indigo 21.06.12
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Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
indigo
Indigo Editors: Alexandra Groom & Molly Fowler indigo@palatinate.org.uk
contents
editor’s letter
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rankly, I can’t believe we’re already here: the final issue of the year. This time in any educational environment is always a little bittersweet. You want the fun stuff to hurry up – but you know you’re going to lose a whole year group’s worth of friends, that if you’re perfectly honest with yourself, you probably won’t see the majority of again. I’m really going to miss the graduating Third and Fourth Years. Durham is lucky with its size and college system which allows much more of an intermingling of students than a big city university. Well, some might not call it lucky, and probably won’t miss it. It does significantly increase the chance of awkward encounters, because, if you don’t want to see someone, you are almost guaranteed to find yourself standing behind them in the queue for Tescos at the next possible opportunity. It doesn’t matter what kind of awkwardness you’re suffering from (drunken mistakes, ‘forgetting’ to turn up to their birthday party, unknowingly told their best friend what you really think about their new hair…) It is the single most squeamish situation known to students. Awkward shuffling as you try to escape with a basket full of stuff you don’t want them to know you buy. (Cheesestrings? Really?) I urge everyone to read Marina Keegan’s “The Opposite of Loneliness,” an article she wrote in the Yale Daily News just before graduating, tragically passing away not long after. She absolutely hits the nail on the head, describing her campus environment as “the opposite of loneliness”. Many here across the ocean feel the exact same fear; being scared of leaving the shelter of knowing many people in many different ‘circles’, who give you that safety net of belonging, at least to someone, something, somewhere. I’m now left with this paralysing fear as I stumble, Bambi like, into being a Third Year. Where is my safety net of the older years? What if I mess up? It’s my housemate who’s Senior Man next year, my friend who’s President of the Netball Club. And me? I feel like a monkey at a typewriter. It’s my year group who are those people I looked up to back in October 2010. It’s not quite the ‘real world’ just yet for me, but I have a sickening number of friends off to do internships or graduate jobs this summer who do fall into that category. And yet, having said that, it seems so exciting. That moment when you get off the tube with the rest of the commuters, and you don’t feel your right to be there is being questioned. It’s great being at the bottom again: the only way is up. I’m excited to bump into someone in 10 years time, maybe in a different country, and recognise them from that random social we shared. We are a very social university. I genuinely believe that students leave here as some of the most well-rounded. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, agreeable small talk is not likened to rocket science, and sport is at one of the highest levels in the country. Apart from our literal education and degree, that is what Durham does for us: turns us into normal humans, able to take on the world outside the ‘bubble’ with genuine skills and the right amount of fear. Good luck to all those about to experience that, see you on the other side. AG
On this day:
1791: King Louis XVI of France and his family begin the Flight to Varennes during the French Revolution. 1854: The first Victoria Cross is awarded. 1900: Boxer Rebellion: China formally declares war on the US, United Kingdom, Germany, France and Japan. 1940: The first successful West to East navigation of the Northwest Passage begins in Vancover, Canada. 1948: Columbia Records introduces the ‘long-playing record album’ at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York. 1982: John Hinckley is found not guilty by reason of insanity for the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan. 2004: SpaceShipOne becomes the first privately funded spaceplane to achieve space flight
Page 3: Midsummer Moments: Justina Crabtree takes a look at one of Shakespeare’s finest plays.
Page 4&5: The Big Durham Bucket
List: indigo provides you with the best mustsees and dos in Durham before you graduate.
Pages 6&7: Jam by the lake: We bring you all the best bits of this year’s Jam By The Lake, despite the weather.
Pages 8&9: Hydromatic wardrobe: Getting rid of
the dirty laundry in style this summer.
Pages 10&11: Sizzlin’ summer cooking: Belinda Davies shares her hilarious summer cooking experiences with indigo.
Page 12: Viral ads: Ed Owen takes a hard look at the use of viral ads in the wake of new film Prometheus. Page 13: Playing around: indigo reviews Semele and muses over Shakespeare’s long-lasting appeal to students.
Pages 14&15: Rule Britannia!
Ellie Ross advises on creative summer holidays, and all without leaving our beloved Britain.
They said what? “We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere” - Tim McGraw
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
books
Books Editor: Justina Crabtree books@palatinate.org.uk
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Anyone for summer Shakespeare? Justina Crabtree encourages us to embrace a wooded world of magical mayhem
Finding love in hopeless places is one of the themes raised by Shakespeare’s play Illustration: James Crosland-Mills
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his summer, and every summer, Castle Theatre Company pays homage to everyone’s favourite bard, performing a play by William Shakespeare in authentically open air. With a production involving 16 Durham students, this season sees the launch of the romantic comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The occasion takes place in the Fellows’ Garden of Castle, before being relocated to Crook Hall, a beautiful and atmospheric venue perfectly suiting the fairy frolics of the play. Castle Theatre Company focuses on the contrast between mystical and mortal worlds, as producer Paul Moss describes his interpretation of the play as having “magical surprises” in store. However, as we all know a lit-
tle too well, Durham’s summer weather appears to have lasted a grand total of approximately ten days. Just what exactly is a keen theatre-goer to do when frequent showers threaten to disrupt a show, and you’ve forgotten your brolly? Whilst thoughtlessly battered tomes of Shakespeare’s plays may seem relegated to dusty classroom bookshelves for so many, his works maintain a constant popularity on the stage. Could it be that this summer, Shakespeare’s endless appeal to director and actor translates into an unexpected but genuine affection from the rest of us as readers? For those of you that are new to A Midsummer Night’s Dream, or else have forgotten the work’s plot – perhaps firmly ar-
chiving it in the deepest realms of your memory alongside vague evocations of painful and petty year-nine exams (SATs, anyone?) – the play takes place in the murky darkness of a wood just outside of Athens. A Midsummer Night’s Dream involves the collision of three separate stories, all equally medalled in by the mischievous fairy Puck. His liberal usage of love potion complicates relationships between four young lovers, fulfilling the play’s famous claim that, “The course of true love never did run smooth.” Meanwhile, the king and queen of the fairies feud, and a group of manual labourers argue over the production of their own play. As Shakespeare experiments with forging connections between characters
from very different worlds, fairy magic is required to unpick the chaos it creates. Much of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is concerned with decidedly silly misunderstandings, as Puck exclaims, “Lord, what fools these mortals be!”. However, upon closer inspection, the play reveals hidden complexities. The fairy realm concealed within the gloomy forest is presented as a place of near anarchy, as human free will and rationality are negated by the employment of magic. The lovers’ individual identities become absorbed into the play’s impenetrable backdrop, as Puck’s intervention manipulates their thoughts. Furthermore, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a work that explores the power struggles
between individuals, particularly men and women. Feminist interpretations of the play prevail, as Shakespeare portrays a patriarchal society placing restraints on just who exactly young girls are allowed to fall in love with. Meanwhile, fairy king Oberon causes his wife Titania to become the subject of trickery and ridicule, as she refuses to submit to his will. A Midsummer Night’s Dream allows Shakespeare to explore the powers of the imagination, and the importance of poetry in realising our desires. It is claimed at the play’s resolution that, “imagination bodies forth / The forms of things unknown, the poet’s pen / Turns them to shapes and gives to airy nothing / A local habitation and a name.” Yet although the work is clearly a fantastic visual spectacle, the most important drama arguably takes place in the audience member’s – or reader’s – mind, as we interpret events and attempt to form our own conclusions. The play is, above all, about escapism, as characters attempt to create their own realities. Puck transfers this sense of dreaminess and wish-fulfilment onto the unsuspecting audience, explaining that, “you have but slumber’d here / While these visions did appear.” However, reading too is an exercise in escapism, as we permit ourselves to believe that, just for a short time, the world of our imagination is real.
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Fairy magic is required to unpick the chaos it creates
The consistent relevance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream may well be its understanding of the importance of fiction and fantasy for each individual. So why not embark on your own very private (and free!) getaway this summer, and enter Shakespeare’s ethereal world where nothing is as it seems.
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Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
features
The Durham Feeling just a little bit nostalgic, indigo has created the ultimate to-do list before you say goodbye to Durham forever Climb Durham Cathedral Tower Top of everyone’s To Do List before they leave Durham is a trip up the Cathedral’s famous tower. Of course, legend, rumour and superstition dictate that this can only be done when you have graduated. Whether it’s just the relief of climbing up all those stairs or the metaphor of scaling academic heights, once you reach the top of the tower the feeling is one of immense achievement. Look out over the city which has been home for three years and remember the good, bad and ugly times as you pick out all the familiar landmarks. Tip: Wear shoes with backs, the church wardens are sticklers for not letting people climb up with inappropriate footwear. After coming so far it would be a shame not to accomplish such a feat because of flip-flops.
Tour of Durham Castle
While you might have been to a few formals there or experienced the delights of the Undie on a Mondie, how many of us have traversed the ancient halls and delved into the history of Durham Castle? Originally the Bishop of Durham’s residence, the Castle is truly one of the most endearing images of Durham. Appearing in Harry Potter and housing an impressive collection of military paraphanalia, you’ll be guided through the Norman Chapel, Tunstall’s Chapel and the famed “flying“ Black Staircase (try navigating that after a few quaddies!) If nothing else, it’s an opportunity to see why so many Castle-ites boast about where they live!
Botanic Gardens It might seem like somewhere you’d take your Nan to when she comes up to visit, but the Botanic Gardens is one of the best places to quietly contemplate your time at Durham. Stroll through plants from all over the world, from China to North America. Prepare yourself for the humid jungles of SouthEast Asia on your gap year or post-uni holdays with a trip through the glasshouses. There’s even tropical bugs, spiders and scorpions so you’ll know what you’re coming up against! On a rare sunny day, why not have a picnic in the grounds, away from the ever-crowded riverside? Entry is free for students so make the most of it while you still can!
strappy Summer Ball dress. Tip No. 2: Bring a boy. Let’s face it, after a bit the
Boating on the River
With Durham Uni known for its Boat Club and the Wear, boating on the river is a definite item for the Bucket List. What better way to spend a couple of hours on a sunny day than combining a tanning opportunity with (light) exercise. Whether you go down the traditional route and pick the Browns boats (with an onboard picnic?), or go ‘a la Hatfield’ and wing it with an inflatable, this Durham tradition is bound to banish a few hours of boredom. Tip No. 1: Wear sun cream! Although it is the North of England, you can get caught out by the rays, especially with the reflection of the water. Sunglasses/t-shirt marks are not a good look with that
Full College Bar Crawl One of Durham Uni’s selling points is its collegiate structure, and so before you leave you must take advantage of this set-up. By this, I’m not referring to the “vibrant, supportive community full of opportunities” which the university boasts on the official website, I’m talking about the bars. A line of bars with pints as cheap as £1.20 does not exist in the real world, and so a full college bar crawl must be included on the Bucket List as one of the things you should do before you leave the Durham Bubble. Tip No. 1: Start at the top. No one wants to walk up the Hill when you can barely even walk in a straight line. Bite the bullet and make it easier for yourself as the night goes on. If all else fails, you could always roll down… Tip No. 2: Consider fancy dress. Part of the fun of a full bar crawl is to look like an idiot, plus you can pretend you’re part of a really cool society. St Chad’s Badminton Club, anyone?
Eating and Drinking
novelty of rowing the boat will wear off, and so you need someone to take over. Anyway, boys love impressing the ladies…
There are a few places in Durham that you simply cannot avoid if you are a student or even a visitor here. La Spaghetatta, commonly known as Spags, which its also home to Fabio’s bar on the upstairs floor, is unmissable - the pizza
is cheesy, the pasta portion is huge, you can get huge bottles of wine and best of all, it is super cheap. If you like cocktails, then Ebony and Whiskey River are worth a visit, especially when they have 2 for 1 offers; or if you like strong cocktails at real student prices then the aforementioned Fabio’s is the best of the bunch. Lastly, you must go to Zen. Zen is a Thai restaurant nestled in a little courtyard just behind The Court Inn and offers sumptuous, authentic Thai dining at a fair price if you go for the lunch menu, which ends at 6pm on Sunday to Thursday and 5pm on Friday and Saturday.
Sarah Murray, Natalie Carnachan and Catherine Bradfield And a few extras to tick off the list if you have time! • A Quaddie in Klute • Swimming in the river (or if you don’t fancy that, take an inflatable) • Getting a free coffee after filling up your YUM card • The Bourbon cocktail from Ebony • Trebles from Jimmy’s • Dancing to S Club 7 and ‘That’s Amore’ at the end of Klute • Tea or coffee in Vennels, the oldest cafe in Durham • Tobogganing down Cardiac Hill • Cakes in Cafe Continental and Saddler’s
Photographs: Top-Bottom, Durham CathedralCornell University Library, Klute - Flamingo, Boats - Nicoletta Asciuto
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
Features Editor: Sarah Murray feature@palatinate.org.uk
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Bucket List Things to do further afield... because let’s face it, Durham is only a small city! Alnwick and Alnwick Castle Alnwick is a small, pretty market town and is home to the famous Alnwick Castle and gardens. Alnwick Castle is the ultimate destination for Harry Potter fans as makes up part of Hogwarts in a number of the films as well as having featured in other films such as Blackadder and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. The Alnwick Garden is certainly worth a visit, mainly for its amazing and rather magical Treehouse Restaurant which is in fact, as the name suggests, found in a treehouse. The Treehouse is the largest in Europe and the restaurant is one of the most extraordinary in the world, with the menu featuring locally-inspired food sourced in Northumbria. It is a little pricey but even a student budget could stretch a little for a special occasion. Alnmouth, 15 minutes away from Alnwick by taxi, is the closest train station and is a direct train journey North from Durham.
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh castle is a little further away from Durham but definitely worth the effort, Chathill is the nearest train station. It is built high up on a rocky plateau overlooking the Northumbrian coastline; its domineering presence is really quite breathtaking. It is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country and is open all year round, daily in spring and summer and for weekends only in winter. The vast expanse of creamy, fine sand that the castle overlooks is worth a visit in itself just to
get a different perspective of the castle. As a horse lover I highly recommend going on one of the beach rides available from the nearby Slate Hall Riding Centre - there is no better feeling than galloping along the sand, surrounded by stunning views and the brooding Bamburgh Castle in the background.
Lumley Castle
the closest. It is a colourful and dramatic landscape with miles of coastal paths. One of the most well-known destinations along this coastline is Seaham which boasts one of the oldest churches in the country and whose rugged vistas inspired Lord Byron. The Northumbrian coastline is also infamous for its vast expanses of pale sand and
Lunch in the renowned Black Knight restaurant at the enchanting Lumley Castle is a great option; the current offer for 2 people of 3 courses for £35 is fairly unbeatable. The castle is a popular venue for glamorous society events such as Wine Soc’s Christmas Ball as well as holding Elizabethan Banquets and Murder Mystery nights if you fancy something a little different. Situated in Durham it is very close to Chester-LeStreet and therefore not too taxing on the bank account with regards to travel.
High Force
For the lucky ones among you who do have a car in Durham then High Force waterfall should definitely feature on your bucket list. As England’s highest uninterrupted waterfall it has quite a powerful presence as the water crashes 70 feet down into a plunge pool. A woodland walk leads you to its rather secretive location; as you begin the descent down the gentle slope, the well-maintained path twists and turns giving a different view every few yards. The muffled rumble suddenly turns to a roar as you finally see High Force in all its glory.
Hadrian’s Wall
Angel of the North
Admittedly there isn’t much to ‘do’ as such with regards to The Angel of the North but if you are passing then it’s worth going up to the massive structure to appreciate just how big it is. The contemporary sculpture by Antony Gormley stands 20 metres tall and its location offers good views of the surrounding countryside. It’s free and makes for some great photographs.
The Beaches of Northumberland There are numerous incredible beaches to choose from in the area so we’ll start with Durham’s Heritage Coast as it is
You will definitely need a car to reach it but it is well worth the effort. Grassy sand dunes fall dramatically down to a huge curved stretch of white sand and blue water that spans as far as the eye can see.
powerful seas and is a designated area of natural beauty. A personal favourite has to be Druridge Bay Country Park.
Hadrian’s Wall is a defensive fortification that was built in Britain in the Roman era under the rule of Emperor Hadrian. If you fancy a challenge, you could attempt to walk the length of it as many keen walkers do. If not, then visiting one of the forts along the wall is the best option and gives more of an idea about how and why it was built. Housesteads is the most complete Roman fort left in Britain and is set high on a dramatic escarpment with panoramic views and features the only stretch of wall that you can actually walk on top of. For those without a car, head to Newcastle by train and pick up the AD122 bus which will take you along the length of the wall.
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne In 635AD St Aidan, who also gives his name to St Aidan’s college, founded a monastery on Lindisfarne and the ‘spirituality and tranquility’ recognised by its inhabitants is what attracts so many visitors to it. The mystery of Holy Island is added to by the fact it is tidal and can only be reached at certain times of day, so if you go and visit, make sure to plan it carefully as the causeway that links the island to the mainland becomes covered. The nearest train station is Berwick-upon-Tweed and there is a public bus service that operates from the station to Holy Island. If you do visit Lindisfarne do not forget your camera- the land and seascapes really are beautiful.
Night Out in Newcastle
Known as one of England’s best party destinations, a night out in Newcastle is something to experience! A cheap train ride away and you’re greeted with an eclectic taste of everything Geordie. For those wanting a classy night, head over towards the east of the city, near the river. Those wanting an authentic Geordie night on Toon head straight to the Gate. The lads and lasses frequenting this part of Newcastle are something to behold, you might even spot one of the Geordie Shore crew! The only thing that hurts worse than a Newcastle hangover is the price of a taxi home.
Catherine Bradfield and Sarah Murray
Photographs: Top-Bottom, Alnwick Castle-Dalekwidow, Angel of the NorthWorcester_Red, St. Aidan statue at Lindisfarne - Nick Hubbard
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Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
music
Rain falls hard on a humdrum town Jam By The Lake 2012 soldiered on in spite of the terrible weather Patrick Bernard pulls up a cushion and lends indigo his ears
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t was that time of the year again, as Van Mildert put on its best and opened its doors for Durham’s favourite music festival by a lake. It was of course Jam By The Lake 2012, that time-honoured student event at the end of the music calendar, and those in the mood for music and outdoor fun in the sun came from every corner. The weather was not quite as willing to play nice, and heavy rain the night before had the festival run for cover. Nevertheless, the show must go on, and even if a little behind schedule, cast and crew rallied for an agreeable afternoon. A few familiar faces began the festivities as singer-songwriter Samuel Idwal and, something of a chameleon, Nick Wallis took to the ever-so-slightly raised platform and caught the
end of brunch in the Mildert dinner hall, the crowd subdued at first by the last bits of their Weetabix. It was to remain an event beset by mealtimes. Already some strong slap-bass work from the Nick Wallis band accompaniment, however, of which there was in fact a great deal over the course of the day. I was glad of the resurgence. After breakfast The Quays took it well and truly downtown and played that funky music. All set to please the crowd, I do at one point recollect the happy marriage of ‘Sexy and I Know It’ and ‘Seven Nation Army’. Wiggle indeed. Neo-classical stoner rock collective Myrmidons took it back uptown before The Bluebuds gave us a little piece of the Appalachian Trail and a nice spot of mandolin.
Treason Kings (formerly Black Water) got the crowd going, or at least as much as it was going to at half three in afternoon, by which I mean polite head nodding and foot wagging. Long hair, big flares and loud noise all went down a treat, apart perhaps for the equipment which threw in the towel in the middle of their last song. Twenty minutes, an emergency generator and a burger later, power was restored, and the band was able to finish their protracted set, this time without blowing a fuse. Whether it might have been the comfy sofas, a convenient rug, the handful of beanbags on the floor or just extreme sloth, it was an occasion that was very much sat down. Despite the best efforts of Leeds boys Scams and their friendly, Skins generation indie
music and a very deep scoop neck t-shirt, the crowd were reluctant to abandon their seats to pull some intrepid shapes in the large, empty oval space that was left.
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A bright sunshine sound and a busy rhythm section put the weather aside and brought a good few to their feet
Homegrown talents Wires, winners of Mildert Battle of the Bands, played out the penultimate set to a warm reception. A generous turnout at this point,
and every possible surface was sat upon. Headliners Vinyl Jacket were well worth something of a wait at the end (something to do with technology). Second Mildert appearance for the jaunty art rock set and a glad contribution to the lineup. A bright sunshine sound and a busy rhythm section put the weather aside and brought a good few to their feet. There was even a song about a koala at one point. A pleasant way to end a pleasant day. I can’t say that it was the best Jam, unfortunate weather and tech conditions were not helpful, nor was the advent of the chair. But in face of adversity it pulled through. Good bands and good music, that’s what it’s about right? Plus I had a really comfy spot on a sofa. I left before the raffle I regret to say.
Treason Kings prove a strong adversary to the music equipment Photograph: Mat Ladley
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
Music Editor: Jess Denham and Will Clement music@palatinate.org.uk
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Devolution on the Geordie shore Jess Denham subjects herself to the north-east’s take on a summer festival at Evolution Evolution 3rd-4th June
Dizzee rascal showing why he is a universal crowd-pleaser Photograph: NRK P3
««««« Jess Denham
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f this was a review based purely on a wholesome, family-focused festival experience, Evolution festival would struggle to secure a single star. However, the calibre of the musical acts, balanced by the low price of the ticket, just about cancelled out the negatives. At a mere £35 for a weekend of top notch music, it is unsurprising that summer after summer, Evolution never fails to pull in the crowds. This year saw the organisers ditch the stage across the bridge (the scene of many an underage riot in bygone events), and focus instead upon bringing great acts to Spillers Wharf and Ballast Hills. Previously a grassy haven for the chilled, folky scene, Ballast Hills was transformed into a dubstep force field featuring the likes of Toddla T, Shy FX, Jackmaster and Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs. The latter churned up an enthused response during his live Monday performance, wearing a trademark prehistoric headdress in electric blue and enlisting the raunchy assistance of two ‘dino dancers’ in black lace catsuits. Fortunately the sound seemed For all of you who were hoping for a scorching summer, only to be drenched in disappointment, here are a few songs guaranteed to brighten up your last days in Durham: Girls—Lust for Life I wish I had a sun-tan and a pizza and a bottle of wine too. Brian Eno—Deep Blue Day You can swim in this song.
Sleigh Bells—Rill Rill Cruising, hand out of the car.
to have been cranked up from the previous day when DJ Fresh suffered from ridiculously low decibel levels. “It’s gonna get, it’s gonna get, it’s gonna get… quieter” would have been more appropriate lyrics for his chart-topping hit ‘Louder’ as the crowd began a frustrated chant of “turn it up.” One festival-goer from Durham aptly commented, “If you can’t hear the music, it’s just not that great,” and indeed, before long, people abandoned Fresh to secure prime positions for Dizzee Rascal’s main stage appearance. Dizzee unleashed the high levels of energy expected of such a renowned live performer,
blasting out hit after hit to eager young fans who took every opportunity to attempt to create a ‘mosh pit’. Standing still was no longer an option if you wanted to remain upright, as testosterone levels surged and fights broke out left, right and centre.
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Testosterone levels surged and fights broke out left, right and centre
Another Durham student experiencing the delights of Evolu-
Otis Redding—(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay Just the best thing ever.
tree with the sun setting in the distance. Rad.
Stan Getz and João Gilberto—The Girl from Ipanema A tall and tan and young and lovely song. Bossa Nova.
Summer Camp—Better Off Without You Another band who have taken our favourite season as their mantra.
Jurassic 5—Concrete Schoolyard For your maxing, relaxing and shooting of hoops.
Best Coast—Crazy For You The album cover is a cat sitting in the ocean next to a palm
The Stranglers—Peaches Walking on the beaches, looking at the peaches. I don’t think they mean the fruit.
Panda Bear—Bro’s Good vibrations.
tion for the first time observed, “These people are so angry.” Sitting down upon the tarmac car park in between sets is a somewhat traumatising experience as grasping your cider to your chest as if your life depends upon it becomes an act of paramount importance amid a raging sea of underage drinkers, broken bottles and chunder puddles. Yet despite an array of possibilities for scathing criticism regarding the festival’s aesthetics, the music was hard to fault. Rizzle Kicks inspired a summery vibe with ‘Mama Do The Hump’ and ‘Down With The Trumpets’ while Noah and the Whale encouraged a
sing-a-long to modern day classics such as ‘5 Years Time’ and ‘L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N’. Benjamin Francis Leftwich seemed drastically out of place amid the dance dominated lineup yet thanked his supporters for sticking around despite the dodgy weather to hear his manand-a-guitar offerings. Leftwich provided a welcome pause in the fast-paced rush of the festival, with ‘Atlas Hands’ and ‘Pictures’ receiving particularly warm receptions. Deadmau5’s closing performance on Monday night drew arguably the largest crowd of the weekend and reminded sceptics why Evolution’s slightly controversial take on ‘festival’ is worth a chance.
RJD2—Ghostwriter A suitable atmosphere for the summer.
Straight-up pop loveliness. Happy Mondays—Step On Twisting melons since 1990.
Supergrass—Alright Everything is alright and don’t you forget it. Feelgood and carefree in equal measure.
El Guincho—Palmitos Park I don’t know what he’s saying. But I’m sure that it’s nice.
summer playlist
Primal Scream—Loaded We want to be free, we want to be loaded, we’re going to have a party. I could not agree more.
RAC—Hollywood (Feat. Penguin Prison)
Japanese Motors—Singe Fins & Safety Pins A song about the beach, always a safe choice.
Anything and everything by The Beach Boys.
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fashion
Clockwise from top leftKaty wears: Sheer shirt (American Apparel, £52) Customised dip dyed/studded shorts, made to order by Olivia Swash Blue wedges (New Look, £24.99) Chloe wears: Baroque bralet (Topshop, £18) Customised shorts made to order, as before Shoes model’s own. Pink sunglasses (Topshop, £16) Mint applique midi dress (Miss Selfridge, £68) Katy and Chloe as before.
) Photographs: Tom Weller and Yargi Erel
Director: Olivia Swash Assisted by Caroline Perry & Lucy Flascher
Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
Summer S T
he beautifully retro Old Cinema Launderette in Gilesgate began life in 1928 as a cinema named The Crescent before shutting down in 1958. As a big part of the history of the surrounding area, it now serves as a fully functioning launderette whilst being transformed into an intimate gig space on evenings. Acoustic bands of many varieties play to a small crowd against the quirky backdrop of vintage posters, velvet curtains and kitsch accessories. The venue also boasts a café with cakes, coffee and old school snacks, while a BYOB policy exists. They even do free pick-ups and drop-offs for laundry for students, with Hatfield and Cuth’s being particularly good customers. Richard and his wife wanted to reflect the history
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
Fashion Editor: Olivia Swash Deputy Fashion Editors: Ella Cole & Sophia Chan fashion@palatinate.org.uk
Spin Cycle... of the cinema, with the amazing art deco architecture as a perfect canvas. The refreshing aspect of a sociable trip to the launderette is epitomised in the Old Cinema, shown through photos displayed on the wall of the cinema in its heyday. Richard proudly declares it as “the most beautiful launderette in the country”. Words by Sophia Chan
Chloe wears: Sundress (Kelly Brook at New Look, £39.99) Shoes model’s own. Left- Chloe wears: Blazer (River Island, £35). Shorts and shoes as before. Extreme left- Katy wears: Mint appliqué sheer midi dress (Miss Selfridge £65) Wedges as before. Armband stylist’s own.
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Thursday 21st June 2012| INDIGO
food & drink
Copious carbonara in a bid to feed the five thousand Photograph: Flickr ID: Greg Hirson
The perils of too much fun
Every summer, Belinda Davies earns a living by cooking for families. Exhausting, challenging, but very entertaining, indigo gives you an amusing insight into a very different summer job
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woke up to a tinned tomato shortage on ‘the big day’ – a BBQ for three families, all with multiple offspring, the makings of a day full of ‘tremendous fun’. I set about my mammoth burger-making task, squelching the meat between my fingers and creating tiny balls of bread crumbs, egg yolk, and grated cheese, and piled them all up into a mound on a plate which I cling-filmed tightly and put in the fridge. I laid the tables with the standard children/adult separation (something that I resented from about the age of seven onwards…), scrubbed the tables, threw together some salads, and was scrubbing the potatoes – when suddenly a schoolbus-load of children descended upon the house. Car doors flung open, children started shrieking with excitement – absolute carnage.
My heart sank as I watched the scenes from my sink window. Today was going to be one of those days where I had to dig deep and wear my smile like an item of new and rather uncomfortable clothing. Being ultra-organised, I was ready to kick off from midday; how naïve of me. At just gone 3pm, Mr casually sauntered into the kitchen and suggested I ‘get cracking’ with the BBQ. I choked. Barbeques are for men! I certainly had zero experience in this department, and sheepishly admitted as much. He said he would show me what to do and ‘leave me to it.’ Thankfully I was saved from potential embarassment by a horde of men flocking to the barbeque whilst clutching their sixth glass of rosé, and before I knew it they miraculously seemed to have things under control. At about
4pm, the children buzzed back over and I mentioned the word ice cream – and immediately regretted it. What a scene erupted, what a commotion – screaming, yelling, fists pummelling the table. I scurried back into the kitchen and produced ten bowls, ten spoons, a tub of ice cream and a bowl of raspberries (com-
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As I had planned in my mind, the men flocked to the barbeque clutching their sixth glass of rosé.
pulsory). I gritted my teeth and adopted my maternal persona:
“Ok George now what would you like? One scoop of ice cream? Two?! Ok well mind you don’t jump straight in the pool after then. Now what about some of Granny’s delicious raspberries?” I then retreated inside to the calm of the kitchen, and positioned myself squarely in front of the sink. The conversation outside was clearly hilarious and sparked huge guffaws from the husbands, and titters and peals of hilarity from the wives. I, meanwhile, was having difficulty in supporting my weight with my two inadequate and exhausted feet, and was beginning to sway. At 5pm, I began to dare to wonder when this party would be over. I snuck upstairs for half an hour’s peace and quiet, and sunk back onto my bed. My feet were pounding. Just after half past 5, Mrs came and knocked on my door. They’d had
a marvellous idea. Everyone was going to stay for tea! I dragged myself downstairs in a bid to emulate Jesus, feeding what was meant to be three but instead was increasingly heading towards ‘the five thousand’. The first miracle was that Mrs’ sister-in-law, it appeared, only ordered spaghetti in bulk, so I pulled out a couple of huge packets from the cardboard box, and in a dazed state of overwhelming fatigue, placed a couple of rashers of bacon in a small pan on the Aga. Mrs came in, and in an attempt to be tactful, asked whether, actually, I might need a bit more bacon than that, and why didn’t I use a bigger pan, or indeed, place it in a tray in the Aga. I agreed; she had a point. I whisked up half a dozen eggs, furiously grated an expensive block of Parmesan on top of them, with some Ched-
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
dar for good measure, a splash of cream, and heaven forbid, some salt and pepper. I added the strips of bacon, and began dolloping it gracefully into the bowls all lined up on the island. The yummy mummies then came, or rather, staggered in, to help me with delivery to the hungry monsters. As I mopped the beads of sweat from my weary brow, I heard a small voice pipe up a request similar to the famously bold appeal from Dickens’s Oliver Twist, and I generously thought that granting one child seconds would harm no one. Before I knew it, all nine of the rest of them had come rushing into the kitchen, shouting, “I want more I want more, me first, give me some first!” I blinked, and mechanically reached for my serving spoon, each dollop landing even more gracefully than the last. Perhaps they weren’t even eating it - I don’t know what else they could have done with it in so short a time span, for less than 30 seconds later they were
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They’d had a marvellous idea. Everyone was going to stay for tea!
back, and I was scraping the last 2cm strips of spaghetti from the bottom of the pan into the smallest child’s bowl, who was last. I was incredulous. Not only had I had to perform a miracle at this emergency feeding, and had been slaving away all day, but they actually had the audacity to demand more. Externally of course, I laughed and joked at the “little tykes’” appetite, and apologised that I could not dish up forty bowls of carbonara; perhaps they’d like to advertise for someone who could next year. Sitting at the kitchen table at 9pm with my head in my hands, they were all still there, clearly in the midst of what in my opinion is one of the most dangerous hazards imaginable – ‘too much fun’. As the sun set in the sky, or in fact long after it had done so, the ‘little rascals’ clambered reluctantly into the backs of their four by fours, and the cries of “darling, so good to see you, terrific day, thanks a million” were uttered, and finally, I was free to crawl upstairs under my duvet, and hope to never come out.
Food & Drink Editor: Belinda Davies food@palatinate.org.uk
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Laid-back lunches, Spanish style
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long with ham festivals and being tanned, lunch is something the Spanish do well. I should know - having interned in Madrid for the past nine months, I am firmly and finally settled into this city’s rhythm. Time here is an elastic concept; days fuse into one another and the temporal frame has an entirely different structure. Or rather, lack of structure. In terms of Hispanic clichés, mañana syndrome is up there with bullfighting and Pitbull, but it does have an element of truth. Here, it is never too late to do anything. Just too early - and eating is a case in point. Whilst most of Europe chooses to break to eat at 12:30pm or 1pm, the Spanish have barely finished breakfasting. Lunch though, when they do finally get round to it, is not just a dash to Prêt. Generally, it is a couple of hours long (my break is from 2:30pm to almost 4:30pm), and this is a chance to sit, unwind, catch up and de-
tach. Restaurant terraces fill with office workers and waiters circulate salmorejo, huevos rotos or arroz con sepia. The floors of tapas bars are slowly covered by used napkins (as is tradition here), and bar tops empty of jamón and croquetas. Boots Meal Deal this is not. Now that the military schedule of exams has finally drawn to a close, it makes sense to adopt the approach Español. After weeks of bleak moments in YUM (hello egg and cress for the fourth time this week), you deserve to make the most of the lunch break. So why not take your time preparing this fresh and zingy summery lunch, and channel your inner Spaniard by taking several hours to eat it (preferrably with a pitcher of sangria). These are sunny flavours that really work. This pea paste (tastes better than it sounds…) is a vibrant hummus-style mix of lemon, olive oil and mint - with the soft mozzarella and garlicky toast, it couldn’t
A light and tasty summer lunch Photograph: Kirsten Riddick
get much more summery. Durham weather may not be as consistent as Mediterranean climes, but it has its moments, so embrace them while you can - and take your time!
1 ball of fresh mozzarella (Buffalo if you’re going all out)
(enough for two as a starter or light lunch)
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Pea, Mint and Mozzarella Bruschetta
Ingredients: A couple of large handfuls of fresh/frozen peas (obviously if you can get fresh, this will be better, but I know I never had fresh peas casually lurking in my fridge when I was living on Hawthorn last year...) A few sprigs of fresh mint Basil (optional) Juice of half a lemon (or lime) Lemon zest Sea salt Black pepper Half a garlic clove Good olive oil Bread (preferably sourdough or farmhouse style)
Method: Boil your peas until tender, then plunge into cold water. Drain. Move to a bowl and start to crush (if you happen to find a pestle and mortar now - as you do - this is the time to use it). Once you’ve got a coarse paste, add a bit of finely chopped garlic, lemon zest and lemon juice. Then the fresh herbs go in, along with enough olive oil to loosen it up a bit. Add sea salt and black pepper and combine everything. Once you’ve got the peas to a consistency you can put on bread, get your toast. Rub lightly with the other half of the garlic clove and drizzle with a bit more oil. Pile on the crushed peas. Slice mozzarella and top the peas with it. Scatter with more fresh mint, and enjoy! Kirsten Riddick
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Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
film & tv
Film & TV Editor: Ed Owen film@palatinate.org.uk
Fassbender’s android, posing questions about human nature Photograph: 20th Century Fox
Viral marketing and the Promethean problem Edward Owen looks at the use of viral advertising in the wake of Prometheus’ promotion and release
J
une 1st was one of the seminal moments of the film year, as grand old stager Ridley Scott returned to his sci-fi roots with Prometheus, a prequel to the film that made his name, Alien. Fans looked on with a sense of enthusiastic trepidation. Whilst Scott had managed to bottle lightning twice in this arena with the aforementioned Alien and the magnificent Blade Runner, his thirty years away presented a very long time in which he could have lost his touch. Such concerns were
not abated by the revelation of late changes to Spaihts’ original script by Lost writer Damon Lindelof, resulting in massive thematic changes from the original Alien film. Concerns were assuaged by the release of two seperate virals in February and April. The former consisted of Guy Pearce’s industrialist, über-mensch character giving a speech at a tech conference laced with Humanist themes, arguing that technology has made us into gods, with the ability
to build new life in the form of androids. The second featured a disquieting Michael Fassbender as such a creature, preaching a message of emotional detachment and ominous pragmatism. Both presented Promethean undercurrents, hinting at an impending sense of comeuppance for such hubris, and they did so in an intelligent manner, dovetailing neatly with the plot of the film - a mission to discover humanity’s creators, believed to be technologically advanced beings from another world.
However, when the film was released, it appeared muddled, the themes hinted at in the virals becoming marginalised in favor of a hack’n’slash affair, with the more overt humanist topics such as religion sidelined for a potential sequel. This leads to a curious position; while the film works excellently on its own terms as a formulaic sci-fi horror built on nuanced performances (much like the original Alien), the virals hinted at so much more: an exploration into the human condition, and a
transcendent message about the cost of Nietzschian ambition. What we received paled in comparison to the mythic film anticipated. The result is somewhat ironic; the virals have arguably committed a Promethean sin themselves, adding a potentially intriguing dimension to a film that couldn’t support it; they attempted to synthesise the structure of Alien with the themes of Blade Runner, and have been punished by falling short of both.
Make no mistake about it - The Raid: Redemption is pure action from start to finish. In many ways it resembles a modern take on the Bruce Lee martial arts films of the early 70s, and yet unlike its muchvaunted source material, The Raid eschews their slow sense of mysticism in favour of a tremendous arsenal of weaponry and and a visceral, wincing intensity. Such break-neck pace leaves little time for plot intricacies, an approach which first-time Welsh director Gareth Evans takes to with gusto, offering little pretense in terms of plot. Instead, the storyline Evans offers is admittedly spartan in nature: aside from a brief introduction to the characters and some
minor plot turns later on, his film operates as one long, unapologetically violent ‘set piece’. The plot, such as it is, goes like this; our hero and protagonist Rama (Iko Uwais) is part of an elite Indonesian police team attempting to thwart a drugs gang which uses a 30-floor block of flats as a base. Obviously, in true Die Hard style (another of The Raid’s myriad influences), it all goes pear-shaped early on, resulting in a bloodbath, changing the agenda from apprehending a criminal to simple survival for the handful of officers still trapped in the building, whilst constantly under attack from machetes, guns, fists and feet.
It must be noted that the action is sensational, capable of making even jaded action-viewers ooh, ahh and flinch involunarily in their seats as action cliché is thrown out the window in favour of the Silat-inspired set-peces, resulting in blisteringly fast and beautifully co-ordinated fight scenes, much akin to dances. Each time one enemy is disposed of, a new partner steps in to the fray to be dealt with in an equally artistic manner. Those who criticise The Raid for its lack of plot do so unfairly; this is simply not an issue, as the film keeps us entertained without. The story is linear and basic, but that is exactly what is needed to set up the fantastic fight scenes, which are the main purpose of
the film. The tension and emotional investment come naturally as any chances of survival in this gruesome charnel house become increasingly less likely. A particularly gripping moment comes when Rama persuades two residents to hide his wounded comrade as they are being hunted down a maze of corridors by a group of huge villains with machetes. This scene surely provides one of the most gasp-inducing moments in cinema history. The fact that the film is subtitled is of little consequence, as dialogue is used sparingly, often taking a back seat to the insane combat on display: guns and fists are very much left to do the talking, and they are indeed incredibly
fluent. It’s a case of one fist being worth a thousand words. The violence is graphic and incessant, as though each character has to die in a different way to the one before him. The film’s body count being as high as it is, we witness some bizarre and gruesome deaths. Also notable is how well-shot The Raid is. Instead of reverting to the now typical shaky-cam and close angles, Evans moves the camera back in order to sweep us up in the wonderful choreography of the hand-over-mouth action scenes. Non-stop action, against-theodds survival and a pulsing electronic soundtrack make The Raid the most exhilarating action flick in recent years.
30 Floors of Violence: Rory MacDowell winces through much-hyped Filipino film The Raid: Redemption
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
stage
Seducing the gods
Stage Editor: Anna Bailey stage@palatinate.org.uk
Photograph: Catherine Scutts
Gabriel Samuels reviews Durham Opera Ensemble’s latest passionate offering Semele
Durham University Debating Chambers
««««« Gabriel Samuels
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lthough he composed over forty operas in his long and distinguished career, the writing of ‘oratorios’ for Covent Garden’s Theatre Royale were George Frideric Handel’s main concern in 1743 when he wrote his seminal opera Semele. Based on the classical myth of the mother of Dionysus and Bacchus, Semele is consequently something of a wolf in sheep’s clothing, an oratorio dressed up to look like an opera yet retaining all the choral magnificence and variety of a concert piece. Following the libretto of playwright William Congreve, Semele charts the plight of a young Boeotian woman ensnared in the wills of competing gods. The first act opens in the Temple of Juno with the marriage of Semele to the ineffectual prince Athamus, where the bride confesses her love for Jupiter. The king of the gods subsequently disperses the gathering with his bolts of lightning so that the pair might be together, resulting in chaotic scenes. When Juno learns of the union between her husband and his mortal mistress, she sets about destroying Semele, leading to the maiden’s eventual demise under a godly flame at the end of Act III, the announcement of Bacchus’ conception and the proclamation of a “happy, happy day” to come. Following up last term’s highly impressive sell-out staging of Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro was a tough ask for the Durham Opera Ensemble. Their interpretation of Semele couldn’t have been a more different production - packing an expectant crowd into the intimate surroundings of the Debating Chambers off Palace Green, they presented a stripped-down version of Handel’s opera with the audience sitting around a narrow square of staging in the centre. With impressive live accompaniment from a 9-piece orchestra including a magnifi-
cent blue harpsichord, the cast launched into the opera with heart and vigour from their very first dynamic entrance. Handel’s classical grounding gave way to a 1920s ‘Bright Young Things’ backdrop – togas replaced by suits and cocktail dresses, the Temple of Juno by a champagne party and the bolts of Jupiter by a pistol-wielding intruder (an example of good humour in a production that succeeded in never taking itself too seriously). The staging was notably modest, yet deliberately so, as it was a modesty that allowed the stirring brilliance of Handel’s score to be the centre of the production’s focus. The ensemble as a whole embraced the weaving polyphonies of Handel’s music with a comfort and finesse that belied their student opera status; the production as a whole possessed such impressive passion, execution and self-assured perfectionism in taking on the opera as to be easily mistaken for a professional performance. Leo Morrell, who also starred in Marriage Of Figaro and in DULOG’s Pirates Of Penzance during Michaelmas, lent his fruity tones with striking ease to the role of Semele’s angry father Cadmus, imploring Semele “invent no new delay”; Fleur Moore-Bridger as Juno, Hugo Hymas as Jupiter and Harriet Beckham as Ino were also notably impressive, illuminating Handel’s work with grace and careful texturing. Yet Semele herself was the undoubted star of this excellent show – played by Milly Harris, her remarkable range of tone and the clarity of extremes were a cut above, her voice resonating around the narrow chambers and her character revelling in the glee and despair of complex love triangles. Yet despite the strength of individual performances, the production as a whole worked so well because of the clear comradeship amongst a cast who performed so comfortably in each other’s company. This was opera at its best, self-assured without being melodramatic, drawing the audience to it through the quiet intimacy of its surroundings and the dynamic brilliance of its performers. It was surely one of the best student performances in Durham this year.
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In rehearsal with... Twelfth Night With the popularity of post-exams Shakespeare in Durham at an all-time high, Anna Bailey asks Lizzie O’Connor, currently playing Viola in Thrust Stage’s Twelfth Night, just what it is that students find so bewitching about The Bard. i: Could you briefly summarise the production? L: Twelfth Night is a classic Shakespearian comedy about mistaken identity. It’s very interesting to play around with stock Shakespearian features of comedy whilst adding more modern elements which translate to the modern audience.
i: What attracts you to Shakespearian comedy? L: From an actor’s perspective, comedy is one of the most timeless genres. Its interesting to bring out both the traditional sense of comedy whilst exploring modern humour. i: Have you had difficulties setting the piece in the 1920s? L: One of the problems with putting Shakespeare in a different period is keeping it relevant to the play. In Twelfth Night, the clowning characters and music really bring alive the jazz age, and of course, Twelfth Night centres on androgyny, such as when Viola dresses as a boy. I think this aspect of the play lends itself very well to the sexually and morally liberated 20s. i: What is it that makes Shakespeare so attractive to Durham Students? L: One of the most wonderful things about Shakespeare is that he’s so attractive to such a wide spectrum of people. In Twelfth Night, there’s such a sense of youth, with the young lovers and clowns; its a youthful sense of humour which really attracts students. i: Finally, sum up what you love about Shakespeare. L: He’s simply lots of fun. Shakespeare is all about love, youth and fun.
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Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
travel
Plunging into Britain’s waterways on a hot day: one of Britain’s many holiday offerings Photographs: SORTED
Rule Britannia! Ellie Ross explores creative summer holiday destinations without leaving our Sceptered Isle
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n the words of our esteemed former Prime Minister Tony Blair: “The British are special. The world knows it. This is the greatest nation on earth.” At the risk of sounding like an overly patriotic, war-mongering optimist like the doyen of ambivalent centre politics Mr Blair, I think it’s best to find a more appropriate quote to launch us into this travel extravaganza of the British Isles. We’ll settle with American singer Daniel O’Connel’s illuminating and lucid description of the inhabit-
ants of this great island nation: “The Englishman has all the qualities of a poker, except perhaps its warmth.” So with that uplifting nugget of sentimentality tucked firmly into our knapsacks, let’s pull on our hiking boots, grab some Kendal mint cake and see what this country has to offer. Britain has a lot more than just damp skies, marshes and industrial building sites. Last week the BBC reported that a new coach tour had been launched to celebrate the great British insti-
tution that is the M25, complete with service station pit-stops and famous landmarks including Heathrow Airport. I’ll be booking my ticket tonight. Although tourists have been escaping these shores from as early as the 1700s as part of the aristocratic Grand Tour, it’s important to bear in mind that the Romans, Vikings and French all felt that the UK had something great to offer and spent a great deal of time, horses and financial investment trying to dig their nails in. So have a think
about these ideas for a few summer holiday starters.
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Bike riding around the countryside isn’t just for the Famous Five and the Secret Seven. Thanks to the size of our small coastal country, doing a coast to coast, either horizontally or vertically, won’t take months. Plus, due to the lack of real mountains, it shouldn’t tax your calf muscles too much either. Try the standard east to west coast to coast which will take
approximately 3 days, or, if you’re feeling ambitious, dust your lycra down and get in the saddle for the lengthier Lands End to John O Groat’s. For those of you with a willingness to endure most of your summer cowering under tent canvas and nursing aching muscles, a coastal ride encompassing the whole of the UK is a great way to get fit and see the it from every which way. Invest in panniers rather than using a backpack to avoid overbalancing and having to spend
INDIGO | Thursday 21st June 2012
your Peak District freewheeling sessions lying backwards to avoid spinning over. Heck, if you want to make money this summer, and do something slightly less damp next year, you could even write a book about your cycling extravaganza. There is a dearth of quality guidebooks about long distance bike rides around the British Isles and those that exist seem to have been written by chubby middle aged men with a penchant for ale, making them at best, unreliable. Try www.cycleroute.com for ideas on how to plan the best route.
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Britain is blessed with water. Whether that comes in the form of rain, sea, rivers, tarns, lakes or faulty guttering, the UK is well equipped for splashing around in puddles of H2O. Waterlog, by Roger Deakin, narrates his journey swimming the waterways of the British Isles, including the Severn, the Thames and the Wear. He describes the peace and the feeling of being at one with nature, and the moorhens, herons and kingfishers that line our banks. If you don’t want to end up close to decapitation like Trenton Oldfield, keep an eye out for any DU Eights before plunging into the water. Even better, head downstream past Freeman’s Quay where after The Sands, the river widens and the water trips over the stones, creating a great place for hidden pools, quiet picnics and splashing, wagging dogs. Weil’s disease and other
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If you don’t want to end up close to decapitation like Trenton Oldfield, watch out for any DU eights!
waterborne ailments are always a risk, but they’re a risk that isn’t necessarily present. As long as you don’t put your head under the water or drink a river cocktail, you should be fine. For those of you who want to double check before immersing yourselves in the nearest river or lake, Google ‘environment agency water quality map’ and check out the second link.
Travel Editor: Eleanor Ross travel@palatinate.org.uk
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Every town has a free museum or art gallery. These usually consist of tepid watercolours by a regional unknown and some stuffed birds. However, some places can be pretty cool. How about having a gander at the world’s oldest surviving dress at the Petrie Egyptian Collection in London or rifle through canine history at the Leeds Museum of Dog Collars? Both free, both fantastic. A perfect way to while away a rainy and cold summer’s afternoon, Louis Tussaud’s in Blackpool has a terrifying collection of waxworks that all look as though they were left out in the sun for too long by mistake. Drooping celebrity faces and garish wigs are guaranteed to have you in stitches for the short time it takes you to pay your £2 entry fee and leave. Thanks to numerous alumni, funds and philanthropists, the UK has an amazing collection of free museums. Wakefield’s Museum of Mental Health may sound macabre, but it’s also one of the most fascinating museums around. Complete with padded cells, restraining equipment and photographs, for the hordes who regularly find themselves in Wakefield on an afternoon with nothing to do, this is a must-see.
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Ever thought about going on holiday to your own town? John Ruskin was a man obsessed by details and often bemoaned how the modern man would take snapshots and move on. He encouraged people to sketch the minutiae of daily life in order to observe more detail. The top of an iron railing, or the head of a thistle frequently came under his scrutiny. This would, according to Ruskin, aid our appreciation of beauty and in our hasty, fleeting world, help us to slow down and enjoy where we live. Even if you don’t feel encouraged to whip out your sketch pad and start urgently line-drawing the parking metre across the road, seeing your home town from the eyes of a tourist can turn into a fabulous day out. If you live in London or Edinburgh, this is going to be easy. Go to the Whisky Distillery and Edinburgh Castle, or Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. Seaside resorts: take a stiff walk along the promenade, then buy an ice-cream before going to play on the arcade machines, wasting your money long into the night on the 2p slot-machines. Bradford offers up some of the best curry
in the UK and the National Museum of Media. And Wakefield? Well, you’ve got that Museum of Mental Health to be getting to.
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Seeing your home town from the eyes of a tourist can turn into a fabulous day out
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You hate cricket right? Tennis: for old people. Rowing? No way. Forget all of your preconceptions, going to see a sporting fixture makes an amazing day out. Helen Mulgan from Grey College went to Wembley to see the FA Cup Final despite having a long-term aversion to football: “It was amazing. We got completely in the mood and sprayed our hair the colour of both teams. I’d never follow football, but it was a great day out.” Get into the team spirit and autograph-hunt players. They might mean nothing to you, but will be a fantastic, money-saving Christmas present for your cricket-obsessed uncle come December.
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The UK has not always been known for its culinary delights. Hearty puddings and stodge are synonymous with British cooking, but in the last decade, this tradition has been reversed. Try taking a culinary tour of Britain’s gastrospots. Ludlow’s foodie supermarket and proliferation of Michelinstarred restaurants (seven!) seems an ideal place to start . If your bank balance doesn’t quite stretch, making a homage to the home of cheddar cheese (Cheddar, Wiltshire) or pork pies (Melton Mowbray) would seem like a particularly sage thing to do instead. Marsh-reared lamb from the north Welsh coast, melt-in-yourmouth Yorkshire Puddings from the Dales, creamy butter from Devon: the UK has a stunning natural larder. Added to this the seafood that swims and clambers around Britain’s rocky coves and you’ve got a gastrotour to rival the Parisians’ on your doorstep.
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Go somewhere different...
PRISTINA, KOSOVO by Martin Proctor
K
osovo may not be at the top of your list of destinations this summer. Certainly, when I found out that I was to be undertaking an internship in its capital Pristina, vivid images sprang to mind. I saw myself dodging bullets and crouching behind the charred husks of burnt out tanks, collecting intelligence for my dissertation, and keeping a low profile to avoid Kalashnikov-wielding bandits. The reality is far calmer, though no less exciting. Pristina is a bustling and lively town, full of energy and conversation. Huge café terraces packed with people of all ages spill out onto every street. Locals meet for coffee and conversation early in the morning, throughout the day, and well into the night. There’s a feeling of youth here; Kosovo is not only the newest country in Europe (est. 2008), but has the youngest population, almost three quarters being below the age of thirty. In a country as small as this, everybody seems to know everybody. The other day during our very long lunch break, I asked a colleague who he had been chatting to just now. He gave a nonchalant shrug: “Oh, he’s the Deputy Minister of the Kosovo Security Force.” I raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “Yeah, he’s a good guy,” my colleague continued, “and he may be in his fifties, but he loooves the ladies.” For me at least, Pristina’s pièce-de-resistance is the range of hills that rises to the east of the city. It’s well worth the climb (and dodging the minefield on the way up) to reach the summit. From this lofty vantage point, you can see all the way to the snowy peaks at the Macedonian border in the south, and the Rugova Mountains marking the frontier with Montenegro to the west. Emerging from the tree-line and surveying the whole kingdom (ahem, republic), I’m embarrassed to admit I feel rather like I’ve arrived in Narnia.
Of course, like C.S Lewis’s literary creation, this tiny young country still has its problems. In the late 1990s, bitter fighting between ethnic Albanian groups and Serbian forces led to a humanitarian disaster that is still sorely felt today, thirteen years on. And while it declared independence in 2008, Kosovo is only recognised by 91 countries, and has no seat at the UN. Particular tension remains in the North, where ethnic Serbs refuse to recognise the Kosovar government, claiming allegiance to Belgrade and Serbia. What’s more, at 45%, the unemployment rate is easily the highest in Europe. Despite this, there is a sense of youthful optimism in Pristina. Life has improved immeasurably since the dark days of 1999, and most are hopeful that progress will continue. So if you’re looking for a destination a long way off the beaten track, that combines the latitude of Rome, the café scene of Paris, mountains to rival the Highlands and the living costs of, well, the southern Balkans, might I recommend Kosovo this summer?
Thursday 21st June 2012 | INDIGO
the back page 1
Pimms o’ clock: What could be better on a sunny Durham afternoon than a chilled pitcher of Pimms and a few friends? If you don’t mind imitation booze, get your ‘authentic’ Austins at Aldi for a mere £5.99. Botanic Gardens: Free with a student card, there’s nothing more relaxing and enjoyable than a lazy afternoon at the Botanical Gardens. Bring the aforementioned Pimms. Go-karting: For a more active and adventurous day out, why not give go-karting a try? Visit Top Gear Karting in Gilesgate and get on the track from a mere £20. York: Get a ticket to York for as little as £10 and explore the historic town or indulge in a little retail therapy.
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crossword
film
festival
Jaws, the 1975 original summer blockbuster is back in cinemas on June 15th, having been digitally restored. Described as “bringing an irrational fear of beaches to a whole new generation.” At most Odeons.
Check out hot band Spring Offensive this summer at the Truck Festival in Oxfordshire, running from 20th-21st July. Other performers include The Temper Trap and Tim Minchin. Tickets are £69.
summertime essentials
the indigo diary
app hype
food
This summer, why not check out the latest craze in the app store, Finger Olympics? The number one top free app with more than 1.5 million downloads, this is an app that will keep your fingers busy over the holiday. Play as you watch the real thing on tv...
If you’re looking for some inspiration this summer, why not check out these seasonal treats, including delicious Blueberry Crumble Muffins? Read the full article at palatinate.org.uk
Castle’s June Ball once again did not disappoint. With a magnificent Pandora’s Box theme, revellers indulgently wandered the usually forbidden rooms after the spectacular firework display, indicating the beginning of the festivities. Read the full article at palatinate.org.uk
indigo online
5 minutes with... Who was your last text from and what did it say? Bill Bryson – Mike are you sure it’s ok for me to come to the DSU awards dinner on Wednesday even though I’m not the Chancellor anymore? It is my
review
favourite event of the year and I really wouldn’t want to miss it but I also don’t want to impose on Sir Thomas! Worst student cooking experience?
ACROSS 7 Beauty spots made sweeter by hiding donkey (8) 9 Overlooked error chides flower (6) 10 Antelope ruin mail Dad receives (6) 11 An unexpected scene around criminal shelter (8) 12 Understanding a very quiet engineer woman’s charge (12) 15 Tidy cruise control (4) 17 Inform University of potato substitute? (5) 19 Scrutinized missing drugs to find trick (4) 20 Bearing ugly don give grasping establishment evocatively (12) 23 Impertinent pun timed awry (8) 25 Rarely create almost perfect model’s reflection (6) 27 Receive a ring whilst holding the line? (6) 28 Sensuous blossom of the mouth (5,3) DOWN 1 One thousand, after cry of disapproval, flourish (4)
2 A peculiar sounding market (6) 3 Spread lies around island (4) 4 Tree too small to hide in, gibbon said (6) 5 Heads of church carried in earlier sailing vessel (8) 6 I’m returned before miscreant son replaces doctor to give bad advice (10) 8 Moggie, trapped in wooden outhouse, is scorned (7) 13 Either Mum or Dad keep Liam in the House (10) 14 One is cheeky, but any more are anxious (5) 16 Such brawn unusually usual amid the Middle Common Room (8) 18 Division means Tim turns his back on love towards little sister (7) 21 The old boy lets off steam (6) 22 Durham riverside supporting very fine fabric (6) 24 Skirt you in France, twice (4) 26 Stirring soup redefines composition (4)
Mike King, outgoing DSU President
I cooked a beautiful Doritos with melted cheese for starters, risotto main and Eton mess for dessert… and my date stood me up! Needless to say my housemates loved every minute of this!
Most embarrassing moment as DSU President? The fact that nobody actually thinks I’m president anymore because exams have finished even though I’m here until August 1st
Tell us your best joke... Archie Dallas is going to be a great president next year! Watch out if he starts painting the Union DUCK yellow.