Cardiff Life - Issue 263

@CardiffLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ISSUE 263 / NOVEMBER 2022 / £3

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS PREVIEW INSIDE!

ISSUE 263 / NOVEMBER 2022 / MERRY AND BRIGHT

THE NICE LIST

PART ONE OF OUR LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

AND SCENE

WE’VE BEEN PAPPING THE CITY’S BEST EVENTS

GET IT IN THE DIARY OUR PICK OF THE BEST CHRISTMASSY EVENTS ON THE WAY

LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN, CARDIFF

Stockist of: 0-105 - 360 Cashmere - American Vintage - Anine Bing - Anna Beck Jewellery - BA&SH - Baggu Barner Glasses - Beck Söndergaard - CASH-CA Jumpers - Castaner Espadrilles - Colorful Standard - Commando - Cras - Dawn X Dare - Devotion Twins - Dr Denim - DUVETICA - Essentiel Antwerp - Fabienne Chapot - Farm Rio - GANNI - Lisa Taylor - Lollys Laundry - LULU Copenhagen - M. Moustache - Mabel Sheppard - MDK Leather Classics - Mishky Jewellery - Noella - Núnoo Bags - ONJENU - Paige - Pajarolimon - Pink City Prints - Primrose Park - Ragdoll LA - Rails - Samsøe Samsøe - Second Female - Seventy + Mochi - Shoe Biz - Shoe the Bear - Sleepers - Stardust - Stella Nova - Stine Goya - Stripe & Stare - SZ Blockprints - Toolally Jewellery - Unselfish Lover - Vanessa Baroni - Wushu Ruyi

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

EDITOR’S LETTER

Our guide to Christmas in Cardiff and beyond has landed, turn to page 26

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t’s official: festive season has commenced in Cardiff, and we’re fully immersing ourselves. On page 26, we bring you a packed guide of all things Christmassy in and around the city – from open-air markets, ice skating, illuminated trails and freezing sea dips, to breakfasts with Santa, cosy carol sing-alongs and festivities inside the Wales team Home Changing Room.

And we’re not stopping there with the guides; we’ve also put together a mini ‘shop local’ Christmas gift catalogue for you to browse on page 16 (and don’t forget to treat yourself to a few prezzies while you’re at it). And on page 13 you’ll find yet more shopping essentials in the form of decorations to proudly display around the home, because who doesn’t need a faux fur zebra bauble or a glamorous peacock dangling from their tree?

Elsewhere, you’ll find our Cardiff Property Awards preview as we get excited about the big upcoming event on 18 November in the city. It’ll be our fourth annual Cardiff Property Awards and we’re looking forward to celebrating such an important and impressive sector of Cardiff in all its glory.

And of course we have all of our ‘regular’ sections too: from food and arts to real lives and society – where to begin?!

Enjoy! #CardiffTogether, always

M

ae’n swyddogol: mae tymor y Nadolig wedi dechrau yng Nghaerdydd, ac rydym yn manteisio i’r eithaf ar hynny. Ar dudalen 26, mae gennym ganllaw i bopeth Nadoligaidd o gwmpas y ddinas – y marchnadoedd awyr agored, y cyfleusterau sglefrio, y llwybrau wedi’u goleuo, y sesiynau ymdrochi yn y môr oer, y brecwastau gyda Siôn Corn, y cyfleoedd i ganu carolau, a dathliadau’r ŵyl yn ystafell newid tîm Cymru.

Ond nid dyna’r unig ganllaw sydd gennym; ar dudalen 16 rydym wedi creu catalog bach o anrhegion Nadolig y gallwch eu prynu’n lleol (a chofiwch brynu ambell anrheg i chi hefyd tra byddwch wrthi!). Ac ar dudalen 13 mae yna bethau hanfodol eraill i’w prynu, sef addurniadau hyfryd i’w gosod o gwmpas eich cartref.

Dylai pawb gael sebra ffwr ffug neu baun lliwgar i’w hongian ar y goeden!

Fel arall, rydym yn rhoi rhagflas i chi o Wobrau Eiddo Caerdydd wrth i ni edrych ymlaen at y digwyddiad pwysig a gynhelir yn y ddinas ar 18 Tachwedd. Hwn fydd y pedwerydd tro i seremoni flynyddol Gwobrau Eiddo Caerdydd gael ei chynnal, ac rydym yn edrych ymlaen at ddathlu agweddau gorau’r sector hwn sydd mor bwysig i Gaerdydd ac sy’n destun cymaint o edmygedd.

Ac wrth gwrs, mae ein holl adrannau ‘arferol’ yn y rhifyn hwn hefyd: yr adrannau am fwyd, y celfyddydau, bywydau go iawn a chymdeithas – mae’n anodd gwybod ble mae dechrau!

Mwynhewch! #CaerdyddYnghyd, bob amser

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

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Issue 263 / November 2022 ON THE COVER Cardiff at Christmas, photographed by Sameer Gangoli, @grandsnap; for more, see page 26

FEATURES

26 CARDIFF AT CHRISTMAS All the top events coming up in

the city and beyond

32 BIG INTERVIEW Chatting with Cardiff-born writer and

dramatist Roger Stennett

SHOPPING

11 OPENING DOORS An awesome advent calendar haul 13 FESTIVE HANG-UPS Our pick of jazzy decorations

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from some of our favourite local businesses

16 PRESENT TENSE Our annual gift guide (part one)

ARTS AND EVENTS

23 ARTS INTRO Sophie Southgate’s blackest of black creations 24 WHAT’S ON Shows, music, exhibitions, family events and more 56 SCENE Papping some of the most popular events locally – can

you spot yourself?

FOOD & DRINK

37 TASTY BITES A handful of foodie news morsels to chew on 39 JANE COOK Our food and drink columnist spills the tea 40 RESTAURANT REVIEW We get slurping at Matsudai

Ramen at the Bank

PROPERTY

43 PROPERTY NEWS A celebration of Redrow in Wales 45 CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS PREVIEW A peek at what’s

to come later this month

BUSINESS

61 CARDIFF WORKS News and views and brilliant businesses 63 CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2023 The business highlight of the

city is coming back!

REGULARS

9 SPOTLIGHT ust a handful of feel-good stories 35 WYBURN AND WAYNE Our columnists have been out

and about again

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66 CARDIFF LIVES Milton Jones talks Milton Impossible

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 Business development manager Jordan Chambers jordan.chambers@mediaclash. co.uk Production/Distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager/Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@ mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Cardiff Life MediaClash, 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

Cardiff: 233 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9PP. E-mail: cardiff@valevetcentre.co.uk Phone: 02920 004007

Barry: 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Est, Cardiff Rd, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2BE E-mail: info@valevetcentre.co.uk Phone: 01446 739739

Newport: Unit 1 & 2 East Market Street, Newport, NP20 2AY E-mail: newport@valevetcentre.co.uk Phone: 01633 927927

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.VALEVETCENTRE.CO.UK

SPOTLIGHT A FOCUS ON FEEL- GOOD STORIES

CAPTURING THE MOMENT

Sir Gareth with Welsh artist Elin Siân Blake who was commissioned to capture ‘the greatest try’, scored by Sir Gareth in Cardiff

Rugby

THE GREATEST TRY also those still to come, with plenty of talk A host of sporting legends – including Sir and predictions from host Sean Holley and Gareth Edwards CBE (who is regularly named the special guests, as well as a three-course as the greatest player of all time), lunch and live entertainment from Willie John McBride CBE, award-winning comedian Rod JPR Williams MBE, Woodward, as well as a special Tommy David, Derek auction. Proceeds will help Quinnell, and David support The Greatest Try’s Duckham MBE – will two sponsored charities: gather 50 years to the Working Options in day since the famous Education, and the Sir 1973 match between Gareth Edwards the Barbarians Cancer Charity. and the All Blacks “Many words have been in Cardiff, and are Sir Gareth Edwards written and spoken about set to draw another pictured at Horatio’s the 1973 game but this is the remarkable crowd Garden, University Hospital Llandough ultimate celebration of that day of fans.

50 years on,” says Welsh rugby hero Organised by The Sir Gareth who scored ‘that try’ at ‘that Greatest Try – a project set up game’, as they are known simply, at Cardiff by two friends of Sir Gareth Edwards, Arms Park half a century ago. “I am very commemorating what many consider Sir excited to meet up with teammates and friends Gareth’s finest sporting moment – the th both old and new. We all get a warm feeling anniversary celebration on 27 January at ICC when talking about that Barbarians game, Celtic Manor Resort is set to make history and we are very honoured to be given the itself, as a rare opportunity to see a room full of opportunity to celebrate the 50th anniversary living legends from the world of rugby. in this way. It’s going to be a day to remember.”

The perfect way to kick off the Six Nations tournament, the event will not only celebrate For more: www.thegreatesttry.com historic sporting moments long passed, but

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INSET PHOTO BYMICHAEL HALL

How do you recreate a moment perfectly, when you’ve never witnessed it and no photos of it exist? Welsh artist Elin Siân Blake found herself asking this question after agreeing to paint what’s known as ‘the greatest try’. The rugby try scored by Sir Gareth Edwards in the 1973 game in Cardiff is thought of by many as one of history’s greatest sporting moments.

However, it was only after taking on the project that Elin realised the try had never been seen up close, except by those who were there on the day, and no photos or direct footage of it exist.

The famous try was scored long before she was born, and with the added complication of being stuck in the first nationwide lockdown, the commission seemed nearly impossible to complete. From first sketch to polished painting, the journey took over a year – and lots of creative thinking – to finish.

“There was no getting away with any lack of detail, but I didn’t have any reference from the right angle,” says Elin. “I knew I’d have to get models to recreate the rugby players’ poses, but with the lockdown it was impossible to get anyone. Instead, I persuaded my daughter – 11 at the time – to wear the jersey and pose for me. My other half was a great help too, stretching out on top of a coffee table on the lawn to get the position.

“It was the impossible commission really. Sir Gareth was really my main source of information throughout the whole process. I would draw a complete sketch, show it to Gareth, take his comments on board and begin again. It was unheard of for me to produce upwards of six full-detail sketches – normally I wouldn’t even produce one! But we all thought, this The Cardiff moment is iconic in Welsh culture and in sport – if something isn’t quite launch right, people will notice. It wasn’t an option to get anything wrong. I painted the scene so that the viewer would almost feel as though they were there, with the ball leaping out of the canvas.”

The Greatest Try painting is available as a limited edition, framed Giclée print, signed by both Elin and Sir Gareth with a portion from the sales going to charity.

ADVENT CALENDARS

OPENING DOORS

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Fancy splurging on a luxury advent calendar this year?

Stuffed with everything from kilos of cheese, to zero-waste wellness treats, allow this little selection to tempt you

PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON

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SHOPPING LIST

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1. 12 days of beauty and wellbeing await inside this Vegetarian Society-approved package, £89, from Neal’s Yard Remedies, Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; www.nealsyardremedies.com 2. The 1.2-metre giant Welsh cheese advent calendar is back, stuffed with 4.2 kilos of artisan cheese, £164, from The Welsh Cheese Company, Taffs Well; www.welshcheesecompany.co.uk 3. You’ll find two tea parcels every day in this one; that’s 48 cups of tea to be sipped, £38, from Bird & Blend Tea Co., Castle Arcade, Cardiff; www.birdandblendtea.com 4. In this Bows and Bubbles bundle you’ll find 24 popular beauty products (16 of them full sized), £165, from MAC Cosmetics, St David’s Cardiff; www.maccosmetics.co.uk 5. An eco-friendly option, featuring 24 skincare, bath and zero-waste products, £125, from Authentic House, Splott, Cardiff; www.authentichouse.co.uk 6. Festive curios are housed inside an object art piece that local artist Katherine Jones is known for, £125, from Katherine Jones Artist, Cardiff; www.katherinemgjones.com 7. If luxury handmade chocolate is your bag, this one, featuring a custom design by local illustrator Layla Holzer, is for you, £49, from Cocoa Therapy, High Street, Barry; www.cocoatherapy.co.uk 8. This package contains me-time pamper treats such as a bath bomb, lip scrub, charcoal face mask and watermelon body butter, £80, from Mallows Beauty, St David’s Cardiff; www.mallowsbeauty.co.uk

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Ring Featured: Natural Diamond, Round Brilliant Cut 3.52ct - £36,000.00

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Get the look: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Athenian Black and Old White, with painted baubles in Emperors Silk and Paris Grey. Paints available for enthusiastic DIY bauble creators at Beti Biggs, Pontcanna, Cardiff; www.betibiggs.com

CHRISTMAS HANG-UPS Those halls aren’t going to deck themselves, you know. Here’s our choice of traditional, quirky and jazzy festive adornments

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1. Acorn hanging decoration, £16 for set of 3, from Athena Interiors, Cwmbran; www.athenainteriors.co.uk www.

2. Blue Berry Deluxe wreath, £27, from Athena www.athenainteriors.co.uk Interiors, Cwmbran; www.

3. Glass santa bauble, £20, from Baldhead Designs, pop-up shop running until 24 December at Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna; www.baldheaddesigns.com 4. Gisela Graham glass hot air balloon bauble, £5, from Leekes, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk 5. Winter Fayre Snowflake, £10, from John Lewis & Partners, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com 6. Nightlife Mixtape bauble, £7, from John Lewis & Partners, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com 7. Gisela Graham leopard print glass bauble, £4, from Leekes, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk 8. Hannah Turner Pink Poodle decoration, £15, from Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiff; www.hannahturner.co.uk 9. Katherine Jones decorations, £10 each, from Katherine Jones Artist, Cardiff; www.katherinemgjones.com 10. Wall-mounted reindeer head, £65, from Victoria Fearn Gallery, Heol-Y-Deri; www.victoriafearngallery.wales 11. Highlander wreath, £55, from John Henry Flowers, Wellfield Road; www.johnhenryflowers.co.uk 12. Wooden Nadolig Llawen stars, from £9.50, from Buddug, Cardiff; www.buddug.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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1. Pregnancy decoration, £25, from MW Studio, Pontcanna (with a pop-up running in John Lewis Cardiff on 21 – 27 December); www.mwstudio.co.uk 2. Blue fluted glass baubles, £24 for set of 6, from Athena Interiors, Cwmbran; www.athenainteriors.co.uk 3. Winter Fayre Gold Leaf garland, £40, from John Lewis & Partners, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com 4. Brass and bead decoration, £17.50, from Buddug, Cardiff; www.buddug.com 5. Bauble Nadolig, £9.50 and Holly bauble, £9.50 from Baldhead Designs, pop-up shop running until 24 December at Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna; www.baldheaddesigns.com 6. Hannah Turner Peacock decoration, £16.50, from Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiff; www.hannahturner.co.uk 7. Gisela Graham faux fur zebra bauble, £6, from Leekes, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk 8. Nightlife Cocktail bauble, £7, from John Lewis & Partners, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com 9. Kaemingk Dipped Strawberry decorations, £1.50 each, from Leekes, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk 10. Velvet embellished candy cane decoration, £14.99, from Pugh’s Garden Village, Morganstown, Cardiff; www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk 11. Wooden decorations, from £8.50, from Buddug, Cardiff; www.buddug.com

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LIVE IN THE PRESENT The first of our festive gift guides is inspired by the colours of the season: sparkling silver and gold, snowy white, Christmas-tree green and berry red

SILVER GOLD NÚNOO HELENA COOL GOLD BAG, £83 From Kiti, Pontcanna Street, Cardiff; www.kiticymru.com CLAIRE UNDERWOOD HUNDREDS AND THOUSANDS BROOCH, £625 From Anne Morgan Jewellery, Glebe Street, Penarth; www.annemorganjewellery.com

RAINBOW CLUB MYRA SHOE CLIPS, £43 From John Lewis & Partners, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com

CHOPARD 18CT ROSE GOLD DIAMOND ICE CUBE RING, £3,010 From Laings, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.laingsuk.com

WINTER BERRIES AND CINNAMON CANDLE, £20 From Authentic House, Splott, Cardiff; www.authentichouse.co.uk

SENTINEL PENDANTS IN SILVER AND GOLD, FROM £85 From Lydia Niziblian, Bishops Road, Cardiff; www.niziblian.com

SILVER FRAME PURSE, £210 From Vivienne Westwood, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.viviennewestwood.com

GOLD ROYALTY MOON AND STAR EARRINGS, £89 From Thomas Sabo, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.thomassabo.com

ENAMEL LEAF COLLECTION JEWELLERY, FROM £70 From Buddug, Cardiff; www.buddug.com

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GIFT GUIDE

WHITE

LUNA VASE, £61 From BoConcept Cardiff, rand Arcade, St David’s Cardiff; www.boconcept.com

THE NOELLE BOUQUET HANDTIED DRIED FLOWER REED DIFFUSER, £34 From Bloom ull, Rhiwbina, Cardiff; www.bloomfull.co.uk

TUFTED ZIG ZAG THROW, £26.50 From Stwff Stuff, Cowbridge; www.stwff stuff.co.u

HANDMADE HANNAH TURNER SCRUFFY DOG SALT AND PEPPER SHAKERS, £26 From Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiff; www.hannahturner.co.uk

YOGA CANDLE, £28 From Wellness Yoga Candles, Whitchurch, Cardiff; www.wellnessyogacandles.com

HANDMADE NATURAL CANDLES BLENDED WITH ESSENTIAL OILS, £25 EACH From Noo Candles, ragetown, Cardiff; www.nookcandles.wales

GREETINGS CARDS, FROM £2.50 From Buddug, Cardiff; www.buddug.com

LEOPARD PRINT TOWELS, FROM £8.40 From Lee es, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk

SUSTAINABLE BATHROOM ESSENTIALS – FROM SHOWER MITTS TO REUSABLE MAKEUP ROUNDS, FROM £5.95 From Tabitha ve, Pontypridd; www.tabithaeve.co.uk

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GREEN

BEANS MINIATURE DOME, £140 From Baldhead Designs, pop-up shop running until December at Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna; www.baldheaddesigns.com

GREEN AND GOLD POLYMER CLAY ART DECO EARRINGS, £12 From elzo ewellery, Cathays, Cardiff; www.kelzojewellery.com

FLOWER BOTTLE, £46 From John Lewis & Partners, The Hayes, St David’s Cardiff; www.johnlewis.com

SECOND FEMALE WINTERNALIA DRESS, £164 From Kiti, Pontcanna Street, Cardiff; www.kiticymru.com

CHILDREN’S KNITWEAR, POA From Mabli, Cardiff; www.mabli.co.uk

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PHOTO BY LEONIE FREEMAN

HANNAH TURNER PEACOCK OVEN GLOVES, £26 From Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiff; www.hannahturner.co.uk

LE CREUSET BAMBOO RANGE, FROM £15 From Lee es, Newport Road, Cardiff; www.leekes.co.uk

WILD ROSE NATURAL GLOW SKINCARE COLLECTION, £60 From Neal’s Yard Remedies, Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; www.nealsyardremedies.com

NATURAL BATH GIFT SET, £39 From Authentic House, Splott, Cardiff; www.authentichouse.co.uk

GIFT GUIDE

RED

LACE-UP CUFF WITH HAMMERED FINISH, £155 From ate Dumbleton ewellery, Penarth; www.katedumbleton.com

HOME BUBBLE TEA KITS, £21.99 From Tealith, organ uarter, Cardiff; www.tealith.com

THE ULTIMATE GLAMOUR COLLECTION MULTIUSE BAGS (£35 EACH) AND CUSHIONS (£45 EACH) From Soul Sisters, Cardiff; wwwwearesoulsisters.com

CANDY CANE BATH BOMB BAUBLE, £6.95 From allows Beauty, St David’s Cardiff; www.mallowsbeauty.co.uk

MELODIE ANKLE BOOT, £65 From Shuropody, St David’s Cardiff; www.shuropody.com

TOADSTOOL SALT AND PEPPER SHAKERS, £25 From Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiff; ww.hannahturner.co.uk

POLAROID NOW I-TYPE INSTANT CAMERA BUNDLE WITH POUCH, £99 From Camera Centre UK, Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; www.cameracentreu .com

BRANDY, PORT AND WALNUT CHRISTMAS PUDDING, £12.50 From Glory Stores, Upper Kincraig Street, Cardiff; www.glory stores.com

HARD LINES CHRISTMAS COFFEE BLEND AND TONY’S CHOCOLATE BUNDLE, £18.95 From Hard Lines Coffee, St Canna Court, Cowbridge Road ast, Cardiff; www.hardlines.co.uk

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

www.chalkhousekitchens.co.uk

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

Cardiff Life team 01225 475800

ALBANY GALLERY WINTER SHOW 11 November 7 January 2023 A changing exhibition of paintings, ceramics and jewellery

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

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

Balloon, by Sophie Southgate, £295

WHAT ARE WE CE E RATING FOR?

Ceramicist and Cardiff Metropolitan niversity graduate Sophie Southgate is known for her use of joyous, vibrant colour play, but her new collection features wall-mounted earthenware sculptures finished with the blackest of black paint – Semple lack 3. . Her handcrafted balloons appear to float, suspended in motion, and are conflicting – no longer indicators of a joyous occasion but rather of solemn irony.

What are we celebrating for? says Sophie. The balloons are an ironic response to an irrational re uest to the nation to celebrate during a Prime Minister’s speech when the country felt to be in crisis. The forms are thrown on the wheel in sections before being joined together, and are primarily about the cathartic, bodily experience of working on the wheel.

Sophie’s work will be presented in A Reflection, a solo exhibition at TEN gallery, Donald Street, Cardiff, rom now until November; www.gallery ten.co.u

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Ricky Gervais is coming to Cardiff in December

DRAWINGS & ETCHINGS Augustus John (1878 – 1961) was considered the most famous British artist of his day. This exhibition is a rare opportunity to see such a large collection of his works. artin Tinney allery, St. Andrew’s Crescent; www.artwales.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 useum o History, Cardiff; www.museum.wales

WHAT’S ON

From PLAYS/SHOWS/ CONCERTS On now, until June 2023

THE CARDIFF CLASSICAL SERIES Expect world-class concerts featuring the likes of cellist Laura van der Heijden. St David’s Hall, The Hayes; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.u

On now, until 26 November

MY FAIR LADY See an all-star cast in My Fair Lady, including EastEnder Adam Woodyatt and opera superstar Lesley Garrett. ales illennium Centre, Cardiff Bay; www.wmc.org.u

On now, until 12 November

THE INVISIBLE MAN Black RAT Productions return to perform the comedy The Invisible Man. R C D, Cathays Par ; www.rwcmd.ac.u

22 – 26 November

SPIKE: UK TOUR Ian Hislop and Nick Newman’s comedy sees John Dagleish reprise his role as Spike Milligan. New Theatre, Par Place; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.u

15 December

RICKY GERVAIS: ARMAGEDDON Considered one of the most

November onwards

influential ritish comedians since Charlie Chaplin, Ricky Gervais is heading for Cardiff. nternational Arena, city centre; www.cardi nternationalarena.co.u

COMEDY 20 November

MILTON JONES Comedian Milton reveals he’s an international spy. For more, see page 66. New Theatre, Par Place; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.u

Every Friday and Saturday

COMEDY NIGHTS Treat yourself to evenings of award-winning comedy. The Glee Club, ermaid uay; www.glee.co.u

MUSIC & DANCING On now, until 9

The lobe, Albany Road; www.globecardiffmusic.com

13 November

CHAPTER FOUR: SUNDAY JAZZ Chapter’s in-house jazz group brings swinging tunes to the arts centre.

Chapter Arts, Canton; www.chapter.org

14 November

BIFFY CLYRO The alternative rock trio are back on tour! Cardiff nternational Arena, city centre; www.cardi nternationalarena.co.u

Most Fridays

NUKE Party anthems, cult classics and dance floor bangers. Clwb or Bach, omanby Street; www.clwb.net

December

ARTS, EXHIBITIONS & CULTURE

16 December

BBC 100 IN WALES This exhibition will explore 100 years of the history of the BBC in Wales. National useum Cardiff, Cathays Par ; www.museum.wales

AMSERJAZZTIME RWCMD’s Friday jazz club performs everything from bebop, to funk and soul. R C D, Cathays Par ; www.rwcmd.ac.u DUB PISTOLS Dub Pistols are known for their riotous collision of drum and bass, hip-hop, ska, dub and punk.

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10 December – 16 April 2023

16 November – 17 December

AUGUSTUS JOHN

18 November

JJ ADAMS With a portfolio spanning over a decade, ’s artworks are influenced by pop culture, and read as an ode to nostalgia. Adamo allery, organ Arcade; www.adamogallery.co.u

11 November – 7 January

WINTER SHOW A changing exhibition of new work from more than 30 artists, both established and emerging.

The Albany allery, Albany Road; www.albanygallery.com

On now, until 19 November

A REFLECTION A solo exhibition by ceramicist Sophie Southgate. For more, see page 23. T N gallery, Roath; www.gallery ten.co.u

25 November

DRAG @ BLACKWATER A night of comedy, singing, dancing and ultimate glamour with professional performer Miss Kitty.

Blac water allery, Pendeen House; www.blac watergallery.co.u

On now, until 18 December

CARL BEVAN ART POP-UP At this pop-up, find original paintings, prints and Carl’s popular artwork calendars. ings Road ard, Pontcanna; www.carlbevanart.com

FOOD & DRINK 29 November – 23 December

BOTTOMLESS RACLETTE Eat as much melted cheese as possible along with sides and wines to match. Neighbourhood itchen, Tudor Street, Cardiff; www.neighbourhood itchen.co.u

WHAT’S ON Every month

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 ay (on the first Saturday of each month).

Cardiff; www.greentopevents.co.u

COMING SOON… 27 January 2023 ABOVE: Tickets for Disney on Ice have just been released; LEFT: Ceramicist Sophie Southgate’s work will be showcased at Ten gallery, Roath

experience levels are welcome; submissions should be under 15 minutes long and received 10 days before each screening. It’s free to attend and to submit a film.

Chapter Arts, Canton; www.chapter.org

Ongoing

18 November

WINE ESCAPE The ’s first immersive escape room event will see guests step back into the roaring 1920s to enjoy a night of glamour and mystery. ercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel Spa, Newport Road; www.wineescape.co.uk

Various dates in November

BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH Themed brunch days – from eyonc to Mamma Mia – featuring

BOTTOMLESS-BOOZE BEAUJOLAIS DAY EVENTS 17 November BEAUJOLAIS DAY AT VSA Vale Sports Arena, Penarth Road, Cardiff; www.vsawarehouse.co.uk BEAUJOLAIS CLUBBRUNCH The Botanist, Church Street; www.clubbrunch.co.uk BUTTERFLY BRUNCH: THE NEON JUNGLE DEPOT, Cardiff; www.butterflybrunch.co.uk

show-stopping shenanigans. Tonight Josephine, Caroline Street; www.tonightjosephine.co.uk

FAMILY & KIDS 26 November – 31 December

TALES OF THE BROTHERS GRIMM Reimagining the world of the rothers Grimm, but based in Cardiff. Sherman Theatre, Cathays; www.shermantheatre.co.uk

Ongoing

NINJA WARRIOR CARDIFF ids from age five can tackle this obstacle adventure park. Had eld Road, Cardiff; www.ninjawarrioru .co.u

Ongoing

TECHNIQUEST The science centre offers interactive experiences that have been enjoyed in its centre by over five million people of all ages since its inception in Cardiff in 1 86. Techniquest, Stuart Street, Cardiff; www.techni uest.org

FILM 7 November & 5 December

CHAPTER MOVIEMAKER The monthly showcase of short films from Wales is back! All genres and

COSY CINEMA The world’s first Cosy Cinema Pod Park has landed in Cardiff.

You’ll find private pods where you can stream media of your choice (from movies to live sport) on 92-inch screens. You can even stay overnight. Caravan Park, Fields Parks Road, Pontcanna; www.cosse.co.uk

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 12, 19 & 26 November

RUGBY UNION In this year’s Autumn International Series, Cardiff plays host to Wales Argentina (12th), Wales Georgia (1 th) and Wales Australia (26th).

Principality Stadium; Westgate Street; www.principalitystadium.wales

Ongoing

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

Ice Arena Wales, Olympian Drive; www.icearenawales.com

MARKETS Every week

CARDIFF 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

THE GREATEST TRY A host of sporting legends – including Sir Gareth Edwards C E, Willie ohn Mc ride C E, and PR Williams M E – will gather years to the day since the famous 1973 match in Cardiff between the arbarians and the All lacks. For more, see page .

ICC Celtic Manor Resort, Coldra Woods, Newport; www.thegreatesttry.com

23 – 26 February

DISNEY ON ICE: DISCOVER THE MAGIC oin Mickey Mouse and his friends – from Ariel to Elsa – for world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts.

Cardiff nternational Arena, city centre; www.cardi nternationalarena.co.u

20 June 2023

HARRY STYLES LOVE ON TOUR Due to popular demand (of course), international superstar Harry Styles has announced the continuation of Love On Tour with 19 newly announced dates in Europe, including a show in Cardiff.

Principality Stadium; Westgate Street; www.principalitystadium.wales

OUR OWN VERY SPECIAL EVENTS 18 November

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS This awards ceremony, a prestigious celebration of the best of Cardiff property and property companies, will take place at Mercure Cardiff Holland House. For more, see page 45. www.cardiffpropertyawards.co.uk

23 February 2023

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS Our city-wide awards ceremony is coming back to City Hall! We can’t wait to welcome 500 local business people to celebrate the greatest successes of the year with us. Entries are now open!

For more, see page 63. www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

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

Christmas markets, illuminated trails, ice rinks and grottos galore – get your diaries at the ready to plan those magical festive outings

By Lisa Evans

T

ABOVE: Wales’s largest ever festive lights trail, Christmas at Bute Park, is back; BELOW: A Gingerbread Trail is coming to Cardiff Bay

he countdown to Christmas has arrived in the city; here’s a preview of some of the most magical memories waiting to be made in Cardiff and beyond.

OUTDOORS

CARDIFF’S WINTER WONDERLAND Spread across two city centre locations, get your skates on in the picturesque grounds of Cardiff Castle, where you will find the undercover ice rink and ‘ice walk’ against the backdrop of the mighty Norman eep.

And over at at City Hall Lawn, enter subzero temperatures in the Ice Bar (actually made entirely of ice), cosy up with some festive treats in the Alpine village and the ski lodge-themed bar, Sur la Piste, or have some fun on the funfair’s giant wheel, which offers incredible views of the city.

Cardiff Castle City Hall Lawn, November anuary; www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK Wales’s largest ever festive lights trail is back for its second year; the 1. km trail is set to shine even brighter as it hosts exciting new displays. ook out for the magical ight Canyon, awash with a thousand mesmerising

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stars, an epic Light Orb of iridescent colour, and a hypnotic laser journey passing beneath a lake of lights, creating a i uid Sky. Festive food and drink will be available along the way and there is a scrumptious selection of local street food traders to sample at the end.

Bute Par , Cardiff, November anuary; www.christmasatbutepar .com

the traditional hustle and bustle. The cosy cabins offer a welcome respite on those chilly evenings, so pull up a pew, order a beer and bratwurst, and recharge your seasonal spirit between bouts of Christmas shopping by listening to all the best Christmas tunes. or ing Street, Cardiff, November December; www.visitcardiff.com

THE FESTIVE QUARTER Cardiff’s avarian themed Festive uarter has been a popular fixture on Working Street for many a year, an atmospheric haven amidst

GINGERBREAD TRAIL Cardiff ay will be transformed into a jolly gingerbread jamboree with giant sculptures of the festive treat appearing at everyone’s favourite hotspots across the Bay, and a gingerbread sleigh taking centre stage in Roald Dahl Plass. There is also a Gingerbread Day in the Bay planned for 3 December where visitors are invited to take part in a number of fun, family activities.

Cardiff Bay, December anuary; www.visitcardiffbay.in o CARDIFF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS On this evening, as night begins to fall, the city centre will slowly start to twinkle as the city’s beautiful festive lights are switched on for the first time, signalling the start of Christmas in Cardiff.

City centre, Cardiff, November; www.visitcardiff.com

FESTIVE FUN THE CHRISTMAS SHIVER Grab a dose of outdoor Christmas cheer with a winter activity family day. Join in the wild sea dip, warm up by the marshmallow firepits and take part in the beach bushcraft workshops to create coastal gifts.

Llantwit Major Beach, 11 December; www.visitthevale.com THE SANTA DASH Hundreds of walkers and runners will don their best Santa, elf, turkey and Christmas tree fancy dress to take part in the annual charity fun run.

Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay, 4 December; www.santadash.wales FESTIVAL OF LIGHT After being attended by 12, people last year, this year’s Festival of ight will be held over 1 days and will feature majestic mirror balls, a neon ribbon and animal trail, a light show and an enchanted fairy garden.

Central Par , Barry, December; www.visitthevale.com

MUSIC

CHRISTMAS WITH ALED JONES & RUSSELL WATSON Two of the world’s greatest classical voices, Aled Jones and Russell Watson, reunite for Christmas. Expect universally beloved Christmas songs, including traditional carols such as Holy Night and O Little Town of Bethlehem, alongside festive favourites including t’s Beginning to Loo a Lot Li e Christmas and Mistletoe and Wine.

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

ABOVE: The Festive Quarter on Working Street;

BELOW: Slade is bringing the ultimate Christmas

party to Tramshed

“It’s Christmaaaas!”

SLADE: TOGETHER AT CHRISTMAS It’s Christmaaaas! Slade is bringing the ultimate Christmas Party to Tramshed with a live set of hits including, of course, erry mas verybody.

Tramshed, Clare Road, Cardiff, December; www.tramshedcardiff.com JOOLS HOLLAND Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, along with special guest vocalists Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall, will have thousands of feet tapping and fingers clicking. nternational Arena, city centre, December; www.cardi nternationalarena.co.u ONLY MEN ALOUD AT CHRISTMAS See the Wales-based male voice ensemble who rose meteorically to stardom after winning the television show Last Choir Standing.

St Andrew’s RC, Cardiff, 17 December; www.onlymenaloud.com CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS Don your cosy jumpers and sing along to your festive favourites at the Carols for Christmas concert. Couple this with readings by your favourite C Wales presenters and splendid accompaniment by the brass and percussion of BBC NOW and you’ve got the perfect Sunday afternoon Christmas treat for all the family.

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

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

Forage Farm Shop, Penllyn state, Cowbridge, December; www. orage armshop.co.u THE ROYAL MINT CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE This experience combines the creation of coins with the making of toys, as you take a tour with an extra sprinkling of festive spirit.

Discover the different stations where the elves work hard, as well as meeting Santa himself.

The Royal int, Pontyclun, November December; www.royalmint.com BRUNCH WITH SANTA Sit down to a Christmas meal with the big man himself at the Coal Exchange’s Grand Hall Suite, where each child will receive a Christmas gift.

The Coal change Hotel, ount Stuart S uare, Cardiff, December; www.coale changecardiff.co.u

MEET SANTA

A WELSH RUGBY SANTA EXPERIENCE The Santa Experience is returning to the Principality Stadium, and for the first time in the stadium’s history, Santa will be taking over the Wales team Home Changing Room – a place where heroes gather – for the month of December. As well as meeting Mr. Claus, rugby-loving mums and dads will get to explore the sacred halls of the stadium before stepping into the magical winter wonderland and the beating heart of the home of Welsh Rugby.

Principality Stadium, Cardiff, December; www.principalitystadium.wales BELIEVE AT ST DAVID’S Believe, the enchanted Christmas grotto experience, invites guests into a mystical cavern to meet McJingles, one of Santa’s most trusted elves, along with Norbert his magical reindeer friend. After hearing Norbert’s story, families will be invited into Santa’s captivating grotto where little ones will meet him and recieve a gift, as well as having the opportunity to capture the moment on camera.

St David’s Dewi Sant Lower rand Arcade, Cardiff, November December; www.stdavidscardiff.com CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE AT FORAGE A cheeky elf will put on a show to delight and immerse you in all things Christmassy before Santa makes an appearance with presents and photo opps. Meet Forage’s alpacas too, and roast giant marshmallows on the open fires while listening to some Christmas tunes. Forage will also offer latenight festive shopping in its twinkly yurt and cook up delicious Christmassy treats.

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

SANTA’S GROTTO See the man in red at his warm, cosy grotto among all the magic happening in the city centre. ueen Street, Cardiff, November December; Faceboo SantaH Cardiff CHRISTMAS EVE BRUNCH WITH SANTA Take the kids for an unforgettable experience on Christmas Eve morning where they’ll enjoy a festive breakfast and a meet and greet with Father Christmas.

Future nns, Cardiff Bay, December; www. utureinns.co.u

SANTA SUNDAY LUNCH EXPERIENCE Enjoy a four-course Santa Sunday Lunch Experience, which combines the magic of a festive family lunch with children’s games, disco and a visit from Old Saint Nick. oco St David’s Hotel, Havannah Street, December, Cardiff; www.stdavids.vocohotels.com SANTA AT ST ANDREW’S Visit Santa every Saturday in the lead up to the big day.

St Andrew’s nited Re ormed Church, ell eld Road, Cardiff, November December; www.standrewsurccardiff.co.u BELIEVE CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA See Father C in his grotto and then indulge in the food festival and browse the craft stalls at this exciting event.

City Hall, Cardiff, December; www.cardiffcityhall.com

ABOVE LEFT: Santa’s Wish is one of three shows at the brand-new Christmas Festival in the Spiegeltent at Cardiff Castle; BELOW: Meet Santa inside the Wales Home Team Changing Room at the Principality Stadium; ABOVE RIGHT: Indulge in many a festive treat at Winter Wonderland’s two sites

FESTIVE FUN

© PHOTO BY SAMEER GANGOLI @GR ANDSNAP

THE SNOW QUEEN: THE MOST DAZZLING PANTO IN THE LAND Written especially for Penarth Operatic & Dramatic Society (PODS) by BAFTA winner Andy Bradshaw, this pantomime – the biggest in PODS almost-100-year history with a cast of 52 – is based on the original Snow Queen story by Hans Christian Anderson.

The Paget Rooms, Penarth, November December; www.podspenarth.org

MARKETS

The sparkling city centre

FATHER CHRISTMAS AND FRIENDS As well as a meet-and-greet, kids can take part in an interactive storytime session with Santa and the elves, and they can get creative in a decorations craft workshop.

St Fagans National useum o History, Cardiff, 10, 11 & 17 December; www.museum.wales

PANTOS AND SHOWS

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN THE SPIEGELTENT A brand-new addition to Cardiff’s festive calendar, Christmas Festival in the Spiegeltent will take place inside a unique venue – a hand-hewn pavilion built from wood, cut mirrors, canvas and glass, detailed in velvet brocade – in the Castle grounds.

The -seat venue will offer three shows: The Nutcracker, a Christmas ballet with a Welsh twist; a magical new musical, Santa’s Wish; and Castellana, a blend of cabaret, burlesque, and comedy (suitable for ages 16+).

Cardiff Castle grounds, November 8 January; www.thecastle.wales SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Expect an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery. Ian ‘H’ Watkins from Steps will lead the cast and will be joined by rugby legend Gareth Thomas and panto Dame extraordinaire Mike Doyle.

New Theatre, Par Place, December anuary; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.u CHRISTMAS BALLET SEASON Experience the critically acclaimed Varna International Ballet and Orchestra, renowned for their award-winning

soloists and magnificent corps de ballet.

The company will mark their UK debut season in Cardiff with three shows: The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and Coppélia.

St David’s Hall, The Hayes, December; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.u ELF ELF, the Hollywood blockbuster movie has been supersized into a live arena spectacular with a massive stage featuring film backdrops on a huge ED screen plus a mobile stage that travels the auditorium, so everyone gets a close-up view of the action. Get ready for Santa’s flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, an indoor snowstorm and aerial cirque stars. nternational Arena, city centre, December; www.cardi nternationalarena.co.u DRAGGED TO CHURCH The annual Christmas fundraiser like no other is back. It began in 2018 bringing two very different communities coming together to help save a local church in dire need of repair. A glamorous drag show was hosted inside the religious building, which raised thousands. The show is now in its fifth year and is still selling out.

St Andrew’s United Reformed Church, ell eld Road, Cardiff, December; Instagram: @draggedtochurch PETER PAN Kinetic School of Performing Arts return for the annual pantomime after the success of last year’s Cinderella. This year, join Peter Pan and his friends (and enemies) for a swashbuckling family adventure.

R C D, Cathays Par , December; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET Cardiff’s well-established Christmas Market has been organised by Craft*Folk for almost 3 years; you can find their seasonal wooden stalls clustered around the Hayes and its adjoining streets. Highlights often include bespoke jewellery, wooden turned gifts, original artworks, handmade quilts and textiles, and hand thrown ceramics, as well as a feast of seasonal food and drink.

The Hayes, Cardiff, November December; www.cardiffchristmasmar et.com CHRISTMAS FAYRE With over 60 stalls spread across the grand ground-floor castle rooms, St Donats Arts Centre and exterior gardens, this family-friendly, annual event showcases a creative mix of handmade designer crafts and street food exhibitors.

St Donat’s Castle, Vale of Glamorgan, December; www.visitthevale.com BARRY CHRISTMAS MARKET This Christmas Market will coincide with the Festival of ight, for the ultimate festive feel. ings S uare, Barry, December; www.visitthevale.com CHRISTMAS MARKET AT GOODSHEDS The stalls will be packed with local and independent businesses, and fabulous street food vendors will be running as normal for you to enjoy some good feasting. oodsheds, Barry, November; www.goodshedsbarry.co.uk WINTER FOOD AND CRAFT MARKETS Taking place in Caerphilly, Ystrad Mynach, Blackwood, and Bargoed, the markets will include everything you need for a festive day out, with up to 50 food and craft stalls, children’s funfair rides and street theatre entertainment.

Caerphilly County Borough, November December; www.visitcaerphilly.com CARDIFF & VALLEYS CREATIVES CHRISTMAS MARKET City Hall will be filled with lots of lovely small businesses selling everything from beautiful prints to handmade jewellery.

City Hall, Cardiff, November; nstagram cavetsy n

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

ONE TO ONE

DEDICATED TO DYLAN We catch up with Cardiff-born writer and dramatist Roger Stennett to talk about his showbiz-saturated childhood, his fantastically colourful life and his newly published book, Forty Poems for Dylan Thomas

By Lisa Evans

G

rowing up with a father in showbiz, constantly travelling from theatre to theatre by private plane – goldfish and dog in tow – playing in backstage dressing rooms and befriending chimpanzees, half-clothed chorus girls and his dad’s mates such as Morecambe and Wise and Shirley assey, Roger Stennett was determined to be known as something other than ‘the comedian Stan Stennett’s son’.

That commitment led to a vastly varied life, starting with his youth as an international athlete, to his many years as a dramatist – his work is as diverse as it gets, from Sooty to The Royal Shakespeare Company – plus his long stretch as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, not to mention his discovery of aikido at the age of and his subse uent venture into becoming a black belt instructor of the art himself.

Most recently, in October, Roger released a book, Forty Poems for Dylan Thomas – a collection of poetry reflecting on the life, work and legacy of the sometimes flawed, often contradictory, always visionary figure.

A reader and fan of Dylan Thomas for half a century, Roger spent two years over lockdown blending the biographical, the confessional and the fictional to craft this collection in honour of one of the greatest Welsh poets of all time. Here we chat

2 2 I have written almost 3, new poems, of which were themed on Dylan Thomas, and our similarities and differences as writers, and Welsh writers at that.

We launched the book in the month of Dylan’s birth, October; I hope people will take their time with the book and enjoy our interlinked journeys through poetry.

We particularly enjoyed the poem in the book about Whitchurch in Cardiff – what inspired the piece?

It’s a fantasy poem about how, as a kid, Dylan Thomas used to play soccer with me on Whitchurch Common, with a scratch team of famous poets from history called ‘ umpers for Goalposts’.

You were born in Cardiff and grew up in Whitchurch and Rhiwbina. What are your memories of your childhood here?

Happy ones. I was born in a nursing home in Roath (now a Mos ue) and I lived in Cathays with my mum’s parents until I was five. Dad was establishing himself in showbiz, and when I was five we moved to a big, detached

house near Whitchurch Common. It was my ‘paradise’ (Cwmdonkin Park to Dylan Thomas) and I was always ‘playing out’.

What Schools did you go to in Cardiff?

Eglwys Wen in Whitchurch – not until I was seven years old because of touring with dad and mum. Then Whitchurch Grammar School until 1 68. Then to Christ’s College, Cambridge.

Growing up in a world of showbiz and variety theatre – your dad being the late comedian Stan Stennett – what was life like?

At the time, I thought everyone’s life consisted of playing in the sink backstage in dressing rooms, and sitting surrounded by scantily clad chorus girls. I don’t think it did me any harm!

Also, variety theatre had lots of animal acts, so I befriended chimpanzees, bears, performing dogs and ball-balancing sea lions. It was a magical world but also unsettled, moving from place to place each week, constantly making and losing friendships.

Hi Roger, congratulations on your new book, Forty Poems for Dylan Thomas; tell us a bit about it…

It was two years in the writing and years in the ‘study’. My interest in the poetry, prose and biography of Dylan is rooted in my midteens when I first read his works and stepped into Cwmdonkin Park in Swansea – his childhood ‘Garden of Eden’.

As my own interest in poetry grew, I started to be published in school magazines and then more generally. I joined local poetry groups and workshops, and, eventually, in 1 6, I published Just a Matter of Time, a ‘slim volume’ alongside Dylan’s daughter, Aeronwy, with whom I became friends. ockdown closed all the theatres and so, after years writing drama, I was forced to revisit my old ‘poetic muse’. Since spring

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

Roger and his dad, Stan, on set when Stan was filming three short plays of Roger’s for HTV

Is it true that your dad used to fly his own private plane from theatre to theatre?

Yes, I flew with dad for hundreds of hours as a child and teenager. Dad often ‘commuted’ to theatrical engagements in one of the many planes he had over the decades. Sometimes we crammed in my young brother, Ceri, alongside dad, mum, the dog and goldfish!

Do you have memories of being around lots of famous people?

Thousands. Through the 1 s and 1 6 s especially, and throughout dad’s -year career in showbiz. I’ve written several poems on this, plus produced a C Radio Archive Hour documentary (available online through C iPlayer), Twice Nightly.

The list is endless. Morecambe and Wise, Shirley assey, en Dodd, era ynn, George Formby, Max Miller, Tommy Trinder, immy Wheeler, The Crazy Gang, Tessie O’Shea, Dorothy S uires, Diana Dors, Matt Monro. I’ll stop there. ust scratching the surface of the surface.

Growing up did you feel a desire to establish yourself, and not just be known as ‘Stan Stennett’s son’?

IMAGE WITH THANKS TO @NOR ASUMMERS

Dad was a great dad, and a much-loved entertainer; he was genuinely kind and had time for everyone. Sometimes it seemed like I had to ‘share’ him with thousands of other kids. Part of that also encouraged me to ‘be me’ and not constantly referred to by the prefix of ‘Stan Stennett’s son’.

I chose to pursue highly individual challenges which could only be accomplished off my own bat, such as becoming an international sportsman, or academically by achieving in the entrance and scholarship exams for Cambridge niversity.

IMAGE WITH THANKS TO @NOR ASUMMERS

ABOVE: Roger has just released a book centred on one of Wales’s greatest poets, Dylan Thomas (pictured inset)

Tell us about some of the highlights of your work as a dramatist (from writing for Sooty to The Royal Shakespeare Company)…

I spent plus years writing for stage, C radio drama, television, film and animation.

A freelance writer needs to be flexible and work on several things at once.

Animation was great fun, and adapting the beloved glove puppet Sooty into a 26-part cartoon that sold around the world was satisfying.

Having a play about the spy im Philby performed by The Royal Shakespeare Company was a real honour, as was working in wonderful theatres like The Royal Exchange, Nottingham Playhouse and The ristol Old ic.

One day, around 1 years of age, at Whitchurch Grammar School, I came across some high jump uprights and a pretty bent crossbar next to a sandpit. I decided to teach myself to be a high jumper. A few years later, at 18, I was ritish Schools Champion. A senior Welsh International, Welsh Games Champion, and was even called up for G .

I competed for Cardiff Amateur Athletics Club all over the and in Europe. etween 1 6 - 2 I was also a Cambridge lue for three years, representing Cambridge in the annual arsity Meeting against Oxford at Crystal Palace in ondon.

be riended chimpanzees, bears and ball balancing sea lions. t was a magical world but also unsettled

You were also a psychotherapist for seven years – quite the career leap…

In my middle s, having experienced ups and downs myself, I decided to diversify, and, while still writing, trained as a psychotherapist and as a clinical hypnotherapist. There are some very interesting crossovers between the world of a dramatist, dealing with fictional scenarios and characters, and a therapist’s world of the very real.

Dylan Thomas, whose work Roger has appreciated for 50 years

your experiences with this section of your life?

And can you tell us more about being a former international athlete? What were

Finally, tell us something not many people would know about you…

I took up the apanese martial art of aikido at the age of and became a lack elt at the age of 6, and subse uently a ritish Aikido oard coach. n ou can nd Roger’s poetry on Faceboo rogerpstennett; and you’ll nd his boo , Forty Poems or Dylan Thomas, at www.candy jar.co.u boo s

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

WYBURN & WAYNE

“Who doesn’t love an excuse to dress up, eh? ”

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

L

ife is so incredibly busy of late, and it’s looking like it’s only going to get busier.

With Halloween a near distant memory, Cardiff is beginning to look a lot like Christm can we say it? Oh go on! CHRISTMAS! e sure to keep your eyes peeled on both ours and Cardiff Li e’s social media accounts for all festive treats coming your way for the end of year! uickly back to Halloween though, we once again had the honour of hosting the lue Tie PROP Appeal ball at Holland House alongside the Cardiff ale Health Charity.

It was a hugely successful fundraiser and the band lack am Circus blew the roof off! It’s always a highlight of our calendar, and who

doesn’t love an excuse to dress up, eh?

In October, The Iris Prize Film Festival stormed its way into Cardiff and once again was a phenomenal success! We sent along many of our Cardiff Theatre Cafe volunteers to see a whole array of the short films; congratulations to all the winners and entries.

We of course have had a mini documentary filmed by Iris on our work at St Andrew’s Coffee Court and Cardiff Theatre Cafe, which will have its premiere on 1 November at St Andrew’s Church! Feel free to pop along if you’d like; it’ll be followed with entertainment by oanna umme.

New Theatre has had some epic shows recently; An Inspector Calls was, well, unexpected! What a twist that show has. Also, Fisherman’s Friends, a story of friendship and a love of tradition and music, was a huge bundle of joy. We loved the movie and it was amazing to see it adapted to a hit stage musical.

Down at Wales Millennium Centre we had a thrill as we embarked on F IGHT, a flight simulator in a steel box outside the WMC, which replicates a plane accident, in pitch black with headphones on. Such a surreal and unnerving experience, but what a thrill!

That was part of the annual lais Festival, which was a huge success once again. The Color Purple was also a beautiful production of a classic at the WMC. Those voices: second to none! Wow! An evening of laughter was had by all as six of Wales’s best comedians filled the WMC for a (hopefully annual) comedy gala. If you get the chance to ever go along to one of them, do it! Our cheeks were in pain from giggling!

Joe McElderry, former X Factor winner, brought his incredible FREEDOM show (a tribute to his idol George Michael) to St David’s Hall recently. It was joyous. There’s no denying that man can sing, and he also knows how to throw a party!

There’s so much coming up so stay tuned as always!

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 o ales. They are also Radio Cardiff D s with their own show, and they run St Andrew’s Coffee Court in Cardiff. Follow them on social @wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne

TOP 5

Five Cardiff events we can’t wait for...

• Deathdrop: Back in the Habit, at New Theatre, 29 November – 3 December • My Fair Lady, at the WMC, on now until 26 November • Christmas lights switch on St Andrew’s Church with SJ Hill, 25 November • Dragged to Church, at St Andrew’s Church, 6 December • Cardiff Castle Christmas Festival, from 25 November to 8 January

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

FOOD & DRINK SNAPSHOTS OF CARDIFF’S FOOD SCENE

One of the new floating bedrooms at The Deck

FLOAT AN IDEA The Deck at Penarth Marina has unveiled its latest renovations, including 1 floating bedrooms and a refurbished restaurant.

We are thrilled to welcome the new luxurious floating bedrooms to the marina, says Philip ay, director at boatfolk, a national marina group which currently has 11 marinas across the . The accommodation managed by The Deck will provide a uni ue and luxurious stay for guests looking to relax and unwind, with the benefit of The Deck’s fantastic bar and restaurant just a stone’s throw away.

The Deck restaurant has been closed since September for its major refurbishment, including an extension and a complete remodelling of the restaurant and of the outside balcony area to enhance the experience as a whole. www.thedeckpenarth.co.uk

CHEESY DOES IT

Neighbourhood itchen on Tudor Street has announced the return of Cardiff’s original ottomless Raclette from 2 Cardiff’s original bottomless November – 23 raclette returns this December December. Their concept gives you the chance to eat as much melted cheese as possible within minutes, offered with a selection of sides and wines to match.

After such a sell-out hit last year, it just had to return, say Neighbourhood owners Tudor and Caroline arber. What sets us apart is that the cheese is bottomless! When else do you get the chance to be the captain of your own raclette machine? www.neighbourhoodkitchen.co.uk

THE INSIDE SCOOP

Artisan gelato brand Swoon will open its first Cardiff shop in the new year at the entrance to Duke Street Arcade. aunched in ristol in 2 16 by the Forte family, Swoon has expanded to have gelato bars in ath, Oxford and Selfridges Foodhall in ondon, with Cardiff being its sixth site.

My Italian family introduced handmade gelato to the over a hundred years ago, and Swoon is very much a family business with my wife, mother and sister all involved, says founder runo Forte. We can’t wait to be part of the Castle uarter community and have lots of plans for getting people involved with what we do. www.swoononaspoon.co.uk

The Swoon team;

INSET: Chocolate and

hazelnut gelato

LAND AND SEA A new Welsh dining experience has opened in Cardiff: the waterfront restaurant and bar Tir a Môr’ at the five-star voco St. David’s Hotel in the ay. Meaning ‘land and sea’ in Welsh, Tir a Môr celebrates the local produce of Wales.

Tir a Môr very much puts us on Cardiff’s culinary map, says Graham Henderson, head of food and beverage at voco St. David’s, Cardiff.

Working together with

David Woodford, our executive chef, we’ve combined David’s signature style with the country’s traditional culinary heritage; giving classic dishes modern interpretation and creating a menu of Welsh favourites.

We’re keen to champion the very best Wales has to offer, so have spent time with local suppliers at source – from Anglesey mussels and Menai oysters, to beef from Cefn Mawr Farms. www.stdavids.vocohotels.com Tir a Môr is the newest restaurant on the scene

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

PUT YOUR DAUGHTER CENTRE STAGE At Cardiff’s HOWELL’S SCHOOL, LLANDAFF GDST girls are always ready to step into the spotlight, on or off the stage

W

ould your daughter thrive in an environment where anything is possible?

Howell’s School, Llandaff GDST has been teaching Cardiff’s daughters to learn without limits for 160 years, inspiring them to focus on a future that might see them scrubbing in before they enter the operating theatre, pulling on barristers’ robes in a court robing room or touching up make-up before stepping onto a stage in front of an audience.

At Howell’s School, Llandaff GDST, girls thrive from the age of three in a girls-only environment where academic achievements are always celebrated, and these go hand-in-hand with co-curricular activities that inspire and challenge them. From ballet to football, from playing cricket to learning a new language, everyone at Howell’s believes that education doesn’t stop when the bell rings at the end of the school day.

GDST schools are at the forefront of gender equality, deliberately challenging gendered norms and purposefully building girls’ confidence, conviction and self-belief, making sure that girls are taught the skills to set and respect boundaries and have the confidence to make their voices heard.

Every aspect of teaching and learning at Howell’s is tailored to girls, every program for wellbeing, leadership and learning caters to the needs of girls, developing their confidence as they mature into young adults in a culture free from gender bias, encouraged to believe that nothing is beyond consideration.

Research currently shows that girls’ confidence starts to decline at the age of 8, and

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

“HOWELL’S INSTILS IN GIRLS THE CONFIDENCE THEY NEED FOR A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE” it only improves from the age of 80. Howell’s instils in girls the confidence they need for a successful future, and their teachers delight in watching them grow to become more assertive and willing to ask questions, make mistakes and take risks. n

The Year 7 Entrance Examination for September 2023 entry is on Friday 27 January. To arrange a visit or to find out more, contact Admissions Officer Chrissie Hall-Davis on 029 2056 2019 or visit www.howells-cardiff.gdst.net.

FOOD & DRINK

3 THINGS I LOVED EATING / DRINKING THIS MONTH…

1

The béchamel cheese toastie from Nighthawks wine bar, the perfect accompaniment to a winter glass of red, and they serve them until 11.30pm!

A sweet yet wonderfully strong Pineapple Margarita from Neighbourhood Kitchen in Riverside A melt-in-the-mouth flank steak with chimichurri and fries from British street food award-winners, Fire & Flank

2

3

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Nighthawks cheese toastie; Dirty Gnocci will be joining the line up at Cardiff Market; Fire & Flank steak; Pineapple margarita from Neighbourhood Kitchen; Flight Club; Tartlets from Hiraeth Kitchen

IN GOOD TASTE

D

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…

espite the UK hospitality industry grappling with multiple issues at the moment (rising food costs, staff shortages, and a probable recession on the horizon to name just a few) there’s loads going on here in the Welsh capital. Proud Mary has just opened their first pub here, sourdough pizza maestros Franco Manca has launched its first Welsh restaurant here, and I was lucky enough to give the new Flight Club on St Mary Street a test-run earlier this month; I had no idea darts and beer could be so much fun!

The indie scene is buzzing with resilience and creativity too, with ‘pop-ups’ literally popping up everywhere; every Tuesday throughout November, Nordik Kitchen will be taking over Ansh at Victoria Park, with a seasonal menu of ‘Modern Nordic’ small plates; on 15 November they’ll also be joined

by Chef Grady Atkins (most recently former head chef at Bacareto) for a one-off tasting menu priced at £45 per head. Check out @nordik_kitchenrestaurant.

On 15 and 16 November, long-time Cardiff pop-up Herbivore will be teaming up with Bulles Wines at Mec Coffee on Crwys Road to offer a vegan small plates menu with natural wines by the glass – booking will be essential.

To find out more, visit @herbivorecdf.

There are plenty of new openings to look

forward to, as well; the folks at Dusty’s Pizza will open the doors to their Castle Arcade outpost very soon, Dirty Gnocci will be joining the ever-growing foodie line up at Cardiff Central Market, and chef Anand George has shared December opening plans for Tukka Tuk Canteen on Whichurch Road. Follow the progress at @agtukkatuk.

Finally, Hiraeth Kitchen will be opening their brand-new restaurant in Cowbridge following a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign which raised more than £32k towards the refurb. Find out more and follow their progress up to opening at @hiraethkitchen.

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

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

MATSUDAI RAMEN AT THE BANK

Finally! The cult ramen pop-up that had a meteoric rise since it first appeared in Cardiff has opened a permanent restaurant. Lisa Evans went slurping

I

t’s undignified, slurping ramen without the proper practise – especially when the fat noodles whip about and splash you in the eye with the spicy broth soup dashi that they’ve been submerged in. ut it’s a joyous, indulgent affair nonetheless.

I’ve been a fan of a very particular type of noodles-inbroth combo ever since late 2 1 when Matsudai Ramen was launched by ames Chant (pictured right) in Cardiff.

It began life as a pop-up which involved ames taking over the kitchens of existing restaurants – a nomadic supper club if you will – with tickets always selling out within minutes of going on sale, and ueues stretching out of the door for the walk-in spaces. This came to a halt as lockdown struck, so ames switched the model up and started to offer fresh, assemble-at-home ramen kits for delivery instead.

Such was the success of the DIY versions – with his very first batch of portions selling out in one day – that it made waves internationally, and led to tens of thousands of kits being delivered to every corner of the , receiving praise from such culinary heroes as ay Rayner and Tom Parker owles. ames was even invited to appear in a video with YouTuber ncle Roger, which has now been viewed over six million times, and he collaborated with MasterChef winner Tim Anderson to launch a charity ramen kit.

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

I reviewed my first taste of Matsudai on these very pages way back then, stating, I wasn’t worried about a bowl of ramen being able to take over my mind, body and soul. I thought it would be warming and lovely, and that’s about it. ut it’s a dangerous dish that will haunt my dreams. Save yourselves from ramen obsession while you still can. It’s too late for me.

You can imagine, then, how I felt this year when I heard the news that ames was opening his first bricksand-mortar restaurant, and in my home city to boot.

And it’s not just ames’s first restaurant, it’s Wales’s first ramen shop.

The eatery, Matsudai Ramen at the ank, opened recently following a five-month refurbishment of the former NatWest bank site in Grangetown. And while the at-home kits will continue to be a core part of Matsudai’s offering, the restaurant gives guests a chance to enjoy an eclectic variety of ramen styles and plenty of tantalising extras.

It’s all served straight from a slick, open-plan kitchen in a -cover, cooler-than-cool, brightly lit space with some audience-style seats overlooking the chefs at work and plenty of fun, colour-pop murals, artwork and chairs.

The menu is small but perfectly judged, with four seasonal ramen options – from the rich, umami-packed creamy chicken Tori Paitan, and the Spicy Mala with lethal-sounding ‘numbing pepper’ listed in its

RESTAURANT

ingredients, to my choice of Classic Miso with tofu and a jammy marinated ajitama egg – as well as a pick ’n’ mix selection of toppings to really make it your own. Three out of the four ramen dishes can also be made vegan or vegetarian, which is such a refreshing detail.

There’s also a variety of rice dishes, with the ‘pork belly burnt ends’ option a big hitter, and small plates.

Well, the latter are described as ‘small’ but they are actually mountains of food in danger of avalanching onto the table; maybe they are supposed to be petite but perhaps the chef just liked me?

My new obsession is the mushroom kare karaage, or triple fried marinated oyster mushrooms topped with lemon and Matsudai’s secret-ingredient sunset powder.

Who knew that mushrooms could be transformed into something so special? The golden, stupidly crispy, surprisingly greaseless, deeply savoury, boldly seasoned meaty morsels, which bore barely any resemblance to mushrooms in taste, look or texture, were outrageously moreish. With every dip into the Japanese curry mayo, I felt my problems fizzle away. egetarians, rejoice!

I couldn’t s ueeze in a dessert after those mammoth helpings, but the sou cheesecake with berries delivered to the table next to me looked like the lightest, fluffiest, melt-on-the tongue sweet to exist.

We used the time, instead, to chat to James...

“The Spicy Mala had lethalsounding ‘numbing pepper’ listed in its ingredients”

How it’s all going so far?

It’s been a steep learning curve and pretty full-on but it’s been incredible. The feedback and reviews have been almost entirely glowing and we’ve been so fortunate with the new team.

Any huge challenges since opening the doors?

Personally, the biggest challenge has been managing burn-out. The build and open was a crazy amount of work and has eaten up most of this year, so the instinct was to take a break before or just after opening, but of course, you open the doors and then have to learn how to run a restaurant! I’ve been so out of my depth but we’ve made it work. Also, the hospitality staffing crisis is very, very real.

Would you ever consider expanding?

Absolutely. I’d love to open a site in London next, and see where it goes from there. I have ambitions to grow Matsudai into a chain, as the ultimate goal is to make ramen accessible to as many people as humanly possible. As part of that I’d also like to open a ramen school and a Japanese pantry. n

DINING DETAILS Matsudai Ramen at the Bank, 183-185 Clare Road, Grangetown, Cardiff; www.matsudai.co.uk Food Ramen, and plenty of tasty sides Drink Beers, highballs, boiler makers, spirits and sake Prices Ramen £11.50 – £14.50; rice and sides £3 – £12; dessert £4.50 – £7.50

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

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

habitats, promoting health and wellbeing and honouring the local area in the design of our developments. It’s about building a meaningful future surrounded by ecosystems and the wider environment to leave a lasting legacy.

5 MINUTES WITH…

BEVERLEY WOOKEY OF REDROW Beverley, sales director of Redrow in South Wales, tells us about building Cardiff’s garden city, Redrow’s industryfirst tech, and its focus on leaving a lasting local legacy In what ways has Redrow enhanced the local area?

Our philosophy is to create a better way for our customers to live. We do this by creating thriving communities, building responsibly and valuing people.

As the lead developer of Plasdŵr, we are building Cardiff’s garden city for the 21st Century and it really does combine the very best of town and country. Over the next generation, around 7,000 homes of all types and tenures will be created here, all united by the high-quality design required of the original garden cities. Up to 30 per cent of these will be affordable homes.

We’re also very proud of our Churchlands and Plas Ty Draw developments in isvane. ust five miles from Cardiff and within easy reach of the M4, they are perfectly placed with a delightful rural location. We’re investing in superb facilities including cricket and football pitches, fully equipped playgrounds and lots of public open spaces.

How did Redrow grow into the premium housebuilder that it is today? Were the

beginnings humble?

We have a proud heritage which stretches back to 1974 when we were founded as a small civil engineering company in North Wales, specialising in drainage sub-contracting. Steve Morgan was just 21 when he founded the company with a £5,000 loan from his father. The name originated from a combination of his address, Redwood Drive, and former address, Harrow Drive.

Through hard work and determination, our business quickly expanded into main contract building and we’ve since grown to become one of the ’s leading housebuilders and a FTSE 250 company.

In the current crisis, how do you help home owners to save energy?

Our homes are typically rated as B and compared to a home built in the 1 s, they offer a per cent improvement in heat loss.

From providing low energy bulbs and A rated boilers to intuitive, industry leading design to reduce water, we make it easy for people to live a low-energy life.

Our highly efficient FabricFirst approach to building homes helps reduce energy usage compared to older properties.

From the way the home is laid out and material we use to build it to the high-specification doors, windows and boilers we use, everything is designed to retain heat in the home.

The current cost-of-living crisis highlights the need for all of us to save energy. In fact, the latest research shows that one in four buyers put energy efficiency as a key factor when buying

a house with the average new home saving buyers over £2,600 on household bills each year – equivalent to £173 a month.

That’s why we have recently launched our industry-first Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) calculator tool. The calculator is designed to help potential new-build homeowners uncover energy savings and highlight the benefits of a Redrow home. As a business, we are taking responsibility to help educate and inform homeowners and future buyers through our calculator tool.

What do you love most about this time of year?

Christmas is a wonderful time in our industry. It’s so rewarding to see our buyers decorating their homes, enjoying the community spirit and celebrating their first Christmases in their new homes. We love joining in with the fun and often plan our own events. Indeed, this year we have ohn ewis Cardiff hosting a special Christmas event at our Churchlands development on 19 November. Their interior designers will be showing our buyers how to dress a home for Christmas. I can’t wait!

For more: www.redrow.co.uk

You don’t just build homes, you create neighbourhoods.

Could you tell us how you do this and what thought processes go into it?

For nearly 50 years, we have been creating high-quality homes and communities for our customers, building over 100,000 homes across the country.

Our approach involves helping people connect to one another in the community, creating wildlife

Redrow’s Churchlands development, where John Lewis & Partners is hosting a special Christmas event on 19 November

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

HOT PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT BANK OF WALES supports Cardiff property developers

A

s sponsors of the 2022 Cardiff Property Awards, our specialist property team can provide tailored finance solutions for developers.

Short-term loans for residential, commercial and mixed-use schemes with quick decision making are on offer.

Interest is allowed to roll-up throughout the loan term and finance for up to 100% of building costs is available.

We can also work with your own advisors to complete a deal.

Residential developers who meet green standards can access our new Green Homes Incentive that is helping to deliver more thermally efficient and lower carbon homes in Wales. The scheme offers a reduction in loan fees of up to 2%. Eligibility depends upon qualifying criteria that includes EPC A Rating/Passivhaus status, non-concrete structures and non-fossil fuel heating systems.

“Our dedicated property funds are ideal for Welsh-based, small and medium-sized developers, looking to finance residential, commercial and mixed-use projects in Wales,” says Nicola Crocker, fund manager for the Development Bank of Wales.

“Loans from £150,000 to £6 million are available, and because of the unique way in which we are funded, we can offer a range of finance that other lenders can’t (including an element of grant funding for commercial projects.) What’s more, our criteria for borrowing is really quite straight-forward; our tailored loans are helping small and medium-sized developers to make an impact across Wales. We want to see more schemes completed in the Cardiff area so applications for speculative developments

PROPERTY LOANS

The Development Bank of Wales offers short-term residential, mixed-use, and commercial property development finance from £150,000 - £6 million.

are welcome. There is also a reduction of up to 2% in loan fees for residential developments that meet green standards.

“Indeed, we offer a range of finance options and loans to help get you started. Whether you’ve already got firm plans in place or you’re just at the very start of the process, come and talk to us we may have a solution that suits your needs.

“We’re delighted to be sponsoring the Awards as we continue to support property developers.

We’ve got £172 million to support property projects in Wales so please get in touch to see how we can help you.” n

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS

The Cardiff Property Awards take place on 18 November

SPONSORS

Thank you to all our Sponsors, including: Hampshire Trust Bank Cardiff Council Development Bank of Wales Marsh Commercial Sanctuary Financial Planning Savills Entre Conf Cardiff Life And to our Partners: Currie & Brown Edenstone Group Gateway 2 Conveyancing HLM Architects Hydrock Jeffrey Ross KEW Planning Principality Building Society Thank you also to our suppliers and supporters: Genero Hensol Distillery The Alchemist Mercure Holland House Cardiff Invest in Cardiff Remaining tickets are now on open sale and tables are available. Please check on the website or Cardiff Property Awards’ social media. channels for the very latest updates.

IF WE BUILD IT… The CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS are coming back – bigger, bolder, and more significant than ever before

T

his November, the most prominent local property professionals will come together at Mercure Holland House, Cardiff for the fourth annual Cardiff Property Awards, a joyous and prestigious event created to champion and celebrate the thriving property sector, from residential and commercial to green properties and civic-focused spaces.

On 18 November, we’ll be crowning the worthy winners of 2022, with the addition of a new Sustainable Award aimed at any company who has delivered an eco-conscious project, pushing the boundaries of design and ethics with consideration to environmental impact, lifecycle, sustainability and the Cardiff community. Also new this year is our Coworking Spaces Award; this category is aimed at shared working locations offering essential, effective and significant spaces for people to gather.

Like the years before it, the daytime event will be packed full of informal networking opportunities, with plenty of time for mingling and catching up with clients and friends before the three-course lunch and high-status awards

The Cardiff Property Awards have been created, designed, promoted, sold and organised by our publisher MediaClash, a leading events company. It also produces client events, from parties and launches, to talks, receptions and conferences.

Contact annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk for more information.

ceremony and, indeed, afterwards at the bar.

A huge congratulations (and good luck!) to this year’s finalists, and a big thank you to everyone involved in this year’s Cardiff Property Awards, from our fabulous sponsors, partners and suppliers, to our esteemed judges. Talking of which, turn over the pages and you will see the full list of judges and finalists as well as the party snaps from our recent Sponsors’ and Finalists’ Reception, held at The Alchemist Cardiff back in October.

See you at midday on 18 November at Mercure Holland House!

For more www.cardiffpropertyawards.co.u

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 45

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS

THE JUDGES WILL DECIDE… A panel of independent judges, drawn from all areas of the property sector, will decide the winners of the CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS

CHAD GRIFFITHS, SENIOR RELATIONSHIP MANAGER AT PRINCIPALITY COMMERCIAL Chad is an experienced banking relationship manager with over a decade’s worth of experience, providing debt funding to property developers and investors across Wales and England. During that time, he has funded hundreds of new homes.

MIKE HOLT, DIRECTOR AT LANCER SCOTT Mike has over 40 years construction industry experience, and his extensive knowledge of the industry has allowed him to successfully deliver construction and refurbishment projects across Wales and England, working for both public and private sector clients.

CLAIRE TURNER, HEAD OF RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SALES AT SAVILLS Claire heads the New Homes department for Cardiff and South Wales and has over 10 years’ experience in the property sector, covering every area of residential development sales and consultancy. She has essential expertise in property consultancy, advising clients on how to improve development potential.

PAUL SIMON, PARTNER AT INCE Paul has over 30 years of experience specialising in commercial property acquisitions and disposals.

He formed Simon and Simon alongside his father, Sam Simon, before being acquired by Ince in 2018 where he takes pride in being their current managing partner.

SARAH CLIFFORD, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AT CHAMBERS WALES SOUTH EAST, SOUTH WEST AND MID Sarah is operations director at Chamber of Commerce for Wales – Southeast, Southwest and Mid – and takes responsibility for delivering the organisation’s key strategies, developing business initiatives and helping SMEs in Wales to maximise their opportunities.

EIRIAN JONES, OPERATIONAL MANAGER AT CARDIFF COUNCIL Eirian is the operational manager of strategic estates projects at Cardiff Council and is responsible for bringing forward major projects as well as key strategic sites for the education development programme.

SHAUN WELSH, DIRECTOR AT TROJAN GROUP Shaun is the co-founder of Trojan Group and has over 30 years’ experience in the construction industry.

Shaun, alongside business partner David Thomas, took the leap and set up Trojan Group in January 2012, with no funding and very little in the bank – leading it to great success.

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

SCENE

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS FINALISTS’ AND T H E L SPONSORS’ AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H RECEPTION 2022

James Thomas, Mark George and Laura Williams

Jordan Chambers and Jimmy Chan Jack Collard, Aled Rees and Owain Nedin

Olivia Amey, Dan Macer, Kathryn Williams, Juliet Gamlin, Liz Mills and Richard Field

TOP OF THE PROPS

Caron Rockey, Ann Tudball and Tracey Horrigan

Finalists and Sponsors for this year’s upcoming Cardiff Property Awards came together for an evening of drinks, nibbles and friendly networking at The Alchemist Cardiff in October. The ever-popular Cardiff Property Awards will take place on 18 November at Mercure Holland House, Cardiff. www.cardiffpropertyawards.co.u Photos by Owen Mathias Photography

Colin Ness of Hampshire Trust Bank – the Awards’ Headline Sponsor – giving a speech Last year’s Cardiff Property Awards

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

Karen Harry, Lucy Walker, Daisy Purkis and Mark Rees

Carl Fitz-Gerald and Karl Jones

Lauren Revie, John Conroy and Benjamin Hale

Greg Harmer, Steph Dodd and Matthew Rose Steph Dodd, managing director of our publisher MediaClash, giving a speech

Annie Kelly, Colin Ness and Mark Minton

Harriette Dixon, Sarah Price and Gareth Wedge

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

Designer kitchens | Bedrooms | Bathrooms | Interior Design

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Guto Rhun and Ruth Madoc

SCENE

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

Tyla Sharp and guest Xxx

Caleb J Roberts, Callum Harrison and Clara Planelles

Opening night celebrations Tom Young and Gary Fannin

THE IRIS PRIZE

The Iris Prize – Cardiff’s international G T short film festival – took place in October. The six-day celebration of film, diversity, friendship and competition showcased 1 short films as well as features, microshorts, community and education shorts, industry talks, and an education day.

It was the 16th annual edition of the festival and it saw film fans from around the world coming to Cardiff.

Tarneit, directed by ohn Sheedy, won the 3 , Iris Prize; and Queer Parivaar, directed by Shiva Raichandani, won the Iris Prize est ritish Short Supported by Film and Pinewood Studios. www.irisprize.org Photos courtesy of Iris Prize

The Iris Prize was as popular as ever this year

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

Niamh Buckland and guests

Charles Bevan-Barratt and Alan Bevan-Barratt

Joe Cordina, Daniel Price and Phil Williams

Milica Anscombe and Sophie Harries

Xxx

Gareth Anscombe, Liam Williams and Rhys Priestland

Jamie Baulch, Cheryl Hicks and Greg Williams

THE PARKGATE HOTEL’S FIRST BIRTHDAY

Paige Thorne

One of Cardiff’s most luxurious hotels, The Parkgate, celebrated a year since opening its doors with a star-studded guestlist. Love Island’s Paige Thorne, Wales rugby players iam Williams, Gareth Anscombe and Rhys Priestland, boxer oe Cordina, and actor ulian ewis ones were among the partygoers.

As part of the celebration, there was a live jazz band and a roaming magician. The hotel also offered canap s inspired by its Sorting Room menu. www.theparkgatehotel.wales Cardiff Magician Adam James Reeves

Photos by The Parkgate Hotel

Katrina Cinus and Jill Manley

Justine Jones and Julian Lewis Jones

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 57

Gwenno Penrhyn and Mark Lewis Jones (AKA ‘Mr Kiti’)

Amy Wadge

Einir Davies, Efa Gruffudd Jones and Elen Rhys

Tracey Thomas, Nansi Thomas and guest

Andy Newbury, Cheryl Davies, Hannah Daniel and Cath Ayers

KITI SOFT LAUNCH

Rhian Rhys and Awen Iorweth

Celebrations took place in October for the opening of the new home of popular independent clothing store Kiti, at 85 Pontcanna Street. Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Amy Wadge performed at the event, and guests included Hannah Daniel, Cath Ayers and Mark Lewis Jones (also known as ‘Mr. Kiti’ as he’s married to the shop owner, Gwenno!) all from BBC’s Keeping Faith. www.kiticymru.com Photos by Owen Mathias Photography

Lowri Davies Sian Naiomi, Elin Pinell, Sharon Morgan and Sharon Roberts

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

Bethan Humphreys and Eleri Gibbon

SOCIETY

Prys Jenkins

Nic Allen and Louise Ash

Ultan O’Reilly and Alison O’Reilly

Victoria Owen, Seth Edwards and Sian Gunney

Laura Anderson and baby Isabella

Xxx

Friends of Ros Medics

ROS MEDICS MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

Ultan O’Reilly and Alison O’Reilly

Rico Zulkarin and Tessa Maria

On 26 September, Pontcanna-based aesthetics clinic Ros Medics, headed up by founder Dr Ros Jabar and executive assistant Leigh Jones, hosted a Macmillan coffee morning. The event, held at their neighbour’s venue Love Live Light Healing Hub, raised £450 for Macmillan Cancer Support in Wales. www.rosmedics.co.uk Photos by Kate Start Photography

Tazmin Proctor and Lisa Hardy

Dr Ros Jabar and Leigh Jones

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 59

It’s the city’s business

CARDIFFWORKS Liam Giles of Spindogs and Byron Rees of United Studios

WHAT’S UP, DOG? Cardiff head uartered digital marketing agency Spindogs has ac uired Pembrokeshire firm nited Studios in a deal that will bolster the company’s development capabilities and put the business on track to reach a targeted m turnover.

The team at nited Studios, which specialises in e-commerce website solutions and Wordpress development, will now transfer to Spindogs with immediate effect. Established in Cardiff in 2 , Spindogs moved into a new 3, s ft H in Cardiff ay at the start of the year and has staff members. nited Studios is a great cultural fit for us and there are some clear similarities in the work we deliver and the skills and technical abilities within the team, says managing director of Spindogs, iam Giles. It’s great to be adding brands such as Pinarello ikes to our already exciting roster of clients from Triumph Motorcycles to Oxford niversity .

Spindogs has grown significantly, both organically and through ac uisition, and we are excited to have the incredibly talented nited Studios team on board to help deliver some ambitious growth plans over the coming years.

For more: www.spindogs.co.uk

ICE, ICE, BABY One of the ’s leading independent insurance brokers, Towergate Insurance rokers, has renewed its sponsorship deal with the Cardiff Devils for a further two years.

The agreement coincides with the start of the new season and sees Towergate’s branding featured across the Devil’s hockey kit, the team’s website, programmes and rink-side at Ice Arena Wales.

Towergate, which has over 1 offices nationwide, has a hefty Welsh presence and a strong relationship with ice hockey, having been one of the Devils’ key sponsors since 2 1 .

For more: www.towergate.com

Towergate’s Howard Phillips with Devils Ryan Penny and Mark Richardson

FEMALE EMPOWERMENT PW Insurance, one of the largest independent insurance brokers in Wales, has promoted Alison Philips and Alisha Edwards to its board of directors.

PW is passionate about promoting diversity and gender parity in the insurance industry by championing e ual rights and opportunities for both men and women.

Since a management buy-out in 2 8, Paul Wiggins, MD, has worked to challenge the Alison Philips and Alisha Edwards traditional stereotypes that have been promoted to the board of directors at BPW the financial service sector faces and instil a core culture centred around people first, and increasing female leadership.

It’s not breaking news that women are underrepresented in the financial services industry, but PW’s new management structure is key to business development and future growth plans.

It’s important to change the traditional stereotype of the middle-aged man in a suit and reinvent the image of the financial service sector to represent today’s society and the talented workforce at PW, properly, says Paul.

PW’s shift in culture and efforts towards gender inclusion have been externally recognised by Chwarae Teg, a charity leading gender e uality in Wales. ast year, PW was awarded a ‘Fair Play Employer’ with Chwarae Teg, whose mission is to promote women in the workplace. This was a significant achievement for the firm and a recognition of their cultural shift.

For more: www.bpw-insurance.co.uk

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

PHOTO BY OWEN MATHIAS PHOTOGRAPHY

EXETERCARDIFFWORKS LIVING AWARDS

CATEGORIES

Will you be at one of these tables?

Cardiff Life Awards 2023: entries are open!

PHOTO BY AGA HOSKING PHOTOGRAPHY

Entries are now open for the Cardiff Life Awards 2023! The excitement is real. It’s free to enter, so what are you waiting for?

T

Previous winners, from Cardiff Distillery

THE CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2023

WHEN 23 February 2023 WHERE City Hall, Cardiff ENTRIES OPEN NOW!

he Cardiff Life Awards are coming back – are you ready? Planning is well underway for the glittering, vibrant, joy-filled 2023 ceremony, the business highlight of the city, at which pretty much any and every local organisation – big or small, from shops to restaurants, salons to galleries, and charities to schools – can win one of our 23 coveted awards.

Last year we had a record-breaking number of nominations from local businesses of all descriptions; the total hit 350, and our judges had their work seriously cut out for them.

If you are a part of this amazing community of businesses, enterprises and organisations and want to showcase your venture, talent and efforts, along with supporting and meeting other top business people, then nominate yourself – it’s free after all!

There are a number of ways to get involved: • Enter the Awards It’s free to nominate your business; just head online, choose what categories you’d like to enter, and you’ll find a Q&A asking you all about your business or organisation – your biggest achievements over the past year, your highlights, and what you are most proud of. This is not a

SPONSORS

banner

You can enter your business into one or more of these categories…

Arts Bar Business services Café Charity Civic Creative Education Event Hair and Beauty Health and Wellbeing Homes and Interiors Legal and Financial Leisure and Tourism New Business People Services Property Restaurant Retailer Sustainability Technology and Innovation Welsh Language (And then the ultimate Winner of Winners is chosen by us!)

time for modesty; you are encouraged to blow that trumpet and shout about yourselves! Please remember, your business cannot be nominated by an outside party; the entry must come from the business itself.

• Sponsor the Awards With more and more interest in being closely associated with the most prestigious event in the Cardiff business calendar, sponsorship opportunities are going fast. Already signed up are: Genero, Bupa, ReRecruitment, 13Fields, Lexus Cardiff, Crumbs, Entreconf and of course Cardiff Life. Sponsors reap the benefits of powerful marketing and exposure in the build-up to the Awards, and they also bag guaranteed tickets.

To find out more, please contact mark.george@ mediaclash.co.uk • Get tickets Nothing beats being there! Anyone can attend the event, whether up for an award or not.

With the company of 500 people, the networking and collaboration opportunities are on another level, and the party, well, that speaks for itself.

What goes on at the Cardiff Life Awards stays at the Cardiff Life Awards.

For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

A NEW CHAPTER FOR LAKESIDE Something special is stirring beside the rippling waters of ROATH PARK LAKE, and Cardiff’s independent businesses have the chance to be part of it.

SPONSORED CONTENT

N

estled just a stone’s throw from Roath Park in leafy Lakeside, Clearwater Parade has housed a variety of independent businesses over the years.

First built in the 1960s, the area has most recently been home to popular local café Waterloo Tea, alongside an independent collective of pop-up businesses selling a wide range of goods and services, from doughnuts and chicken wings to houseplants, vintage clothes and bike repairs.

Now Clearwater Parade is about to undergo an ambitious, high-end transformation in the form of Amber Vista: a new destination where the local community can eat, drink, shop and socialise in the heart of Cyncoed, one of Cardiff’s most appealing suburbs.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDEPENDENTS

Amber Vista will comprise of nine high-quality retail spaces and 27 luxurious apartments, ideally placed amongst Lakeside’s desirable mix of green spaces and nearby thoroughfares for shopping and dining.

Four of Amber Vista’s retail units have already agreed tenancies: Cardiff favourites Waterloo Tea café and Alex Gooch artisanal bakery, plus local essentials in the form of a Tesco convenience store and Lakeside Pharmacy.

The remaining five units offer an ideal

opportunity for any new or growing independent business that wants to benefit from Lakeside’s excellent location, community and transport links (with easy access to the M4 and Heath Hospital).

A VIBRANT DESTINATION

Clearwater Parade recently proved itself to be the perfect home for a varied selection of Cardiff-based businesses. Cardiff Dough & Co, The Dropbar Workshop, The Elephants Ear, Indie Superstore and Wing Stack all enjoyed short-term residencies in 2021, providing a vibrant destination for the local community to eat, shop and enjoy free time on the outskirts of the city.

Amber Vista is set to be an even more attractive proposition: a thoughtfully planned transformation with covered walkways, sustainable materials and attractive architectural touches, bringing new life to this popular part of Lakeside and Cyncoed.

The project is being managed by Silver Crescent Developments, in partnership with Principality Building Society. With previous successful redevelopment projects including Noya Falls in Maindy, Pen Y Garth Mansion in Penarth and Arbour Edge in Heath, Silver Crescent’s mission is to provide exceptional homes for people and businesses, fostering a sense of community spirit and local wellbeing for neighbourhoods around Cardiff.

BE A PART OF IT

The remaining five retail units at Amber Vista won’t be available for long. With growing interest from independents around the city, as well as nationals, Silver Crescent is now taking applications for tenancies from businesses who wish to be part of this vibrant community. n

AMBER V I S TA LAKESIDE

ALL ENQUIRIES: hello@silvercrescent.co.uk www.ambervista.co.uk. Tel. 02920 001 224 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 65

JUST VISITING

“The show is based on Mission: Impossible, but my show is just me and some hats and about 250 jokes” Have you ever thought of doing a show of just the off-cut jokes that didn’t make it into the final version?

Yes, I could even call it off cuts”, couldn’t I? In fact, some would argue that that’s what I do anyway!

MILTON JONES

One of the UK’s biggest-selling comedians is on his way to our city; here we have a laugh with Milton Jones…

Forget James Bond, Jason Bourne and Ethan Hunt – there’s a new spy in town.

And he’s not dressed in a neat tuxedo or head-to-toe camouflage. He’s wearing a garish Hawaiian shirt. Milton Jones – Mock the Week’s resident oddball, wildhaired Live at the Apollo star, Radio 4 regular and king of the surreal one-liner – is back on tour, and this time he’s an international man of mystery. We caught up with him ahead of the Cardiff leg of his UK tour…

We’re looking forward to seeing Milton: Impossible at Cardiff’s New Theatre; what made you decide on the spy theme?

Basically, I came up with the title before the show. I thought:

“That sounds good!” So I made a rod for my own back by theming it. But sometimes it’s easier to write to a theme than have a completely blank page. The show is based on Mission: Impossible, but Mission: Impossible has a huge budget and lots of special effects. My show is just me and some hats and about 250 jokes. It’s lowtech instead of high-tech.

Do you end up with a lot of great jokes that just don’t fit into the theme or narrative of the show?

I do. A lot of them are then used somewhere else – in the next tour, on radio, on oc the ee – so they’re never wasted.

And if they’re particularly brilliant then I might go out of my way to include them in the show.

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

What do you think makes the perfect joke?

If a gag works, it makes a cartoon in someone’s head – a very brief picture where they think they know where it’s going, and then you pull the carpet from under them and it was all about something else all along. It’s reverse engineering from an idea or a phrase.

Your last tour played to more than 100,000 people, and you’ve appeared on Mock the Week over 40 times. What’s more fun to do: a live show or a TV appearance?

They’re both good in different ways. Going to a small place on a Saturday night where they’re all determined to have a great laugh – I don’t think that can be beaten, in one sense. With radio or television, you’re as good as the edit, and it’s out of your control.

How do you cater for different generations in the same audience?

I am aware that if I make a reference to Instagram or something I’m going to lose everyone over . ut that’s fine

because overall my references are quite general, and even if you didn’t get it, the joke’s only going to last 20 seconds, so there’ll be something else along soon enough.

You have another Radio 4 series in the works, the tour, and more Mock the Week episodes. What’s next after that?

I don’t have anything else planned! But who knows what will turn up. Sometimes the unexpected things that come along are the most interesting – other quiz shows, a corporate event abroad – things you wouldn’t have predicted, doing Celebrity Mastermind or something, you know?

What was your specialist subject when you went on Celebrity Mastermind?

Potatoes.

Potatoes?!

I mean, if I’d have taken it seriously I’d have done something like Arsenal. But when he announced it – “your specialist subject is potatoes” – the audience all laughed, and I thought: in a way, I’ve chalked up! I came last, obviously. But I’m employed as a comedian. It’s entertainment. If I get to do it again, I’ll choose carrots.n See ilton at New Theatre Cardiff on 20 November; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.u