Cardiff Life - Issue 267

ISSUE 267 / FEBRUARY 2023 / £3

L IS FOR…

OUR #SHOPLOCAL VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

MUSIC AND LYRICS INSIDE PARADISE GARDEN, BILLED AS WALES’S FIRST LISTENING BAR

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2023 23 FEBRUARY

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!

PINK PORTRAITS REVISITED ISSUE 267 / FEBRUARY 2023 / STYLE IT OUT

CELEBRATING LGBT+ HISTORY MONTH 2023 THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

LEADING CHANGEMAKER

SOPHIE HOWE REFLECTS ON HER WORLD-FIRST ROLE IN WALES

SUSTAINABLE CLOTHING BRANDS THAT ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN WALES

FASHIONING THE FUTURE

OWEN MATHIAS PHOTOGR APHY

EDITOR’S LETTER

The Cardiff Life Awards are almost upon us!

Got your tickets?

W

e all get so excited here at Cardiff Life when the ‘Cardiff Life Awards Preview’ issue comes out; it means one thing: the big event is just around the corner.

This year’s Cardiff Life Awards take place on the evening of 23 February at City Hall; the excitement is real. It’s without a doubt our favourite night of the year; it’s glamorous, celebratory, highly emotional and just a tiny bit wild (especially the after party).

Even though it’s been running annually since 2014, every year we are surprised by the sheer talent, inventiveness, determination and spirit of the city. We see it in the nominations and we feel it on the night.

Hundreds of people in one room, cheering each other on, supporting one and other; it’s an incredible thing to experience. This year is set to be no exception.

Remember, too, anyone can be part of the night, whether you are up for an award or not; so head over to our website to bag your tickets. And turn to page 53 to see a preview of what’s to come this year!

Elsewhere in this issue, we have a focus on sustainable fashion; in particular, seven Cardiff-based brands that embrace eco-friendly and responsible attitudes (page 12). There’s also our deep-dive chat with one of the UK’s leading changemakers, Cardiff’s Sophie Howe, who has just completed her time as the world’s first Future Generations Commissioner; on page 33 she tells us about her biggest achievements and learning curves.

We also have plenty more, in the form of: food, homes, art, music, business and what’s on. We hope you enjoy! Oh, and we’ll see you at the Cardiff Life Awards, yes? #CardiffTogether 4 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R

ydym bob amser yn llawn cyffro yma yn Cardiff Life pan fydd y rhifyn sy’n rhoi rhagflas ar Wobrau Cardiff Life yn ymddangos, oherwydd mae’n golygu un peth, sef bod y noson fawr yn nesáu.

Eleni bydd seremoni Gwobrau Cardiff Life yn cael ei chynnal nos Iau 23 Chwefror yn Neuadd y Ddinas; felly, mae’r cyffro yn gyffro go iawn. Heb os, dyma ein hoff noson ni o’r flwyddyn; mae’n noson grand, emosiynol sy’n llawn dathlu ac mae hefyd braidd yn wyllt (yn enwedig yn y parti wedyn).

Er ein bod wedi cynnal y seremoni bob blwyddyn ers 2014, cawn ein synnu bob tro gan dalent, dyfeisgarwch, penderfynoldeb ac ysbryd y ddinas. Mae’r cyfan i’w weld yn yr enwebiadau ac i’w deimlo ar y noson. Cannoedd o bobl mewn un ystafell yn canmol ei gilydd ac yn cefnogi ei gilydd; mae’n brofiad anhygoel. Ac ni fydd eleni’n eithriad.

Cofiwch hefyd y gall unrhyw un fod yn rhan o’r noson, p’un a ydych wedi eich enwebu ar gyfer gwobr neu beidio.

Felly, ewch i’n gwefan i gael eich tocynnau a throwch i dudalen 53 i gael rhagflas ar yr hyn sydd i ddod eleni!

Fel arall, yn y rhifyn hwn, rydym yn canolbwyntio ar ffasiwn gynaliadwy, yn enwedig y saith brand o Gaerdydd sy’n croesawu agweddau cyfrifol a chyfeillgar i’r amgylchedd (ar dudalen 12). Rydym hefyd yn cael sgwrs ddwys â Sophie Howe o Gaerdydd, sy’n un o’r bobl fwyaf blaenllaw yn y DU o ran ysgogi newid ac sydd newydd orffen ei chyfnod fel Comisiynydd Cenedlaethau’r Dyfodol – y cyntaf yn y byd. Ar dudalen 33, mae’n sôn wrthym am ei phrif gyflawniadau a’r hyn y mae wedi’i ddysgu.

Rydym yn rhoi sylw i lawer o bethau eraill hefyd: bwyd, cartrefi, celf, cerddoriaeth, byd busnes a digwyddiadau.

Gobeithio y gwnewch chi fwynhau! Welwn ni chi yn seremoni Gwobrau Cardiff Life! #CaerdyddYnghyd

LISA EVANS

Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

Issue 267 / February 2023 ON THE COVER Clothing by G Wintle Designs, a Cardiff brand with a focus on its impact on people and planet. hotograph by Taiye mokore of at K AT hotography. For more, see page 12.

FEATURES

12 FASHIONING THE FUTURE Sustainable brands in Cardiff

that are making a difference in Wales

PHOTO BY TAIYE OMOKORE

33 ONE TO ONE Chatting to one of the UK’s leading

changemakers, Sophie Howe

ARTS AND EVENTS

17 OH SNAP Celebrating G T History

12

onth 2 23 through new photography 20 WHAT’S ON Shows, music, e hibitions, family events and more 29 MUSIC E perience the sounds of the city at aradise Garden

SHOPPING

38

37 SHOPPING INTRO C’est chic wallpaper for the modern home 38 EDITOR’S CHOICE ocal buys and local love for

alentine’s Day

FOOD & DRINK

41 TASTY BITES A handful of foodie news morsel to chew on 43 JANE COOK ur food and drink columnist spills the tea 45 RECIPE Smoked leeks from the brothers behind Bar 44

PROPERTY

48 SHOWCASE nside a ontcanna property of dreams

BUSINESS

53 CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2023: SPECIAL PREVIEW The

business highlight of the city is coming back!

72 CARDIFF WORKS ews and views and brilliant businesses

REGULARS

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

about again

74 CARDIFF LIVES Chatting with Blaze of Glory! tenor

effrey loyd- oberts

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

Every love story is unique.

We’re here to help you start yours

SPOTLIGHT A FOCUS ON FEEL- GOOD STORIES

Property

BUILT TO ORDER The publisher of Cardiff Life magazine, MediaClash, is once again hosting

Iris opening night party 2022

Is Cardiff the city of the future?

its annual Property Symposium – a property conference for the region’s leading property companies. This year, it’s focused on the City of the Future and it will concentrate on the four cities our maga ines cover Cardiff, Bristol, Bath and Exeter.

A keynote will be Tim Fendley – founder of world-renowned Applied Information Group. It takes places on 21 April at The M Shed, Bristol. r re ardiff r er a ard

EARLY BIRDS These events might be a while away, but if you want in, the time is now…

IRIS PRIZE

The scars’ of the G T short film world are now open for submissions.

The event, the world’s largest short film festival of its kind, will take place in Cardiff on 1 -15 ctober. r re iri ri e r

SWN FESTIVAL

S n 2 23 earlybird tickets are on sale now.

The festival, taking place 2 -22 ctober, is focused on new music, emerging artists and homegrown acts. r re fe

Music

DON’T STOP THE MUSIC ow in its 1 th year, ndependent enue Week ( W) the UK’s annual celebration of indie

Expiry was shot in and around Cardiff

Film

FROM CARDIFF TO CAPE TOWN

Welsh indie sci-fi film ir – a story of a couple prevented from touching by a ruling authority – has just secured distribution in Africa. The film, shot in Cardiff and ewport has been selected for film festivals worldwide and celebrated a win at the Global Music Awards for its soundtrack. t’s already been distributed in the US and Canada and recently launched in the UK on rime ideo, and now the film will become available across Africa, via the WaChing platform. r re era i i re

music and arts venues (running until 5 February) takes place over hundreds of venues, including plenty in Cardiff from orter’s to the orwegian Church Arts Centre. ndie venues are the backbone of the city’s live music scene, and Cardiff usic oard is calling on people to support local grassroots venues, not only during W but beyond.

“Independent venues have really been through the mill over the last few years, but they remain vital to Cardiff’s music scene, says chair of Cardiff usic oard, Cllr Huw Thomas. The best way most people can support venues in the city, and the artists If you haven’t experienced who perform in them, is by going a night at Clwb Ifor Bach, to a gig, buying a drink, maybe here’s your sign even picking up a T-shirt from the band.

“You only have to walk into Clwb Ifor Bach and see the names of all the bands that have played there to understand the significant role grassroots venues play in developing early career musicians, but their impact goes even wider – they make the city a vibrant place to live, work and visit; and ultimately, they’re at the heart of a whole community. r re i de e de e e ee

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

G Wintle Designs aims to create sustainability through identity and better consumption Model: Romilly Wildin

FASHIONING THE FUTURE

Fashion photographer Taiye Omokore’s passion for sustainability has led him to create the Cardiff-based Reframing Fashion campaign, a celebration of local clothing brands that are making a difference in Wales

By Lisa Evans Fashion photos by Taiye Omokore at KLAT Photography 12 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FASHION

C

ardiff-based fashion photographer Taiye mokore, of K AT hotography, is on a mission to raise awareness about sustainable fashion in Wales. He’s the mastermind behind eframing Fashion, a new, city-based photographic campaign which shines a spotlight on local clothing brands which embrace ecofriendly and responsible attitudes.

The pro ect, in collaboration with The Sustainable Studio (TSS) in Cardiff, aims to increase the visibility of local, sustainable fashion and its environmental footprint in Wales. t will launch on February as a prominent e hibition at Urban Crofters, a renovated ictorian church in oath, where it will stay until arch.

Around his photography business, Taiye is also a student at Cardiff etropolitan University. ne of his challenges within his international business management course has been to find how net ero carbon can be achieved by the university in 2 3 ; this is what first inspired him to embark on a personal ourney outside the academic sphere to make a difference within his immediate environment.

As a fashion photographer, it is essential that create awareness about the importance of sustainability in the value chain of fashion designers, he says. Today’s society faces serious issues related to climate change, making it crucial to highlight fashion brands that are making a difference. For the eframing Fashion photography campaign, ’ve been privileged to collaborate with seven local, fashion brands Dati Clothing, outi ue De ana, G Wintle Designs, phelia Dos Santos, Finleys House, Spare e and eg arcie.

As for the location of the photoshoot, it seemed only fitting to do it at TSS on Curran oad, Cardiff. The artist-led space is a coworking Cardiff brand Boutique De Nana aims to break stereotypes and bridge cultural differences Model: Manon Haf Casting: Ukiyo Models

STYLE IT OUT

The seven brands involved in Reframing Fashion Dati Clothing, based at The Sustainable Studio (TSS) in Cardiff, challenges all of us to buy in a more considered way. They produce one-off, zero-waste pieces, created from dead-stock fabric, which is designed for all to wear.

Boutique De Nana specialises in luxury modest clothing with a social impact. It aims to bring together Eastern modesty with western edge and quirk. It is also based at TSS. Finleys House, which also has a space at TSS, is known for crocheted pieces, particularly balaclavas and beanies, made using yarn from industry-waste cotton. They dissect garments to reintroduce them in a new light.

G Wintle Designs, a Cardiff-born brand built on the pillars of considered design, quality, value, and minimalist maximalism, with a focus on the responsibility of their products and their impact on people and planet.

Ophelia Dos Santos, a textile designer and educator based in Cardiff Bay; advocating for climate justice and sustainability within fashion.

Spare Me creates sports jackets made from customers’ old football, rugby and NFL shirts; old bed sheets or fabrics saved from landfill are used for linings. It’s located in Penarth.

Meg Marcie is a brand which works with a range of techniques including knitting, embroidery, macramé and applique, using as much recycled wool and fabric as possible. The founder, Meg, is currently on a gap year from studies at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

creative hub for makers, creatives and artist. t works alongside organisations and collaborates with educational establishments to provide opportunities for students, as well as the community, to support creative ourneys, meaning the studio’s network runs across Wales and beyond.

As the name suggests, sustainability is at the heart of everything TSS does, including slow-fashion garment construction, collaborations with local community groups such as Welsh allroom, and upcycling pro ects with the South Wales creative community.

Sustainability is also a key concern with how founders Sarah and ulia run the studio; they carefully consider every decision, aiming to collectively reduce the impact of the space and their creative practice on the environment.

For the last 15 years, Sarah and ulia have been focused on working with grassroots organisations that represent A E and G T communities. They have had the privilege of educating and nurturing young talent through delivering accessible short courses in fashion and design, as well as programming activities that relate to the industry’s process, including fashion shows, points of sale, self-promotion, personal development, and formulating entrepreneurial ideas.

TSS also houses many other makers and small businesses founded upon principles of sustainability, from natural fabric dyeing to recycled fashion, offering a supportive space for e ploring ecoconscious making.

Sisters Sarah and ulia oversee the running of TSS, and they run their apparel line, Dati Cloting, there, says Taiye. When had the idea to utilise photography to promote sustainable fashion brands in Wales, approached them to ask if could use their space for the pro ect, and the re uest was instantly approved.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 13

FASHION

Ophelia Dos Santos’ designs seek to engage marginalised communities with environmentalism in Wales Model: Tara Jones Casting: Emkai Models

Dati Clothing’s recent offering looks at reinventing the traditional Welsh cape and making it fit for the modern wearer Models: Naz Mehrabadi and Caitlin Thomas Casting: Emkai Models

Meg Marcie is a brand which seeks out preloved fabrics to repurpose for its sewing and crochet projects Model: Rowena Hooper

Spare Me creates sports jackets made from old football, rugby and NFL shirts Model: Bradley Ayisi Casting: Emkai Models

FASHION

PHOTO BY TAR A JONES

figured that if sustainability becomes a concern for every industry, fashion included, we have more chances of reaching net ero. A collaborative effort from the fashion industry’s suppliers and customers is re uired to achieve this, and it is crucial that people like me play a significant role. want more people to know about the advantages of sustainable fashion; feel it’s my responsibility to educate my friends, family, and coworkers who do not yet comprehend the idea. started this initiative because wanted as many people as possible to understand the value of it, not only in Wales but around the world.

He says the best method for him to spread this importance is through his craft. His dream for the future of fashion is for all global fashion brands to lessen their environmental impact while also being considerate of the people who manufacture clothes. wish for environmentally responsible and ethically produced clothing, he says. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the value of ethical, circular, slow, and conscious fashion. t will also be beneficial to highlight fashion brands that are making a difference in Wales.

Taiye believes that Cardiff, and Wales as a whole, still has a long way to go when it comes to being a leader in sustainability though. ost Welsh sustainable clothing brands are still e panding, but think it’s only a uestion of time, he says. Wales is indeed having a positive impact overall. Cardiff etropolitan University, which was named the top university in the UK for sustainability in eople and lanet’s Green eague 2 22 2 23, is an e cellent e ample. n ee e efra i a i e i i i a r a Cr f er Cardiff from 9 February – 9 March; www.taiyeomokore.com Photographer Taiye Omokore

IN THE PICTURE

Finleys House creates unique items made from waste materials Model: Elise Gyphion

Getting to know Taiye Omokore …

What sort of photography do you specialise in?

I describe my work as a blend of editorial and fashion photography. Most of my works communicate a story.

Who have you worked with in the past?

I worked with companies such as Chet Lo, Sohuman, Abigail Ajobi, Johanna Parv, Karina Bond, and Sinéad O’Dwyer at the 2022 London Fashion Week.

I also had the chance to work with Oxlade, a global superstar from Nigeria, who shot the video for his hit song Ku Lo Sa in London.

Love Island’s Dami and I met at the Pronounce Whirlpool runway show in London. We started interacting after I snapped a few pictures of him, and they were posted on both of our social media accounts. Since then, we’ve stayed in touch frequently, and I hope to collaborate with him more in 2023.

I am also a published wedding photographer; I covered over 30 weddings in Nigeria before moving to the UK in February last year.

Where has your work been published?

In various publications such as Dazed, Photo Vogue and Vogue Greece, among many others.

What shoots are you most proud of?

I have just completed my photo series titled Strength Amidst Alopecia which I will be releasing later in the year.

What’s next for you?

I hope to work with more sustainable fashion brands in the UK, and I am looking to collaborate with up-and-coming fashion designers in Nigeria to promote African fashion.

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PHOTO BY DONALD MACLELL AN

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

Sir Ian McKellen was featured in the original Pink Portraits project

LGBT+ LOVE

The next generation of LGBT+ professionals working behind the camera in film and television are going to be celebrated during LGBT+ History Month 2023 with 10 new portraits taken by Welsh photographer Dylan Lewis Thomas.

Pink Portraits Revisited will be exhibited across the city during February, in public spaces, supplied by ack Arts in Cardiff, as well as buildings across the city. The project is being produced by the ris ri e Festival in partnership with Cardiff University, Ffotogallery and the University of South Wales.

“The original Pink Portraits were commissioned by celebrated Scottish portrait photographer Donald ac ellan, to photograph 20 gay and lesbian professionals working in

front of and behind the lens,” says Berwyn Rowlands, founder of the ris ri e, the annual Cardiff-based film festival and the home of the largest G T short film pri e in the world.

They included Stephen Fry, Heather earce and Sir an McKellen. We are looking forward to seeing what Dylan Lewis Thomas produces with the next generation of LGBT+ professionals working in film and television.

Pink Portraits Revisited i e a ed Cardiff i er i ie Chancellor Colin Riordan on 13 February at the Centre for Student Life and will be on display until the middle of March. www.irisprize.org www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

ALBANY GALLERY NORTH WALES ARTISTS 10 February - 4 March 2023 www.albanygallery.com

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

PHOTO BY SAR AH LOUISE BENNET T

WHAT’S ON r

ard

e r ar

Bastille will headline a Saturday night set at Cardiff Castle this summer

PLAYS, SHOWS & CONCERTS

is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. e ea re ar ae e ea re ardiff

CABARET’S INAUGURAL SEASON New venue Cabaret opens in February as part of Wales Millennium Centre’s transformation.

Cabaret’s inaugural season features local collaborations with Cardiff Cabaret Club, Glitter Cymru and The Queer Emporium, as well as hot-ticket touring acts Big Band Burlesque and TV’s Paulus who celebrates the music of Victoria Wood. Cabaret, Wales Millennium Ce re Cardiff a r

PRUE LEITH n her first ever live show, rue will take audiences through the ups and downs of being a successful restaurateur, novelist, businesswoman and rea ri i a e ff judge. a id a e ae da id a ardiff

3 February – 15 April

7 February

BUFFY REVAMPED After a critically acclaimed season at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, Brendan Murphy’s show brings the entire 144 episodes of the hit 90s TV show ff e a ire a er, as told through the eyes of the one person who knows it inside out, Spike. e ea re ar a e e ea re ardiff

14 February – 4 March

MAMMA MIA! Experience the ultimate feel-good factor at the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical.

Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity

18 February

23 February

BLAZE OF GLORY! Welsh National Opera’s Spring 2023 Season will open with the world premiere of its new opera, a e f r Set in the 1950s, the opera follows a group of Welsh miners as they embark on a musical journey to reform their male voice choir after a local mining disaster. For more, see page 66. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff a r

3 March

THE WELSH VARIETY EXTRAVAGANZA: TENOVUS CANCER CARE’S 80TH CELEBRATIONS A night of entertainment celebrating the Welsh charity’s rich history and many supporters over eight decades.

Performers will include ri C e a i Amy Dowden, singer Amy Wadge, comedian Mike Bubbins and West End star Sophie Evans, as well

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

as Cardiff’s very own ictoria Scone – drag queen and cabaret performer best known for competing on the third series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. a id a e ae da id a ardiff

14 – 18 March

THE MOUSETRAP The 70th Anniversary tour of e e ra , the longest running play in the world, is visiting over 70 venues throughout the UK and Ireland. e ea re ar a e e ea re ardiff

28 March – 1 April

MOTHER GOOSE Ian McKellen, John Bishop and Mel Giedroyc are to star in pantomime er e. Written by Jonathan Harvey (C r a i ree i e i e Gimme) the show follows Mother Goose (McKellen) and her husband Vic (Bishop) who run an animal sanctuary and live a wholesome life inside an abandoned Debenhams. ut when a goose (Giedroyc) flies in, will fame and fortune get the better of them? a e i e i Ce re Cardiff a r

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

stand-ups will keep you laughing until Monday. e ee C er aid a ee

4 February – 18 March (Saturdays)

THE COMEDY CABARET An award-winning variety stand-up show featuring three or more top UK comedians. All tickets include 3am nightclub access after the show. r i re friar ad Cardiff r

25 March

RUSSELL HOWARD As we reel from one global crisis to the next, join Russell, ‘the uplifting Comedy King’, as he puts the world to rights in his own uniquely hilarious way.

Cardiff er a i a re a i e re ardi er a i a are a

MUSIC & DANCING Most Fridays

NUKE Party anthems, cult classics and dance floor bangers.

C fr a a ree e

On now, until 31 March

AMSERJAZZTIME RWCMD’s Friday jazz club performs everything from bebop, to

WHAT’S ON funk and soul. RWCMD, Cathays Park; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

4 February

BELINDA CARLISLE: DECADES TOUR The internationally acclaimed recording artist will celebrate her rich musical catalogue and chameleonic musical prowess. St David’s Hall, e ae da id a ardiff

10 February

AN EVENING WITHOUT KATE BUSH Whether you’ve been a fan for decades or recently joined the shoal via the Stranger Things phenomenon, there has never been a better time to release your inner Bush and celebrate at this joyful, unique show.

Sherman Theatre, Cathays; er a ea re TOP: Big Band Burlesque are coming to Wales Millennium Centre’s new cabaret space LEFT: See Iwan Bala’s work at TEN Gallery in Roath BELOW: Soft Cell is coming to Let’s Rock Wales at Cardiff’s Bute Park

On now, until 16 April

BBC 100 IN WALES This exhibition will explore a century of the BBC in Wales, featuring star items from programmes such as r and er . a i a e Cardiff Ca a ar e ae IWAN BALA AR BAPUR [ON PAPER] This exhibition presents new paintings by the prominent artist Iwan Bala.

This new body includes over 30 mixed media works on paper – handmade cotton Khadi paper, which is characteristic of Bala.This is Cymru on paper. a er a a er e

AFRO RAVE Prime Rave is here with groundbreaking vibes and music ranging from Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dance Hall, Hip Hop and more. i ri re friar ad di ri i

10 February – 4 March

24 March

FATBOY SLIM The announcement of Fatboy Slim’s tour arrives on the heels of his latest album, Right Here, Right Then.

Cardiff er a i a re a i e re ardi er a i a are a

ARTS, EXHIBITIONS & CULTURE

On now, until 11 February

ERNEST ZOBOLE Paintings were selected from Ernest’s estate shortly after his death with a view to a posthumous exhibition of the best of his work. Now, 24 years later, they may be seen in this rare exhibition. ar i i e a er dre Cre e ar a e PHOTO BY ANDREW WHIT TON

LEO ROBINSON: THE INFINITY CARD Artist and Musician Leo Robinson explores future world-building in The i Card, his largest solo exhibition in Wales, at Chapter, Cardiff.

C a er r Ca a er r

4 February – 11 March

17 February

On now, until 25 March

On now, until 16 April

WE ARE HERE, BECAUSE YOU WERE THERE In this collaborative project by photographer Andy Barnham and researcher Dr Sara de Jong, expect the use of portraiture and quotes to document the experiences of Afghan interpreters employed by the British Army. f a er a ree Ca a ff a er r

NORTH WALES EXHIBITION A selection of great art from North Wales-based artists. e a a er a ad a a a er

16 February – 17 March

SWINGS AND ROUNDABOUTS Welsh artist Charlotte Grayland will be presenting her largest solo exhibition to date; it will consider the exhuming of memory through objects and childhood games as a metaphor for how we can navigate our lives. Cardiff L a er ree a ardiff ade

FOOD & DRINK 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. There is also a monthly market at St Fagans and pop-up markets at Cardiff et University, and The Riverside night market takes place on the last Wednesday of the month. r Cardiff ri er ide ar e r

Most Saturdays

BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH Themed brunch days – from Beyoncé to Mamma Mia! – featuring show-

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

ages.

Most Saturdays

DISNEY ON ICE: DISCOVER THE MAGIC Join Mickey Mouse and his friends – from Ariel and oana to elle and Elsa for world-class skating, highflying acrobatics and une pected stunts. Cardiff er a i a re a i e re ardi er a i a are a

CARDIFF LATE NIGHT TICKET Grab your tickets to one of the biggest parties Cardiff has to offer, with banging anthems and bartenders. Ticket includes a idnight City cocktail, te uila shot and entry for the night. The Cocktail C ar ree Cardiff www.thecocktailclub.com

From 6 February onwards

AFTERNOON TEA AT FORAGE February welcomes the anticipated arrival of Forage Welsh high teas.

Whether you indulge in the classic with a pot of tea, or the lu ury for an added glass of prosecco, you’re sure to en oy the sweet and savoury delicacies on offer. Forage Farm Shop, Penllyn Estate, Cowbridge; www.foragefarmshop.co.uk

FAMILY & KIDS 18 – 22 February

CARDIFF SCIENCE FESTIVAL Cardiff Science Festival is set to inspire and educate, with e citing events popping up across Cardiff to allow you to uncover the science of everyday life. Across the city; ardiff ie efe i a

19 February

MINI RAVERS Go clubbing with your kids at this indoor festival featuring meet-andgreets from your little ones’ favourite characters, giant inflatables, U lights, confetti cannons and a resident DJ. DEPOT; Curran a e de ardiff

19 February

PLAY OPERA LIVE: DINOSAUR DISCOVERIES n this roarsome show that is both entertaining and educational, sing, dance and clap along to music, and walk alongside dinosaurs with ohn Williams’s epic urassic ark theme.

AW family e perience wouldn’t be complete without free foyer activities which include a treasure hunt, face painting and more. a e i e i Ce re Cardiff a www.wmc.org.uk

22 February

ZOG Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and A el Sche er, og is eager to win a golden star at adam Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know. A magical production for all

See Iwan Bala’s work at TEN Gallery in Roath

a id a e ae da id a ardiff

stopping shenanigans.

Tonight Josephine, Caroline Street; www.tonightjosephine.co.uk

23 – 26 February

18 – 19 March

DINOMANIA At this fun-filled, interactive show, join Ranger Chris and his dinosaurs – as seen on 2022. The beasts will roam around the crowd while all attendees are seated on the floor. n tow will also be a mobile dinosaur museum, featuring fossils and replicas, including a full-si e T- e skull. L a i e Lei re Ce re a e e Cardiff di a ia

FILM 7 February

ENYS MEN At this independent cinema, featuring a full repertory and cult classics, contemporary films and lesser-known gems, see Enys en a psychological drama uite unlike any you’ve seen before. a Ci e a e ar ier a i i www.snowcatcinema.co.uk

Ongoing

BOCS The first space of its kind in a Welsh arts centre, the newly opened ocs (Welsh for o ) will present a programme of immersive digital e periences from 3 films and pro ections to e tended reality ( ) e periences. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff a r

Ongoing

COSY CINEMA The world’s first Cosy Cinema od ark has landed in Cardiff. ou’ll find private pods big enough for couples, families and small groups where you can stream media of your choice (from etfli originals, to bo sets, to movies, or even live sport or video games) on 2-inch screens. ou can even stay overnight.

Cara a ar ie d ar ad Pontcanna; www.cosse.co.uk

SPORTS & ACTIVITIES

On now, until 17 April

THE VOICE OF THE RED WALL To celebrate Cymru ualifying

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

ST DAVID’S DAY 1 March

BBC NOW: ST DAVID’S DAY WELSH MYTH AND LEGEND – PAST AND PRESENT In a land long shrouded in myth and legend, storytelling is part of Welsh culture.

Many in Wales have grown up hearing the fabled stories in The Mabinogion, and the otherworldly folklore speaking of dragons, faeries, brave knights and patron saints.

for the F FA World Cup, a new e hibition part of the G yl Cymru Festival shines a spotlight on some of the people and communities of The ed Wall. The e hibition e plores the fashion, music, identities and politics of the Cymru fans. aa ai a e f i r Cardiff e ae

4 February – 18 March

SIX NATIONS FANHUB Every Wales game is being shown live at DE T Fanhub, described as Cardiff’s most alternative venue to cheer on the lads’. E pect big screens, and scrumptious street food, plus live entertainment long into the night. DEPOT; Curran Embankment; de ardiff

5, 18, 22 and 26 February

CARDIFF DEVILS Calling all ice hockey fans: the Cardiff Devils’ upcoming home fi tures have been released. The Devils attract sell-out home crowds

Join BBC NOW and conductor Jac van Steen for a St David’s Day concert that will celebrate the diverse traditions of the storytelling Wales is so famous for. Expect Welsh folk ballads and music born in urban areas of the nation, to reflections of ancient Welsh myths – told afresh by contemporary composers.

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

seeking a uni ue and thrilling entertainment e perience on and off the ice. e re a a e ia ri e Cardiff i eare a a e

OTHER

4 and 25 February

WINTER YOGA DAY RETREAT The day will start with an energising Gitananda oga session, then a break for tea and cake, before a walk around the grounds. The afternoon oga session will focus on rela ation. e C r L a daff www.insolecourt.org

16 and 25 February

GRIFFIN BOOKS BOOKSHOPS EVENTS February’s events include the Wales launch event for Carole Hailey’s gripping debut novel, The Silence Project, at All Saints esser Hall, enarth (1 th); and the launch of ari e ie , by Chris loyd, at The Turner House Gallery,

WHAT’S ON Penarth (25th), where Chris will be interviewed by fellow Welsh author, Alis Hawkins. e ar ri

eter Hook The ight will be bringing oy Division A Celebration’ to Cardiff. A founding member of the seminal Manchester act, Hooky will be revisiting Joy Division’s trailblazing debut ea re , plus its equally iconic follow-up C er, live and in their entirety, with the accompaniment of his band The ight.

Promising a retrospective evening, fans can expect an opening set of New Order classics as an appetiser. ra ed C are ad

February – April, various dates

CARDIFF CASTLE GHOST TOUR Explore the majestic castle at night where you will discover its ghostly goings on. Cardiff Ca e Ca e ree dar a e r

Every Friday

16 June

PHOTO BY ANDREW WHIT TON

BINGO LINGO Cardiff, brace yourselves. This is one of the city’s biggest and wildest Friday nights out. They’ve taken bingo, shaken out the dust and turned it into one exhilarating, raving-mad event.

C rra a e de ardiff

COMING SOON 15 May Prue Leith is coming to St David’s Hall

LGBT+ HISTORY MONTH Four celebratory events On now, until 5 March

WALES IS… PROUD This display will include objects from Pride events held across Wales, from protest banners to LGBTQ+ campaign badges.

St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff; www.museum.wales

13 February – Mid March

PINK PORTRAITS REVISITED Portraits of the next generation of LGBT+ professionals working in film and TV will be exhibited across the city during February, in public spaces supplied by Jack Arts in Cardiff as well as buildings across the city. See page 17 for more.

Across Cardiff; www.irisprize.org

12 February

LEZDIFF LGBTQ+ HISTORY MONTH: THE STORIES OF THEIR LIVES An afternoon of theatre and literature celebrating lesbian, bisexual and queer women’s histories.

Chapter Arts, Canton; www.chapter.org

17 February

HWYRNOS: QUEER Get loud and proud at National Museum Cardiff’s late-night event, where a celebration of LGBTQ+ life and achievements will take place as part of its museum takeovers, Hwyrnos (Lates). It will be an evening that supports and connects the LGBTQ+ communities of Cardiff, with contributors to the night including TikTok legend Ellis Jones and Cardiff DJ duo Welsh Chicks.

There will be music and entertainment, with a Queeroke, dance performances, and showcases by The Welsh Ballroom and Qwerin.

The main hall will be filled with local creative stall holders, and food and drinks will be served until 11pm.

National Museum Cardiff; www.museum.wales

BEN FOGLE: WILD Broadcaster and adventurer Ben Fogle is taking his latest walk on the wild side to Cardiff with a new tour full of hair-raising and uplifting stories from a life of amazing encounters. e ea re ar a e e ea re ardiff

2 July

STING: MY SONGS WORLD TOUR Rock icon Sting is bringing an exuberant and dynamic show, featuring his most beloved songs, to Cardiff. Cardiff Ca e r d de ardiff

27 May

LET’S ROCK WALES The UK’s biggest retro festival brand has announced the headliners and performers for Let’s Rock Wales, at Cardiff’s ute ark. They include Soft Cell, Wet Wet Wet, Tony Hadley, magination, ik Kershaw, Go West, Heather Small, Heatwave, Hue & Cry, Five Star and many more. e ar Cardiff e r ae

28 May

JACK SAVORETTI Multi-chart-topping indie superstar Jack Savoretti will bring a special one-off outdoor performance to Cardiff’s ute ark on a ank Holiday weekend. For one special evening, the tranquil 130 acres of landscaped gardens and parkland will undergo a Savoretti takeover, as the o1 UK chart topping singer songwriter steps onto the stage for an open-to-the-stars outside show. e ar Cardiff e ar

1 April 22 April

PETER HOOK & THE LIGHT ‘JOY DIVISION: A CELEBRATION’

BLONDIE Music legends Blondie are heading to the Welsh capital this summer.

The ock oll Hall of Fame icons – whose chart-topping and era-defining career has seen them sell more than 40 million albums worldwide – will play at the iconic outdoor venue Cardiff Castle.

Cardiff Ca e Ca e ree d i ae

7 July

THE LUMINEERS BRIGHTSIDE WORLD TOUR The umineers are being brought to Cardiff by DE T ive the live-events arm of The DE T, one of Cardiff’s most successful events venues. Cardiff Ca e r d de ardiff

8 July

BASTILLE Bastille will headline a Saturday night set at Cardiff Castle this summer, as the headline act at DE T in the Castle. Cardiff Ca e r d de ardiff

OUR OWN VERY SPECIAL EVENT CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

23 February

We can’t wait to welcome 500 local business people to celebrate the greatest successes of the year with us.

For more, see page 51.

City Hall; www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

A PLACE TO GROW HOWELL’S SCHOOL, LLANDAFF GDST is a place where your daughter can flourish

Y

oung children are naturally inquisitive, but at Howell’s School, Llandaff GDST our Prep School’s exceptional teachers and unique facilities develop this into a deep love of learning. By making lessons what they should be: fun. We inspire girls to fully explore their imagination and experiment, then to question and reflect to form their own conclusions. All the while learning to take and assess risks and never be afraid of making mistakes. The sheer variety and richness of the learning experiences on offer – whether indoors, outdoors or on a trip – constantly keeps the girls engaged and eager to know more.

PROBLEM SOLVING We want girls to think confidently and creatively, to take calculated risks and not to be afraid of making mistakes on the way to success. We are preparing them for a world that requires courage, resilience and flexibility.

CREATIVE EXPLORATION We make learning fun. Throughout the school our emphasis is on enquiry-based learning and critical thinking which encourages creativity and a brave independent approach.

CURIOSITY We build on children’s natural curiosity by structuring the curriculum to give lots of openended activities focusing on personal and intellectual qualities such as risk-taking, reflection and initiative where there is no ‘right answer’.

Pupils come up with a multitude of possible creative interpretations and solutions. Girls gain the confidence to take risks and grow less fearful of making mistakes and learning from them.

CREATIVITY Music, drama and art are generously timetabled so girls have plenty of time to explore and develop their creative skills. Research shows how important music skills are to building other more academic subjects too.

MAKING A SPLASH The Prep School girls are taught all their PE lessons by sports specialists, and have access to the superb facilities of the Senior School, which include a sports complex, extensive playing fields and a swimming pool.

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

AN ENHANCED CURRICULUM Extra-curricular clubs and activities to appeal to all interests and developing talents. Early morning yoga gets the day off to a fantastic start, and there are various sports clubs, including football, tennis, gymnastics and ballet.

Gardening club and Forest School both get the girls exploring the expansive school grounds; and for budding linguists there are after-school clubs in French, Mandarin and Spanish.

To discover more about what makes Howell’s so special, contact Admissions Officer Chrissie Hall-Davis on 029 2056 2019 or visit www.howells-cardiff.gdst.net

WYBURN & WAYNE “We are thrilled to be Finalists in this year’s Cardiff Life Awards”

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

W

e are thrilled to be Finalists in this year’s Cardiff Life Awards, which are coming up on 23 February! We’re part of two different categories this year.

First up is our Cardiff Theatre Cafe venture, which is in the Civic category; our young volunteer at St Andrew’s Coffee Court and co-founder of the Theatre Cafe venture, Ivan, put it forward. He and the other talented bunch are responsible for it being such a success. t’s an e tension of the Coffee Court’s fundraising, where, every Sunday, theatre lovers of whatever level of talent can come and perform at the venue. It’s a safe space for people of all walks of life too – no judgement or pressure, just happy singing faces! (Unless you’re singing something from Le i in which case happy faces are odd!)

Secondly, we’re up for the Best Event Award for ride in oath, again offering that uni ue open safe space for people to celebrate their

sexuality, backgrounds, and individuality.

In other news, the Wales Millennium Centre has been smashing out the epic shows to kickstart 2023! Bugsy Malone was great fun for all the family. The stand-out for us was the awesome young chap that played Fat Sam, brilliant comedy!

Also, Strictly Ballroom waltzed its way into Cardiff, starring Eastenders’ Maisie Smith, and Kevin Clifton. Based on the iconic movie, and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, it was a spectacle. All the glitz and glamour you’d expect, plus some surprising humour and awesome vocals from Maisie. A must-see if it ever comes back around on tour.

The New Theatre has been able to boast some pretty awesome shows of late too; after a phenomenal panto run with Snow White at Christmastime, they had Cirque: The Greatest Show, and The Verdict starring Jason Merrells.

The Glee Club once again has been home to the stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race; both recent shows have been a sold-out success. The

organisers, Klub Kidz, are a great team that aim to showcase the acts, and local acts as support, in the best way possible. Jimbo (The Drag Clown) and Thai drag superstar PanGina Heals were hilarious. Nathan even got to meet PanGina and present her with a unique piece of art. She loved it! ew Wave Wrestling is now firmly at home with us at St Andrew’s URC in Roath. They hosted their third show with us and even featured former WWE NXT superstars and Tag Champions Mark Andrews and Flash Morgan. It’s family-friendly wrestling in the heart of the community. Great entertainment.

As always, stay tuned on all their social media and websites for all upcoming shows in the city.

There is so much more to look forward to, too; check out the top things we’re excited for coming up at the end of this column!

We’d like to finish by paying tribute to a friend of ours, Tony Knapman, who sadly passed away recently. He served 32 years in the NHS and was a comfort and help to so many. Rest easy now, Tony.

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 ia f ae e are a adi Cardiff i eir a d e r dre C ffee C r i Cardiff e ia @wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne

TOP 5

The Cardiff events we can’t wait for…

• Buffy Revamped, 7 February at New Theatre Cardiff • Yungblud, 16 February at Cardiff International Arena • Kinetic School of Performing Arts presents Grease the Musical, 18 – 20 February at The Atrium Theatre, • The Bodyguard, April 24 – 29 at Wales Millennium Centre • Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, 3 – 20 May at Wales Millennium Centre

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

MUSIC

© PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON; W W W.MANONHOUSTON.COM

Paradise Garden founders, David Bull and Esther Taylor

PARA-PARAPARADISE Billed as Wales’s first ‘listening bar’, Cardiff’s recently opened Paradise Garden prides itself on its eclectic sounds – from jazz, disco and psyche rock to spoken word. Here, we explore…

By Lisa Evans

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

the space giving us a great starting point to put our own stamp on the place. ne of the main aesthetic changes we wanted to implement was painting the walls a deep, dark colour to enhance the feeling of cosiness, and to allow us to get playful with the lighting in a way that could easily transform the space between a rela ed bar mode, to music performance mode.

A number of our good friends in the local community played a big role in supporting us with transforming the space, including Teg, an artist, who created the wicked mural at the front of the venue; en, who designed our logo and advised on a number of aesthetic decisions; eva, who created a number of lush illustrations for us; and anon, a photographer who’s taken some really classy venue shots for us.

T

Bamzu’s Jazz Jam residency takes place on the last Thursday of each month at Paradise Garden; INSET: the listening bar’s garden yurt

aking influence from the growing popularity of listening bars across ondon, aradise Garden is a rela ed place for music lovers. Founded by partners in life and business local D s and musicians David ull and Esther Taylor, the venue, which opened on City oad late last year, offers living room comfort complete with a hi-fidelity sound system, a D booth located in a repurposed kitchen, and a full-si ed yurt in the garden. t aims to promote artist diversity and provide a space to share the lesser represented music sounds in the city. The venue is the latest reincarnation of Cardiff’s much-loved 213 City oad space, which started out as one of Cardiff’s first vegan food spots, ilgi, in 2 . t has since been home to lue Honey ocal and Eartha before reopening as aradise Garden. ut there are new plans looming.

David tells us more You’ve been called ‘Wales’s first listening bar’ – what exactly is a listening bar, and how does it differ from ‘a bar with live music’?

A listening bar has an audiophile system (essentially a more pure and high- uality sound system) and is a place where records can be shared in hi-fidelity in a very rela ed setting. t’s a concept born out of apan and has been embraced around the world, with ondon becoming a bit of a hotspot.

We have a handmade system, built by the music collective Kolago Kult, which takes centre stage. This is the main feature of our music offering, but we also facilitate live music alongside this to get a bit more dancefloor action later in the evenings with D s.

Even though we’re a listening’ bar we try

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

not to be too pretentious, so there are no rules around people being uiet; generally, people who want to hear the music more sit near the speakers, and we have plenty of other areas of the venue for those more interested in ust casually socialising.

What were you both doing before this?

Tell us about your backgrounds…

y career background is split between music and marketing. n the music side, ’ve been running club events and launched a number of temporary club spaces for over a decade now, including co-founding TEAK which still promotes events at acobs arket in Cardiff.

Alongside this ’m also a producer and D under the not-so-elusive alias David ull. n the marketing side, ’ve worked across a number of industries, including being one of the founding team members at fast-growth Welsh fintech oello.

Esther is a singer, D and general music maker holding a D residency at The vy Asia in Cardiff and at oods adio in ristol. She is also a dedicated care worker alongside her music career, and has been for nearly 15 years.

Have you owned a bar/venue before?

This is the first real space that ’ve owned and run, with previous similar pro ects being more temporary spaces with sporadic events run under temporary licences. We’ve D ’d and produced music together over the years, but this is the first time we’ve worked together on a business as a couple!

The space has such a cool aesthetic; how did you decide how to style it?

We were very fortunate that our friend Stephen, who ran Eartha in the space before us, had already added many lovely touches to

We pride ourselves on having diverse and eclectic programming. The space often leans into downtempo, a and alearic music, moving into disco and soulful house later in the evenings. Across the D s and live bookings we’ve had so far we’ve managed to cover all kinds of music genres, from psyche rock to spoken word, synth pop and new wave to post punk and even E one of the biggest highlights for me was inviting E ew eat D Andi over from ew ork back in ovember. n terms of record collectors, we have musicians and individuals who aren’t really D s per say, but collect records including rarities or obscurities. We have them come in and share their collection over the system, not blending them like D s do but ust showcasing their collections in a very casual but thoughtful way. ur target demographic is uite wide given the breadth of music and artists we represent.

Essentially our audience consists of music nerds of all ages from around the city, and, alongside that, mostly young and middle age professionals from the oath and surrounding areas.

© PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON; W W W.MANONHOUSTON.COM

What kind of music can people expect at the venue?

© PHOTO BY MANON HOUSTON MANONHOUSTON.COM

MUSIC

Paradise Garden from the street; RIGHT: Ani Glass performing at the bar

The space has a rich history of nurturing creative communities. Tell us more…

Yes, it’s been home to a number of businesses that have nurtured communities, particularly creative ones. For over 15 years the space was home to ilgi, one of Cardiff’s first dedicated vegan food spots, but also a place that provided a space for live music, crafts, poetry, DJs and more. I’ve heard that Gwenno even had her first solo gig there after the ipettes!

The Blue Honey Local, which ran for a few years after Milgi, also provided a space for musicians and DJs, and then Eartha provided a holistic space orientated around plants and vegan food, run as a community enterprise project.

What do you think of Cardiff’s music scene?

throughout the city?

A large part of the decline in grassroot music spaces in Cardiff is a direct result of all the rising costs (rent, business rates, utilities, inventory you name it!) and the landscape of competing to survive with those costs against many chain hospitality establishments.

In terms of revitalisation, lots of new bands, producers and projects are emerging post pandemic. More and more interesting things are generally happening once again in terms of music, arts and culture. The Shift art space is a notable mention; they’ve been introducing even more experimental and creative events and have been bringing artists like Tara Clerkin Trio to the city.

More gigs and club events are happening again in lesser-known spaces such as Jacobs Market and Inkspott and, as mentioned before, orters, Clwb and The Moon have been showcasing some amazing new local talent while booking really exciting up-and-coming artists from out of town.

The city is seeing all kinds of incredibly e citing pro ects artists taking off this year, including Alice Low, Voya, Shreddies, Jessy Allen, and... Esther!

“Essentially our audience consists of music nerds of all ages”

There is a fantastic wealth of talent in Cardiff, and we’re seeing venues like orter’s and Clwb for ach really nailing some great live music programming. The electronic and underground club scene has certainly seen more diverse and interesting days, but these things often come and go in cycles and there are certainly some forward-thinking promoters doing great things, such as Headspace pushing for more gender-balanced DnB line ups, and Haws who are bringing fantastic artists into the capital while also going strength to strength with their amazing record label. ne of Cardiff’s biggest challenges is not having enough grassroot spaces actively nurturing a music scene having lost many over the last decade.

Why do you think there has been a decline in local music spaces? Do you think a revitalisation is on the cards

What is your goal with the business, and do you intend to expand in the future?

The business started out initially as a pop-up, but now we’ve proven the concept and started to build a decent following, we’re currently making plans to bed into a new space long term and grow the business.

The building we’re currently in is getting sold. We’ve now managed to extend our stay until the end of March, but this still means time is running out. We don’t yet know what the future holds for aradise Garden but we’re

busy searching to secure somewhere tasty (and permanent). We want to keep celebrating ama ing music in Cardiff and grow this scene further still.

Without being able to say too much at this point, things are starting to fall into place, and we are confident we’ll be growing our offering over the next few years. In terms of e panding our offering right now, we have started introducing food in collaboration with renowned local chef Grady Atkins (the clever mind behind the food at Bacareto among many other things). We’ve been phasing in the food gradually and aim to have the kitchen running regularly soon as our core early evening offering before the venue switches to live music / DJ mode.

Can you tell us more about your collaborations with local businesses?

As well as teaming up with Grady Atkins on our food offering, we’ve collaborated with Flowerhorn Brewery and absolutely love having their beer on tap. We’ve been (very slowly) working towards introducing a proper coffee offering, and, when we do, that will be in collaboration with Hard Lines. We’re also building a Welsh-only top shelf of spirits with bottles currently from Devil’s Bridge and enderyn; if any other Welsh distilleries read this, get in touch!

Surprise us…

In my 20s I lived in Nakuru, Kenya, for a few months and curated one of the city’s first public art exhibitions with lots of artist friends made while there! n Instagram: @paradisegardencdf

COMING UP …

• Classical pianist and composer Gwenno Morgan, February (date TBC).

• Esther, R.E.D. and Monoke, all-female DJ line up, 4 February.

• Ian Cottrell’s Dirty Pop: Rock Your (L.O.V.E) Box, 17 February • Jazz Jam nights with Bamzu, every last Thursday of the month • Quiz nights run every Thursday (bar the monthly jazz night) with regular host the Wazman.

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

EMPLOYMENT LAW Sarah Alford of BERRY SMITH LAWYERS looks ahead to the proposed legal changes within the employment field and the increased statutory pay rates which will apply from April.

The new statutory rates are as follows: • Statutory Sick Pay – increases to £109.40 per week; • Statutory maternity, adoption, shared parental, paternity and parental bereavement pay – increases to £172.48 per week; • National Living Wage (for those aged 23 and over) – increases to £10.42 an hour.

The Government has backed a number of private members’ bills which are currently going through Parliament and may be implemented in 2023/2024. These include: • Protection from redundancy (pregnancy and family leave): once passed, this bill will extend the existing redundancy protections available to women on maternity leave, to also cover a woman’s pregnancy and a six-month period after returning to work. The same protections will also apply to those employees on adoption or shared parental leave.

• Employment relations (flexible working): once passed, employees’ rights to request flexible working will be enhanced by extending the number of flexible working requests an employee can make during a 12-month period from one to two.

• Neonatal care (leave and pay): this bill (once passed) will provide parents of a child who is receiving/has received neonatal care, with a statutory entitlement of up to 12 weeks' leave (and pay, subject to having at least 26 weeks’ service). This will be a day-one right available to all employees irrespective of their length of service. Employees will also be provided with protection from dismissal or detriment due to having taken the leave.

• Worker protection (amendment of Equality Act 2010): once passed, this bill will place an obligation on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent employees from suffering harassment in the course of their employment,

Sarah Alford

including from third parties. It is also proposed to extend the three-month time limit for bringing all workplace discrimination and harassment claims to six months. n

Please contact us for more information about the changes addressed above or if you have any other employment law queries at 029 2034 5511 or employment@berrysmith.com

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

www.chalkhousekitchens.co.uk

ONE TO ONE

PHOTO BY MAT T HORWOOD

Sophie says she feels proud of what has been achieved during her time in the role

Sophie Howe has just finished her seven-year role as the world’s first statutory Future Generations Commissioner.

Here we chat about her unique role in which she has held the powers that be to account on creating a better Wales for all

By Lisa Evans www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

ONE TO ONE

D

Young creators at The Democracy Box, a project by Omidaze Productions, with Sophie (bottom right).

The Democracy Box is creating a movement for change, raising awareness about our democracy and how to get involved in Cardiff

escribed as one of the UK’s leading changemakers, Cardiff’s Sophie Howe completed her time as the world’s first Future Generations Commissioner on 31 anuary, after her astounding seven-year run.

Her uni ue role was created to provide advice to the Government and other public bodies in Wales on delivering social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being for current and future generations.

She took up the post in 2 1 and has led high-profile interventions around education reform, climate change and transport planning, challenging the Government and others to demonstrate how they are taking account.

Her interventions have secured fundamental changes to land use planning policy, ma or transport schemes and Government policy on housing, ensuring that decisions taken today are fit for the future.

She has represented Wales at the U , the ECD, and on a number of international forums including chairing the etwork of nstitutions for Future Generations. rior to this role, Sophie was the first deputy police and crime commissioner for South Wales, focusing on early intervention and partnership working. She reformed programmes on substance misuse and offender management and led the first police programme designed to address childhood adversities.

She has also been advisor to two Welsh First inisters, providing policy and political advice on communities, local government, e uality and community safety where she led the development of Wales’s first legislation to tackle violence against women and girls.

She was an elected councillor for nine years from the age of 21 and she wrote the 2 report of the Councillors Commission which led to

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

legislative reforms on increasing diversity among elected members.

She is named in the top 1 usiness Women in Wales, is a fellow at Cardiff University usiness School and Swansea University, holds an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and has a degree in law and politics. Here we chat...

How does it feel to have completed your role as the world’s first statutory Future Generations Commissioner?

’m incredibly proud. Wales is putting well-being first, and when speak to people from all over the world, they tell me we’re leading this wellbeing revolution. There’s still a lot more work to be done, and people need to be supported to make the changes that we need for a better Wales to leave to our children and grandchildren, but ’m so proud of what we’ve achieved already.

Can you tell us about the role and how you were chosen for it?

t was created as part of the Well-being of Future Generations Act, which was passed by the Welsh arliament in 2 15. was interviewed and appointed by a cross-party Senedd panel. The role was created to be a guardian of people not-yet-born, and to act as watchdog over how the Act was being implemented across the Welsh public sector.

What was your vision?

Wales faces a number of challenges now and in the future, such as climate change, poverty, health ine ualities and obs and growth. To tackle these, we need to work together. To give current and future generations a good uality of life, we need to think about the long-term impact of the decisions we make. t’s been my ob to look ahead to the future challenges and opportunities, call out the nonsense’ when those in power were doing the same old things and e pecting different results, and to work with others to try and drive system change.

Do you feel you’ve achieved a lot of what you set out to do?

I’ve always said that a new law [The Well-being of Future Generations Act] and seven years was never going to be enough to make the change we need. The first few years saw everyone going into the unknown – nobody else was doing this and people needed to get their heads around this new way of working.

Then we went into Covid and much of what I’d been recommending that was previously seen as ‘pie in the sky’ – like a basic income, where everyone is paid the same amount of money a month to meet their basic needs – was being taken seriously. Things like shifting investment away from roads towards improving public transport had never happened before, and is why our public transport infrastructure has been so poor. The Act has given us a framework for coming out of the pandemic. It’s a blueprint for a true ‘build back better’. It’s going to take a generation to achieve the ambitions of the Well-being of Future Generations Act but we can do it, and Wales is leading. When you ask people what makes you proud to be Welsh, our well-being law is up there, and that makes me proud.

As one of the UK’s leading changemakers, could you detail some of the biggest changes you made to Wales over seven years…

Children being educated via a new, future-focused curriculum, some in zero-carbon schools; people with health problems associated with wider social issues being referred to a community connector through a social prescriber programme; and energy-e ciency measures in homes to take people out of fuel poverty – these are some of the changes that Welsh Government are making as a result of this legislation.

The Act has achieved a great deal – from involving thousands of people to set out a vision of the Wales we want for the future, and then one of the Act’s biggest achievements was helping to show Welsh Government we didn’t need a £1.4bn motorway ripping through a nature reserve. Not only was that a huge moment but it led to the start of a whole new transport strategy, a 57 per cent increase in public transport and active travel.

My team’s work also helped secure the creation of the Freelancers Pledge – a £7 million fund to support freelancers working in the cultural and creative sectors in Wales, hit hardest by the pandemic – and we started a Poet in Residence programme. launched a policy to help employees suffering domestic abuse access to a grant or loan; and I was part of a movement that put a basic income pilot on Welsh Government’s agenda so now hundreds of people are benefitting from a state payment.

We’ve also changed perceptions around health to include ‘green’ policies and actions including park runs on prescription, and wildflower meadows at hospitals. The Act gives decision-makers the permission to make the connections between issues and to be bold and brave in tackling them.

Sophie says it’s taken a whole movement of champions in Wales to get this far

It’s all too easy to think some of the things the Well-being of Future Generations Act is trying to achieve are too ambitious and that you’re too small to make a difference, but ’ve seen so many small things scale up since I’ve started this job. n a global scale, a country as small as Wales is influencing what the United Nations is doing on protecting the interests of future generations.

It shows what a small and passionate nation with some progressive ideas can achieve.

What’s next for you?

I will be continuing to work on future generations. There’s an increasing appetite for other countries in the world to follow Wales’s lead, and as the first statutory Future Generations Commissioner in the world, there is learning I can share with them to help them shape how it might work in their country. I’ll also be helping to get this approach on the agenda of corporates.

Achieving net zero is a big focus for business at the moment but the Welsh framework takes that to the next level.

“It shows what a small and passionate nation with some progressive ideas can achieve”

Which parts of Wales’s culture still need the most improvements?

All of our public bodies in Wales are really starting to make an impact with people on the ground. But we absolutely must go further, we must be more purposeful in implementation as well as setting progressive policy and legislation. It’s taken a whole movement of amazing, frustrated champions in Wales to get this far, and Welsh Government has to work with them to take Wales even further.

What have you learnt from this role?

That if you think things are impossible, they’re likely to remain so; and a step in the right direction is a good thing, no matter how small.

Where in Cardiff do you live and what are your favourite places in the city?

I grew up in Ely and will always be an Ely girl at heart.

I now live in Whitchurch, where I’m fortunate to have a range of local independent businesses nearby, including Iechyd Da for zero-waste products, the Brook Bistro for an epic brunch, and the range of charity shops for some donating and buying clothes to reduce waste. like a traditional pub (shout out to Cardiff institution the ld Arcade) as much as a trendy new restaurant, but I love the increasing number of independents and social enterprises popping up in Cardiff that have sustainability at their heart. acareto, whose profits go to supporting the skate park, is one of my favourites, alongside the locally grown and sourced products at Kindle, and the best drinks and the biggest smiles at the non-profit igmoose Coffee. love Cardiff’s parks and make a lot of use of the Taff Trail and the Forest Farm Nature Reserve with my kids and dogs especially.

Of course, I also love Wales Millennium Centre; at the end of January, I hosted an event – The Future Generations Changemaker 100 – there; it highlighted some of the amazing people all across Wales who are making a positive difference and are putting the well-being goals into action every single day. n Wales’s next Future Generations Commissioner is Derek Walker.

For more: www.futuregenerations.wales

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

Jemma Friday | Associate Fine & Country Cardiff: Sophia House, 28 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9LJ

We value the little things that make a home

Tel: 07972 023777 jemma.friday@fineandcountry.com fineandcountry.com

“Such an excellent, professional and friendly service from Jemma at Fine and Country, Cardiff.

If you are looking to sell your home we can recommend no one more highly than Jemma. Diolch yn fawr” - Myra John

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

‘Sambe’, from £97 per metre, and ‘Tatami’, from £1,179 per roll, wallpapers from the Osmanthus collection by Arte International

U THE WA

The new smanthus wallpaper collection, which we spotted at Cardiff’s nteriors Etc Designs, e udes refinement and lu ury, not only through the sophisticated embroidery techni ues utilised but also due to the use of natural materials such as sisal, cotton and hemp, where the aesthetic aspect and purity of nature are in perfect balance. smanthus is a shrub with fragile flowers that plays an important role in Asian culture. From perfumes and culinary applications to legends and cultural festivals, these fragrant flowers are appreciated for their aroma, flavour and beauty.

The Osmanthus wallcoverings collection, by Arte International, is available at Interiors Etc Designs, i a Cardiff ar e i er a i a

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

EDITOR’S CHOICE BROWNIE BARS, CHOCOLATE HEARTS AND BARS, FROM £4 EACH A box of choccies from the supermarket just doesn’t cut it.

Try a little luxe.

From Cocoa Therapy, High Street, arr a era

RUBY AND DIAMOND NECKLACE, £1,195 A delicate, dainty, diamondsurrounded design.

From Pravins, St David’s, Cardiff ra i

LOVE TREE PRINT, £230 Add character and playfulness to your wall with this art piece by Catherine Stephenson. r a L d La e e ar a e ar

L IS FOR…

Valentine’s Day is coming up – a great excuse to buy someone you love (including yourself!) a gorgeous gift from the local shops

THE COVETED DUCHESS ROSE EAU DE PARFUM, £215 Sensual hints of musky wood linger in this statement scent. r e ai a id Cardiff www.penhaligons.com

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

PHOTO BY HE ATHER BIRNIE

BOLLINGER ROSÉ, £70 Serve this one with an Asianinspired salmon dish on V Day. From Glory Stores, Upper Kincraig ree Cardiff www.glory-stores.com

NESTI DANTE ROSE & PEONY SOAP, AND SHOWER GEL, FROM £6.49 Imbued with a fragrance that combines the romance of the Florentine rose with the velvet softness of peony.

From West Hampton, Penny La e C rid e e a

MERMAID PINK GIN, £44.99 nfuses the flavour of fresh strawberries, lemon zest and fragrant rock samphire.

From Shore Penarth, Windsor Court, e ar re a a

CARIAD ID NECKLACE, £75 Part of the Cariad – Welsh for ‘love’ – collection, a homage to Wales through jewellery. r ae e e e er e ar a ed e e e er

ICHI IHNINKI JUMPER, £45 If bright and bold is your love language, we’ve found the perfect jumper for you.

From Box Edit Boutique, Goodsheds, arr edi i e

PROSECCO GUMMIES, £2.55 The little black dress of the sweet world, these gummies are fun, sophisticated, and a little fancy. r ff ff i ree C rid e ff ff

CHOPARD HAPPY HEARTS BANGLE, £2,750 Perfectly combining Chopard’s talisman heart and emblematic moving diamonds, the Happy Hearts collection symbolises love for all. r Lai a id Cardiff www.laingsuk.com

WOMAN WITH FLOWERS COLLAGE, £695 Rosemary Burton was born in Cardiff and has become established as one of Wales’s leading artists working with collage.

From Martin Tinney Gallery, St dre Cre e Cardiff www.artwales.com EYE PILLOW, £10 AND LARGE CLUTCH, £49 These designs are both from the I Am Me collection at Eliza Eliza. The range promotes self-care and the importance of looking after our mental health. ai a e a e r a r ade www.elizaelizauk.com

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

FOOD & DRINK SNAPSHOTS OF CARDIFF’S FOOD SCENE

The intimate Gorse tasting menu is served every Friday and Saturday

AS A MATTER OF GORSE

PHOTO BY MAT T HORWOOD

The ie o is opening its first shop, on Tudor Street, Cardiff, soon. The vegan business made a name for itself through pop-ups and by catering for food festivals and private events, but it will now have its very own bricksand-mortar venue in a former pi a shop.

“We are still going to be doing pop ups and markets, says Sophie Scott, the owner and founder. ur ne t one will be at Scaredy Cats, Cardiff, for ritish ie Week on 12 arch.

But I had been looking for a suitable premises for about a year and finally found the perfect space back in December; we got the keys in January so everything moved very uickly.

“We will be opening our doors in une. t’ll be a little pie shop with all of our vegan classics: ‘steak’ and ale, chickn and leek, and our popular sides such as mac and cheese Vegan pies now with smoky rib ’. t have a new home will be very exciting to be able to get more creative with the menu and offer more delicious vegan options. a ra e ie ardiff

PHOTO BY MAT T HORWOOD

I ONLY HAVE PIES FOR YOU

Tom Waters

Tom Waters, a Welsh chef who cut his teeth in some of London’s top restaurants, is now creating multi-course tasting menus to rival any Michelin-star venue – and all from the kitchen of a Cardiff coffee shop.

Tom previously worked under chefs such as Heston Blumenthal and Phil Howard, and had ambitions to open a restaurant of his own Cardiff, but with the post-pandemic economic uncertainty, instead Tom launched Gorse, a pop-up restaurant all about flavour-centric food served in an unpretentious and rela ed environment.

Gorse has toured independent kitchens around Cardiff including Glory Stores, ittle an Coffee and Waterloo Tea, but as of 2023, it will enjoy an extended residency at ontcanna coffee shop and bakery, Ground, for the foreseeable future.

This latest residency allows Tom to showcase his own unique style of cooking every Friday and Saturday night, served to an intimate 1 covers per night. www.gorserestaurant.co.uk

PHOTO BY FOOD CARDIFF

SUSTAINABLE STRIVING

Food Cardiff’s Sustainable Food Places Coordinator Pearl Costello

Hodge, a specialist financial services business with head uarters at ne Central S uare has become the latest city-centre business to get behind a campaign to make Cardiff one of the UK’s most sustainable food places by 2 2 .

Cardiff already holds Silver Sustainable Food laces status the first place in Wales, and is one of only six places in the UK to achieve that standard. ow, Food Cardiff, the city’s rapidly growing food partnership, is leading a campaign to bring together businesses, thirdsector organisations, and major institutions in the city to help Cardiff reach Gold Sustainable Food laces status in the ne t two years.

With support from For Cardiff’s ( usiness Improvement District) City Ambition Fund,

a new toolkit has been created to help city centre businesses of all sizes and sectors to take actions towards a more sustainable, healthy and economically successful food system for the city.

While some pledges focus specifically on the hospitality sector, the majority of actions could be taken by any business, highlighting the potential impact that companies from across the city could have towards the Gold Sustainable Food laces goal. Hodge, for example, has committed to source more of the healthy food and drink it provides to staff and visitors from social enterprises and not-forprofits based within the city. f d ardiff

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

FOOD & DRINK

PHOTO BY TOM ROKITA

3 THINGS I ENJOYED EATING & DRINKING THIS MONTH...

2

A veggie breakfast burrito the size of my fist from Hard Lines Coffee Shop, Canton.

3

Halen Mon ‘Popeth’ seasoning – a salty, garlicky hit of flavour – perfect on top of poached eggs, picked up at Canna Deli, Pontcanna.

NOT A COCKLE FAN? Here are three tips for eating more local Welsh produce in 2023, whatever you’re in to…

PHOTO BY MAT T HORWOOD

1

An oat milk flat white (and some pellets for the hungry ducks) from Lufkin Coffee, Thompsons Park.

PHOTO BY OWEN MATHIAS

PHOTO BY TOM HAM

PHOTO BY OWEN MATHIAS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Matsudai Ramen’s hiyayakko; Cardiff Market; Milkwood cockles; The Food Programme which inspired this month’s column; Milkwood in Pontcanna; Welsh Food Stories book; inside Matsudai Ramen in Grangetown

• Use your local farmers’ markets: These offer a chance to meet local producers face to face and buy directly from small businesses. Alternatively, get to know your local butcher, fishmonger and greengrocer, and find out more about where your food comes from.

• Eat at independent restaurants: Independent restaurants often have access to the best local produce – ask about their local suppliers!

• Learn about seasonal food: If you know what’s in season, you’ll know what to look out for on restaurant menus, at local markets, and in the supermarket too.

Want to know more about Welsh food traditions? Check out Carwyn Graves’ brilliant book Welsh Food Stories.

For more www.carwyngraves.com

IN GOOD TASTE

I

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…

’m always harping on about the benefits of eating Welsh produce; we’re lucky to have a bountiful larder to choose from here in Wales, and it’s better for the local economy and the environment, too. ut a recent episode of the BBC’s The Food Programme has opened my eyes to an ingredient often overlooked.

The 3 -minute episode brought presenter Sheila Dillon to our iconic Central Market to chat with Ashton’s Fishmongers about the delicious world of ritish shellfish (a sustainable food source we should all be making more of)

and in particular, Welsh cockles. nce widely popular in South Wales, cockles have fallen out of foodie favour in recent years, but as local chefs and restaurants introduce new audiences to their salty-sweet taste, there is hope that we could see Welsh cockles become a local delicacy once more. f you fancy giving this traditional treat a try, you can pick some up from Cardiff arket and scoff them straight from the container, simply dressed with a little vinegar. ut if you fancy seeing what our local chefs can do with them, pay a visit to Milkwood in ontcanna where classic bacon, cockles and laverbread on

sourdough toast is a brunch menu staple; The Heathcock in landaff illage for a baked lemon sole with sea lettuce butter and cockles; or Matsudai Ramen in Grangetown, where a fusion of Welsh- apanese cooking pairs local cockles with silken tofu, chilli oil and soft strands of pink pickled ginger the dish, called hiyayakko, proved so popular as a recent oneoff, that ne t month, it becomes a permanent menu item.

A traditional Welsh delicacy firmly back in vogue t’s enough to warm the cockles!

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

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

RECIPE

WHAT’S COOKING?

SMOKED LEEK VINAIGRETTE, PIQUILLO AND OLIVE SALSA, BURNT ONION Serves 4–6

The Tapas Y Copas cookbook – by brothers Owen and Tom Morgan, the force behind Bar 44 on Westgate Street, and Asador 44 on Quay Street, both in Cardiff – is packed with over 100 Spanish recipes. Here’s one of our favourites, featuring that classic Welsh staple: leeks!

Ingredients 3 large leeks For the burnt onion 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 tbsp light olive oil For the salsa 4 roasted piquillo peppers (preferably D.O. odosa from avarra), finely diced 10 purple olives (preferably Cornicabra), pitted and finely diced banana shallot, finely diced 1 plum tomato, seeded and finely diced 1 chives, finely diced 1 quantity Moscatel vinaigrette (see below)

centre when pinched with tongs. Or, instead of cooking on the BBQ , place the leeks on a hot griddle pan over the hob, on high heat.

Blacken all over, regularly turning, then transfer to a 200ºC oven for 15 minutes to finish cooking through. Set aside and cover while they cool for a couple of hours. . eel off and discard the blackened outer layers of the leeks, then cut each clean leek into six pieces.

5. Place the salsa ingredients in a bowl, add a liberal amount of the vinaigrette and some sea salt and mix well.

Plating up 1. Arrange the leeks neatly on plates or in shallow bowls. Add a little more vinaigrette and leave them to absorb for 10 minutes.

2. To serve, spoon the salsa over the leeks and drizzle with any dressing remaining in the mixing bowl. Garnish generously with the burnt onion powder. www.grupo44.co.uk

PHOTO BY MAT T INWOOD

For the Moscatel vinaigrette Makes 800ml 200ml Moscatel vinegar Juice of ½ orange 1 tbsp caster sugar 250ml light olive oil 250ml extra virgin olive oil Sea salt

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC/180ºC Fan/ Gas mark 6. Line a roasting tray with baking parchment.

2. First make the burnt onion: place the sliced onions and olive oil in a saucepan over a medium heat and cook, stirring regularly, for 30 minutes. Transfer to the prepared tray and place in the oven for 20 minutes, until the edges are becoming scorched. Move the tray to the bottom shelf of the oven and lower the temperature to 50ºC. If your oven doesn’t go that low, turn the heat to its lowest setting and prop the door ajar with a wooden spoon. Leave the onions to cook overnight.

3. The next day, set the onions aside to cool, then transfer to a blender and blitz until almost a powder, bittersweet and black. Store in an airtight container until needed. Light a charcoal barbecue and wait until the coals are turning white at the edges. Place the leeks directly on the coals and cook them, turning occasionally, so that eventually they are completely blackened and soft in the

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

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THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN

2023 LOADING The conference for entrepreneurs and business leaders is returning as a live event this June CONCEPT: greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk COMMERCIAL: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk CONTENT: claudia.butler@mediaclash.co.uk

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PONTCANNA PLACE n every issue of Cardiff Life, we take a peep inside a stand-out local property on the market. This time it’s a supremely stylish period townhouse on Cathedral Road, Pontcanna Li a 48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

a

P

ontcanna properties are what dreams are made of, that’s what a friend said to me the other day, and she’s not wrong. You simply cannot help but gaze up at the tall, robust, imposing homes as you walk or drive along the tree-lined streets.

The leafy suburb is without a doubt one of the most fashionable places to live in Cardiff. t’s a uent, exclusive, trendy and regularly described as a ‘city village’, because it has everything a neighbourhood could possibly need. There’s beautiful architecture, independent shops, incredible restaurants, sophisticated coffee shops, society-gathering caf s, verdant parkland, and it’s a but a wander away from the city centre.

A supremely stylish, spacious semi-detached period townhouse, notably well-placed midway along Cathedral oad, has ust come on the market, and was thrilled to be invited for a look around, if not just for a ‘picture me living here’ moment.

Upon swooshing open the feature original hard wood front door, the roominess of the grand and elegant

PROPERTY

reception hall, with its beautiful traditional tiling and ornately decorated ceiling, grabs me as soon as enter.

The si able three-story benefits from a plethora of modern enrichments from air conditioning and underflooring heating, to a mod-con kitchen that have tastefully transformed the property while retaining the impressive original features, giving the home a distinctive character all of its own. ack to that contemporary, open-plan kitchendiner for a moment; it features a bespoke island, boasts a built-in wine cooler, spotlights and integrated appliances, and the most impressive bit, think, is how it opens out onto the landscaped garden. get a little belly flip picturing my summer weekends here ( ’m adding it to my vision board when get home). t seems the ideal place for hosting and spending time with family. The generous space, with its with bi-folding doors, allows for all-out socialising and special memories to be made. n to the first floor, where there are three double bedrooms including The aster (it only feels right to cap that up), which benefits from a dreamy dressing room and an en suite with a deep corner bath and a double-si ed shower cubicle.

And, would you believe it, there are three more

double bedrooms up on the second floor, over a split level, featuring a recently upgraded modern bathroom and enviable easy-access storage (note to self, must move the bo ed-up Christmas tree and decs into my poky loft when get back, it’s February for God’s sake).

A striking front garden and welcoming path create an impressive entrance to the home, while, at the back, a low-maintenance, landscaped garden with artificial grass and a patio sun-terrace beckons. The property even has its own mini car park a secure electric gateaccessed one at that.

And if you get a bit bored of being cooped up (but let’s be honest, you wouldn’t, would you ) the chic location places you at the centre of it all whether you’d like to partake in the hubbub of some of the hottest dayto-night food and drink spots around; or you fancy a carefree aunt surrounded by greenery; or you’re a creative soul who feels happiest at Kings oad ard market, which is stuffed with artists, makers, music and events; or the elite facilities of Sport Wales ational Centre call to you; or even if you want to take yourself off to the centre of Cardiff for the day. All of this you can do on foot; ah, the simple oys of not having to park or rely on public transport. Dreamy.

HOUSE NUMBERS Where Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9LN Bedrooms 6 Bathrooms 3 Price Offers over £1,150,000 Details Semi-detached, versatile accommodation, walking distance to amenities, three parking spaces Agent Hern & Crabtree, Pontcanna Office, 219 Cathedral Road, CF11 9PP, 029 2022 8135; www.hern-crabtree.co.uk

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

NIPT AND ME LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR PREGNANCY Planning a pregnancy and being pregnant is an important time but also a time of uncertainty and anxiety for many. INNERMOST HEALTHCARE are here to help...

A

lthough many pregnancies are unplanned, there is an opportunity prior to getting pregnant for women to optimise their health and the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Consider issues such as stopping smoking and alcohol consumption, adopting a healthy diet and managing your weight, taking folic acid, checking your blood pressure and talking to your GP about any health issues like diabetes, epilepsy etc.

PRENATAL SCREENING IN THE UK

Currently in the UK all pregnant women are offered an ultrasound scan and a hormone blood test (Combined Test) around 11-13 weeks of pregnancy to screen for Down Syndrome, Edward Syndrome and Patau Syndrome. These are genetic conditions due to an extra copy of a chromosome e.g. chromosome 21 in Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21). These conditions are associated with learning difficulties, heart and structural developmental problems, miscarriage and stillbirth. They are also more likely to occur in babies born to older pregnant women.

Those with an increased chance are then offered a blood test called NIPT which can analyse DNA from the pregnancy which is circulating in the mother’s blood stream. If this shows a high chance of the baby having the condition then amniocentesis would be offered.

This is a diagnostic test based on a sample of fluid taken from the pregnancy sac. This test, however, carries a 1:200 risk of miscarriage. This approach to screening can only identify about 85 per cent of pregnancies where the baby has one of these conditions. This is because only those with a more than 1:150 chance are offered NIPT and / or amniocentesis.

NIPT TEST

Some people will choose to have NIPT directly as it is a more reliable test than the Combined Test with a 99 per cent detection rate for Down Syndrome, Edward Syndrome and Patau Syndrome. PANORAMA NIPT can be done from nine weeks of pregnancy and works for twins.

Another advantage of the PANORAMA NIPT test is it can screen for a wider range of genetic conditions and identify the sex of both the 50 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

baby or babies if twins. Not only can it identify the chance of having extra chromosomes but also the chance of having certain missing parts of a chromosome (microdeletions). One of the common microdeletions is due to a missing part of chromosome 22 called Di George Syndrome.

Babies with this condition have an increased risk of heart defects, cleft palate, immune problems, seizures and learning difficulties.

Not all NIPT tests are the same and some of the more advanced tests such as PANORAMA use artificial intelligence and advanced laboratory testing to analyse the results making them even more accurate and allowing them to identify a wider range of conditions. They can also identify some pregnancies at higher risk of placental problems, miscarriage and poor growth in later pregnancy that may benefit from closer monitoring.

THINKING ABOUT TESTING

When thinking about screening in pregnancy, people often consider how frequently the

condition occurs, how it will affect the baby and what it would mean for them and their families. It also helps them to make specific plans of care for babies who might need them.

For more information about NIPT and our testing services, please get in touch or scan the QR code below. n

Innermost Healthcare.

Ashtree Medical Clinic, 3 Ashtree Court, Woodsy Close, Cardiff, CF23 8RW Email clinic@innermosthealthcare.com Tel: 03331217121

PHOTO BY OWEN MATHIAS PHOTOGRAPHY

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

Get ready to celebrate the great and good of the city at the Cardiff Life Awards, on 23 February at City Hall. In this special preview, we meet the judges, showcase our Finalists and take a look back at last year’s glittering ceremony www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 53

© OWEN MATHIAS PHOTOGR APHY

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

Get ready to meet the next Cardiff Life Award Winners in February

When: The Cardiff Life Awards 2023 take place on Thursday 23 February Where: City Hall, with the afterparty at Kuku by Park Plaza Categories: There are 22 Award categories ready to be won Sponsors: 13 Fields, Bupa Dental Care, Cardiff City Football Club, Cardiff Life, Cardiff Property Awards, Cardiff Rugby, Clockwise Cardiff, EntreConf, Genero, Glamorgan County Cricket Club, Lexus Cardiff, Park Plaza, Safehands Recruitment, and Crumbs Tickets: Last ones available on our website now, and selling out fast with huge demand.

T

he Cardiff Life Awards is just around the corner! Our annual event, which has been running since 2014, is the most prestigious, most tightly contested Awards ceremony in the city, with the greatest number of local companies involved. And it is the absolute highlight of our year.

The nominations closed in January and, once again, we were blown away by them – not just by the sheer number of entries (there were hundreds), but by the strength, quality and depth of them.

We’re constantly astonished by the genius, innovation, creativity and determination within our city.

The Finalists have now been announced (see page 62) and all 20+ categories – from arts to retail, wellbeing to restaurant, education to charity – are bursting with much-loved and respected organisations. The shortlist represents a snapshot of the best the city has to offer, and, at the ceremony itself, this is felt in real life. With everyone dressed in their finery, gathered at City Hall, the positive, anticipatory vibe and the strong feeling of

community underneath it all is palpable.

So who will win? Our independent panel of judges (all of whom you can see on page 55), chosen from various sectors of business life for a balanced array of minds and voices, will decide.

It’s a painstaking process, each entry poured over, discussed and debated. It’s never an easy decision, but that’s part of the excitement. Winners will be announced live at the Cardiff Life Awards on 23 February at City Hall.

Across all of the industries, every year we discover fresh talent, celebrate excellence and create meaningful community connections as we come together to celebrate another group of fantastic Finalists, and raise a glass to our Winners.

Everyone comes along hoping to win, of course, but in the end, whether they go home with a trophy or not, they leave with a sense of something gained.

This might be the potential for a new business partnership or simply a reminder of the vital role we all play in the evolution of the city we love. t’s time; get your glammer-than-glam outfit and dancing shoes ready, and prepare to celebrate the very best of Cardiff. r re ardi ifea ard

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

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CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

THE JUDGES WILL DECIDE…

Every year, there’s a fresh panel of impeccably impartial and independent judges for the Cardiff Life Awards.

It’s a diverse and knowledgeable group from a wide variety of sectors and sizes of business. They, and they alone, decide who the winners will be…

CHARLOTTE VICK, relationship manager at Principality

ALISON ETTRIDGE, CEO at Stratigens

Alison has spent over 20 years in the world of people and talent – from her first job in executive recruitment, to talent research and intelligence, where she spotted the opportunity for Stratigens, bridging the gap between strategy and execution with data.

Charlotte has extensive experience providing funding to property developers and investors, and currently manages relationships with over 50 commercial lending clients. She joined Principality as part of the Welsh Financial Services Graduate Programme, gaining experience with multiple employers in Cardiff’s financial services sector.

JULIE WARREN, marketing director at Propel Finance

Julie has almost 40 years of experience working in the financial services sector, having spent 30 years in roles at Barclays Banks PLC. She has emerged as one of the leading direct sales and marketing consultants for UK commercial financial services companies.

Aline has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality and tourism, across six different countries. She has applied this expertise to the serviced offices sector and considers happiness to be the marker of success, striving to make the most of her time and the people around her.

IMTAYAZ QASSIM, founder at Imtayaz Qassim Studio

CHRIS LEEKE, managing director at Hensol Castle Distillery

Chris has a wide range of experience across manufacturing, retail, hospitality, property and IT. Hensol Castle Distillery produces a range of award-winning gins, offers a visitor experience, and operates as a contract manufacturer for a number of spirits brands from around the world.

MANDY POWELL, founder and CEO at The Goodwash

Mandy sketched her initial idea on a Post-it Note five years ago and has since grown Goodwash into a profitable business, valued over 1.2 million. Mandy is an ex-Welsh International athlete and has over 11 years’ experience at Pfizer, as business and marketing director.

ALINE MOREIRS GONZAGA, general manager at Clockwise

Imtayaz is a designer, creative director and visual storyteller. With a BA and MA in fashion design, he has been working in the industry for 11 years, carving his own path that led to setting up his private design studio on the coast in Barry.

TIM PRICE, general manager at Toyota

NICK SAUNDERS, owner at DEPOT

Nick is the brains behind grassroots, multi-purpose venue The DEPOT. The venue has established itself as the city’s ultimate warehouse events space.

Nick’s portfolio also includes the city centre mini-golf bar and restaurant Par 59, and annual one-day festival, DEPOT in the Castle.

Tim has over 20 years’ experience in the automotive industry. In that time, he has won several awards ranging from dealership of the year, general manager of the year, most profitable dealership, and for delivering an outstanding customer experience.

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

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

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AWARDS THROWBACK A LO O K BAC K AT O U R 2022 E V E N T

Helen Rouse

PHOTOS BY AGA HOSKING AND OWEN MATHIAS W W W.AGAHOSKINGPHOTOGRAPHY.COM W W W.OWENMATHIAS.COM

Tegan Aspden Nathan Palmer and Emma Hares

Lucy Darbyshire, Kat Cotterrall and Ffion Williams

HIT REWIND

Always a night to remember, the Cardiff Life Awards 2022 was a supremely joyous affair. Last year’s event took place in March at City Hall and was an epic showcase of success throughout the city. It was a night filled with extra-special moments and was, once again, without a doubt, the most glamorous event in Cardiff’s annual calendar. It sells out every year and sees hundreds of people – from local businesses, organisations, charities and projects – coming together to celebrate each other’s achievements. It’s one of the biggest networking events in the capital too, with unlimited potential connections and relationships to be gained. Bring on the Cardiff Life Awards 2023, on 23 February at City Hall. Tickets available now. www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk Andrew Chongsathien

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

Nick Byrne

Mumtaz Meghjee, Ana Riola, Katy Tennant, Naomi McLennan, Emma Layton and Simon Mason

Hannah Livesey-Ingham

Ian Johnson and Chris Worwood

Aled Williams and Liz Williams

Chloe Babel

Cheers for Absolute Performance’s win

Sophie Puet, Gemma Aitken, Myky Webb and John Sartain Emily de Beaux and Will Rees-Hole

Wayne Courtney

Sarah King and Louise Gibson

Tim Price and Darryl Evans

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

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

Nyree Myers, Rachel Evans and Helen James

Mike Oswald, Ashley Jose, Kevin Jose, Martyn Lewis, Jaime McCallion and Diane Nettleton

Menna Rees, Rhian Reynolds, Emma O’Donnell and Emily Cotterill

Margaret Waters and Wendy Hobbs

Amelia Mansell, Darren Crockett, Hywel Glynn-Jones and Shannon Matthews

Daniel Slocombe, Glenys Jewell, Ben Evans, Louisa Evans, Robert Harry and Aimee Roberts Agi Grzegorzek, Michael Bateman, Martin Rees, Rachel Rees, Abbie Waters, Richard Rees, Jon Rees, Abbie Davies and Wendy Vickers

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

Dino Hodzovic and Bethan Keeble

Naomi McLennan and Emma Layton

Paul Christopher, Ellie Richardson, Dan Lea and Alex James

Our host Nigel Owens

Tomos Methven Cardiff Life editor Lisa Evans

Jessica Doolan and Katie Carlisle

Emma McNamara, Kimberley Lewis, Jamie Aherne and Sam Tulloch Cicelie Vobe and Manon Houston

HEAD TO CARDIFFLIFEAWARDS.CO.UK TO SEE THE PHOTOS FROM THE FINALISTS’ & SPONSORS’ RECEPTION

Lisa Newberry and Alex Brown

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

BEAUTIFUL

BATHROOMS ...and THE TAP END BATHROOMS designers who created them!

I

t is no secret that this team love a bathroom. It is their unrivalled passion for creating beautiful spaces that sets them apart from other bathroom stores. A bathroom is not just another room; it is a space that requires careful planning and consideration so that you can relax after a hard day at work, wash away your worries or prepare for the day ahead... so with all of that in mind, lets see what they have been creating.

“Sometimes “ you get a client who has exactly the same personal taste as you, and that is what this project was for me. I loved working with my clients to create a calming, serene master ensuite, with a huge walk in shower and touches of black for contrast.

The room had a complete reconfiguration and now looks spacious and bright but cosy at the same time, perfect for walking up bright and early as well as winding down before bed.”

Joanna Prosser, designer

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

“This project was a pleasure to work on; from the tile selection to the placement of the ambient lighting, I wanted the overall results to be pretty and feminine. The quality of the goods in this room are second to none and the textured exterior of the bath looks amazing in the evening with the up-lights. Little details like the dark legs on the vanity add a touch of contrast, and the shape of the mirror works with the shape of the window for consistency. I have done a number of rooms for this client; it is always an honour to be asked to help with an important space such as a master en suite.

I always try and give my clients what they want, but with a few unexpected elements and design touches that they would not have though of themselves.”

Zoe Curtis, designer

“I love what I do so much because of the diversity in client briefs and project needs. The brief for this project was to turn a cloakroom into a shower room, and do so in a traditional style. Working with small spaces is my niche, I absolutely love wowing clients with what is possible, even in a tiny space! I specified soft greens and neutral tones for this room, and designed in the arched tile detail behind the arch mirror for some interest. Even tiny spaces deserve a bit of design love!”

Justine Bullock, co creator and designer You can read reviews, all from genuine clients, via our Houzz account, Facebook and Google. We pride ourselves on our service and products and are always thrilled to hear from clients about their experience. If you are embarking on a bathroom project, we would love to hear all about it, contact us in store to see if we may be the right fit for you. n “When my clients explained to me that they wanted an open-plan en suite into their bedroom, I knew that I could create something special for them. Rather than having everything completely open-plan and on show, I designed two walls where I housed a double basin on one and a radiator on the other, I then joined the two partitions with glass shelves, which can be used for decorative items. Behind the walls is the WC which is concealed from the rest of the room for privacy. I would say this layout is more ‘broken plan’ than open-plan, and I am thrilled with the results.”

Daniella Fantini-Griffiths, designer

The Tap End, 57 Llantrisant Road, Pontyclun, CF72 9DP 01443 449056; www.thetapend.design f thetapend  thetapend.design  The Tap End  TheTapEndDesign

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 65

Dr Kathryn MBBS MRCA FCAI

“Nobody should feel guilty for wanting to look their best.”

Dr Kathryn is not only a skilled, highly experienced doctor; she is also a woman in her 40s who wants to look good – very much like many of her clients. She is authentic and honest, having had many of the treatments she offers, and is always ready to share her own experience.

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Dr Kathryn is fully insured and a member of the British College of Aesthetics (BCAM), and is GMC and Royal College of Anaesthetist (RCOA) registered.

Email: drkltaesthetics@gmail.com Mobile: 07738757508 Drkltaesthetics  @Dr_Kathryn www.drkathrynaesthetics.co.uk

Under the umbrella of Boomerang Cardiff, there are now FIVE sections to the project: • Homelessness/ Prevention of Homelessness

“No one can help everyone but everyone can help someone”

• Poverty, In Work Poverty/ Critical Living Conditions • Community Engagement / Education • Social Isolation/Loneliness • Health/Physical Wellbeing

Scan & Donate

It’s the city’s business

CARDIFFWORKS Alex Egan, chief exec of Yellow Sub Geo

IT WAS ALL YELLOW ellow Sub Geo td has secured a significant new investment from private investors and the Development Bank of Wales to support the launch and growth of its Yellow Sub Hydro digital water technology business.

The new investment will support the development and further commercialisation of Yellow Sub Hydro’s Periscope product.

Periscope is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) modelling environment which provides simulations for water resource management at catchment scale.

Combining the power of cloud computing with applied mathematics, hydrology and data science, Periscope enables catchment-scale water modelling setup and cycle times to be drastically reduced from years to days. It has been developed as a technology to drive more meaningful stakeholder engagement and to democratise access to data across sectors heavily reliant on water resources such as industry and agriculture.

“These are hugely exciting times for us aboard the Yellow Sub,” says Alex Egan, chief exec of Yellow Sub Geo Ltd, “with Periscope

now poised to make a material impact at the nexus of population growth, climate change and the fourth industrial (tech) revolution.

We firmly believe that providing actionable information to key stakeholders in water, at scale, internationally and across multiple sectors and industries has the potential to be transformative in the race to build adaptation and resilience into our society’s delicate life support systems.”

For more: www.yellowsubgeo.com

(TED) X MARKS THE SPOT Ideas worth spreading are back in the city as TED Cardiff returns for 2 23 and now at its biggest ever venue. Expect fast, inspiring talks on subjects such as tech, entertainment and design, with speakers from both far-afield and from Cardiff itself. See it at St David’s Hall on 11 February.

For more: www.ted.com

DOCK OF THE BAY

The Dock is set to relaunch

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Genesis Biosciences has made a key appointment at its Cardiffbased headquarters to support the development of its extensive ecofriendly microbial product range.

Kate Ledwoch has been appointed as senior scientist and will aid Genesis in its research and development lab, supporting the implementation of cutting-edge technology into new and existing products.

For more: www.genesisbiosciences.co.uk

director of Croeso Pubs. “We felt that if we jumped in and took over the bar, we could really make a difference and turn it around and so decided to go for it.”

Fellow director Simon Little adds, “It is a massive venue that has huge potential, and we can’t wait to get it open again and return it to its rightful place as the number one venue in Cardiff ay. We are offering all former staff members their obs back, as well as creating around 2 more full time and part time positions.”

At the time of writing, the pub is yet to relaunch, but by the time you read this, doors are expected to be open.

For more: www.croesopubsltd.co.uk

Senior scientist Kate Ledwoch

PHOTO BY TOM DAVIES @TOMAESH

Croeso Pubs has taken over the lease of The Dock in Mermaid Quay. The South Wales pub chain which already runs five city centre venues, including The Philharmonic, Retro and Brewhouse, has added former Marstons Brains pub The Dock in Cardiff ay to its portfolio.

This isn’t the first rains pub that Croeso Pubs has taken over, as it refurbished the former Goat Major pub on High Street, opposite Cardiff Castle, and reinstated it to its original name, lue ell, in 2 21. remember when the pub The Dock first opened, how busy it was and how key it was to any night out in Cardiff ay, so we were very sad when we heard that it was closing,” says Craig Davies,

TESTING, TESTING

PROPERTY SYMPOSIUM

CITY OF THE FUTURE CONFERENCE What will be different about cities in 2030 and 2040?

What impacts are there now for planning, developers and architects? How has the pandemic accelerated thinking?

21 APRIL 2023. M SHED, BRISTOL SCAN HERE TO SIGN UP

• Top level keynotes • Stimulating panels • Networking with region’s leading property companies To partner with this exciting event for our region, contact cardifflifecommercial@mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY MA XINE EVANS

CARDIFF LIVES

“It will make you feel incredibly proud to be Welsh” has huge passion for his ob and the iners ale oice Choir he conducts. He cares greatly for people.

What does Blaze of Glory! mean to you as a production, and what should people expect?

JEFFREY LLOYDROBERTS

This month, The Welsh National Opera will debut Blaze of Glory!, a production which follows a group of Valleys’ miners and their male voice choir. Here we chat to its lead, Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts Welsh National Opera’s (WNO) Spring 2023 Season will open this month with the world premiere of its new opera, Blaze of Glory!, celebrating the Land of Song and how community spirit can triumph over adversity.

Set in the 1950s, it tells the story of a cluster of Welsh miners as they embark on a musical journey to reform their male voice choir to raise spirits following a mining disaster.

The opera sees the miners and a group of strong-willed women, led by their heroic chorus master Mr Dafydd Pugh (Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts),

embark on a series of brilliant adventures.

Traditional Welsh harmonies will blend with the a cappella sounds of the 1950s, operetta, gospel and big band as the intrepid gleemen lindy hop their way to glory. It’s a feel-good performance set to make your heart sing.

Here we chat to tenor Jeffrey, who has been working professionally in the operatic world for 30 years.

Hi, Jeffrey! Could you tell us about your character, Mr Daffyd Pugh?

He is a proud Welsh miner. He

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t’s a celebration of much of what it is to be Welsh. t is based largely on, and includes actual events from, Welsh history. t taps into our incredible male voice choir tradition and the poetry and music that, thanks to our heritage, still runs in our blood. E pect to be blown away by the glorious forces of W at the height of their power. The choral singing will send tingles up and down your back.

We expect it to be a very emotive, moving production for Welsh audiences…

This piece will have a big visceral impact on anyone who comes to it; many laughs, but also tears. ts story of hope, love and community spirit will resonate deeply all with audiences. As a Welsh person, you will recognise every one of the characters they could be your neighbours, your family, or yourself. t will make you feel incredibly proud to be Welsh.

What have been some of your biggest achievements and best career moments to date?

aking my debut with W in 1 was a big highlight, as was singing the tenor solos in Handel’s Messiah at the oyal Albert Hall conducted by Sir David Willcock in the early s. Singing the title role in hylida loyd’s incredible production of Peter Grimes for pera orth was the most thrilling e perience ’ve had on any stage in the world. The show won many awards and believe

firmly that was born a singer to sing Grimes in this production. t was a spiritual e perience for me.

When did you first realise you could sing?

have always loved to sing since a young child in primary school.

Singing the solo in Once in Royal David’s City at Troedyrhiw, my home village, was my first public performance, when was 11 or 12.

Do you come from a family of singers?

don’t at all, but have it on good authority that my greatgrandfather, owlly, had a very fine tenor voice and it wouldn’t take much encouragement for him to give a heartfelt song.

Tell us about your many Cardiff connections…

’m in Cardiff almost every day; teach singing at Cardiff University and the oyal Welsh College of usic and Drama.

And my brother, the actor Steve Spiers, lives in hiwbina.

What are some of your favourite spots in the city?

recently moved back to Wales after being away for 3 years. Cardiff is a fantastic and beautiful city. To be rehearsing daily for Blaze of Glory! at the Wales illennium Centre in Cardiff ay is wonderful. Also, visiting the castle in the city centre and walking in ute ark are both winners for me!

What topic could you talk about for hours...

Singing, oh and RuPaul’s Drag Race. n

See Blaze of Glory! at Wales Millennium Centre on 23 February, and on 10, 14 and 18 March; www.wno.org.uk