous... I’m a big fan” – Huey Lewis

THE BILLY JOEL SONGBOOK

With hits like Piano Man, We Didn’t Start the Fire and Tell Her About It at the ready, acclaimed singersongwriter and pianist Elio Pace is taking his awardwinning show The Billy Joel Songbook on a tour of the UK, and he’s stopping in Cardiff in August…

By Sarah Rhodes

I

’ve been performing some of these songs for 30 years, and I’d play them for another 30 too,” says Elio Pace about the back catalogue of his musical idol, Billy Joel.

Elio was just a teenager when he ‘tripped over’ Billy Joel’s music and began a life-long crusade to showcase the songs to audiences across the UK and beyond. He’s now ready to take his award-winning show, The Billy Joel Songbook, out on tour to bigger venues than ever before, including the New Theatre Cardiff on 28 August.

“I was 16 or 17 at sixth form college when I fell in love with his music,” he says. “I was already music mad, already gigging, even at that age – in fact from 14 or 15 I was playing with bands in clubs.

“Then, when Billy came along it was like a light went on for me; the way he influenced my singing, writing, performance, piano playing – it was instant.

Everything changed. And right from then, I envisaged, one day, singing my favourite Billy Joel songs on stage.”

Elio’s journey to The Billy Joel Songbook began as far back as 1993, when he approached a contact in the entertainment industry, and suggested putting something together.

“I pitched the whole show concept,” Elio

says. “I had a poster, everything, and called it Piano Man. “He looked through it and said he could see my passion, that it was a brilliant idea, but there was one big problem: Billy Joel was still doing it. He said I was 20 years too early.

“And 20 years later, almost to the month, in 2013, I started booking shows for The Billy Joel Songbook.”

Elio’s big break came in 2010 when Sir Terry Wogan picked up on his work, and insisted Elio front the house band for his Weekend Wogan show on BBC Radio 2, which saw them perform live arrangements for the weekly special guests.

“We did 35 live shows, with three live performances on each, writing the arrangements for the incredible artists who appeared – people like Brian May, John Legend and Debbie Reynolds. But I was also a featured artist in my own right and, apparently, I’m a record holder for the most live performances on radio in one year.

“Billy Joel is, from the very bottom of my heart, the greatest singer/songwriter of all time. It’s an honour and privilege to be the guy behind the piano, singing these songs.”

“We wrote arrangements for people like Brian May, John Legend and Debbie Reynolds”

See The Billy Joel Songbook at Cardiff’s New Theatre on 28 August; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

SPONSORED CONTENT

THE NINE YEAR WAIT FOR BABY OLIVIA

Having waited nine years for their IVF baby to arrive, Sky News editor Emily Deeker and husband, BBC Points West’s Will Glennon, are urging other couples with fertility issues to be patient and keep trying if they can.

A

fter welcoming baby Olivia into the world on 10 December 2021, Emily posted on Instagram ‘Nothing worth having comes easy,’ together with a touching tribute to the team at BCRM, who worked so hard to enable her and Will to have a baby of their own: ‘Thank you, Bristol Centre For Reproductive Medicine, from the bottom of our hearts.’

“Will and I fell into the huge group of people who have ‘unexplained’ fertility issues,” explained Emily.

“We had 11 rounds of IVF, and a lot of exploratory procedures in between.

“Olivia was our next-to-last chance. We had 12 frozen embryos available to us, and she was number 11, so on paper she was not the strongest embryo.

“Will and I both had Covid in January 2021, just before we were due for an embryo transfer. The virus knocked us for six, and we had to delay treatment until the end of March.

“And then, finally, there was the positive pregnancy test.

“Let’s be honest - you don’t want to be going to a fertility clinic in the first place but if you have to go to one you want to have faith in them, and we did have faith in ours.

“It says a huge amount about the team at BCRM that we decided to stay with them throughout our entire IVF journey, all nine years of it.

“We trusted and believed in them. Their research is second-to-none – look at Valentine Akande’s work - and we had faith in their knowledge, their reputation and the amazing care they gave us throughout.

“To us, Valentine is peerless, and we owe him so much.

“And it was genuinely freeing to walk into the nurse’s room and have a good cry if I wanted to, while she held my hand. I know they were doing their job, but it always felt so much more personal and human than that.”

BCRM www.fertilitybristol.com is the longest established fertility clinic in Bristol, helping people from throughout the South West and Wales with fertility treatment for both private and NHS patients. The clinic is involved in innovative research and has one of the best success rates with IVF and other fertility treatments in the UK. n 32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOPPING © PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON

LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

FASHIONABLY PLATE

Food Bloggers Couple’s Tableware Gift Set, £55

If you say the words ‘Matthew Jones Ceramics’ to any chef in town, chances are they’ll know exactly the indie brand you’re talking about. Matt’s handcrafted wares – talking-piece dinner plates, jars, crockery and the like – are commissioned by many a local restaurant and café, including Pasture Cardiff and Rocket & Rye, for their bespoke nature, deluxe look and high quality.

One of his studios is at Goodsheds, Barry, and is the location that functions as both a shop and a masterclass workshop. Built from a repurposed train carriage known as The Toad, the site offers small groups the chance to try their hand at throwing on the potter’s wheel. Each guest makes three items by hand, which are then left with Matt to be fired, glazed and collected at a later date.

“On Saturdays, we regularly cater for couples and girl gangs, who like to bring their own prosecco, and friends who like to meet up, get creative and get their hands dirty,” he says. “In addition to the private workshops, we also deliver team building workshops and awaydays for corporate customers.”

Matthew Jones Ceramics; www.matthewjonesceramics.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

LOLLIPOP SERIES ARTWORK, £3,995 An original mixed media by Emma Gibbons.

From Adamo Gallery, Morgan Arcade; www.adamogallery.co.uk

RAINBOW EARRINGS, £35 These delightful mirror Perspex accessories are pure joy.

From Fizz Goes Pop, Roath; www.fizzgoespop.com

SENSE OF PRIDE

As a nod to Pride Cymru’s return, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first pride march in the UK, we’ve sought out an array of rainbow-themed items, all from local shops

TWEEDMILL PURE NEW WOOL THROW, £59.99 Ideal for throwing over your knees as dusk falls at a garden party.

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

EARTH RAINBOW BAMBOO TABLEWARE SET, £14.50 The perfect set to help little ones enjoy food time.

From Stwff-Stuff, Cowbridge; www.stwff-stuff.co.uk

RUBY SHOO MALIBU BAG, £45 A vegan-friendly eye-catcher.

From AG Meek, St David’s Centre, Cardiff; www.agmeek.co.uk

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

EDITOR’S CHOICE PEBBLE CUSHIONS, £59.99 EACH Scatter and pretty-up any interior.

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

DINO BADGES, £10 EACH Polymer clay pins; 10 per cent of profits go to a nominated LGBTQ+ charity.

From KelZo Jewellery, Meanwhile House, Cardiff; www.kelzojewellery.com

UNICORN SHAVE BUTTER, £12.95 A luxe candyfloss-scented, nourishing product to help you glow.

From Mallows Beauty, St David’s Cardiff; www.mallowsbeauty.co.uk

PRIDE CYMRU IS BACK FOR 2022!

ART PRINT, £6.50 All I’m askin’, is for a little respect.

From DesignShedCymru, Whitchurch; Etsy: DesignShedCymru

RAINBOW HEISHI DISC BRACELET, £14 Stackable bead bracelets are back!

Hello again, boho style.

From Sadler Jones, Barry; www.sadlerjones.com

The festival will kick off with a Pride March on the Saturday, which will retrace the steps taken by the first pride marches in Cardiff, followed by performances on three stages over two days at the City Hall site.

The Saturday line-up includes Melanie C, Bimini and Mary Mac, and Sunday’s headline act is Boney M, along with Victoria Scone, and Britain’s Got Talent stars Welsh of the Westend.

“We are absolutely delighted to announce a stellar line-up of artists for this year’s Pride Cymru, including welcoming the legends that are Boney M to the stage,” says Gian Molinu, chair of Pride Cymru. “After a three-year hiatus, this is set to be an exciting year and will be amazing to get the LGBTQ+ community together once again.”

Gates will open on the City Hall event site from 11:30am on Saturday 27 August, and midday on Sunday 28. www.pridecymru.com

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

St.John Peace-Burke, the man behind a next-generation period care brand

PERIOD POWERFUL

T

Here we chat with one of the founders of Cardiffbased TOTM (Time of the Month), a brand with a mission to provide sustainable period care

By Lisa Evans

OTM, based in Cardiff’s Pacific Business Park, is an award-winning cruelty-free brand which offers a range of sustainable and reusable period care. Here we talk to its co-founder St.John Peace-Burke about period dignity, planet-friendly products, and breaking down menstrual shame.

It’s interesting that a period care company was set up by a man – what’s the story there?

I founded TOTM alongside co-founder Kate Herbert. We both had young daughters at the time and, through a discussion one day, we got onto the topic of periods. We spoke about how the period care industry was falling behind other industries.

Through further research, we discovered that products were not

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

hitting the mark sustainability wise and the big brands were yet to conquer online. TOTM was therefore born out of the need for a nextgeneration period care brand with a mission to protect the planet. We launched online as a subscription service initially, seeking to make it convenient to stay topped up with better, sustainable period products.

And we’ve grown so much since those early days.

So, sustainability is at the core; tell us about the ways in which TOTM is planet friendly…

Conventional period products can contain up to 90 per cent plastic and the majority come with plastic wrappers and applicators that can take up to 500 years to break down. From core to cover, our tampons, pads and liners use organic cotton, which is naturally soft, absorbent, and comfortable. It’s certified to GOTS standards and sustainably sourced.

BIG INTERVIEW We use alternatives to plastic in our product wrappers and packaging, opting for recyclable cardboard or certified compostable biofilm.

Using materials such as these is crucial as every year in the UK alone 200,000 tonnes of menstrual product waste ends up in landfill sites. Not to mention the 1.5bn to 2bn period products flushed down toilets in Britain, which pollutes sewage systems, rivers, and the ocean.

We make every effort to reduce the impact that our products have on the planet. Our range is carbon-neutral, and we offset any avoidable emissions by planting trees in the UK through our support for ClimatePartner, and we’re now also actively removing plastic from the ocean.

It seems strange – and very frustrating – that many companies are producing these products from plastic unnecessarily...

Absolutely! We are proving that these products can perform without harming the planet. The issue lies with the fact that manufacturers in this industry are not required to disclose ingredients on the box.

Therefore, for decades, big brands have managed to use low-quality materials without backlash from consumers. It’s not just plastic – these products also contain dyes, artificial absorbents, fragrance, and other unnecessary and harmful chemicals.

Alongside our organic range, we have a growing range of reusable period care, such as our menstrual cups. These are zero-waste products and offer a long-term sustainable solution to our customers who feel ready to try something new.

The designs of period products have developed through time (from rags to menstrual cups). In 100 years, what period products do you think will be popular?

We know from data sources that pads are by the far the most popular period product in the UK. Many are surprised to hear this. This is followed by applicator tampons. One hundred years from now, I would guess eco-friendly pads would be popular or reusable variants such as period pants.

Do you believe there’s still a stigma around periods? If so, how are you breaking down period shame?

Periods are still a stigmatised topic in society. From the classroom to the workplace and in environments such as the world of sport, there are clear examples of period stigma. We are using our voice and our platform as a period care brand to tackle period stigma and shame.

We’re opening up ‘taboo’ conversations, raising awareness and educating on all topics related to periods and menstrual health.

Through our Period Dignity Scheme, we’re actively working with employers to tackle stigma in the workplace. There’s a lot to do here but it’s important to ensure menstrual needs are being met and wellbeing is supported.

“Periods are still a stigmatised topic in society”

Do you think some people are hesitant to try reusables (especially reusable tampon applicators, for example)?

We appreciate that many people have concerns over reusable period products and want to understand if they’re hygienic, or if they can be used on the go.

Reusables offer a different way to manage periods, therefore it’s natural for questions to arise. To support these conversations, we openly share product information, social media videos and blog content which provides information on using reusable products. For example, our reusables are made with medical-grade material that is durable and sterile. This makes it easier to clean these products between use (you just use water).

Are reusables the products of the future?

Market data and the feedback from our customers shows that reusable period products are on the rise; however, it’s a slow trajectory.

We often hear that the majority of customers would prefer to use a mix of reusable and eco-disposable products to adapt to their period and lifestyle.

Could you tell us more about your Period Dignity Workplace Scheme?

We launched it in 2018 to help employers support menstrual wellbeing at work. At its core, we’re advocating for free period products to be available in workplaces to ensure that nobody has to face the distressing situation of being caught short at work. We’ve developed a solution that’s been adopted by leading organisations across the UK and offers a simple way to provide period care in staff bathrooms.

The scheme has also been adapted for other environments including education and public spaces, such as train stations.

Your current stockist list is very impressive, with the likes of M&S and ASOS on board; could you take us back to the beginning and tell us how you grew?

We started out online, offering our sustainable range on subscription, but we were quickly spotted by Ocado who wanted to stock TOTM products. We could see that there was clearly an exciting opportunity here and a chance to change the industry. After launching on Ocado and seeing positive results, we rebranded, and within a few months we launched onto shelves in Tesco stores across the UK. A year after Tesco, we launched in Superdrug stores, and over the past 24 months we’ve not stopped – we’ve launched in M&S, ASOS and Morrisons as well as seeing our Period Dignity Workplace Scheme go from strength to strength. We’re now at a stage where we need more people to engage with our mission, switch to our products and make TOTM a household name. Then we know we’ve achieved our goal of challenging big brands and revolutionising this stagnant industry.

In what ways does TOTM give back?

TOTM IN NUMBERS • 546,485 periods made more sustainable in 2021 • 238,318kg carbon offset by working with ClimatePartner • 30,386 products donated to period dignity projects in 2021 via its ‘Gift a Pack of Pads’ scheme and ‘Donate Next Order function’ for subscribers • 665 workplaces across the UK have adopted the Period Dignity Workplace Scheme, making TOTM products available for free to employees

We are proud to give back and support incredible charities and initiatives in the UK. This year, we’re donating 1 per cent of all online revenue and 10p from every workplace box sold, to Endometriosis UK. We’ve also launched our ‘gift a pad’ option at our checkout offering pads at a subsided rate which can be donated by customers to our charity partner, In Kind Direct.

We have also pledged to recover 15,000kg of plastic from the ocean by 2023 through our partnership with Plastic Bank. From every cardboard applicator tampon sold, we recover the equivalent weight of a plastic tampon applicator from the ocean. n For more: www.totm.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 37

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FOOD & DRINK SNAPSHOTS OF CARDIFF’S FOOD SCENE

ALL PHOTOS BY MARTIN ELL ARD

clockwise from top left: The new Bird Kitchen Clothing collection, shot at sustainable Cardiff restaurant Kindle, as modelled by Ottolenghi recipe tester Claudine Boulstridge; Francesca Manzai of recently opened Mabin eatery in STAR Hub, Cardiff; and head chef at Bully’s in Pontcanna, Simmie Vedi

COOKING IN STYLE

Bird Kitchen Clothing founder, Vicky North

The Ivy Asia will be opening in Cardiff this summer, likely in a matter of weeks, though the exact opening date hasn’t been confirmed just yet. Nestled on The Hayes at St David’s, this will be The Ivy Asia’s first restaurant in Wales.

Serving theatrical drinks alongside a menu of tantalising dishes – overseen by executive Chef Simon Gregory – and DJ performances, this vibrant and playful destination is set to entertain, inspire, and excite.

Like The Ivy next to it, it’s interiors will wow – think luminous green onyx flooring, large cherry blossom trees, luxurious Asian fabrics, colourful wallpapers, bespoke Paul Clifford artwork and antiques.

Alongside the main restaurant and bar, there’s a mezzanine level and a sushi bar, where delights will be prepared before you. www.theivyasiacardiff.com

that we admire and are proud to partner with.

“Our customers are professional chefs and people who like to cook at home. Colourful, beautiful and long-lasting work wear is our game.

And at the heart of it, we have the apron that actually fits. What makes our products unique is that as well as looking good, they are comfortable to wear, even through the longest shift. They are designed for comfort with cross back straps and fine tailoring.”

Vicky’s background is in food, and the company grew out of her time when she ran her own restaurant in Newport. “I struggled to find well-fitting work wear, in particular for women,” she says.

“And this collection sets out to address that imbalance.” www.birdkitchenclothing.co.uk

KILN IT Independent pottery business Matthew Jones Ceramics – which has a shop, event space and workshop in Goodsheds, Barry – is soon to launch an online shop on Not on the High Street, with the opening date set for the end of August. www.matthewjonesceramics.com

PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON

Cardiff-based Bird Kitchen Clothing has just released a new collection of apparel for folks who love to cook, and it’s attracted some impressive cheerleaders.

The new collection has been supported by many well-known local chefs including Cowbridge-based Claudine Boulstridge, a chef and Ottolenghi recipe tester; Simmie Vedi, the head chef at Bully’s in Pontcanna; and Francesca Manzai of recently opened Mabin eatery in Splott.

“Just like with sustainable food, connecting to my local community is super important to me,” says Bird Kitchen Clothing founder, Vicky North. “We design in Wales, most of our items are made in the UK, and we only work with ethical factories

ALMOST TIME

Food Bloggers Starter Kit, £35

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

Forest Feastival back

FEASTIVAL FUN

Cardiff’s Street Food Circus is bringing Forest Feastival back to its unique woodland site behind the dunes at Merthyr Mawr this September (2 – 25).

This time, as well as street food favourites from across Wales, Forest Feastival is bringing two pop-up restaurants to the site, one with a focus on sustainable, seasonal produce – The Warren – and one that’s a first outing for one of Wales’s best-known Indian chefs, Anand George (from Purple Poppadom) and his new venture The Canteen.

COMMUNITI VALUES

Cardiff-based Communiti – a self-funded tech start-up making local grocery delivery more accessible – officially launched in July.

Co-founders James Graham and Conrad James set the business up as a way to connect people more easily to independent butchers, greengrocers, craft breweries, bakers, coffee roasters and more.

“Over the pandemic, we loved seeing how the people of South Wales came together to support each other and their local communities,” says James. “We speak to many customers that want to keep supporting local but struggle to find the time to shop locally or the time to discover what’s good in their area, or high delivery fees just make it too difficult. So we built Communiti to solve this.

“Local communities have been able to buy closer to home, but also come together to get free delivery and better prices through our shared deliveries system we call ‘neighbourhood routes’.

If you live in Cardiff and want to shop local and independent and get all the modern trappings of home delivery, then come and join Communiti.” www.trycommuniti.com

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

“We’re thrilled to be back at Merthyr Mawr,” says Matt ‘The Hat’, founder of Street Food Circus. “It’s a uniquely special location in a woodland, by a castle, near the sea.

It’s also equally accessible if you’re coming from Cardiff, Swansea or the Valleys. September’s often a great month weather-wise – still warm enough to eat outdoors, but you can start to feel the nights drawing in, so it’s also a great time to be gathering around our campfire with a drink or two. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back beneath the Street Food Circus big top!” www.forestfeastival.com

Communiti co-founder James Graham

Communiti enables local deliveries from butchers, greengrocers, bakeries and more

NEW BIZ ON THE BLOCK

In August, Nighthawks – an indie wine bar serving up charcuterie, grilled cheese and cocktails – will open in Castle Arcade on the former Greazy Vegan site (it may already be open by the time you’re reading this).

Instagram: @nighthawkscardiff

FOOD & DRINK DELI CYMRU

Running now until 18 September, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend is hosting the Deli Cymru’ pop-up, at which more than 25 producers local to the South Wales region (including Cardiff) will offer everything from locally made alcohol, coffee and Welsh cakes, to chutneys and homemade pasta.

As long-term champions of local small businesses, the outlet has joined forces with Welsh Government-funded project Cywain to support local producers and entrepreneurs to boost visibility of artisan Welsh brands.

Local businesses showcasing their products include Cardiff Distillery; Penarth’s Grounds for Good; Cardiff-based Flowerhorn Brewery; and Lilo’s Handmade, a regular at Cardiff Farmers’ Markets. www.mcarthurglen.com

DEJA BREW

In July, much-loved Cardiff coffee shop Corner Coffee opened a takeaway on Quay Street, just a mere espresso’s throw from its High Street Arcade spot. www.cornercoffee.uk

Their cold brew soft serve is wildly popular

The Great Taste judges

Lilo’s Handmade, a regular at Cardiff Farmers’ Markets, is part of Deli Cymru

ONE TO TRY

Fat Hippo, on Church Street, has launched an Aperol Spritz burger – a buttermilk chicken burger with a sweet Aperol hot honey butter.

Best enjoyed on National Burger Day, 25 August. www.fathippo.co.uk

GREAT TASTE

On 1 August, thousands of artisan food producers from across the globe discovered if their products bagged accolades at the prestigious Great Taste Awards – the world’s largest food and drink accreditation scheme based entirely on taste. And Wales won a whopping 201 awards.

Winners included: Calon Lân Cakes, Cardiff; Craft Republic, Barry; and Daisy & Belle Ice Cream, Cardiff. www.greattasteawards.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 41

FOOD

PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON

THREE THINGS I LOVED EATING THIS MONTH…

1

A delicious green tea crème brûlée from Matsudai’s brand-new restaurant in Grangetown (@matsudairamen)

2

A vibrant roasted cauliflower wholefood salad from Wahaca Cardiff’s summer menu (@wahaca)

3

A gorgeous plate of sashimi from Yuki Yan Japanese restaurant in Cathays (@yukiyancardiff) clockwise from top left: Green tea crème brûlée from Matsudai; Cardiff Wine Passport; a Bar 44 wine pairing; seasonal food from Tidy Kitchen; Wahaca Cauli bowl; Spanish Wines Direct has opened; sashimi at Yuki Yan; Curado Bar’s team is behind a new venture

EAT YOUR HEART OUT

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Our columnist, good food fanatic, local blogger and indie foodie PR guru JANE COOK has her finger on the pulse when it comes to what’s new and tasty in the city…

his month, I have absolutely been making the most of my newly launched Cardiff Wine Passport! Each passport entitles you to six glasses of wine at a choice of 11 independent city-centre venues – with different food pairings suggested for every glass. If you’re yet to collect all of your stamps, don’t miss Bar 44’s Iberico pork with walnut romesco, served with a glass of Uva 44 Jumilla (@cdfwinepassport).

In other wine news, a brand-new wine

warehouse from the team behind Cardiff’s Curado Bar (and the neighbouring Vermut) has opened on Penarth Road. Boasting more than 6,900 sq ft of warehousing space, Spanish Wines Direct stocks more than 500 different Spanish wines, with a focus on smaller producers, indigenous grapes, and under-the-radar regions, and a despensa (pantry) will offer olive oils, olives, tinned fish and other para picar (nibbles) to take away (@spanish_wines_direct).

Over on Museum Place, the Tidy Kitchen Company has opened a new ‘grab and go’ deli, offering a range of luxury, healthy, and freshly assembled meals to take away – think

vibrant salads, hearty soups and homemade cakes and bakes. You can also pick up pots of freshly-made hummus, muhammara and baba ghanoush – perfect for impromptu picnics in Gorsedd Gardens (@thetidykitchenco).

In sadder food news, Pontcanna’s brilliant, Michelin-recommended Catalan restaurant La Cuina is closing its doors after 10 successful years. You’ve still got time for a final visit before they close for good on 3 September – or a first taste if you never quite got around to it (@lacuinacardiff).

For more: www.janechicomendes.co.uk | @janechicomendes| www.hungrycityhippy.co.uk

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BRUNCH BUNCH

Lisa Evans was invited to try an Array Events Champagne Brunch at Le Monde, Cardiff, where live music, free-flowing Laurent Perrier and exquisite food came together to create a stand-out afternoon

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he concept of a celebratory breakfastmeets-lunch event has become big business in Cardiff, with plenty of the city’s hotspots grabbing a slice of the lucrative triple B – Boozy Bottomless Brunch – pie. It’s become a cultural phenomenon, and us Welsh folk just lap it up.

The Array Events brand is billed as Wales’s ‘original’ Champagne Brunch organiser, and we were invited to see for ourselves why their parties (because that’s definitely what they are) always sell out.

First impressions: it was properly packed; welldressed guests merrily mingled around the room, their first glasses of Laurent Perrier in hand, and cool beats from DJ J Carsandas pulsed against a backdrop of the up-market interiors of Le Monde.

When the call to dinner came, the room was

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understandably more effervescent – having taken full advantage of unlimited bubbly top ups – but still managed to maintain its glamour and general classiness.

When seated, the music kicked up a level, and it was at that point my group realised that that was the end of our heart-to-heart time. It was also the point at which we realised we’re getting older; never have we ever asked for the music to be turned down while on a night (well, day) out before. Karens much?

The reason for that: we had been waist-deep in nostalgic and meaningful conversation just as the base cranked up. Shouting ‘So, as I was saying, my therapist suggested I…’ through cupped palms across the table to each other just wasn’t the vibe.

We shook off our seriousness and decided to immerse ourselves into the fun of it instead, soaking up the tunes which soon turned into live, incredibly powerful vocals from Abby P, who strode from table to table serenading

RESTAURANT

us all individually with Mary J Blige and the like on the mic.

Between courses, diners were up out of their seats having a boogie, and there was plenty of chair-ography going on while eating too. We just about managed to stay put long enough to devour our set menu of seabass in parsley butter with fresh seasonal vegetables, fillet steak with Le Monde’s famous chips; and gooey chocolate brownies.

I’ll be honest, I was expecting poached eggs and avo toast, but this is clearly how the with-it people brunch.

Besides, it was at least 1pm before we sat down to eat; I guess ‘bottomless lunch’ just doesn’t have the same ring or decadence to it.

As for the clientele, it ranged between groups of 20-somethings (highly fashionable ones, dressed in colour-block co-ords) to more mature clutches of supersophisticated ladies clearly experienced in having a good time, and – more unexpectedly, because the marketing for this kind of thing is usually heavily feminised “girls’ day out” kind of stuff – plenty of designer-suited clusters of blokes. And almost all of them got up to dance after cutlery was downed – how could they resist when there was a saxaphonist and drummer lighting up the room?

It’s not a cheap affair, of course, and you wouldn’t expect it to be. Tickets cost £95+ per person, with a booking fee added, and the smallest table you can buy is for four people (the largest being for 10) so, totted-up, it ranges from £410 – £1,024 per booking.

But if live entertainment from start to finish, as much champagne as you can humanly consume, and a skilfully presented lunch (let’s call it what it is) is your bag, then it’s wholly worth the price tag. n

ABOUT ARRAY EVENTS

It was launched in 2021 by Elinor Martinez with the aim of offering Wales luxury events. Elinor felt Cardiff lacked occassions for the 30s+ club who share the same love for fine food and wine as her.

For the first year, Array ran brunches, winetasting dinners and cigar events throughout the Martinez restaurants – The Old Custom House, Le Monde, El Prado, Miskin Arms and The Priory.

They are now hosted predominantly at Le Monde and The Old Custom House every quarter.

“Between courses, diners were up out of their seats having a boogie”

DINING DETAILS Where Le Monde, St Mary Street, Cardiff; www.le-monde-restaurant.co.uk What we ate/drank Canapés on arrival, seabass in parsley butter, fillet steak, chips, and chocolate brownies, plus 90 minutes’ worth of free-flowing Laurent Perrier Costs From £410 – £1,024 per booking (4 – 10 guests) Dress code Smart The next event Winter Brunch, 29 October, at Le Monde, Cardiff; www.arrayevents.co.uk

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PHOTO BY SIMON CALL AGHAN PHOTOGR APHY

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Meander through the warming water corridor and experience the powerful swan-neck massage fountains

WRITTEN IN THE SPAS

PHOTO BY TOM DAVIES, @TOMAESH

Lisa Evans experiences the full array at voco St David’s Cardiff: a spa day, heavenly treatments, a three-course meal and a luxe overnight stay left: voco’s iconic ship’s sail architecture

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hings that are good for the soul: total relaxation, full-body pampering, delicious food, and four strong margaritas in a row. I experienced a full day of this luxurious combination yesterday at voco St David’s Cardiff hotel.

It’s now the morning after; there’s a warm glow running through me (that’s probably the tequila), a satisfied smile is smudged across my face and my fingers are at half speed while typing this. I am content, I am chilled – no easy state to reach as a constantly wound-up mum to a chaotic preschooler.

Upon arriving at the hotel with my lucky plus-one (the husband), we were shown through to the treatment area for massages; my choice was the hot stone variety, and his was deep tissue. I wanted to swap – mainly because I was worried he’d landed the better treatment – but before I had a chance to weigh up both options, our respective masseuses whisked us away (into separate rooms thank god; I’m not one for the awkward romance of a couple’s massage).

The hot stones were, in fact, piping hot – not gently warmed as I’d expected. It’s a shock when they first touch you – I just know my back must have turned a Pantone-worthy shade of pink – but the therapist moved swiftly across the skin; you get used to it and the heat fades pretty quickly. When they did start to reach an ordinary, more soothing temperature, I actually found myself looking forward to them being reheated, ready to glide over and scorch the next section of my body – a heavenly ‘hurts so good’ feeling, and a far more pleasant way to ‘feel the burn’ than when my PT demands back-to-back Bulgarian split squats.

HEALTH & BEAUTY My masseuse worked my body like she was Paul Hollywood preparing focaccia, stretching out the knots in my back, neck, and legs, and kneading deep into the muscle layer with those smooth pebbles until my body felt unrecognisably relaxed and supple.

Upon drifting out of the treatment room in a doughy daze and into the softly lit relaxation lounge, cucumber-infused water in hand, I spotted the husband lounging in one of the armchairs in his dressing gown, looking rather smug. I casually enquired about his treatment – eager to compare and to check if I’d won. “Probably the best of my life,” he said, hands behind his head, chest inflated. “She used her elbows the entire time and put her full weight on me.” That sounds like my paradise; I do love a kindly man-handling once in a while. I couldn’t complain though, I was in too blissful a state for that; but I did manage an eye-roll and a tut.

We then took our yawning bodies to the spa, a luxurious playground complete with an invigorating 15m pool, bubbling water beds, a hot tub, a hydrotherapy pool, a dry-heat sauna, a warming water corridor, massaging swan-neck fountains, and a gym – the latter I respectfully ignored in the name of respite.

After being thoroughly steamed, baked and simmered until suitably prune-like, we were glad we didn’t have to think about shuttling home; our spacious king bedroom awaited upstairs. And what a view to be greeted with when opening that third-floor door; sunlight coruscated on the surface of the water in the Bay surrounding us, panoramic views

“I do love a kindly manhandling once in a while” A suite at voco, featuring some of the best panoramic scenes in Cardiff

of which were offered through the wall of floor-to-ceiling windows.

We headed straight onto the balcony, gazing out over the boat-studded expanse where millions of moving sparkles danced.

Although weary, it was so inviting we decided to pop back downstairs and into the heart of the Bay for an hour. Mermaid Quay – packed with bustling restaurants, bars, businesses, pop-up street food stalls and entertainment hubs – while tempting, wasn’t the vibe we needed; instead, we took a 30-second stroll from the hotel to the Wetlands Reserve on its doorstep and immersed into the calm of nature.

Come evening, it was time for a faultless three-course meal at voco’s restaurant, The Admiral. Crab cakes and cured salmon to start; pea and mint ravioli, and garlic and herb Welsh lamb for mains; and dessert was just-like-grandma-used-to-make Bara brith bread and butter pudding, and honeyed Welsh cake cheesecake, all washed down with plenty of ice-cold Olmeca Blanco cocktails while taking in more of those luscious waterside views.

If you’re craving a reset as much as I was, you should give voco St David’s a try too. Braggart plus-ones optional. n www.stdavids.vocohotels.com

THE DETAILS

THE LOCATION: voco St David’s Cardiff, a landmark luxury five-star hotel, with iconic ship’s sail architecture, sits right on the water’s edge in Cardiff Bay, on Havannah Street.

THE PRICE: An overnight stay, with breakfast and use of the spa facilities included, starts at £109.

OUR TREATMENTS: Ishga Hot Stone Massage, 50 minutes, from £85; Ishga Deep Tissue Massage, 50 minutes, from £85.

DINNER: Starters £7 – £18.95, mains £10 – £38.50, desserts £7 – £18.50.

INSIDER TIP: The hotel has partnerships with Cardiff Distillery, Cardiff International White Water and OVO Bikes to enjoy. You can book packages featuring gin experiences, paddleboarding sessions, rafting adventures, or electric bike hire.

WHAT ELSE: Four-legged friends are most welcome.

Step through the doors and this is what you’re greeted with

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SCENE

AC ROSS C A R D I FF, O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E Charles Janczewski, Chair of Cardiff & Vale University Health Board

Suzanne Rankin, CEO Cardiff & Vale University Health Board Horatio’s Garden Wales volunteers

HORATIO’S GARDEN

Sir Gareth Edwards

Rugby legend Sir Gareth Edwards was among the guests at the opening of Horatio’s Garden Wales in July. The garden, at the University Hospital Llandough, Cardiff, was created following a capital appeal by Horatio’s Garden Charity. It’s the first of its kind in Wales and aims to offer a sanctuary for people living with spinal injuries.

The fully accessible space supports both patients with spinal injuries, and their loved ones, who face long stays in The Welsh Spinal Cord Injury

Les and Chris – patients with spinal injuries

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

Rehabilitation Centre within the hospital.

“I am thrilled that Wales has a Horatio’s Garden,” says Gareth. “It will provide people with traumatic injuries a place to spend time in nature and provide a space away from the ward where they can enjoy time with the family and friends. Spinal cord injury can happen to anyone, as we know from our experiences in the world of rugby, and this beautiful garden can provide some relief for people going through a very difficult time.” www.horatiosgarden.org.uk Photos by Michael Hall

Garden designer Sarah Price Dr Olivia Chapple, Sir Gareth Edwards and Amanda Harris

SOCIETY

John Paul Evans and his husband Peter Phillips, who features alongside John Paul in most of the imagery at the exhibition A fantastic turnout

FFOTOGALLERY EXHIBITION LAUNCH The opening of Welsh artist John Paul Evans’s solo show, What is Lost… What Has Been, at Cardiff’s Ffotogallery in July drew quite the crowd.

On until 3 September, the exhibition poses questions about photography’s relationship with memory, love, loss and representation. For more, see page 11. www.ffotogallery.org Photos by Kamila Jarczak

The exhibition analyses ideas of belonging and otherness, mourning and melancholia in relation to the photographic family album

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Polly Amorous

Taste testing the Solero Sundae

The free bar proved popular Justin Drag

Party on The bartenders are known for their antics

THE COCKTAIL CLUB LAUNCH

In July, The Cocktail Club launched its first Welsh venue, on Cardiff’s St Mary Street. The award-winning bar, which has come over from London, brings with it crazy bartenders, memorable nights out and, of course, plenty of cocktails.

The opening night featured a free bar, performances from local drag kings and queens, and a live boa constrictor.

Since the opening, they’ve now launched their 00s bottomless brunch events featuring bottomless prosecco and pornstar martinis and non-stop throwback anthems from the noughties. www.thecocktailclub.com The Beekeeper cocktail proved popular

Photos by The Cocktail Club

Calm nights are strictly forbidden

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Theatrical drink-making is as standard

SOCIETY

Yassmine Najime, Painting Practice

Dr David Dunkley Gyimah in conversation with Marcus Ryder MBE and Pat Younge

ClwstwrVerse keynote speakers with Prof Justin Lewis (in pink) and Prof Sara Pepper (in pink)

Azize Naji, founder of Goggleminds A talk on Reimagining Journalism

CLWSTWRVERSE

In July, local world-class creative talent came together at ClwstwrVerse, a pioneering innovation event.

The event, which took place at City Hall, Cardiff, showcased the nation’s best tech and creative talent through talks, demos, and workshops. It was the culmination of three years of ground-breaking research and development into future-focused products and experiences.

Highlights included: an exclusive experiment by Gruff Rhys who tested a new way of experiencing live music; sessions with Ffilm Cymru Wales, BBC MakerBox and Goggleminds; experiences from Hijinx Theatre and Yello Brick who delivered a unique audio broadcast; and a talk by awardwinning design studio Painting Practice, which worked on Black Mirror and His Dark Materials. www.clwstwr.org.uk Photos by Mike Hall

Attendees at ClwstwrVerse

International visitors attended

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SPONSORED CONTENT

FAMILY MATTERS Benjamin Delve of BERRY SMITH LAWYERS on alternative methods to resolve legal disputes within the family

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egal disputes arising from the breakdown of the relationship, or involving members of your family, are among the most undesirable and stressful experiences in our lives. The issues are, often, deeply personal for all concerned and can be inflated by cost and pressure from contested court proceedings.

With purse strings tightening, and concerns about the future of the economy rising, it is important to give serious consideration to alternative methods of resolving legal disputes and avoiding significant, and avoidable, legal costs. While not appropriate in all cases, the following is a run-down of some alternative methods of resolving disputes commonly used, and recommended, by Family Lawyers:

for resolution and come to an agreement on a mutual basis. Mediators do not give legal advice, take sides or impose decisions. A mediator’s role is to be impartial and to reduce conflict by encouraging couples to explore the options that may be available to them.

FAMILY MEDIATION

While arbitration has a long history in commercial disputes, it is a relatively new and innovative way forward in family law and has some advantages over the more traditional court system. While the arbitrator will set out their decision on the issues

Family mediation involves trained and experienced mediators working together with a couple/family on a voluntary basis to help them identify the issues in dispute, consider options

COLLABORATIVE LAW Collaborative law is the process of resolving a family dispute, with the assistance of a Solicitor qualified as a Collaborative Lawyer, in a series of open round table meetings with your ex-partner and their representative. You set the agenda, so you talk about the things that matter most to you and your family.

ARBITRATION

Benjamin Delve

to be determined, akin to a legal judgement, the parties have greater control of the process. Having entered into a written agreement to participate in arbitration, the participants determine the issues requiring arbitration, control the process to be used, and the timing of each stage – it is tailor made to their needs.

The Family Team at Berry Smith are committed to achieving the best result possible for you, and your family and are proud to be able to offer all of the above forms of alternative dispute resolution. ■

If you are interested in learning more about mediation, collaborative law or arbitration, or if you have any other questions about family law, please contact our team on 02920 345511 or by email at family@berrysmith.com

PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

TAKE OFFICE In Cardiff, office take-up for the first half of the year has reached its highest level since 2016, according to Savills.

The most prominent deals this year included the 65,000 sq ft letting to BT at 3 Capital Quarter, and Roku taking 25,845 sq ft at One Fusion Point. The city centre

Gary Carver at Savills Cardiff

accounted for 90 per cent of take-up in the first half of the year.

“We’ve experienced excellent momentum in the first half of this year as occupiers are looking to provide the best workplace environment for their employees,” says Gary Carver, director in the office agency team at Savills Cardiff.

“Hybrid working has led to a lot of businesses focusing more on amenity and thinking more creatively about the design of their workspace to attract employees back to the office and perform effectively.

“We are seeing an increase in demand from companies seeking modern space on flexible leases, with good levels of demand reported by serviced offices providers such as Regus, Chadwick Business Centres and Clockwise. Incubator hubs, such as Tramshed, are also proving popular with start-ups.” www.savills.co.uk

2 Queen Street is set to be turned into apartments

St James is billed as the most prestigious church residential development in the city

TAKE ME TO CHURCH St James’ Church on Glossop Road, Cardiff, has been converted into an architecturally stunning collection of luxury apartments and townhouses.

Location, design, material and expert craftmanship have combined to create unique living environments within a beautiful building. Traditional features blend with contemporary glazing and exposed beams to offer an astonishing finish. It’s been billed as the most prestigious church residential development in the city, and the homes are on the market now with JeffreyRoss. www.stjamescardiff.co.uk Divine reinvention

BUILDING MOMENTUM Atlantic Venture Capital, advised by Savills, has completed the acquisition of 2 Queen Street in Cardiff City Centre from a private trust advised by Fletcher Morgan.

The prominent period property provides five floors of accommodation with a retail convenience store let to Spar at the ground floor and basement with office space on the first, second, third and fourth floors.

The buyer will be looking to convert the upper floors into residential serviced apartments, subject to planning permission. www.savills.co.uk

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PROPERTY

LLANDAFF LIVING

Come peek inside a unique renovation on Pencisely Road, Llandaff

By Evelyn Green

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hen new houses come on the market in Cardiff, we love to take a snoop around; this month, it’s an inspired renovation of an architecturally designed ’80s detached house in Llandaff.

The first thing that caught our eye was the sleek, cool-dude façade, formed with modernist cedar wood cladding and a contrasting white render which draws a soft yet striking unique profile.

The original-build features have been masterfully combined with contemporary materials to create an impressive space, with vaulted pitched ceilings and expansive glass doors characterising the beautifully bright, up-to-the-minute interiors.

From the entrance hall, the eyes are drawn upwards to the natural light flooding in from the large skylight windows. Doors lead off to the main versatile living

HOUSE NUMBERS Location Pencisely Road, Llandaff, Cardiff, CF5 1DQ Price £1.2M Square foot 1,800 Bedrooms 3-4 Reception rooms 2 Outside Garage and driveway, plus expansive mature gardens What else? A detached home office Agent Hern & Crabtree, Llandaff Office, 8 Waungron Road, CF5 2JJ; 029 2055 5198; www.hern-crabtree.co.uk

space featuring an open-plan lounge and sitting room interconnecting with a contemporary eye-catching kitchen diner.

Our favourite of the features is the double set of bi-fold doors at the back of the house which open out onto the expansive gardens. And we’re fans of the cleverly hidden door leading from the kitchen to the utility and through to the cloakroom, ingeniously flowing back to the main hall.

From the hall, the half landing offers a bedroom to the front of the house, while the first floor has the principal bedroom with its gorgeous stone-tiled en suite, plus a family bathroom and a further bedroom.

Off the landing is a double room with a gallery balcony overlooking the living room – a lovely touch – and the agents say a fourth bedroom can easily be created if desired.

Out in the garden, there’s a large stone patio just calling out for some sleek, weatherproof furniture and a wood burner, and a generous lawn beckons to be played upon by small and big kids alike. There’s also a detached, newly built home office or studio for the WFH era we find ourselves in.

“This renovation is unique and must be seen,” says Mike Baille, director at Hern & Crabtree estate agency in Cardiff. “The kitchen diner is outstanding; the contemporary matt black palette draws the eyes to the large mature gardens which gives an impressive, opulent effect.”

This one’s not sticking around for long, that’s for sure.

LOVELY LLANDAFF

Llandaff is a small, historic city to the north of Cardiff’s city centre. Formerly home to author Roald Dahl, the city, with its picturesque village green, crumbling castle ruins and famous 12th-century cathedral, has a unique, rural atmosphere.

A lively hub of community life, Llandaff has a thriving High Street with a peppering of independent shops, as well as restaurants, cafés and activities for all ages at the redeveloped Insole Court, and at the Rugby and Rowing clubs. It’s a catchment area for some of the capital’s top-rated state and public schools too.

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It’s the city’s business

CARDIFFWORKS Andy Sinclair

UP TO SPEED

The Sinclair Group, Wales’s largest motor retailer, is extending its reach and expanding its manufacturer portfolio with the company’s latest acquisition.

The purchase of Shukers Limited from the Rubery Owen Group sees the Sinclair Group broaden its Welsh territory up to Aberystwyth, where it’s taken over the Land Rover operation and now also represents Hyundai for the first time.

In another first, the Sinclair name is also crossing the border into England with ownership of the Land Rover retailer in Ludlow.

More than 50 staff members employed by Shukers have transferred to the Sinclair Group, which now boasts a 900-strong workforce representing 10 brands in 24 locations.

“Like us, Shukers is a well-established family business and we share a similar culture and the same core values, focus and passion for providing outstanding customer service so this is a great fit for us,” says Andy Sinclair, Sinclair Group managing director. “The Jaguar Land Rover brand is extremely strong in the UK and is already an important part of our group. The addition of two very successful Land Rover sites will significantly increase our territory for the brand and will double the points of representation we have following our takeover of retailers in Swansea and Brecon since 2018.”

For more: www.sinclairgroup.co.uk

LASH OUT Just over a decade after a car crash that left her with eye trauma and the loss of her eyelashes, Roath-based actor and model Panayia Argyridou launched her first business, designing making false lashes by hand.

“After the crash, I had to undergo eye surgery, and as a result of that I lost all of my eyelashes,” says Panayia who is originally from Cyprus and came to Wales in 2015 to study performing arts at the University of South Wales, Cardiff. “They wouldn’t grow back because of the trauma my eyes went through, so I started wearing false lashes. I fell in love with how they made me feel and how much confidence they gave me considering how I felt not having my own. And now, 11 years later, I’ve decided to start my own online business, Selene Lashes.

All the products I use are vegan Panayia Argyridou and cruelty free.

“The new lash style I’m about to launch is named Cerridwen, after the Welsh Goddess of inspiration, in honour of Wales and its people who warmly welcomed me into this country with love.”

For more: www.selenethebrand.com

Helen Walk, Kay Ball and Molly Keenan

KEEP IT 100

Three teachers who retire with 100 years of experience between them may not seem unusual. But when the trio have all put those years in at the same school and retire on the same day, it’s a cause for special celebration.

It certainly was for Kay Ball, Molly Keenan and Helen Walk who said goodbye to their colleagues and pupils at Oakfield Primary this week after chalking up a century of service at the St Mellons school.

“They have all been an integral part of the success of the school, known by so many and valued by all,” says headmaster Dai Harris. They are consummate professionals, so it is extremely fitting to acknowledge this significant milestone, and their contributions to the school and its wider community during such dedicated service.”

For more: www.oakfieldprimary.com

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CARDIFFWORKS

5 MINUTES WITH…

Tristan Wood, managing director of Livewire Digital, with David Savage, chief executive of Excelerate Technology

LEVELLING UP Cardiff-based connectivity specialist Excelerate Technology has announced the acquisition of a significant minority stake in Surrey-based Livewire Digital, putting the two companies into a stronger position to deliver more ‘Hybrid Connectivity as a Service’ – solutions which enable industries and people to do anything related to the internet, regardless of where they live or their economic or social circumstances.

“This is an important strategic partnership which will open new doors for both companies as we continue to develop ever more powerful and resilient connectivity solutions,” says Excelerate’s founder David Savage. “The demand for bandwidth and unbreakable internet anywhere, under any circumstances, has increased dramatically, as has the need to access it anywhere, which is a key requirement if the Government is to achieve its ambitious levelling up agenda.

“The world is seeing significant investment in terrestrial and space-based connectivity – for example Low Earth Orbit and Medium Earth Orbit satellites – in a quest to provide the levels of ubiquitous connectivity and data transfer required to connect people, organisations, and applications across urban to rural landscapes, in the air, at sea Pole to Pole, which will drive up demand for our multi-bearer expertise and the connectivity systems which harness this power and make it easier for users to implement applications that enable them to work anywhere. Using Livewire’s Razorlink technology means we can deliver an unparalleled user experience and a secure network-of-networks eco-system.”

This world-class and transformational capability will bring significant benefits to Excelerate’s existing customers and diverse product portfolio, in addition to supporting the company’s ambitious global vision and growth potential.

For more: www.excelerate-group.com

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Stuart McDowell, managing director at Laings – one of the UK’s most distinguished jewellers, which has been running for 182 years Hi Stuart, what’s your best advice for running a successful business?

Remaining true to the values and ethos of the company is so important. Laings is a family company, whose heart lies in craftsmanship, and this underpins everything we do. We must take inspiration from our rich history but always look forward with the same creative spirit of our forefathers.

What are the key factors to progressing in business?

At Laings we are always looking to the future, and how we can grow within the realms of retail experience. We firmly believe that creating immersive luxury brand environments is key to unlocking our full potential.

We aim to respond to the needs of our clients, creating memorable encounters for them and helping them find exquisitely crafted pieces that mark important milestones and occasions. One key factor that allows us to do that is the people in our team; every member of the Laings team becomes part of our family.

Any news you’d like to share with us?

We recently trebled the size of our Cardiff showroom and opened our first mono-brand OMEGA showroom. We’re proud to say that Laings Cardiff is the only place where you can discover prestigious Patek Philippe timepieces and coveted Fabergé fine jewellery in the whole of Wales. This allows us to cater to the watch collectors and jewellery lovers of Wales in the heart of the capital city, giving the brands we represent and the finely crafted jewellery that we showcase, the chance to shine.

Laings, St David’s, The Hayes, Cardiff; www.laingsuk.com

CARDIFFWORKS

© PHOTO BY AGA HOSKING

“THE SUCCESS SEMINARS ARE ‘MISS IT, MISS OUT’ EVENTS”

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2022 SANCTUARY FINANCIAL PLANNING won the Legal & Financial category at The Cardiff Life Awards 2022.

Here we chat with co-owner Gareth Shears LEGAL & FINANCIAL WINNER SPONSORED BY CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS

Tell us about the business…

Sanctuary Financial Planning is a small team of business owners, advisors, para-planners, and marketers. The aim at Sanctuary is to empower clients by removing the fear people face when tackling their finances through no-nonsense jargon and simple, clear solutions tailored to the individual and their requirements.

What’s its background?

Established in 2015, our aim when founding Sanctuary was, and

remains, to disrupt the norm and offer a completely fresh approach to finances. Myself and co-owner Shane Hyland met at a Corporate Advanced Pension training day and since then have shared a vision to help educate clients on common financial misconceptions.

What positives have you experienced recently?

Sanctuary has grown and developed a lot this year, both internally and on social platforms.

We have collaborated with A.C.T Training and are helping to mentor two young marketing apprentices.

Most recently, we achieved our 50th podcast milestone and have just celebrated the second anniversary of our show. This platform has helped us to build a community of people who value our content for the purpose of education and entertainment.

How did it feel to win a Cardiff Life Award?

With such strong competition in the Legal and Financial category, our honest reaction at first was pure surprise and gratitude. We consistently work hard to strive for the best service we can offer our clients and to be awarded with recognition was such a strong motivator to keep going and keep producing great results. As for the night itself, the company and networking opportunities were fantastic and offered the chance to acquire new clients too.

What is unique and special about your business?

When we talk about financial planning, there is one important thing that should be kept in the forefront of our minds: we are all different. We all have unique dreams and visions. At Sanctuary,

the client is at the heart of everything we do. Consistently, we aim to empower the client through means of educating them on basic and fundamental financial terms and knowledge. We have created a branch from Sanctuary known as Mind and Money: a podcast platform and online coaching course aimed to help our clients and online followers feel confident in tackling their finances.

What plans are in the pipeline?

We have a lot of exciting new events coming up this year.

Officially, we announced our new positions as co-founders at The Success Seminar, alongside fellow entrepreneur Dan Stanley. In our businesses, Sanctuary Financial Planning & Better Men, we’re trusted to advise and share our expertise to prepare our clients to live first class, financially free lives.

And that’s why, collectively, we’ve joined forces and created our new joint venture, The Success Seminar events company.

The Success Seminars are exclusive, one-day events specifically designed to enable professionally successful men to live better, more engaging and fulfilling lives by focusing on self-leadership and financial legacy planning. Spanning an afternoon and evening – consisting of thought-provoking coaching content, interactive discussions, innovate financial planning strategies, high profile keynote speakers, premium peer-to -peer networking opportunities and including food and refreshments – they are ‘miss it, miss out’ events.

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WE ARE FAMILY

Stubborn bickering, shared passions, and days fuelled by chocolate – local families tell us what it’s like to be in business together…

By Lisa Evans

FAMILY BUSINESS

H

owever much we love them, being in business with our family members – be that a significant other, a parent or a sibling – would be a step too far for some people. But here to prove that it can be done, and done well, are three local families with three wonderful stories.

44 GROUP

Siblings Tom Morgan, Owen Morgan and Natalie Isaac opened their first tapas bar – Bar 44, in Cowbridge – in 2002. Since then, they’ve expanded the company, and their take on modern Spanish hospitality, across South Wales and the West Country. As well as their Bar 44 tapas bars – in Cardiff, Penarth and Bristol – they now have Asador 44, a northern Spanish grill and winehouse in the city; Mercado 44, their online shop; and most recently Parador 44, their boutique hotel, on Quay Street.

Keeping it in the family…

“We are very proud of the fact that we still own 100 per cent of the business and so are a wholly independent, family business,” says Tom. “The very first customer who walked through the door of our first Bar 44 in Cowbridge two decades ago said, ‘You won’t last six months’.”

What’s new?

“We have just launched our first hotel, Parador 44. We have spent the last six months refurbishing the upper floors of our Asador 44 restaurant on Quay Street in Cardiff (50 metres from the Principality Stadium) and turned them into a beautiful, modern, nine-room, Spanish-themed hotel complete with rooftop terrazza, guest lounge and a next-level honesty bar.”

Big successes…

Besides running and growing a successful business for 20 years, which has managed to come through the pandemic strongly, another huge accomplishment for the family was the publication of their first book: Bar 44 – Tapas y Copas (Seren Publishing). “It is a collection of over 100 of our favourite tapas recipes paired with an array of Spanish drinks. It also features a number of travel vignettes from our frequent trips to Spain and gives an insight into the evolution of the 44 Group.”

OPPOSITE PAGE: Siblings Owen Morgan, Natalie Isaac and Tom Morgan of 44 Group; ABOVE: The 44 Group expanded its Bar 44 tapas restaurants over the years; INSET: Scallops from Tapas y Copas recipe book

The family dynamic…

“Over the years, we have managed to find a really good balance, and now, rather than spending every day in each other’s pockets, we focus on our own roles and then meet once a week. Switching off completely is always hard, but as we have built the business from scratch, it’s never an issue making sure things run smoothly.”

“The first customer who walked through the door said, ‘You won’t last six months’”

Spreading the love…

“I admire: Natalie’s ability to juggle a million things at once (her to-do lists are never-ending and extremely daunting!); Owen’s drive to be the best every single day and to never, ever compromise; and I’m sure they’d say they admire my devilishly handsome good looks?” www.grupo44.co.uk

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FAMILY BUSINESS ADAMO GALLERY

Sophie Usher and Richard Blunt met hundreds of miles away from Cardiff – even though they lived minutes away from each other in the city – at a work event. They shared similar careers within the same company, selling and creating artwork. As their relationship blossomed (they’re now engaged) so too did their goal to open their own gallery.

Back to the beginning…

“We have a huge passion for art, and it was always a dream of ours to open an art gallery,” says Sophie. “We’d spend hours discussing how we would run our imaginary gallery and what artists we’d love to represent.

In early 2020, during lockdown, they noticed how the retail climate changed dramatically and the discussion about their dream plan transformed into a reality. “The pandemic taught us that life is far too short, and to grab every opportunity, and we found our perfect unit in Morgan Arcade within the city centre. We’re coming towards our first year in business in October, and it is the best thing we’ve both done.”

Keeping it in the family…

“Our whole family is involved; day to day, it will be myself and Richard in the gallery, but you’ll find our parents at events – my dad is often our doorman with the guestlist. We personally deliver artwork to our clients all over the country as well, so our parents often help with deliveries – it’s service with a smile.”

left: Sophie Usher and Richard Blunt

of Adamo Gallery; above and inset: Adamo Gallery in Morgan Arcade

Getting the balance right…

“My first year in business has taught me that you never have a day off.

But when you do a job you love, you never work a day in your life. We find it important to have a work/life balance, so we have no screentime at home and always try to be present with each other.”

Best and worst bits…

“The best thing is that we’re each other’s biggest cheerleaders. We celebrate the highs and the lows together and we always back each other every step of the way. Retail can be a challenging environment to work in, but we both know that we can always rely on each other for motivation.

“We’re both strong willed and big-ideas focused, this can sometimes lead to stubborn bickering, but we find having a structured business meeting the best way to get our ideas across to each other.” www.adamogallery.co.uk

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PHOTO BY OWEN MATHIAS PHOTOGR APHY

above: Sisters Louise

BLOOMFULL

Sisters Sarah King and Louise Gibson launched Bloomfull – a business making hand-poured reed diffusers full of dried flowers – last September from their home in Rhiwbina, having never owned a business before. They felt the classic reed diffuser needed a ‘glow up’, so they reinvented it.

Sustainable story…

“Not only is our product unique and innovative, but our entire ethos is too,” says Sarah. “We are committed to being as clean and green as we can, so for every Bloomfull order received, we plant one tree. Since our launch, we are pleased to have planted well over 1,500 trees; this means our customers enjoy their Bloomfull knowing they are helping the planet too.

“As new mums, we really wanted to make Bloomfull as sustainable as possible, ensuring our contribution to the future of the world. We do this by striving to make socially responsible choices in respect of all our packaging, suppliers and raw materials. We also provide carbonneutral deliveries on our entire product range.

“We have also ensured that all our Bloomfull products have been developed without testing on animals and are cruelty free. We have been registered with the vegan society, and our range is also paraben free.

Gibson and Sarah King of Bloomfull; right: Outside John Lewis, Cardiff, where they hosted a sell-out pop-up store; inset: A Bloomfull diffuser

Keeping it in the family…

Sarah and Louise run the business day to day, but they rope in their husbands as and when they’re needed, and they get an extra (sometimes sticky) hand from their young kids too.

“We love working together and we make a great team. The best thing is building something together and seeing Bloomfull grow from a pipe dream into a successful, real-life, award-winning business. The worst thing is probably the amount of chocolate we have consumed since starting the business – all hard workers need their fuel, right?

“The best thing is seeing it grow from a pipe dream into an award-winning business”

Aiming high…

“Our biggest achievement yet has been winning New Business of the Year at the Cardiff Life Awards. We still can’t quite believe it! We were up against some incredible businesses, and to have won, well, it was just wonderful! Our two sell-out pop up stores in John Lewis, Cardiff were also huge achievements for us. n www.bloomfull.co.uk

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TRAVEL

WHATLEY MANOR HOTEL AND SPA

Y

Sarah Moolla discovers expressions, chakras and the most exquisite of stays at the Malmesbury country hotel

ou know that part of the fairytale when the heavy wooden doors slowly swing open to reveal an enchanted magical space? In this case an adjoining curve of picturesque and statuesque 19th century farmhouses – all handsome honey-stone flanked by lavender borders, trailing wisteria and soft walls of ivy – this is the Whatley Manor welcome.

The walled courtyard enfolds you in a luxe meets rustic Cotswold hug and invites, no, actually insists, you leave behind whatever pressures and stresses you’ve brought with you on the one-and-a-bit-hour drive from Cardiff.

We’ve stepped into another world and there’s an instant vibe, not just that we’re staying in an upmarket 23-bedroom, Michelin-starred, country hotel, but we’re actually staying with friends. It’s a gorgeous feeling. Even the décor feels like it’s been crafted through love and not some anonymous glossy mag cut-and-paste of what a country manor should look like; yes there’s the Chesterfield leather sofas, wide sweeping staircases, the wood panelled walls, the huge sunlight-flooded mullion windows, but also sculptural art, traditional antiques, amusing knick knacks of woodland animals, floral displays, walls of black and white photos telling the story of the once-named Twatley Manor – wherever you look there’s something different to absorb and intrigue.

Ready for further restoration, we head to the spacious spa complete with a large hydropool which flows to the outside bubble pool, a

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tepidarium, calidarium, a steam grotto, and large sauna. It’s quietly soothing, and reassuringly grown-up – if we did nothing else during our stay, this alone will have been worth it. There is also a gym and airy studio space if you wanted to take it up a notch but I’m slipping down a gear with a Gaia Equilibrium facial. Like most things at Whatley Manor, this is something else, something quite special. My therapist Beth moves like a ghost around me – confidently and tenderly – as she starts with a gentle foot massage, before moving onto a specialised facial treatment incorporating aromatherapy oils, rhythmic massage and advanced massage techniques while applying pressure points. I realise later the sinus and irritating cough I’ve had for about a week (yes, it was that cold we all got – the one that wasn’t Covid) has subsided and I am breathing clearly and deeply for the first time in ages. Beth ends the treatment on a Chakra stone reading which is utterly fascinating, and whether you believe in such spiritual things or not, it doesn’t matter – allowing time for a little self-reflection can never be a bad thing and certainly suits the Whatley experience.

You know that most overused of reality show phrases, ‘a journey’, well, I’m reclaiming it here for our time at Whatley. This evening we are on a culinary journey with Ricki Weston, the young executive chef who only stepped up to the Whatley Manor plate in December 2021 and in just one month managed to retain one of Whatley’s Michelin stars. To toast this incredible achievement, we are invited to the drawing room for a glass

“If you want to come away feeling rejuvenated then Whatley is the way to go”

of Gusbourne Brut Reserve Twenty Eighteen – a peachy and deep berry flavour with a toasted, perfumed finish, which we enjoy with nibbles of fat green olives and roasted broadbeans, before heading through to the kitchen.

Here we stand watching the slick team of 13 at work like the coolest rock’n’roll ever, before Ricki then takes a few minutes out to present us first with a softly steaming light suet pudding of fermented beetroot with pine, thyme, and juniper, followed by a cup of caviar custard layered with shreds of chicken and tiny cubes of parsnip all dressed in sherry vinegar, which is eaten with a small spoon like a trifle. It’s a powerhouse of flavours, aromas, and textures. The seafood salty richness of the caviar pops against the creamy, luxe sweetness of the custard and the substantial chew of the succulent chicken. “These little dishes are called ‘expressions’,” explains Ricki. “We feel they introduce the menu in the style that we want to achieve, they are an expression of the menu. The inspiration behind the dishes was wanting to go back to English heritage dishes and traditional British ingredients – trying as much as possible to use local produce and understanding the provenance of the ingredients. And we use classic techniques within the cooking of the menu but finished in more of a modern style.”

An enthusiastic, imaginative and thoughtful approach is evident in every single dish from the aged duck rolled with duck and date mousse, served with slivers of carrot and roasted fennel, fennel pollen, plump dates and a berry duck sauce to the fresh pickled cockles, served with sweet shallots and crunchy cucumber, along with a smooth trout roe on an oyster leaf bed – to name just a few of the many highlights. There’s some really clever touches too – my companion’s vegetarian dishes often aesthetically mirror the meat option. The potato filled with halibut mousse, marinated halibut skirt, lemon zest, lightly powdered with scallop roe and vinegar powder is echoed in her thinly stacked artichoke drizzled with a mustardy and buttery hollandaise sauce. This a well-conceived theatrical event as well as a sensationally well thought-out tasting feast.

Sleep in the sumptuous all-amenities suite comes easy that night, and following a hearty, locally sourced breakfast, it’s a leisurely stroll around just a few of the 26 landscaped gardens in the 12-acre site. There’s something good for the soul in this place – maybe it’s the fact the owners insist it’s shut every Monday to allow staff to recharge, maybe it’s their commitment to net zero carbon emissions (toiletries here come in reusable jars and there’s no shrink-wrapped plastic), or maybe it’s the team’s obvious dedication to putting guests first – whatever it is, if you want to switch off, relax, feel indulged, and come away feeling rejuvenated then Whatley is the way to go. n

STAY DETAILS Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Easton Grey, Malmesbury SN16 0RB; 01666 822888; www.whatleymanor.com Established July 2003 Owned by Christian Landolt and Alix Landolt Rooms 23 bedrooms, classic rooms start at £279 and the deluxe suite is £804 Gardens 12 acres Chef Ricki Weston Grey’s Brasserie 70 covers, serving modern British dishes from Wednesday to Sunday, and lunch on a Sunday. Starters £11 - £13, mains £24 - £28, desserts £11 - 16 The Dining Room 40 covers serving creative contemporary cuisine Wednesday to Sunday. Chef’s Menu is £175 per person

Aquarias Spa A range of luxurious spa treatments for the face and body; a gym and studio; underwater recliners in the hydrotherapy pool and light refreshments served in the spa lounge with views to the spa garden and countryside beyond. Treatments from £105 for a 60-minute treatment; float Pod – 60 mins £56, £140 Essential Escape Half Day Spa (Mon/Fri) and £215 (Sat/Sun) Hire of the cinema £40 Activities Vélosophy bikes are available to hire from reception – for every Vélosophy sold, they donate another bicycle to a schoolgirl in a developing country. Wild Carrot is an electric bicycle hire company that also offer biking tours Good to know The team at Whatley are committed to creating a business that delivers a luxury guest experience whilst reducing its impact on the planet and are working towards the goal of scope 1 & 2 net zero by 2028.

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CARDIFF LIVES

© PHOTO JON BUT TERS

“When you work with famous people, there is tremendous anticipation. Will they be divas?”

MICHAEL BELL MBE The Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra is celebrating its 40th anniversary this summer; here we chat with its founder and conductor, Michael Bell MBE, about his many fond memories performing with the orchestra over the last four decades Hi Michael, happy anniversary! So, to go back to the start, after completing a degree at Cardiff University, you set up Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) in 1982 to continue performing. Are you pinching yourself that the orchestra is still here 40 years later?

Absolutely! There was no opportunity to conduct after leaving university so I formed an orchestra. I thought there would be one concert, and then after the success of the concert I thought ‘perhaps we’ll do one more’, which has now become almost 400 ‘one more times’!

CPO’s inaugural concert was held at St David’s Cathedral, Cardiff, on 19 June 1982;

what are your memories of that performance?

I remember the day very vividly, beginning with the delivery of a grand piano at 8am at the cathedral. I remember the rehearsal in the afternoon had to be divided into segments to allow for services and confessionals.

I remember feeling so nervous beforehand that I thought I was going to be sick in the font, but luckily wasn’t!

What have been your favourite moments over the last 40 years?

The orchestra’s inaugural concert (there are just four members of the orchestra here now who played in that one), the first St David’s Hall concert, and the unforgettable concert at L’église de la Madeleine in

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Paris – the imposing church where Faure’s Requiem was first performed, where Faure succeeded Saint-Saëns as director of music, and where Franz Liszt performed a legendary organ recital. The place is steeped in musical history.

And I am so proud to have been appointed an MBE in 2018 having been nominated by the orchestra itself.

CPO has been joined by a huge array of special guests including Michael Sheen, Charlotte Church, Bonnie Tyler, Sir Karl Jenkins and Sebastian Coe. It’s great that these big names want to perform with you...

When you work with people famous from the television and in other public spheres, there is always a tremendous anticipation. What will they be like? Will they be divas? But everyone with whom we’ve worked, without exception, has been a joy.

What are your memories of these collaborations?

We’ve been fortunate to perform with a wide range of distinguished soloists and presenters including the young Bryn Terfel and the great Sir Geraint Evans. Neil Kinnock narrated Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds; and Brian Blessed was a force of nature in Peter and the Wolf – I amended the script for him, naming the duck Gordon so Brian could end the piece by bellowing his famous line “Gordon’s alive!”.

CPO has performed A Night at the Movies concert since 1994, and it’s now more popular than ever. Do you feel nervous in front of a large audience?

I always tell the orchestra that it doesn’t matter if we perform to a capacity house or a handful of people, we must be at the top of our game. Having said that, there is nothing like the thrill of performing to a full house. It’s important never to let nerves get the better of you; luckily, they seem to vanish when we get underway.

As a big film fan yourself, it must be good fun performing iconic music from the movies…

I’ve always loved music from films and would be one of the sad people who sit right to the end of the film credits in the cinema to find out either who wrote the music, who arranged or orchestrated the music and also who performed the music.

Do you think it’s important to introduce people to classical music from an early age?

I remember the thrill of hearing a live orchestra for the first time when I was in school.

After that, I just wanted to keep going to concerts, and I did, and I hope that we can provide the same experience for our young audience at our Family Proms. n www.cardiffphilharmonic.com