Summer and Unity 2021 by Platform Magazine NTU

SUMMER 2021 EDITION

NTU’S AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE ISSUE 23 - FREE

NEWS CREATIVE

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FASHION & BEAUTY

MUSIC

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

2020/21 EDITOR’S NOTE Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Faith Pring Hello all! We’re talking about our first trip back to the cinema, what sports teams have been up to through Coronavirus, and how lockdown has irreversibly changed some of our deep-rooted habits.

Most of the things that I had planned and hoped would happen this year were thrown out of possibility, but something that did happen was everything we’ve achieved at Platform. I’ve had a long and diverse relationship with Platform Magazine since starting university. Platform was relaunched the year I joined the society, back in 2017, and since then I’ve been a contributor to all of our print editions, as well as our website. Since its relaunch, Platform has gone from strength to strength, with the magazine doubling in size (both in width and page size) and has received a number of awards, both national and regional.

When I took over last year, my only goal was for Platform to survive through a Coronavirusriddled year and we’ve successfully done that and more. Platform Magazine has had an amazing year despite everything; being nominated for Student Publication of the Year at the national SPA awards, being nominated for Society of the Year at the NTSU, breaking our website viewing figures record, establishing a strong community of readers and collaborating with a variety of different people including Temple University in the United States for our US election coverage. I can happily hand over the reins and say I did the best that I could (whilst also tackling a challenging and demanding Master’s degree) and I look forward to seeing where Matt, Katie, and the rest of the team take Platform next.

My own personal university journey has been a little all over the place, especially these past two years, but Platform has remained the only constant, and something that will undoubtedly leave a big student-publication-sized hole in my life. Being a part of Platform has been a community-builder for me, and I would recommend it to absolutely everyone with a creative spark. Whether writing is your thing, or if you’re an avid designer or photographer, or if you’re a social media whiz, there’s something for you at Platform, and it definitely opens doors for you. This past academic year has been a struggle for everyone, with normality and student life being completely up in the air, but the NTU student body and NTSU have been great in supporting us students through our degrees. As things start to return to normal, here at Platform we thought it was only appropriate to look forward and appreciate everything that we’ve missed and are excited about.

Huge thank-you to Jamie, my amazing deputy editor, and all our other editors and committee members who made Platform possible this year. To the incoming committee - you’ve got big boots to fill. All the best, Faith Pring Editor-in-Chief & President 2020-21 | Platform Magazine

2020/21 EDITOR’S NOTE

I’ve been putting off writing this Editor’s Note for a while because it’s probably one of the last things I’ll do as Editor-in-Chief of Platform before Matt and Katie take over. Regardless, here we are.

2021/22 EDITOR’S NOTE Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Matt Lee

Dear Readers,

return to gyms. I’m listening to the radio and discussions I suppose I ought to introduce are already turning to the next myself before I get carried away stage of the lockdown roadmap. in writing this ‘Editor’s Note’. So, I’m Matt! I’m a second-year journalism student originally from Essex - except the genes carrying the fake tan and outrageous Essex accent seem to have skipped past me, or so I like to think... Anyway, what a year we have had! It is hard to imagine how life will be when (eventually) we can live with very few - if any - restrictions in our day to day lives. Whilst I’m on the cusp of entering my final year at Nottingham Trent, I have actually only spent (at most) eight months in the city due to Coronavirus. I can’t even bear to imagine how those of you in your first year are feeling having had the opportunities to make friends, settle down into life in Nottingham and enjoy the first year of the university experience all taken away from you.

WE CAN ONLY LOOK FORWARD WITH A SENSE OF OPTIMISM TOWARDS THE FUTURE.

Hopefully, as the next weeks and months go by, we can enjoy a return to greater freedoms. In this edition of Platform, we try to shine a light on things students can look forward to in the summer months as we continue to emerge from lockdown. As well as looking at the role students have had in the fight against Coronavirus, we also spotlight budget holiday locations within the UK, give you suggestions on what to binge this summer, let you know what sport is happening when, and much more.

2021/22 EDITOR’S NOTE

I hope you enjoy reading the content our excellent team has put together. If you want to get involved in the writing production side of our magazine, Students have faced a or you have something you think particularly hard time during we should be covering, then do the pandemic. University feel free to get in touch. experiences have been dampened, graduation For now, though, have a good ceremonies have been delayed. summer and we look forward Alongside wider society, our with the hope of returning to social privileges have been normal in the not too distant taken away from us as we future! Whilst the past 12 months have looked to protect others from been pretty horrid, we can only this life-changing pandemic. Matt. look forward with a sense of optimism towards the future. It is thanks to the hard work I write this note midway of students on the frontline through April (the 12th, to be including some of NTU’s own precise) and as of today shops who worked in Coronavirus are beginning to reopen, pints wards at local hospitals - and of beer are being poured for students who have followed the outdoor consumption, and the rules closely that we can now fitness buffs among us can now look forward with excitement.

SU PRESIDENT’S NOTE Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Conor Naughton

For this edition of Platform magazine, I’ve been asked to reflect on the 2020/2021 academic year which, I think it’s fair to say, has been one of the toughest yet for students at NTU and around the world.

Our student-led groups have organised a slew of incredible in-person and virtual events, including drama showcases, wellbeing sessions, crossPacific media collabs, safe sex workshops, and more. Not only have they made wellbeing a priority, but they’ve also helped to create a sense of community among students on and offcampus. Academic representatives have been instrumental in making sure students’ feedback

These are just a few examples of many positives that have come out of the last few months and, as the summer sun edges closer, the evenings get brighter and government restrictions begin to ease, we only have more to look forward to. There may still be some challenges to come, but if this year has taught us anything, it’s how committed students are to supporting their peers and the community around them.

SU PRESIDENT’S NOTE

This year, you’ve had to face a huge number of challenges, yet, in the midst of a global pandemic, you have managed to achieve some amazing things. It’s those successes I want to focus on as we look ahead to the summer months.

IN THE MIDST OF A GLOBAL PANDEMIC, YOU HAVE MANAGED TO ACHIEVE SOME AMAZING THINGS.

regarding their education has been heard and acted on. And we’ve seen societies and sports clubs raise thousands of pounds for amazing charities including Odballs, StudentMinds, and local homeless charities.

I am incredibly proud of every NTU student and what they have achieved this year. I hope you are too. Wishing you all a happy and healthy summer. Conor Naughton NTSU President

Say Goodbye to the 2020/21 Committee

Faith Pring Editor in Chief

Jamie Morris Deputy Editor

George Cowell Social Secretary

Emily Braeger Treasurer

Olimpia Zagnat News Editor

Lollie Hancock Fashion and Beauty Editor

Katie Green Culture and Entertainment Editor

Alex Mace Music Editor

Jessica Goddard Travel and Lifestyle Editor

Alex Brinton Sport Editor

Robbie Nichols Creative Corner Editor

Matthew Lee Online Editor

Meg Chadderton Head of Design

Sophie Puffett Deputy Head of Design

Sam Phillips Head of Marketing

Say Hello to the 2021/22 Committee

Matthew Lee Editor in Chief

Katie Green Deputy Editor

Rucsandra Moldoveanu News Editor

Ellie Daglish Fashion and Beauty Editor

Jack Proverbs Culture and Entertainment Editor

Will Hugall Music Editor

Helen Dubber Travel and Lifestyle Editor

Alex Brinton Sport Editor

Helen Barber Creative Corner Editor

Sophie Puffett Head of Design

Karima Morsli Deputy Head of Design

Scarlett Acres Treasurer/Head of Marketing

NEWS Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Kieran Burt, Image Credit Unsplash

NOTTINGHAM’S STUDENTS ARE PLANNING AHEAD FOR THE ‘SUMMER OF THEIR LIVES’ AFTER GRUELLING YEAR With lockdown restrictions now coming to an end, many students are counting down the days until the ‘summer of their lives’. From those looking forward to feeling the first year student experience again in a ‘normal way’, to the soon-to-be graduates - we spoke to several students to see what they were looking forward to doing in summer. ‘It is hard to stay on top of things’ says Georgina Dabica, 19, a first year International Relations student at NTU. How has your first year been? “It has been okay - it is hard to stay motivated for all of it because of being at home so much. “Especially for me personally because my house is quite full so there’s always stuff going on. “It’s just hard to stay on top of things the social aspect was really good, for all of first term, I got on with everyone well at university.” Are you feeling more optimistic now that restrictions are ending? “Definitely - the roadmap has helped. “Every time I look at the cases going down, I feel so much happier. What annoys me is the people who are saying that we are going to go into another lockdown, and that gets to me because it isn’t letting people enjoy the bit of hope that we have. “That is what it is for me, that bit of hope, especially now with the vaccines.”

Are you more optimistic that your next university year will be in person? “Yes, if not in September, then definitely before Christmas. Things will hopefully be back to normal. We had a questionnaire a while ago about how we would like teaching to be delivered next year. “Most of the people I know have said we are happy to keep lectures online and have seminars in person. I thought that was beneficial during the first term.“I do have a lot of hope that university will be face to face again. Socially it would be better. What are you most looking forward to doing again over summer? “Probably going on holiday – not even abroad – and doing something other than going to the shops. “At the moment it’s the same routine every day, I want to have the option of doing something else if I want to, that’s what I’m most looking forward to. “Bad internet isn’t good when it dies in a lecture” says Kiran Rajoo, 20, a second year BSc Biomedical Science student. How has second year been for you? “Second year has had its ups and downs. Not being able to carry many lab sessions has made it difficult to gain knowledge and experience from my course. “I have struggled with online learning as questions asked by students sometimes get missed or go unanswered. Bad internet isn’t good when it dies in a lecture or breakout room.”

Are you feeling more optimistic now that restrictions are ending? “Yes, I’m feeling more optimistic. It’s been a long road of several lockdowns and restrictions, making university work and life harder and having an impact on mental health. I’m looking forward to restrictions being lifted to return to some sort of normality, but I hope figures don’t rise too rapidly which takes us back to square one of another lockdown.” Are you more optimistic that university will be fully in person next year? “Yes, I’m looking forward to going back to university full time next year as I will be able to carry out lab sessions again. I’m also looking forward to seeing my friends on campus. “The main thing I’m more hopeful about is moving back to lecture halls where there are no disruptions or bad connection associated with online learning.” What are you most looking forward to doing over summer? “With fewer restrictions, I’m hoping to have gatherings with larger numbers of people. I’m also excited to finally meet with family and friends. I’m looking forward to exploring Nottingham’s hospitality as I missed out going with the sudden lockdown.” ‘I’m quite nervous to graduate’, says Hannah Braybrooke, 21, a third year Broadcast student.

How has third year been for you? “I’ve loved it - if it wasn’t for the pandemic this might have been my favourite year at university. “You’ve established your friendship groups and you get to create memories before real life hits. Although I’ve not been able to experience my last year how I wanted to or expected I’ve still made amazing memories. “It’s stressful and hard work but I know it’ll have been worth it.” How are you feeling about graduating post-lockdown? “I’m quite nervous to graduate. We’ve been inside for so long and haven’t been able to have much social interaction so it’s going to be nerve racking going into a job. I am excited as well because I know that I’ll get to have that social interaction again and it will be good for everyone’s mental health, being able to go outside and enjoy being with people and have a sense of normality back if it goes to plan.”

Do you think the lack of social interaction will have an impact on how you perform in an interview for example? “It makes them harder. I haven’t been able to get as much experience with the restrictions. It makes it harder to feel fully prepared because for my placement I didn’t go through an interview process and it was online.

see why there would be such a spike again.”

“If everything were normal, I would have met them face to face, and would’ve had that experience of having a job interview in the industry. But because we didn’t get that I feel like I’ve missed out on it, so I don’t feel as prepared.”

What are you most looking forward to doing over summer? “Just being able to go places with my friends and my family. Clubbing is obviously an aspect I’m excited for because I’ve missed out on it for a year and given that it is my last year at university, I want to make the most of the last summer before I have to start work. I’m excited to go to restaurants and be able to go places and not have to constantly worry if I’m going to bring something home to my family. Knowing I can go somewhere and the risk being significantly lower than before, I’m just excited for that.”

Are you optimistic about restrictions ending? “I’m confident that we are going to move forward, especially now that we have the rollout of the vaccine. It’s something to keep in mind because previously we went back into lockdowns, but we didn’t have a vaccine so when we came out COVID spiked again but now people are being vaccinated I don’t

“I am confident about moving forward and out of restrictions. Whether or not the easing of restrictions will happen at the pace the government is saying is another matter, it might take a bit longer than they expect but I do think we’ll go forward and not back.”

NEWS Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Rucsandra Moldoveanu, Image Credit Unsplash

THE REALITY OF STUDENT NURSING AMID A PANDEMIC

The past year has proved itself to be beyond challenging for all of us, especially for the frontline medical staff. They never ceased trying their best in rescuing our loved ones, from the merciless claws of the virus that changed the world as we know it completely.

“When I was working, we had to wear these big, World-War-Twolike respirator masks that stick to your face”, she said.

Treating COVID-19 patients has been a frightening experience for some of the most skilled medical staff, so what about the people who are currently training for their future careers within the medical field?

She recalled the hardest part of working on a COVID ward was the compulsory wearing of masks, which deeply affected her communication with the patients, as she was not able to give them “that comforting smile”.

As the need for doctors and nurses has seen one of the greatest surges in history following the unparalleled crisis that has taken over the whole world, let’s see what three young and aspiring BSc Adult Nursing students from Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and University of Nottingham have to say about their experiences as trainee nurses during the coronavirus pandemic.

The 21-year-old also added that she struggled to communicate with “elderly and hard of hearing patients who rely on lip-reading, but that had to change because of the pandemic.”

Annabel Goudie is a final-year student nurse at the University of Nottingham who worked on a COVID ICU ward at the start of this academic year at Queen’s Medical Centre.

“That’s when it became quite real and I started to think to myself this is actually quite bad.”

The secondary effects of Coronavirus could also be noticed among ICU patients. Annabel said: “On the non-COVID ICUs we always saw the aftermath of the virus, like depression. “One week we had three 20-yearolds who attempted to commit suicide. It was quite shocking.” As she was always exposed to the

virus, the third-year and her family felt quite anxious when it came to going home for Christmas. She said: “I didn’t want to go home because I could’ve been asymptomatic, but at the same time I couldn’t sit by myself in a student house for Christmas as that would’ve been quite depressing.” Annabel also admitted her mental health was not the best while working on the ward. She said: “All I’d be doing was going to work and seeing lots of people die. “Being in that environment and then coming back home to just one of my house mates – who is also a nurse so we couldn’t unload it onto each other – has been really emotionally hard. We did receive mental health support from the hospital which I thought was quite good.” However, with everything that has been going on, Annabel feels privileged to have trained during the pandemic and to be a part of “what history is going to talk about in the future” and is looking forward to starting her job as a critical care nurse at QMC in September.

Alex Knight is a first-year student nurse at NTU who also works as a healthcare assistant as part of the NHS Professionals staff bank across the NUH Trust along with his studies. Currently on an oncology placement, Alex likes to use his job to experience with more clinical areas than he would on his placements and to “have a good ol’ nosey around.”

The first-year student admitted to being happy that the pandemic has happened because it pulled him out of a dark place.

He said: “I think more student nurses should join the bank because it’s given me good experience, as I’ve never worked in healthcare before, and I now feel very confident in my ability and role because of it.”

Imogen D’Souza is also a first-year student nurse at NTU and the VicePresident of the Nursing Society. During her first placement, she worked on a geriatric ward that was at medium risk of covid.

Following two big outbreaks, Alex had to deal with COVID positive patients non-stop while on his first placement on a geriatric ward and admitted to not being afraid of the virus. He said: “I’m quite lucky. I feel like I have an immunity to it because I’ve had a lot of exposure and I never contracted it.” His academic experience so far has been pretty much like everyone else’s in terms of face-to-face teaching. The 22-year-old said: “We only go in once a week for our clinical skills sessions, but normally we would be in every day. We got through our first semester and placement just fine because we were taught enough to get by in the time that we had. Our lecturers are amazing, they are pretty much like family.” Alex, who is currently applying for the army as a nursing officer, described his uni experience as a blessing in disguise as he does not have anything to compare it to. He said: “Us first-years don’t know what it was like before, this is our normal and, because of everything that’s happening at the minute, I think this generation of student nurses is going to be very competent.”

He said: “At first, the pandemic hit me quite hard, especially because we lost my dad in April. However, starting this degree made me more grounded and put me on the right path.”

Because most of the patients on that ward had dementia or delirium, their communication with the medical staff was poor at times. Imogen said: “They don’t really understand what’s going on with COVID and their mental health is also not good because they can’t have any visitors.”

times, “but then I remember that I just wanna be a nurse as soon as possible and I don’t want to delay the process - I’m really enjoying it at the moment.” UCAS revealed that, despite the pandemic, the number of nursing applications for the autumn 2021 intake has risen by almost a third, reaching 60,130 applicants of all age groups. The number of 18-year-old school leavers rose by 27 per cent compared to 2020, while the number of students aged 35 and over went up by 39 per cent. This goes on to show that COVID-19 did not scare people from approaching a nursing career, but only made them want to do it even more.

The greatest challenge that the 20-year-old had to face so far was when she had to cohort a bay while on her first placement, which she described as a great learning experience. She said: “The hardest thing was trying to get this woman to stay where she was because she kept walking down the halls and I was scared of her falling. I felt like I had a really big responsibility on me and I didn’t know if I could handle it.” Being a first-year student on a practical course in a pandemic has not been easy as Imogen struggled to concentrate on the online lectures. She said: “It’s frustrating. “It’s especially hard when the lecturers are trying to explain something that you know you need to see in person in order to fully understand.” The student, who is now on a cardiac surgery placement, said that she does regret starting her degree during the pandemic at

NEWS Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Shannon Samecki, Image Credit Unsplash

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN - WHAT A PRE-COVID STUDENT NIGHT OUT USED TO LOOK LIKE

As a student at Nottingham Trent University, the nightlife is one of the many highlights; with the last year depriving us of the typical student nights out. June 21 cannot come around any sooner. Many first-years have not had the opportunity to attend the legendary Ocean nightclub before stumbling into Trent Kebabs to sober up before hitting the pillow. The Playwright 38 pub is a classic student hotspot on Shakespeare street directly opposite the Arkwright building and one of the many places to go during a preocean bar crawl.

Playwright employee Tia Saunders, 21, said: “Students are our obvious target because of our location; prepandemic we did have quite a lot of societies from the university that would come to us. “As we’re right next to the university, students are very important to us.” The hospitality industry has suffered this past year due to being closed. According to Government statistics, one in five businesses have low confidence that they will survive within three months. In April 2020, economic output was down by 90 per cent in the hospitality sector compared to February the same year before the first UK lockdown hit. Tia added: “The company that owns the Playwright, Wells & Co, has shut two pubs since the pandemic

began and I did think we’d be one of them because we don’t do as well as some of the other pubs, but so far so good!” When asked if students are important to the community, she said: “The first year I worked there in 2019 we noticed the drop in trade when the students all went home for summer. “We still had busy days but you know when the students aren’t in the city.” However, Tia has voiced her concerns about whether people will stick to the regulations to keep everyone safe. “A lot of people were happy to go along with social distancing, masks when they’re not at the table and doing track and trace,” she said. “I remember we did get some groups of students who would come in, walk around

without masks, talk to people at other tables and move tables. “It was really frustrating to have to deal with, some people just don’t get what it’s like to work in hospitality; I’m really hoping that people will respect us.” Ocean is Nottingham’s only 100 per cent student nightclub hosting every Wednesday for NTU and Friday nights for the University of Nottingham. Steve Hodgkinson, also known as DJ Vimto, 44, plays Ocean Wednesday and Fridays: “We are the only all-student club in this city so we need the students, that’s what we are all about.” As a business that operates only during the university term time, they are best known for their Baywatch traditions and playing the classic tunes from every decade. He added: “Baywatch never gets boring, each time you do it you still get a bit of a buzz. “I know a lot of DJs who play at different nightclubs all over the country that’d give their right arm to have that.” English Literature student, Iwan Hughes, 19, describes a typical Ocean night: “It is the world’s most chaotic, yet enthralling experience, it is not one for the faint-hearted but one that will create memories.” The nightlife industry has lacked support from the Government during the pandemic as they have received little to no extra funding to stay open, Ocean being one of them. Owner of the Ocean nightclub Andy Hoe, 49, said the financial provision was lower than what was needed. He said: “We are getting the same £1,500 every two weeks, so far I’ve gotten £17,000. When you look at how much money we’ve lost, it’s not really worth it. “We were on for our best trading year ever which after so long you’d expect it to be falling. Usually you get three, four, five years out of a

club, then it has to be redone and re-branded - but 18 years running we have been in it a long time.” This sector employs 1.3 million people in the UK and brings in approximately £66 billion to the UK economy each year. Ocean employs around 50 members of staff, 40 of them are generally students contracted to work during the term time. Andy said: “As all our bar staff are students and we are set up for long closures through the summer we are probably in a better position than most clubs where we haven’t got a constant burn of cash-paying staff. “The difficult part for us is going to be getting staff that want to work instead of wanting to go out and get drunk!” Andy and Steve agreed that Ocean’s success is because they have stayed the same: “We’ve not tried to keep up with the trends it’s just about coming in and enjoying yourself.” NTU student Thomas Kuan, 22, has won best dressed five times for Trent TV’s society night out, he said: “The most memorable outfits I wore to Ocean were dressing up as a police officer, Superman, Darth Vader and as an Army recruit.” At the time of writing, COVID-19 passports are being considered by the Government to prove your vaccine status and that you have a negative test to provide reassurance to people as the roadmap out of lockdown progresses. There are mixed opinions on the introduction of the passports with some welcoming the idea to resume to a form of normality while others feel as if it is an invasion of privacy. Andy said: “It should either be for everywhere or nowhere, to make it just for clubs and not bars doesn’t make sense but I think it will happen.”

Steve added: “I’d rather us not have to do it but I get the feeling we will. “We are hoping to get back as soon as we can, I’ve missed my Trent Wednesdays and Uni of Fridays.” Compared to nightclubs, the fast-food industry in the UK has been the fastest-growing sector during the pandemic as they have managed to remain open for contactless deliveries. Trent Kebabs is Nottingham’s iconic takeaway serving all the greasy glory you crave after downing bottles of VK with Andy Hoe after a night at Ocean. Business management and marketing student Bianca Yew, 18, said: “Their donner kebab and chips after a night out is undefeated.” Fast food places have had to follow strict government guidelines following the COVID-19 outbreak with extra hygiene regulations being carried out. Third-year NTU student, Charlie Ellis, 21, said: “Pre-COVID it became the ‘thing’ to be featured on their Instagram account, that’s why it’s so popular! “The pandemic has made it that we order takeaways online now rather than walk in after being at the pub.” Trent Kebabs were unable to be reached for comment; however, with pubs, bars and clubs being closed for the majority of the year it is safe to assume they have not had the best year of business. As the hospitality and nightlife industry slowly comes back to life it is important to remember the COVID-19 regulations while they are still in place. There are high hopes for the next academic year resuming in-person teaching paired with the typical student nightlife being brought back to life.

NEWS Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Robbie Nichols

SHUT UP AND REPEAT AFTER ME: #NOTALLMEN IS AN IRRELEVANT OPINION The past few months have been horrible. We slowly watched as the death of Sarah Everard came to light.

allowed to work in the community and become public servants, or doctors, or policemen. Pointing out that not all men murder or harass or rape whenever there is a high-profile death such as Sarah Everard’s is useless.

We watched as we found out she disappeared whilst walking home at night, along a sensible route, in bright clothing after calling her boyfriend – after doing ‘everything right’. We watched as the man who has been arrested in relation to her disappearance was announced to be a police officer, someone meant to protect her.

More importantly, it does nothing to help the epidemic of crime against women. Seeing a man claim “not all men” on social media shows only one thing – that man thinks it is enough to simply have never hurt a woman. News flash, it’s not.

And then we got to watch as #NotAllMen began trending on Twitter in response to women sharing their advice on how to stay safe and their own experiences of sexual assault online. Men’s response to women trying to make the world understand how it feels to be a woman today is to point out that “actually, it’s not that bad because not all men kill women”. The only thing that the “Not All Men’’ hashtag proves is that not all men understand. If your first reaction to the stories that women have been sharing on social media over the last couple days is “How dare you tar all men with the same brush?! I would never murder someone! #NotAllMen” then you are, not only severely missing the point, but doing absolutely nothing to help the issue that women are currently highlighting. Firstly, the Not All Men hashtag is irrelevant. Of course, the world knows that not all men murder people, otherwise all men would be locked up and never allowed to leave their house. They wouldn’t be

THIS IS JUST AS MUCH A MAN’S ISSUE AS A FEMALE ISSUE #NotAllMen is a man’s way to remove accountability for the actions of other men. It is a way for a man to sit back and say “well I didn’t do it, so it’s no my problem”. It is your problem, it’s every man’s problem. If the stories of a man murdering a woman and women sharing their experiences of sexual assault bothers you to the point where you have to go online and remind everyone that you wouldn’t do such a thing, then get involved. Stop those stories from happening. Women already have to do so much. They have to be careful of walking home at night. They have to make sure friends know where they are, that they ring someone. They have to watch their drinks. They have to be polite to random men because they don’t know

what that man’s reaction will be. Women already do everything they can and that is why this is just as much a man’s issue as a female issue – because it’s mens’ turn to do everything they can. Speak up. Talk to your friends. Listen to women when they tell you something is wrong. When a woman says “this is my experience and this is how men can make women feel safer”, don’t get defensive. It’s not your place to argue against a woman’s experience or to say you don’t believe someone’s own feelings. Because whether you think it’s ‘not all men’ who commit these crimes or not, it is a fact that all women will have felt terrified at some point because of men. Listen and alter your behaviour to make women feel safer. That’s the way to stop the narrative of men being dangerous – by actively not being dangerous. Not being the one murdering and assaulting isn’t enough. Comedian Daniel Sloss sums up the issue with NotAllMen in one of his comedy specials – “When one in ten men are s**t and the other nine do nothing, they may as well not f***ing be there.” The Guardian reported that 97 per cent of women aged between 18 and 24 years old have experienced sexual assault. That is a horrifying statistic, but the worst part is that it isn’t shocking. Women have been telling us this for years. Take accountability. Make sure you’re there to help stop it. Stop doing nothing.

CREATIVE Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Marta Tavaras

FESTIVAL PAREDES DE COURA Going back to a tent with aching legs after jumping, dancing and shouting my heart out to songs all day and night is what am I going to tell you about. I can’t believe it’s been almost 2 summers since I’ve felt like this, since I’ve experienced a rainbow reality of a festival so near yet so far away. How can I describe this festival in two words? Lost home. I feel like I am at home, but it gets to a moment where I am lost. I am lost in emotions, vibrations, strangers and family at the same time. It is something unexplainable, you need to live and experience it. For a week, strangers come together from all over and vibe as one. There is absolutely no shame in being yourself. You are whoever you want to be. The festival Paredes de Coura felt like more than a festival; it is a home that hosts music, hearts, and nature. When night falls, everyone is there, at the different stages, enjoying different music and yet all feeling the same joy. Light shows cause psychedelic effects or show indescribable images of different fruits. The loudspeakers echo all around the precinct. Your head moves to the beat and your hair flies in the wind. Nothing else matters besides the music and the people around you. When the artists talk directly to the crowd – to you – it is so unreal. Even your cheeks hurt from smiling so much. I have this specific memory. It was August 2019. I missed one of the best concerts of the festival because I went to get food (A girl has got to eat okay?) but once I came back a new concert started. I never heard of the band Car Seat Headrest until that one night. The singer barely said a word to the crowd. He was on stage with his hair covering his face, playing a guitar and singing, so involved in his own bubble. Sometimes you just have to feel a moment, to let it in. I knew that moment was one to feel. For me, that was one of the best concerts because it put me in my feelings and that is not an easy task. I must confess, one of the highlights of the concert was when the song ‘Drunk Drivers/Killer Wales’ started playing and everyone was singing, flash on. That was my song of the summer, fall, winter, and spring because every time I listened to it, it took me back to that moment, to that joy. The environment in the festival is nothing but a ride through wonderland. You talk to everyone, your tent neighbours, someone you just meet in the public shower while washing the dishes or someone you just bumped in line or at a concert. You know how people describe hippies as ‘Peace and Love’? It feels like that. One I loved about the festival was how I fell in love with every single person. Looking at people’s smiles, reactions and individual styles made me realize how diverse the world is, how people can respect each other, love each other and come together for something as strong as music. Everywhere I turned my head I just felt my heart either beat faster or melt because I was not only in love with everyone, but myself and the world and that is something that I cannot explain. It is something you have to experience by yourself, so I dare you to. Once you’re able to, go and feel the freedom again, and allow yourself to make connections and feel love around you whilst jumping around and screaming your heart out to the best and worst possible songs and artists because that is what life is about – creating memories that you’ll keep with you and remind you of why the world is such a beautiful place to live.

CREATIVE CORNER Design by Faith Pring, Words by Kieran Burt, Helen Barber, Jack Proverbs and Kyran Wood, Image Credit Pixabay

h to the cinema wit I can’t wait to go ctive e cinema is a colle Th n. ai ag s nd ie fr ly the combined experience, not on to a comedy and er ht ug la of on ti reac lking but the film but ta awe in an action ’t t we did and didn ha w ng si us sc di , after d come next. like and what coul

- Kieran Burt

UNITY I’m especially excited to host a garden sesh. When su mmer makes the days brighter and lo nger, I’ll have a large group of frien ds over – uni mates and old friends fro m home – wh ere we can catch up in th e sun with refr eshing drinks and tast y food on the BBQ.

- Helen Barbe

I can’t wa it to go on summer a with my b dve oyfriend; I’ ve already ntures a list of ac created tivities fo r us to do I love plan (because ning). This ranges fro to Alton T m going owers, to drinking c and clubb ocktails ing, as we ll as poten jetting off tiall to Venice in late sum y together! mer

- Jack Pro verbs

oment seem to All plans at the m h oking a table wit revolve around bo g es, but I’m lookin your closest mat ith w random run ins forward to those at kind of know, a ch friends you only w where you ask ho ea ar g in ok sm a in a loose promise to they’ve been and hang out soon.

- Kyran Wood

CREATIVE CORNER Design by Faith Pring, Words by Marta Taveras, Katie Green, Frankie Galton and Faith Pring

BOARD Hey Grandma. I cannot wait to see you, it’s been a really lo ng time since I hugged you properly without being afraid of causing you an y harm. Seeing your smile behind a fa ce mask and be able to sit and hear all the jokes and neighbours gossip for hours while drinking some tea soun ds like a plan to me. See you soon Zirin ha! -

- Katie Gree

Marta Tavares

s, I’ll be looking After everything reopen g back to the forward to finally goin industry that theatre. Knowing it’s an during this has suffered endlessly for performers pandemic, I am excited ey love doing, and to get back to what th ain. for the curtain to rise ag -

e Me and my best friend Rebecca hav , so always been big fans of The Beatles – we this summer – COVID permitting hope to take a trip to Liverpool and experience Beatle mania in the city I have they first started. It is something in a always wanted to do, so why not world past a global pandemic?

I can’t wait to hug my friend s again, to be able to pla n holidays, go to concerts, and go out fo r dinner! I’ve b ooked a festival and some concert s over summer, and I’m so excited to relax and have fun without worry in g about restrictions, o r socially dista ncing.

- Frankie Galt on

Faith Pring

FASHION Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Ellie Daglish, Images Credit Unsplash

WHY SUMMER IS THE BEST TIME TO EMBRACE YOUR BODY AND DRESS FOR YOURSELF 1. RECOGNISE THE INNER SABOTEUR

As the summer 2021 draws closer, it becomes time to really love and embrace my body. I’ve always struggled with body image and being able to use fashion to express myself, but as my choice of degree became clearer, I knew it was the time This is the most crucial step in fighting the to really explore fashion and how my body could saboteur. You have to identify it in the first place become a canvas to express my personality to as it may disguise itself in being ‘realistic’. the world. Realise the patterns in when the saboteur Summer offers us the possibility of showing off becomes vocal, what ‘triggers’ it, and although our bodies and everything natural that comes the word trigger is thrown around in the modern along with it. Whether that’s body hair, stretch age, we shouldn’t downplay the seriousness of marks and cellulite, we as people get to prove it them. In mental health terms, a trigger is referring should not be something to feel ashamed of, and to something which affects your emotional state instead is just another part of our bodies. by evoking past feelings. The less attractive you feel, the less attractive You should understand this at your own pace, you actually look. familiarise yourself with the origins of your triggers. It’s true, confidence is key in any situation, and summer is no exception. By feeling great we can actually look great as well. It’s the law of attraction, the more positive thinking we have, the more desirable results we achieve. Without a positive mindset this leads to a bottomless pit of self-deprecation and futile comparison, so why Challenge it! Prove it wrong and question why you’re thinking that way. Why shouldn’t you feel do we do it anyway? great? Why should you feel embarrassed or made I now welcome you to the inner saboteur, a part a fool of? Remember past times where the inner of an individual’s personality which delays and saboteur was wrong, go with your gut! If you’re destroys their own success. Our inner saboteur plagued by an inner saboteur, name it! Separate it can represent many issues we’re having, from our from you, giving the voice a name may allow you see how much time you’re wasting on them. doubts, our insecurities and our expectations.

2. CHALLENGING THE SABOTEUR

But how do we combat this? Here I give you my top tips for overcoming your Inner Saboteur.

3. FIND YOUR MANTRA’S This is something I even use myself, phrases which I use when I can sense my inner saboteur trying to make its way into my thought process, for example. “I will have a good day, because it’s my choice.” “I listen to my body and give it what it needs.” “I will speak with confidence and self-assurance.” I used to think mantra’s would be no help, and were ultimately useless. However since jumping into using mantra it’s allowed me to be kinder to myself. There is an abundance of research to prove that over time you can reprogram unhealthy thinking, replacing them with healthy and kind thoughts. Be kind to yourself and use summer to show off your skin and dress how you want. The inner saboteur can be tamed allowing you to move forward with a positive mindset, there is no perfect way to go through the process of embracing yourself, only finding out what exactly works for you. Different people require different care. I’ve always loved summer style, the ability to show off some skin and spend three months of the year not having to remember to bring an extra layer when going out. It’s no secret that how we dress has a huge impact on how we feel, while also reflecting our moods. 2021 fashion offers us feel good prints and vibrant colours, think Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2016 at Milan Fashion Week, and I am loving it. The fun and fashion mixed together showing a unique everyday look to stand out of the crowd in the sun in these coming months. Escapism became all the hit for S/S2021 on the runway, all about daydreaming and distractions, which were demanded in lockdowns all over the world, the opportunity to use fashion to escape lockdown turned into the new trend, these garments aren’t meant to be thought provoking, but instead soothing, causing a sense of peace.

The summer colour pallette further allows us to explore fashion more, as brighter colours and bouncy materials become ‘in’ again, it becomes a tester for what colours we suit and what just doesn’t work. Many designers used this to look at 2021 with an optimistic view on the runway with the sea of various colours and textures, the most prominent being pink. From the runway to the high-street this trend is all the rage right now. From the heat filled holidays to what this year will become U.K. staycations, I can’t wait to live my months in swimwear and sarongs. I plan to make the most of the hot months and learn to fall in love with my body again after a year of lockdown. A year indoors can do a lot to someone’s body, and although I’ve always possessed a more petite frame, I as well as many others notice changes which make my inner saboteur become vocal. Summer offers us a time to relax, not having to cover up for warmth, and although normally for each layer taken off the more insecure we become, the warm weather and relaxed vibes allow us to let our guard down and become comfortable seeing our bodies everyday. For me, my summer wardrobe is going to consist of swimsuits, loose denim and slouched silhouettes taking the form of satin slip dresses. Ultimately, the summer time really is the best time to embrace your body and dress how you want! You get to decide who you spend your energy on and your time with, making summer the ultimate growth period. Challenge yourself this summer, push yourself out of your comfort zone and learn new things about yourself!

FASHION Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Laycie Beck

HOW SOCIAL MEDIA HAS CHANGED THE FASHION INDUSTRY OVER THE YEARS Before social media took over our lives, we had to buy fashion magazines and regularly check our favourite stores for the latest trends. However, now we can see the seasons favourites by the press of a button. The fashion industry has transformed in recent years and is one of the few industries that has managed to move seamlessly online, with more and more clothing stores closing each year. Back in 2011, we heard about fashion trends from posters in stores and what our friends were wearing, which is how an entire generation grew up wearing flower garlands, cracked nail polish and wooden Jesus bracelets. From influencers and live streams to fashion blogs and hashtags, here are all of the ways that social media has changed the fashion industry forever. INFLUENCERS AND BRAND AMBASSADORS Many companies are hiring influencers to be their brand ambassadors. This may be huge celebrities with millions of followers or micro-influencers with just a few thousand. This is because people are more likely going to buy something if it’s been recommended to them by a friend, as who wouldn’t trust a friend over a complete stranger? However, influencers don’t need to be celebrities; they just need to have a loyal fan base. Whilst this could be through social media accounts, it could also be through a blog or podcast. There are thousands of fashion blogs on the internet, with some appealing to the masses and others a niche minority.

Generally speaking, the bigger the brand is then the bigger the following of their selected influencers or brand ambassadors will be. By associating a brand with a celebrity, celebrity’s fans are more inclined to purchase items of that brand. For example,

back in 2019 the nation was introduced to MollyMae Hague, who became one of the faces of PrettyLittleThing, despite not winning Love Island. Which convinced all of the shows viewers that to be like her, they needed to shop at PrettyLittleThing. The reason influencers and brand ambassadors work so well in the fashion industry is that people don’t even realise that they are looking at an advertisement. Whether they upload a selfie to Instagram or they upload a photo of them in the streets, celebrity outfits are often shown up in fashion magazines, who pick apart the outfits to let their fans know how and where they can shop the look. CAMOUFLAGED ADVERTS Speaking of picking apart photos, fashion retailers are now able to link parts of their images to their website. If you see a photo on social media that has been uploaded by a clothing retailer, try hovering over it. Then you will be able to see more detail about the clothes and accessories being worn by their models, as well as the prices. But be careful, as if you look at too many posts by one retailer, they are sure to take over your online adverts. This is because companies work with social media organisations and search engines to ensure that their advertisements are being targeted at people they believe will buy from them. However, this is not just the case for the fashion industry but all companies; try googling something random like trips to Fiji or lampshades, and it won’t be long until you start seeing them on all of your newsfeeds. IN TODAY BUT OUT TOMORROW Not too many years ago, people had to wait until specific times of the year for new clothes to be released, wait for magazines to write about the fashion shows, or wait and see what other people are wearing. Thanks to social media, waiting is a thing of the past, as fashion trends are something that can be

shared instantaneously. Fashion shows are now live-streamed across social media, and trending hashtags are sure to show what the new must-have item of the season is. The lack of waiting in the fashion industry means that more clothes are being designed and released every day, making fashion a more unstoppable force now than it was before. However, it is not just timely but costly to keep up with these constantly changing trends. This has led second-hand clothing apps to become every student’s best friend, as you can sell clothes you no longer want through apps like Depop or Vinted and use the money from your old clothes to pay for new ones. Some of these apps even have swap settings available, so you could literally trade in clothes for different ones. It has never been easier to buy or sell clothes, although shopping online is different to shopping in-store, as whilst you don’t physically hand over your money, you are still spending the same amount.

to promote and vice versa. If you have been on a retailer’s website, filled your basket or Wishlist, but not made a purchase, it won’t be long until they email you a reminder about the products in your basket, which more often than not comes with an exclusive discount code. WHAT’S NEXT? Although a lot has changed in the last 10 years, a lot has stayed the same, like underweight models and superficial images of beauty. But social media is slowly allowing the fashion industry to realise that they need to make changes, as an image not only says a thousand words but can be shared a thousand times in a minute. Such as the photo of seven pairs of jeans, all classed as a UK size 12, but all with completely different measurements. So hopefully more accurate sizes and diverse models will be in the fashion industry’s future, but only time will tell.

THE POWER OF HASHTAG Many brands are making the most of their trending hashtags to spread their products across social media, which in many cases means making their own. Every day it seems like fashion giants are offering giveaways and prizes on their social media accounts, and you could win too, as long as you like the post, follow their account, share your story and tag dozens of friends to do the same. Or on the flip side, these hashtags could be started by consumers. Tik Tok is the video platform we all know and love for its users for their entertaining videos. One of the biggest sources of videos on Tik Tok come from challenges or trends that everyone wants to be a part of. Does the phrase “Dior if you’re watching this, I’ll be waiting for my invitation” sound familiar? During the end of 2020 and the start of 2021, Tik Tok was full of lip sync videos where people dressed for the Dior fashion show by wearing a turtleneck, evening dress, blazer, belt, boots and other extravagant accessories. This led to Dior getting loads of free publicity ahead of their 2021 Spring/Summer collection release. RELIABLE WEBSITES Despite websites being an obvious choice for fashion retailers as they give customers a way to shop online, they can also be a secret weapon. Many brands, such as New Look and River Island, are including inspiration sections and fashion blogs within their website, which they then use social media

MUSIC Design by Marina Garcia Salcedo, Words by Megan Betts

ith live music set to return from June 21, here is everything you need to know about how the first music events post-lockdown are going to work in terms of scale, organisation, management, and vaccinations so we can all safely enjoy a summer of music.

ropical Palette

Tropical Palette

The Return of Live Music to Nottingham pilot gigs, such as a 2 day event in May in Liverpool, operated by letting ticket-holders in on the basis of a negative COVID-19 test, which may be seen on a larger scale this summer. When they eventually return to venues, audiences should also expect most COVID-19 safety measures to remain in place. This will include mask-wearing during performances, the Although a great deal of ambiguity remains, high levels use of e-tickets, card payments and one-way systems, of anticipation are also present thanks to the musicand hand sanitiser stations dotted around the venues. devoted nation. Reading and Leeds Festival assured the public they would be going ahead in August before Though dismissed by the company itself, Ticketmaster hastily selling out, and the world’s largest concert was subject to rumours last November about a search engine Live Nation sold over 170,000 tickets potential screening method for ticket holders to get in just a few days following the news of the roadmap into gigs. This system, which is still being explored, out of lockdown. Here at Platform Magazine, we have would work in the following ways: taken the time to research what summer 2021 might - After obtaining a ticket for an event, audience look like for all you music lovers out there. members would be required to confirm they had been vaccinated or had tested negative for COVID-19 one No earlier than 21 June there will be a relaxation of to three days before an event. limits on live performance events. According to the - Test results would be forwarded to a health pass government’s roadmap out of lockdown, the exact company, who would send the information to date will be dependent on an experiment called the Ticketmaster. Events Research Programme, held over the spring, - If the results come back negative or the audience which involved an array of pilots. The pilots, which member has been vaccinated, Ticketmaster would began in April, used enhanced testing methods and distribute digital tickets. additional tests to operate events with bigger crowds - If an audience member tested positive or did not and reduced social distancing to judge the results. verify whether they had the vaccination, they would not be granted access to the music venue. Many music venues are overjoyed that the roadmap out of lockdown has allowed them to start If you’re looking for events to attend in Nottingham brainstorming how they can start to recover. this summer, look no further! On Saturday 24 July the In February, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said rapid annual one-day Splendour Festival will be held within testing could pave the way for nightclubs and theatres Wollaton Park and has more than 40 acts of various to reopen. Johnson mentioned lateral flow tests could genres lined up. Headliners include singer-songwriter be used to assist “those parts of the economy” that Rick Astley and rock band Supergrass. Live music were not able to open their doors last year. It has also venue The Bodega is chuffed to be back with their been advised that some music venues might want secret garden now taking bookings. Starting from May to offer a mix of physical and digital tickets so that The Bodega will be welcoming back artists with open people who can’t attend the show can pay to arms. First to play are rock band The Districts. In June watch online. American singer Wade Bowen will be performing, and in July they will be hosting the Bounce Back festival Boris Johnson has hinted at the idea that rapid testing which will be supported by Don’t Forget Rupert, For or vaccine passports may be necessary for audiences, the Girl, and Celestines. Independent music venue to bring back bigger events. The aforementioned Rock City are looking forward to introducing their ‘Sit

Down Sessions’ in May, and their grand reopening week starting on 21 June. British MC and rapper Bru-C will be performing in June and the venue has also managed to attract alternative indie singer Yungblud to the stage in August. Tickets for all artists mentioned above are on sale now. We interviewed Rachel Foster, the co-founder of Nottingham’s widely renowned jazz club Peggy’s Skylight to get an insight into her hopes and expectations for returning this spring after taking a year off due to COVID-19:

Once Peggy’s Skylight reopens in May, what will be the ‘new norm’? What restrictions will you have for customers? “We will be reopening on 21st May with social distancing in place. Our customers can relax at safely spaced tables. We will operate a two shows per night model. ‘The Twilight show’ from 5 - 7.30pm and ‘ The Highlight show’ from 8pm till midnight.” Do you have any artists already lined up for when you reopen and for the summer? “Yes, we do. When we open to the public, we will keep the music going on Friday and Saturdays to begin with and then we will be opening from Thursday to Sunday evening. We always try to book some of the best artists in the country. Fridays tend to be more Funk/Soul/Blues/World & Folk and Saturday is for Jazz. We have some big names coming; Mammal Hands and Chip Wickham are coming later in the year, and the diary is starting to fill up.” Why do you believe reopening a jazz club is important? What can jazz bring to the table that a rock venue can’t? “Jazz is better served in an intimate environment allowing the listener to be absorbed by the complexity or atmosphere of the music. Jazz is the root of so much popular music therefore it is important to support it. It is a diverse and special art form that needs venues like Peggy’s to help the musicians thrive and the listeners have a great experience. Most people like to eat at different restaurants or try varied activities, so the more types of music venues, the better surely?”

Have you been able to keep customers/audiences involved with Peggy’s Skylight whilst being in lockdown? “We are hugely grateful to our audience and Peggy’s friends who have supported us either through crowdfunding at the beginning or by writing testaments in support of our funding application to the Arts Council of England. We have been running livestream events and our kitchen has been open for takeaway every Friday and Saturday for much of 2020 and 2021. There is an opportunity for watchers and listeners to donate to each performance 100% Now that restrictions are easing up, will you be of which goes to the musicians and livestream costs. inviting more local artists to perform in your club to We will continue to run livestreams when audiences help smaller artists on the rise? are permitted back into the building. Artists are being “We always support local and up and coming booked every day now, so look out for new listings on musicians locally and nationally. We are fortunate that our website www.peggysskylight.co.uk”. there is a wealth of talent in the city.”

MUSIC Design by Tara Thomas, Words by Laycie Beck

The Ulitmate 2021 Festival Toolkit

With restrictions starting to ease and the days getting longer and hotter, there should only be one thing on your mind… festivals! After the pandemic caused dozens of music festivals to be cancelled, everyone is desperate to get their hands on some wristbands in 2021, especially with limited tickets available. However, as the pandemic is still in full swing in some areas, it’s clear that festivals this year will not be like the previous years. Although, I am sure the music will be just as good, and the food just as pricey. We all know that wet wipes, dry shampoo, and a poncho are the essentials, but to make sure you are prepared for a COVID-safe festival, here are the extra items that you need in your rucksacks this summer, as well as the usual festival essentials.

Face Masks

It may seem like an obvious addition, but this summer you should bring at least three face masks with you. This should come as no surprise as these days we are required to wear masks everywhere, unless exempt. Whilst masks do keep you safe; you can also think of them as an extra accessory. Forget the boring plain masks and why not try a neon mask, a sequin mask, or even one that glows in the dark! Also, be prepared to have a face mask tan line once the festival is over.

Hand Sanitiser and Soap

Music festivals have never been the cleanest places, especially after a few days when all the mud gets brought up and seems to end up everywhere; and don’t get me started on the toilets. This year, it is even more important for you to take

a bottle of hand sanitiser with you wherever you go. You’ll never know when you need it. It might even be worth bringing your own bar of soap as hand sanitiser can only do so much. Plus, you can even get a small plastic case for your soap to make sure that nobody else puts their grubby hands on it.

Disinfectant Wipes

Wet wipes have always been a festival goers’ best friend. But this year, you should consider matching them with disinfectant wipes. You can use them in exactly the same way, whether it is to clean shoes, tents, playing cards, or whatnot. However, this year it is especially important to kill bacteria. Better safe than sorry is the motto you should be living by at music festivals, especially when it comes to hygiene. Although when it comes to removing makeup or glitter, I would stick to the makeup wipes...

Water Bottle

In the past, you have probably just bought water in bottles or cups, but this year you should consider investing in a reusable water bottle. You can get a funky festival design or keep it simple, but make sure you can tell yours from your friends. As whilst sharing drinks is pretty common among friends, there’s no point taking unnecessary risks at the moment. Especially if one of you ends up testing positive for COVID. Plus, swapping to reusable bottles instead will be so much better for the environment as even if you just make the swap that’ll save you using dozens of plastic cups.

COVID Passport

Although nothing is set in stone yet, if the UK follows the lead of other countries, we are all going to end up with COVID passports. If this is the case, we will need to bring these passports with us to events and gatherings to show that we have been vaccinated and help the organisers limit the risk of COVID for festival-goers.

Money Belt

Carrying change and notes seems to be a thing of the past with COVID, but we all know that nearly everything seems to be about cash at festivals. It’s important to check in advance with the festival organisers what to expect so that you’re not needlessly carrying around cash or end up skint for the weekend. But whether you’re carrying cash, bank cards, or even your ID, it is important to keep them safe. Most money belts are £5 or less, and you can wear them discreetly under your jackets or tops to keep your money safe and secure.

Sun Cream

Since last summer, we have all endured two national lockdowns meaning we are probably paler and vitamin D deficient. So, before you brace the long days in the sun, do your skin a favour and make sure you have plenty of sunscreen on. Plus, I don’t think there is anything worse than having a sunburnt facemask outline on your face.

Portable Charger

Whilst we all seem to live on our phones, it is especially important that you stay connected to the outside world as best as you can during your festival. This is because if you have been in contact with someone who has COVID you will want to know about it and not spread the virus further. Plus, most people have downloaded the NHS track and trace app on their phones, so having your phone switched on will also help you and others keep safe. We asked a few NTU students if they would be attending any festivals this year, and if they were what extra’s they would be bringing, here is what they had to say… Third-year Music Performance student, James Burt, 22, said: “Obviously I would be taking a face mask this time round, and I’ll probably take my own drinks this time to avoid having to go into overcrowded pubs outside the venue.” Third-year Psychology student, Tanny Karimi, 21, said: “I feel like a lot of people might want to take masks and hand sanitisers as an essential as it might give them a sense of security, especially as it’ll be the first big event for so long. “I feel like not much has been communicated on what’s going to be done to make the festival safe for those who might feel worried. I know it’s been said that all restrictions will be lifted by June 21st, but I still feel like they need to address how they’re going to COVID compliant to ensure people feel reassured and confident to attend.” First-year Music Performance student, Lucy Crisp, 21, said: “As much as I’d love to go back to festivals, I’m currently not going to go to any this year and waiting until 2022. Everyone’s safety is a priority and I want to see how the vaccination programme plays out first.” So, if you are going to a festival this summer, have a great time! But most importantly, remember to keep safe!

MUSIC Design by Faith Pring, Words by Robbie Nichols

NTU SPOTLIGHT

Armadillo, a band of five NTU students, have seen their debut EP reach the airwaves on BBC Introducing just days after its release.

Song number three ‘This Town’ sees singer Rosie adopt the persona of an obsessive stalker, set to a rock-inspired backing. The song feels like the anthem of the album, the lead single. It was, after all, the song that was played on the radio for all to hear.

Rosie, Hugh, Sam, Jamie, and Dee met in their first year at Nottingham Trent. Four years and four student houses The closing song ‘Cherry Blossom’ is laid back and lilting. If later, they have released four songs that drip sunshine and the EP is the backing to your summer’s day, this song plays cherry blossom. as you stumble home at sunset. The Forest Road EP is aptly named after where most of the writing and recording of the EP took place - Hugh’s bedroom in the band’s second year house on Forest Road East.

The song displays Armadillo’s ability to adopt a different style - more melodic and stripped back. It gives lead singer Rosie the chance to display her impressive and soulful vocals, while still showing off the band’s control over their instruments.

After being separated first by most of the band going on a placement year, and then a little-talked about pandemic, The inclusion of faint conversation between the band memproduction on the summer soaked songs began again this bers as the song winds down adds a depth to the producyear when they all found themselves back in Nottingham. tion of an already stunning song. Rosie, the vocalist of the band, said: “Over the years, Hugh, guitarist and one of the band’s songwriters, said that we’ve enjoyed playing a variety of different genres but this they are already working on new material. year we’ve really found our own style and become more serious about getting our songs out there. He said: “We’re working on how to highlight the strengths of each band member in our new stuff. “The release of this EP has been so exciting and it’s crazy to think it all started in Hugh’s bedroom.” “It’s led us down a slightly more grungy path, but the more The EP is a blend of up-tempo songs and soulful musings. ‘Intro’ opens the four song stint with psychedelic and smooth layered vocals. ‘Sun Ascend’ follows and dips into a classic and summery indie-pop sound, reminiscent of ‘Sun’ and ‘Something Good Can Work’ by Two Door Cinema Club.

we play them, the more we’re incorporating some elements of funk in there. “We’re really looking forward to seeing how this blend of influences develops into our own unique voice.” Armadillo’s promising first entry Forest Road EP is available to stream on Spotify, Apple Music, and Soundcloud.

MUSIC Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Ignas Vieversys

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

BEST SONGS OF 2021... SO FAR Leave the Door Open by Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic - What does Linkin Park’s “Numb/Encore” and Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” have in common? Nothing pop into your head? Well, this is a collab none of us saw coming. But, same thing can be said about Pb&J. So, when these two silky-smooth voiced bad boys dropped their first super-duo track in March, let’s just say the doors stayed open for weeks; and no one complained.

Redguard Snipers by R.A.P. Ferreira - While everyone’s ears are wide and open for that well anticipated

Kendrick album, it’s a good time to broaden our musical horizons and introduce ourselves to lesser-known poetic geniuses. Cue in, then, the “Redguard snipers” which, just like Lamar’s untitled tracks or “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst”, flows in every direction possible and never fails to surprise – no matter how many times you keep it on repeat. repeat. repeat.

Buzzcut by BROCKHAMPTON - The boys are back, everyone. You don’t have to be a fan of BROCKHAMPTON to enjoy this wild and colourful banger. Bringing that Adult Swim after 3am vibes, “Buzzcut” somehow managed to blend our favourite sounds from the 90s with that wacky, almost random aesthetic of our current generation. “Buzzcut” is so hot, it should have a fire hazard warning!

Devil‘s Haircut by The Knocks/Foster the People - Without anyone paying that much attention, the power-

duo The Knocks and Foster the People released a four-track cover EP at the beginning of this year. And while it features The Verve‘s “Bitter Sweet Symphony“ – yes, another cover of it - the real star of the show is the revamp of Beck’s 90s banger “Devils Haircut”. With those dirty, dirty riffs, “Sacred Hearts Club” vibe and Godlike sound-mixing by The Knocks, these boys can go ahead and give a go at anything it seems. Making Yoko Ono sound good, then?

Don’t Judge Me by FKA Twigs, Headie One, Fred Again.. - Meeting the bar that you set yourself isn’t an easy task. Especially when your name is FKA Twigs. More of a stand-alone extension of Headie One’s “Judge Me” from last year’s mixtape than an actual original track, Twigs’ stunning vocals alone deserves a spot on this list. And while it’s not as strong as her solo pieces, give “Don’t Judge Me” a few spins and you’ll see how fast it grows on you. Oh, and you might want to stick the music video on.

Kiss Me More by Doja Cat - We’re calling it now – “Kiss Me More” is going to be this summer’s “One Dance”

(2016). You’re going to hear it on the beach, on the radio back home, on the dancefloor, in every house party. Then, at some point – we will want it out of our heads (just like with every summer hit). But while it’s still fresh, new and bangin’, with summer within hand’s reach, “Kiss Me More” is as bubbly and addicting as Mojitos on a lazy afternoon.

Two for 2 – For Dilla by Madlib - Ask anyone who’s the master of sampling and you’ll probably hear Kanye’s name. Yet, few will know that one of the masters of this dark arts is Madlib, who, along with his usual partnerin-crime Kieran Hebden, better known as Four Tet, delivers us this earworm of a tune. With its vintage vocal samples singing over groovy jazz keys, “Two for 2 – For Dilla” might be the best introduction to your new favourite record-flipper.

Gravity by Brent Faiyaz Feat Tyler, The Creator - Brent, Tyler and Steve Lacy on one track? It might as well be

featuring MF Crack, for all we know. Although Tyler’s killer verse feels as short and addicting as a ‘whip-it’s trip, the gang truly delivers an outer-space experience, with a dash of old-school feeling, that will make you want to hold on to your chair. Big shoutout to our homie Newton for making this one possible!

drivers license by Olivia Rodrigo - Fighting with Cassandra Jenkin’s “New Bikini” and Japanese Breakfast’s “Be Sweet” for this spot, this 17-year-old Disney star’s breakout hit is probably a new official gen Z national anthem for heartbreaks. We’ve all been there, we all felt it and we know how much it hurts – no, we’re not talking about getting a drivers license. ‘Vomiting all of her feelings onto a piano keyboard’, as she likes to call her music-making process, Olivia‘s record-breaking hit is as sharp as a broken piece of heart. Hopefully it won‘t be ours.

Movement 6 by Floating Points, Pharoah Sanders & The London Symphony Orchestra - Let’s just say

that we’re talking about the whole album, not just this individual piece – as listening to this track alone would be as sinful as experiencing Kendrick’s “To Pimp a Butterfly” not in chronological order. And while the most cathartic track on this album “Movement 6” might not feel cool enough for everyone, this might be one of the best musical experiences of 2021 so far. Prepare to smile, cry and tremble. 27

TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Laycie Beck

BEST BUDGET SUMMER HOLIDAYS IN THE UK Although it seems unlikely that we will be able to travel abroad for holidays this year, there are still plenty of amazing places you can go to in the UK, which are likely to work out a lot cheaper than jetting off to Ibiza. So whether you are wanting a beach holiday, an adventure, or a city break, here are what we believe to be 12 of the best places to travel to in the UK this summer…

ISLE OF SKYE

If you do not mind a bit of a drive this summer, why not visit the Isle of Skye? Despite being an Isle, you can drive straight to the island via a bridge, so no need to worry about ferries. Plus, if you’re feeling very adventurous, you could attempt the iconic NC500 and make the Isle of Skye one of the stops on your way. The isle is home to picturesque landscapes, and full of history, waterfalls, and classic pubs.

BLACKPOOL

Speaking of beaches, who could forget Blackpool and its Pleasure Beach. There is so much to do in Blackpool, and everyone needs to visit Madame Tussauds to take photos with celebrities at least once. Plus, there are multiple piers in Blackpool, all of which have classic arcade games, like 2p and claw machines. You can also go up Blackpool tower for a better view of the city, or for a closer view, check out the Blackpool Model Village.

ANGLESEY

The Isle of Anglesey is one of the biggest British Isles, and you can get to it via a bridge in North Wales, (meaning you don’t have to spend money on a ferry). Plus, Anglesey is home to the Welsh village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, which is the longest name of any place in the UK! It is worth a trip to the isle just to take a photo with the sign, but if you are there, you should also explore the beautiful beaches, and maybe tour one of their picturesque lighthouses.

SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK

Wales is home to Snowdonia National Park, which is filled with things for you to do and see, including going up Mount Snowdon. The mountain stands at over 1000m tall, and most car parks cost less than £10 for an entire day, so you and your friends can take as long as you want to climb or walk to the summit and back (although it generally takes 5-7 hours). Aside from the mountain, there are lots of other activities to do in the park, like ziplining, camping, and there’s even an underground trampoline park in the caves!

CARDIFF

There’s so much to do in Cardiff. The Welsh capital city boasts more than just stores and landmarks. Cardiff is home to the International White-Water Centre, where you can try canoeing, surfing, or even white-water rafting. You should also consider a trip to Cardiff Castle and Bay, but if you are a fan of music, you have to visit the breath-taking Wales Millennium Centre. If sports are more your thing then the Principality Stadium has tours all year round.

CORNWALL

Cornwall is the British version of the Hamptons - a beautiful county in England with over 400 miles of coastline. Not only are there dozens of gorgeous beaches to enjoy, but you can also visit the iconic Land’s End landmark, or if you fancy doing something more adventurous, why not learn to scuba dive or surf? Plus, while you are there, you could even hire a boat or take a ferry across to the Isles of Scilly or Lundy, which are two islands just a short distance away.

EDINBURGH

If you are wanting to take a city break this summer, Edinburgh should be at the top of your list. Scotland’s capital has so much to offer, from castles and monuments, to museums and hundreds of shops. If you fancy doing something more unusual, there are also multiple ghost tours that take place in the city each night. If a city break isn’t your style, the area is still worth a visit, even if it’s just for a day.

LAKE DISTRICT

Another good option for those of you wanting a more adventurous holiday is a trip to the beautiful Lake District, which takes up a significant proportion of Cumbria. The district is full of forests, lakes, and waterfalls for you to explore, or you could hike up mountains or mountain bike on the trails. Summer is by far the best time to visit the Lake District, and if you choose to camp, it will be a lot more affordable than hotels. Plus, most of the trails and walks in the area are free too.

NORFOLK

From shopping at Jarrod’s, the Harrods of the East, or visiting the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, there is plenty to do and see in Norfolk, no matter the time of day or year. Even if you just want to spend all your time on the beach, there are almost 100 miles of coastline, meaning dozens of beautiful beaches for you to choose from. Plus, laying in the sun and building sandcastles does not cost a penny, which means all the more for ice cream.

KENT

From the classic White Cliffs of Dover to Canterbury Cathedral, and from Steam Railways to Alpaca Trekking, Kent is full of things for you to do, see, and try, no matter the weather. However, if you are looking for something a little more unconventional, why not explore Port Lympne Wildlife Reserve at night? It has a unique accommodation set up so that you could sleep in lodges where animals, such as tigers, can wander up to your windows.

LONDON

Even if you’ve been to London before, it’s a city full of things to do so you will always find something to keep you occupied. Why not take a walking or alternative tour of the city, or have afternoon tea on a classic double-decker bus? There are plenty of amazing deals in London on Virgin Experience Days, where students get an extra 10% off, so grab a cocktail class or board the ghost bus tour if you dare...

BRIGHTON

If you are struggling to decide between a trip to the seaside or a city break, then look no further than Brighton. Aside from the beautiful beaches, the city also has streets of shops and an impressive nightlife. If you have never been to Brighton, it is essential that you visit the British Airways i360 tower. There is no better view of Brighton than from 150 metres in the air, and some buildings even have art on their roofs. Plus, the tower has its own bar so you can enjoy a drink with the view. Even though foreign holidays may be a distant thought for now, there are plenty of destinations closer to home that are worth visiting.

TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE Design by Emily Houghton, Words by Jessica Piazzi, Image Credit Unsplash

ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITIES FOR YOU TO DO THIS SUMMER Since the beginning of term one, Britons have spent more than 100 days in some form of lockdown (without counting tier three and four restrictions). Now that the vaccination campaign seems to finally bring normal life back, it is time to start planning for summer 2021. Festivals are confirmed, and clubs are expected to reopen. However, apart from partying, which are the opportunities to make up for an entire year of new experiences we did not have the chance to try? Here is my ultimate summer bucket list with ideas to redeem all the time lost staying at home! 1. SKYDIVING Extreme experiences such as skydiving or bungee jumping often help to control anxiety and overcome bad feelings. As the Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on mental health, this could be a great experience to share with your loved ones this summer. One of the best skydiving spots in the UK is Bridlington in Yorkshire where you can fly over the unique white cliffs of Flamborough Head. Bring all your friends with you - the bigger the group, the cheaper the price.

2. VOLUNTEERING One of the best ways to re-learn how to live in society and have an enriching experience with your friends after one year of isolation is through volunteering.It may sound boring, but give it a try and you might change your mind! From volunteering in a National Park surrounded by nature, to helping your own community in your area, the possibilities are endless. There are plenty of databases online on where to find the perfect experience, such as doit.life. After all, since the pandemic, having new volunteers has become even more crucial for charities.

3. MINDFULNESS EXPERIENCE Amongst the lush fields of Devon, there are some meditation retreat centres where you can have a mindfulness experience and find some peace after such a stressful year. Group retreats at Gaia House are ideal for beginners, and the daily schedule includes meditation, gardening and talks with experts. Another option is The Sharpham House, a Georgian mansion that offers different mindfulness retreats in a beautiful natural context, with a swimming pool and delicious vegetarian and vegan meals.

4. CAMPING The best way to re-create connections after almost one year of being separated is to spend some days, if not, an entire week, camping in the lovely British nature. Camping teaches self-sufficiency, patience, boundaries, how to overcome problems, and living such a deep experience with your friends will strengthen your relationship. The best places to camp in the country are the classic Peak and Lake District, as well as the Isle of Wight. However, consider that next Summer we will likely be allowed to travel abroad too!

5. TRAIN FOR A HALF MARATHON Sports facilities have been closed for months, posing threats to everyone’s well-being, including young people. It’s time to get back moving our bodies - but spending hours at the gym in summer does not sound very appealing. The best way to maintain motivation is to set a goal. There are plenty of half marathons in the UK every year - just pick a date and start running with your friends while enjoying the summer weather and the new-found freedom. If spending too much time out now that you’re used to staying at home makes you feel overwhelmed, here is an extra activity to do without leaving your house, either on your own or with friends and family.

6. REDECORATE YOUR GARDEN We all hope we’ll never have to return to the previous social restrictions now that the country seems to have found a way out of the pandemic. However, during lockdown, we all understood the importance of having a cosy space in our house, and those with a garden had the chance to enjoy a good time with friends as soon as outdoor gatherings were allowed. Now that we all recognize the worth of our home, it’s time to redecorate the garden and host summer barbeques and outdoor cocktail nights. Find your creative flair and get started on what could be the beginning of a new and exciting project!

TRAVEL / LIFESTYLE Design by Jacob Greenwood , Words by Yasmin Turner, Image Credit Harry Serpis

BARS, RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS IN NOTTINGHAM THAT YOU NEED TO VISIT Sitting inside pubs and restaurants has been missing from our lives for months,

CookieShake

Image credit: Harry Serpis

This one is perfect for those of you with a sweet so it is safe to say we tooth. A milkshake bar that are all looking forward can create nearly every to getting back to our favourite places. Here is flavour you can imagine. a run-down of where I am Their night menu includes most excited to visit this alcoholic shakes and shots, with flavours such as summer! Terry’s Chocolate Orange, Toblerone and Skittles. It is Bars for booze definitely a bar that stands Coco Tang Cocktail out from the rest.

Bar

In my opinion, top of the list of places to visit is Coco Tang. Hidden behind an old-style Hong Kong alley, the cocktail bar offers an extensive menu with a dancefloor that gives a club-style ambiance at one end of the building. Or, if you prefer, you can sit and relax at one of the bespoke Onyx tables and even click a Call Point on the wall for table service! Tip: Make sure you try the Fight Club cocktail with an edible soap bar, based on the 90s film - you will not be disappointed!

Bunk Cocktails and wings… the perfect combo? Take the girls out for an indulgent treat at this gorgeous bar, fitted with cosy lighting and green palms. Bunk has three locations across Nottingham so no matter where you live there is a place near to you.

Tier This venue has an intimate setting with stunning lighting. With cheap prices, it has an extensive list of cocktails for you to try including a Baileys Martini. Do not forget to check out their affordable snacks, with toasties, Mac & Cheese and plenty of other sides. Tip: With its chilled and cosy vibe, this is the perfect place for a date.

Food Frenzy

Zaap

Feel as though you have been transported straight to Bangkok in this Thai street food sensation located in Nottingham city centre. Experience the bustling street food market, sit in Tuk Tuks or railway trains, and choose between over 80 authentic Thai food dishes as you take in the array of neon lights and signs. Image credit: Yasmin Turner

Mowgli

Masala chips and the best delicately-flavoured rose ice cream. With a focus on Beat the stereotypes of ethically sourced ingredients Indian curries and view and commitment to Indian food in a fresh light as you try homemade meals maintaining their stores as and street food packed with environmentally friendly as intense flavour and healthy possible, this is a fantastic and tasty business to herbs and spices. You may even get to sit on one of the support. You can find a chilled version of Chaiiwala’s giant wooden swings. Karak Chai Latte in ASDA superstores.

Coffeehouses

Avocafé

In the heart of studentled Lenton, you can find a healthy eating cafe that is not bland or boring. The perfect pace to study, whilst enjoying a coffee from Nottingham roasters 200 Bunk Degrees, or a fresh juice or smoothie and a bite to eat from their extensive selection of breakfast, lunch or cake options. Owned and run by University of Nottingham graduate Jordana Chin (who even made the chunky wooden tables that you sit at), it is a CookieShake great way to support local business as this cafe uses independent distributors and local suppliers.

Chaiiwala

Image credits: Yasmin Turner From the Chaiiwala empire’s Zaap first cup of Chai on the streets of Delhi in 1927, it has now come to the UK. You can find this cafe in Radford, just a 10-minute bus journey or a 15-minute walk from the Arboretum. As well as offering the best Chai, discover Roti rolls, Chaiiwala

TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Irene Bisoni

LIFE AFTER LOCKDOWN - THE There is no doubt this past year has been tough for everyone. Being stuck at home, often away from our loved ones, has been a challenge we would have never imagined facing. The slow pacing of time and endless days inside our house has given us the chance to entertain ourselves in new ways, and to rediscover hobbies and passions we were putting aside. As our routine became dramatically disrupted, we had to find new ways to cope to cheer ourselves up and adapt to new changes.

there is a lot of misjudgement around the community: very nerdy people with no social life. Despite my initial hesitations, I

This lockdown has been particularly challenging for me. I moved to Nottingham in March 2020, just before the start of quarantine. I did not know anyone, I could not socialise, and I felt completely lost. The uncertainty of the situation, together with the thought of not being able to see my family, gave me lots of anxiety. I was physically incapable of focusing on things and I certainly did not have any motivation to start something new. At the same time, I did not want to spend every day bingeing Netflix. I wanted to focus on myself, but I did not know how. At the end of April, my boyfriend was dispersed for the lockdown and decided to spend the isolation with me. It was thanks to him that I discovered new ways to spend my time off. I discovered the crazy world of miniature painting, and lockdown had created the perfect environment for me to start and perfect this new hobby. During this lockdown, I tried to re-discover my love for creativity and imagination, and painting miniatures seemed like a fun thing to do. I started reading more about Games Workshop - a Nottingham-based company that leads in creating fantasy and sci-fi miniatures. This new, very niche hobby was introduced to me by my boyfriend, who started the hobby when he was little. Watching him paint really inspired me to start painting my own miniatures. I am a big fan of fantasy and gothic stories. This is why at the start of the lockdown we started to collect and build miniatures together, as a way of distracting ourselves from being more productive. For me it was a way to relax, to focus on building something for myself. In the beginning, I never thought or imagined it was something for me. I had very limited knowledge and views about miniature painting. I think one of the reasons is because

started to get involved with the hobby and with the world of Warhammer. I have always had an artistic side which I had never explored before - so I decided to give it a try. In a few months, I built and painted more than ten miniatures on my own. The sense of accomplishment,

TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Irene Bisoni

E HOBBY I WILL TAKE WITH ME together with the relaxation and peace that painting brings me was a real revelation. When I paint these spooky miniatures I

I spent hours and hours reading the stories behind the miniatures. The Warhammer world is a huge universe. So many characters to play with, paint and build, and the community is huge. Even though it is still a maledominated environment, more and more girls are taking up the hobby, which makes me even more interested to see what this hobby has in store for me. I was also very impressed with the quality of my figures, and the praise I received from other hobbyists gave me even more of an incentive to keep going after the end of the lockdown. Painting turned out to be something very natural for me, like a second skin. This is why I started to think about how to grow into the hobby, and to take it to the next stage. A future project will be to sell some of my figures for other people to enjoy. I am planning to open my own commission page and to use my media degree to advertise and make my blog grow. The ease of lockdown will also give me a chance to meet other people with the same hobby, and finally start socialising with like-minded individuals, getting to know their stories, and why they started the hobby. I am also planning to widen my interests and maybe start painting historical models, like Romans armies and Anglo-Saxon tribes. Now that the restrictions are being slowly lifted and life is returning to somewhat ‘normal’, many of us will appreciate the time spent working on ourselves and will know what makes us happy.

am in my own world, and it allows me to switch off. I put some music on to set the mood, I select my colours, and I start my creation. Moreover, working alongside my boyfriend was also a very nice way for us to bond, and I cannot wait to actually play the game with him.

For me, painting has become therapeutic, and I hope I will still be able to keep this hobby going when my routine becomes more demanding. It was important for me to find a new way to de-stress and to channel my worries and my anxiety into something tangible like a miniature. Every time I grab my paintbrushes and my tools, I feel happy, my anxiety disappears, and when the product is finished I am proud to see what I have accomplished. I know it may sound pretty dull, spending hours and hours on a desk painting small miniatures does not seem super exciting (and your back can hurt a lot!), but for me, it has worked and that is why I want to take this new hobby with me in the future.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Kirsty Lemm, Words by Kyran Wood

A LOOK IN WITH WRAP

ASHLEY HICKSON-LOVENCE AND THE 392 NTU’s WRAP (Writing, Reading and Pleasure) have once again worked with Platform’s Culture and Entertainment section. This term, WRAP’s focus was on The 392 - a novel by Ashley Hickson-Lovence – is a novel that displays a theme of unity, very important in this postcovid world we are heading for. The programme includes book clubs, writing workshops and events to help encourage students to enjoy reading, writing and build their confidence. Hickson-Lovence lent his expertise to a variety of events, starting with a Writing Masterclass, as well as a conversation with WRAP Programme Manager Dr Becky Cullen. WRAP has also been collaborating with Platform this term and into next year, such as the first Platform Takeover of WRAP’s book club in celebration of LGBTQ+ history month. Platform Magazine were also lucky enough to interview Hickson-Lovence about life as an author, all of which is available online to read.

The 392 and how it relates to our lives You never know who you are going to meet on a bus. If you’re on a lilac tinged bus, you’ll probably find someone with a passion for animal care heading to Brackenhurst. If you’re on the Number Four to Clifton on a typical Thursday morning, you’ll probably run into a lot of hungover or tired students who are regretting making the trip. However, you also might just meet some characters like those seen in Ashley Hickson-Lovence’s novel, The 392.

Ashley Hickson-Lovence is currently in his third year of a PhD course in

Creative and Critical Writing at the University of East Anglia. The 392 is his debut novel, and he is currently putting on the finishing touches for his second novel The Show - due out Spring 2022. He initially found it hard getting the novel published, considering its short length, but eventually it was released though independent publisher OWN IT! As he lived in Hoxton and Holloway most of his life, this fictional tale is routed in the reality of where he grew up.

What is it about? A tale set over just 36 minutes, The 392 follows the titular bus on a journey between Hoxton and Highbury, jumping between the buses passengers as we learn about their lives. We’re introduced to a cast of eclectic characters from very different worlds. There’s a politician (who you might see some similarities to the current PM) who is a secret lover of grime (probably not a similarity with the current PM), on board for a photo op. Then we have Natalie who is 19, pregnant and facing the prospect of being a single mother when she spots her neglectful baby daddy’s brother on board. Widow Gloria is considering ending it all. Former London Rioter Levi has turned his life around to now be a barrister. Pervert Stu is developing an obsession with the bus driver. And they’re all noticing the same suspicious man at the front, with the big seemingly threatening bag. The novel explores themes such as gentrification, race, family and many more. Everyone comes from different walks of life, but the bus brings them together on this journey. Most are concerned about contemporary

London and how it is changing around them; hipsters moving in and changing the streets they grew up on. Whilst they share similar concerns, each character is vibrant and unique, offering their own unique perspectives. They’re all going through something, but they’re all united on this bus. They are one community despite their different backgrounds. Hickson-Lovence mentions in an interview that “it’s a real cross section of society”, and while London would normally keep these people apart, the bus is one of the only places where everyone mixes together, representing a microcosm of London as a whole. The theme of unity is one that really stood out to WRAP and Platform, especially when looking back at the year. The book promotes a united front between strangers, such as how the country has had to come together during the COVID-10 pandemic. The 392 is a thought-provoking character driven novel, that compels us to read on to find out more about their lives, hopes and fears. Ashley Hickson-Lovence has written a poignant and emotional debut novel, making you think about how much in common we really have with the strangers around us and how united we actually are.

•The 392 is available online now. Check out Platform for more coverage of WRAP and Ashley Hickson-Lovence.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Gracie Elliott, Words by Helen Barber

MY DREAM FIRST TRIP BACK TO THE CINEMA

ilm enthusiasts across the UK are eagerly counting down the days until May 17 when cinemas should open once again and showcase films where they rightfully belong... on the big screen.

between the busy reception and the main theatre will be the most obvious. Then, as I crossover into the threshold where I will be enveloped in the darkness of the room.

Living in Nottingham over lockdown, I (along with every other student) have craved the busy atmosphere of the city centre. I’ve imagined enjoying drinks in pub gardens, clubbing in Rock City, and exploring exhibitions at the Nottingham Contemporary. However, spending an evening at the cinema is something I’m especially excited about.

The outside world will become a behind-the-scenes afterthought. The grand, golden curtains at the front of the room will cover the screen and I’ll quickly get comfortable, knowing that in mere minutes the velvet folds will prise apart to reveal the main event.

In the heart of Hockley, nestled in the corner of Broad Street is my go-to cinema, Broadway. It’s a charming, independent venue that shows UK and International films, and is an affordable option for students, with “Under 25” tickets only £5. I can’t wait to stroll along the rainbow-painted streets, bustling once again with cafe-goers and vintage shop lovers, and feel the buzz of anticipation as Broadway’s doors slide open to reveal the warm atmosphere within. Stepping inside, I can visualise the soft, padded sensation of patterned carpet underfoot. The air will be swirling with the sweet aroma of popcorn, tempting me to buy a boxfull to devour. I’ll hear the familiar ripping of paper and pocket the ticket as a souvenir whilst I race up the stairs to be seated. The contrast

As wonderful as that sounds, I’m expecting that with COVID protocol the trip might not run as smoothly. Sanitising hands frequently and wearing a mask are standard practices in any shop now, so groups will probably be required to distance themselves in the theatre. This will be a shame as the cinema won’t be able to sell maximum capacity and there’s nothing quite like sharing the film experience with a packed cinema. However, it’s a necessary (and hopefully temporary) change. Luckily, government guidance will allow groups of six to meet indoors, so I’ll bring my housemates with me. We’ve had many movie nights together to stay entertained through lockdown, watching teen classics such as Jennifer’s Body and Mean Girls. We also spent a week solely watching Korean thrillers, which was fun to explore a different genre. To spend a movie night together at Broadway will be a refreshing change of scenery compared to the all-too-familiar

walls of our living room and give us an evening to look forward to. Many films that were due to be released in 2020 have unfortunately been delayed. For instance, A Quiet Place Part II directed by John Krasinski - has been ready for release since March 2020. Krasinski’s hesitation to release the second installment is understandable, for quality films like this deserve recognition and profit at the box office. I’m looking forward to seeing it at the cinema, for horror films full of tense silent scenes are even scarier to watch in a dark room where you can immerse yourself in the fear of the crowd. A Quiet Place II is now set for release in May, so luckily, we don’t have long to wait. At the end of the evening, as the credits begin to roll and the lights intensify, my housemates and I will leave the cinema and make our way to Lloyd’s bar. Drinks in hands, we’ll discuss our thoughts and opinions about the film, extending the evening as far as we can into lockdown-free nights. Many arts and entertainment businesses have suffered during the pandemic, but now there is hope that in a few weeks they will be able to thrive again. Returning to familiar creative places with a new sense of appreciation will brighten up the rest of the year, and the art that we have missed can finally be seen.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Emily Houghton, Words by Sophie Avant

CURTAINS TO RAISE SOON AGAIN AS NOTTINGHAM THEATRES PLAN FOR RETURN This year has been a struggle for the entertainment world. It is an understatement to say the Nottingham Playhouse and Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall are only slightly look forward to lockdown restrictions lifting. Hushed whispers quieten as the lights slowly diminish into darkness. The live orchestra sounds, mediating your attention to the ominous, empty platform. Suddenly, the spotlight flickers and the curtains begin to open up to a stage that has yearned desperately to show off to spectators once more. It’s exciting, imagining that first live performance, isn’t it? This year has been strange, to say the least. The country was thrown into a national lockdown due to the pandemic. Our society has experienced a period of unrest, uncertainty and upset – especially for appreciators of the arts. In 2019, the Arts and Culture industry contributed £10.47 billion to the economy, as reported by the House of Commons. As a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the sector’s economic output had declined by 60% in March 2020.

On welcoming audiences back, Hollie adds: “It will certainly be emotional. I think it will be a heady mix of elation and joy, of pride at having made it through but also relief to finally have audience’s back in the building”. You can catch Olivier Award-winning actress, Jenna Russell, at the Playhouse in Piaf this summer. Adam Penford, Artistic Director at Nottingham Playhouse, said: “The life-affirming story, combined with those iconic songs, makes for an unforgettable, celebratory night of theatre – which is exactly what we want to give people on their first visit following the pandemic”. The Nottingham Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall prepares to reopen their doors by mid-June, operating at full capacity from June 21 onwards – given restrictions lift as planned. Lucy Thomas, Press & PR Manager for the Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall said: “We want people to come and rediscover the joy, the buzz and the shared excitement of seeing a live performance”. “This has been the longest unplanned closure in our venue’s 156-year history [...] it now seems that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and we will be able to reopen soon. We are champing at the bit to get the doors open and to put shows on our stages again!”

Our theatres are set to reopen in mid-May according to the Government roadmap. Lifting restrictions on May 17 will allow the return of indoor entertainment, but with events capped at half capacity or up to 1000 people within Lucy explains how the Playhouse has appealed to their audiences. audiences through lockdown: “We’ve been in regular contact with our audiences over the past year, sharing With the announcement of a progression back to digital content from partner artists and companies, as well normality, Platform Magazine spoke to the Playhouse and as some events filmed on our own historic stages.” Theatre Royal and Concert Hall in Nottingham, to discuss what welcoming back audiences really means to them. It is safe to say that our theatres are ready for us to return; Like many theatres across the globe, the Nottingham the Theatre Royal and Concert Hall have both undergone Playhouse has struggled through long periods of closure extensive refurbishments throughout lockdown. Also, due to lockdown. Charity-based means the theatre they received two awards from the Governmental ‘Culture usually relies on 70% of their income from ticket sales. Recovery Fund’. Lucy adds: “these awards have helped Being closed in February through till May of this year, us enormously, to fully and physically prepare for a the Playhouse looks forward to re-opening to socially COVID-19 safe re-opening of audiences.” distanced audiences for their “Spring Loaded” season of live and digital events, specifically Lewis Doherty’s BOAR. She continues: “We’re also hugely grateful to Nottingham City Council for their support, and for the extraordinary Media and Communications Manager, Hollie Anderson generosity of our audience’s donations over the past year.” said the Playhouse is “so grateful” for donations to their Curtain Up appeal from local audiences and It is clear that Nottingham’s theatres are beloved by supporters after a “incredibly difficult time” was endured many local people and institutions. As a collective throughout lockdown. community, it is important we continue to support Nottingham’s Playhouse and Theatre Royal and Royal The Playhouse even plans to include the option for socially Concert Hall; they both give out extensively to the local distanced seating show dates, ensuring those who feel less area and it is our time to now give back as we say goodbye comfortable about returning normality have the option for (hopefully) to lockdown. a night out at the theatre.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Tara Thomas, Words by Jack Proverbs

WHAT GAMES WILL NTU STUDENTS BE PLAYING OVER SUMMER? The summer break is upon us! For many of us passionate gamers at NTU, we will be taking advantage of this time off, and use it as an opportunity to finally have a fully pledged playthrough of our favourite games, all of which we so desperately want to play during this well-deserved time off. After speaking to students at Trent, they have told us about which games they are looking forward to playing this summer. Based on results from an online poll, we have compiled a top five list, ranking some of the most popular games which students will be exploring in the summer months.

5) Kena: Bridge of Spirits Starting off our list is the upcoming action-adventure game developed by Ember Lab. This game follows the story of Kena, a spirit guide on a quest to help people move onto the spirit world. Additionally, Kena discovers the secrets of her spirit village, whilst fighting off enemies along the way. Scarlett Acres, a first year journalism student at Nottingham Trent University, said: “The graphics are phenomenal and it looks really interesting. “As a girl gamer, I also love seeing games where it has strong female leads.” The release date is August 24, 2021 so it will be a late summer filled game to play and enjoy, especially one to take your mind off how it’ll be near the end of your summer vacation.

4) Days Gone One of the top-rated games of 2019 – Days Gone is best described as a complete masterpiece. Developed by Bend Studio this game takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. You play as Deacon – a main protagonist who finally has personality! The narrative explores the new zombie filled world of America while trying to find his missing wife Sarah, as well as pure survival from powerful creatures, rival camps and terrifying cults. This game provides a deep, thought-provoking storyline with multiple options to play. I am thoroughly excited to conquer through this dynamic game over the summer; time off uni work means I can dedicate myself to it! In April, Days Gone was made available for free for those with PlayStation Plus membership – best news ever. Fingers crossed it will have the sequel it truly deserves; unfortunately, there are no plans for this currently, as Sony would prefer a remake of The Last of Us (questionable). I strongly encourage all advocate gamers to play through this sensational game.

3) Call of Duty: Cold War How can I do a top five list and not include a Call of Duty game? The latest game of the series – Black Ops: Cold War, was released in late 2020 and has been a massive hit with gamers. From campaign mode, to the intense multiplayer as well as the returning of Warzone. One of the reasons why gamers are hooked on Cold War is the fact every fan loves the Black Ops series, perhaps it’s from addition of Zombies within the narrative which keeps us all hooked. The game can have you playing endlessly for hours on end, all gamers can finally sit back and relax and be the top winning team at the end of an intense deathmatch with their mates.

2) Assassins Creed: Valhalla This 2020 game is a hit among fans, taking place in the era of the mighty Vikings as they settle across the UK. Furthermore, the game also takes place in Scandinavian countries such as Norway and “Vinland” (not Finland as you might assume). Kieran Burt, a second year Politics and International Relations student at NTU, said: “I’m excited to play it because I didn’t get a chance to earlier in the year due to university work. On a personal note, it was very heart-warming to see the ancient landmark of the Nottingham caves, or in this game - the area of “Snottinghamshire”. Summer is definitely the right time to get involved in the roots of England’s Viking past within this glorious game.

1) The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD Now we crown our winner of this ranking list with a classic, Zelda. On the 35th anniversary of the series, one of the most favourite Zelda games of all time (Skyward Sword) is going to be remastered on the Nintendo Switch this summer. This is the most popular voted game, meaning that NTU students cannot wait for this remake! Exploring as our ever so brave Link, we once again find ourselves rescuing Zelda. This action-adventure title comes first within the Zelda timeline, with the game delving into the past of the Master Sword as well as adding even more in-depth lore about the whole story.

The release date for this game is July 16, 2021 which is the perfect opportunity on your time off to battle your way through and complete before the next university academic year.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Faith Pring, Jack Proverbs, Ellie Moylan and Irene Bisoni

WHAT TO BINGE WA For many of us, we will be eager to get outdoors this summer after being cooped up inside for the last year (or what seems like a lifetime). However, after all of our partying and we need some downtime, what are we going to be sitting down to watch? Well, here are what some of the Platform members are planning to binge over this summer. FAITH PRING - ELITE

I’m planning to finally watch Elite on Netflix this summer. This Spanish-language TV show first came out whilst I was on my year abroad in Spain, and it was all anyone was talking about – even the lecturers were invested! I’ve been meaning to watch it ever since, but could never find the time to get into a whole new TV show. From what I know, it’s a murder mystery drama set in a Spanish high school, where three teenagers from working class backgrounds are given scholarships to one of Spain’s most elite high schools. Things take a turn for the worst, and if that’s not enough to make you want to watch it, I don’t know what will be.

JACK PROVERBS - THE HANDMAID’S TALE

This summer I can’t wait to delve into the fourth season of one of my favourite TV shows – The Handmaid’s Tale. The famous novel by Margaret Atwood has blossomed on screen, and this series is one hell of a ride. June (Elizabeth Moss) is our heroic female lead; feminism, patriarchy and freedom strive throughout this series, it’s one which is extremely thoughtprovoking due to the many social issues throughout. The fourth season is due to be released in late April with weekly episodes released in the upcoming months, meaning I have a lot of anxious waiting to do. I just need to know what will happen to June! Will she finally escape Gilead with Hannah and have a happy ever after? Who knows, as anything is possible in this series. I encourage everybody to watch this series, educational yet highly dramatic, perfect combination.

ELLIE MOYLAN - MODERN FAMILY

After completing my first year at university, this summer I am looking forward to binge watching Modern Family, as it is both my favourite show and my comfort show. Modern Family provides a relaxing, funny, easy watch that is desperately needed after completing my final assessments of the school year. I love watching Modern Family as the characters are written in a way that makes them relatable in both their personalities and the situations that they go through. My favourite character is Alex Dunphy because I relate to her the most out of all the characters, due to her love of reading and the fact that she is a perfectionist who puts a lot of pressure on herself to be the best at everything she does, working extremely hard to achieve what she wants.

IRENE BISONI – THE CROWN

One series I will certainly watch this summer is The Crown. The Netflix’s drama takes you inside Buckingham Palace through Queen Elizabeth II’s reign (so far), shading lights onto the lives of the Royals. The mix of reality and narration blends perfectly together, and the result is irresistible. I have high expectations about the acting, as I am really curious to see John Lithgow as Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Claire Foy as Queen Elizabeth. As a fan of British history, and all the dramas about the Royal Family, I think this series will not disappoint in giving me some fascinating look inside the English monarchy and at some big moments in history.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Marta Tavares, Yasmin Turner, Kirke Vira and Katie Green

ATCH THIS SUMMER MARTA TAVARES - THE MARVEL SERIES

What better time to binge on a 23 movie series over the summer break? As my best friend says: “Once you start watching Marvel, it is an endless road with no way back. You’re just stuck and addicted to it.” The theories, saving the world, universes colliding, villains and their stories, the power given to women, the whys and hows, not to mention the incredible soundtrack, come to take us to a parallel universe. The Marvel Universe. There are three phases, starting with Iron Man, having a wee break on Avengers: Age of Ultron and reaching the end line (at least until new ones are released) with Spider-Man: Far From Home. So, your challenge this summer is to watch all the Marvel movies and enter that road, because if I can do it, so can you. Enjoy the ride!

YASMIN TURNER - HOMELAND

With eight seasons and 96 episodes, this political thriller will have you hooked from the start. CIA officer Carrie Mathison, played by Claire Danes (Romeo + Juliet, Stardust), is looking for an American prisoner who may have turned and joined forces with Al-Qaeda, planning a terrorist attack on American soil. 10 months later, Damian Lewis’ (Billions, Once Upon A Time… In Hollywood) character, a United States Marine Corps Sergeant becomes the perfect suspect when he is released from hostage in Iraq after eight years. Covering topics such as mental health, including a tense plot and unpredictable characters, this Emmy-award winning series is definitely worth your time. More than a decade after 9/11, it’s the most ingenious piece of television to surface from the War on Terror.

KIRKE VIIRA - BRIDGERTON

This summer, I plan on fully diving into the world of 19th century aristocrats and romance with the Bridgerton series. I love period dramas, so I surprise myself that I still haven’t round watched the series. However, I’ve been waiting for the perfect time and what could be better than watching a good show during summer, when you don’t have to worry about university work. Bridgerton is based on Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels and tells a story about finding love in the London high society. A society that is full of love, intrigues and passion. I’m very excited to see the chemistry between the two leading actors Phoebe Dynevor and Regé-Jean Page. I have quite high expectations for this series because of its amazing reviews, so I’m very excited to get swept away by Bridgerton’s enchantment.

KATIE GREEN – JANE THE VIRGIN

The problem with me is that when I find a TV series I like, I will guarantee to watch it another five times (or even more) and never get bored of it. A series that I have only watched once but will be binging once again this summer is Jane the Virgin. Long story short, Jane’s life is turned upside down when she is accidentally inseminated with Rafael Solano’s ‘essence’ – who is her boss - and ends up pregnant. However, the shock is she is still a virgin! It is a series full of romance, drama and over the top comedy due to its telenovela aspect, something I love from the series. So, it is Jane the Virgin that will be taking up time over my post-lockdown summer.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Faith Pring, Words by Ignas Vieversys

An Interview With...

HONOR

SWINTON - BYRNE

Meeting someone from the screen is always a combination of excitement and astonishment. So, meeting Honor Swinton Byrne, 23-year-old star of Joanna Hogg’s two-part drama The Souvenir who is also in her second-year studying psychology at University of Edinburgh, who, contrary to what one might expect from watching her fragile persona on a big screen, has a slight addiction for Love Island and cannot wait to go clubbing, was a pleasure to do.

Being surrounded and nurtured by art her whole life as her house was decorated paintings of her beloved father and stepfather; films made by friends, books written by godparents – Honor can’t imagine a world without it. She said: “Art makes the world go round. Without it, we would be like cave people. But even they had cave paintings!” Comparing such a world with the dystopian universe of no other than the Black Mirror series, her smile re-emerges as after she starts talking about (watercolour) painting, a “I feel like I should be saying ‘going to a botanical garden’ (or hobby that’s shared between both of her parents. something along those lines). But seriously, I can’t wait to rub up against people that I don’t know!” Honor shares as her eyes “Art for me feels very emotional. It helped me to express sparkle with excitement as he talks about her dream post- myself verbally and emotionally,” Honor explains, adding, lockdown activities. “Through painting, acting, or dancing (but not only), I could “I can’t wait to be moved by the same rhythm and feel of the feel the way I do and have done my whole life - free and song with a bunch of random people. And have fun doing that unjudged. Which correlates with something that my mum – that’s so pure to me. established in me since I was little: learning how not to give “This is the exact reason why I love cinema so much: we’re all a damn about what others think about you.” strangers and we all go there for the same reason – to have Of course, there’s always that other side of having such fun as a collective. You could watch a film in your own house. world-class talented and prestigious parents. While most But for some reason people pay to go watch it with strangers.“ of us feel the weight of our parents’ mighty expectations, Going from bumping into sweaty students on a sticky dance however mortal and achievable they might be; Honor, we floor to sharing a great cinematic experience (in complete imagine, should be an Olympic weightlifter in this dreaded silence) on a silver screen in a single sentence is something category. “For a little while it seemed like I should be good that you might expect from Honor. at this or be good at that, simply because my dad or my mum is. And I know it’s a bit different in my case, but it After all, she’s the daughter of one of the most sought-after really isn’t – it’s the same as with anybody’s parents,” she actors living today, muse-like Tilda Swinton (“she’s such a little explains, adding almost as if breaking character, “it’s so chill. hippie”), 60, who’s screen presence has blessed our screens I think that whatever path you choose in the end, as long as for most of our lives. Then her father, John Patrick Byrne, 81, it’s not forced and feels right, it’s gonna be cool.” a celebrated Scottish playwright (“he’s so old”), who, just like every dad on the planet, requested his daughter’s assistance As Honor has said, arts and culture is so important in the with setting up Zoom for our interview. How simply relatable, world we live in. So, we stand united in the arts in this postyet endearing. COVID world, to build it up once again to the grandstanding it always has been and beyond.

The full interview with Honor can be found online at Platform.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Katie Green

STANDING UNITED IN THE ARTS – AN INTERVIEW WITH ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND The last year has been a struggle for all, especially those involved in the Arts. Times have been tested, but all those dedicated to any form of art and culture have united and not let these times define them. Here at Platform Magazine, we are proud to support arts and culture in any way we can as they are such an important and enriching aspect of people’s lives. Arts Council England is the non-departmental public body that overlooks arts and culture in England. This work has not stopped during COVID, especially in Nottingham, a city enriched with arts and cultural institutions. Sharon Joinson, Head of Advocacy and Communication for Midlands Arts Council England talks about how the institution has stayed united in the arts through these tough times.

Q: How important do you think the arts Q: How much have Nottingham are in Nottingham? institutions received from the culture A: We know that creativity, arts and culture benefit us in recovery fund? so many ways, having a positive impact on our wellbeing, A: Across Nottingham/Nottinghamshire, £12,515,129 has bringing communities together and making a significant contribution to the local and national economy. For a diverse and modern city like Nottingham, it’s vital that creativity is accessible to everyone – whether that’s borrowing a book from the library, seeing a show at the Playhouse or taking part in a Making from Home project with Primary.

been awarded across 95 arts and cultural organisations. In Nottingham this includes the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham Castle, Nottingham Playhouse and Broadway, Peggy’s Skylight, Rock City, Primary and the National Justice Museum. It’s worth noting that the Arts Council isn’t the only distributor of the Culture Recovery Fund, other organisations will have benefited from funding through the BFI, National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England.

Q: How do the arts and cultural institutions in Nottingham benefit people? Q: How can more people become involved A: Nottingham has a really vibrant cultural scene, and its galleries, theatres, music venues, museums and arts centres in arts and cultural institutions in are valuable assets to communities across the city, building Nottingham and continue to support civic pride, creating an increased sense of belonging, them? tackling loneliness, attracting visitors and creating good A: Over the past year, creative people and organisations jobs for people. Q: How has or how will the government culture recovery fund help arts and cultural institutions in Nottingham? A: The Government’s package has provided an essential

lifeline to protect our cultural organisations so they can continue to be there for everyone. Building upon investment made in the first round of Culture Recovery Funding, we’re pleased to see that many more well-loved community projects, theatres, galleries, museums, clubs, music venues, festivals - along with other creative spaces and projects have benefited. Now that we’re hopefully on the road to recovery, there is much to look forward to as organisations get ready to reopen their doors, welcoming back audiences and making plans for the future.

across the city have shown just how resilient and adaptable they can be, and it’s been possible to take part in all kinds of creative activities from the safety of your own. There are all kinds of ways people can show their support – simply by taking part and buying a ticket or sharing something you’ve enjoyed on social media. These can all help these organisations as they begin the journey to recovery.

Q: What do you hope for the arts and cultural institutions in Nottingham post-COVID? A: We hope we can now look to the future as organisations

get ready to welcome audiences back. After more than a year of closures and cancellations, with cautious optimism about the easing of restrictions over the coming weeks, we hope that organisations can return to something approaching normality, and engage freelancers, create work again, and share experiences and opportunities widely with audiences, visitors and participants.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Jamie Morris, Katie Green, Robbie Nichols and Ellie Moylan

WHAT THE ARTS MEAN TO ME The arts have always been there in some form throughout time. Whether it is music, film, theatre or literature, they have been there to show an individual’s expression. Here at Platform, we are advocates for the arts and will continue to do so. Here are what the arts mean to some of our writers.

JAMIE MORRIS Lockdown has demonstrated just how vital the arts are in helping us to interact with our own inner thoughts and feelings. Whether it takes us back to simpler times, resonates with our perennial feeling of isolation, or distracts us from the real world entirely, art provides a space for us to momentarily immerse ourselves in

something else. As the world slowly but surely begins to open back up, we can once again share this with other people—the magic of the cinema, the ambience of the stage or the serenity of a gallery. All of these feelings are heightened when we experience them as a community.

KATIE GREEN It is said that art enriches our lives. In my opinion, I fully support this statement. As an admirer of the arts, I have missed the thrill of seeing a new film in the cinema or going to the theatre to see a show come to life. It is no doubt that the entertainment sector has hugely suffered this year. Despite the struggling times, those in the sector still fought hard to keep the

thrill alive. As they say, the show must go on. This past year has made my love and respect for the arts grow. I am determined to be an advocate for the sector in any way I can to promote it post-lockdown. In the worst times, it is the arts – whether it be a film or a newly released song – that I have found hope in. And that is what the arts mean to me.

ROBBIE NICHOLS To me, the arts is community. A place for people to come together and to create something that matters to people, that other people want to see and celebrate. It is people using shared experiences to create something that feels real and topical – something

others can relate to. Even if that something is Legally Blonde: The Musical. It brings people together, in one room, to watch a girl do surprisingly well at law school. The arts are a common goal for everyone. It’s a lifetime of work made for other people to enjoy.

ELLIE MOYLAN The arts are an important part of my life and most of The arts are important to many people and society what I do is centred around it. because they contain relatable characters who provide voices for people who are afraid to speak. One of my favourite feelings is the excitement as the The arts also include messages and themes that are lights go down and the curtain opens when a theatre relevant to society today, introducing them in a way production begins. After seeing my first show, I fell in that makes them more interesting and engaging. This love with the theatre and dreamed of being on stage, makes people more aware of what is going on in the performing in front of an audience. This inspired me world today. to take drama lessons, which helped my confidence.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Faith Pring, Laycie Beck, Helen Barber and Himanshu Saliya FAITH PRING To me, the arts represent solidarity, equality and expression. In theory, it allows everyone from any background, to express themselves through any medium. Whether that’s drama, art, music or otherwise. The arts industry has really suffered the past year, and it has been great to see people bonding over a common goal – to save the arts. Equality in the arts is something we’re still striving towards

but seeing more and more of, and I can’t think of a better place to start than post-pandemic. The arts and entertainment sectors have given everyone something to be distracted by something to escape to and something to relax with over the past year and it’s hard to imagine what lockdown would have been like without them. They were our saving graces in the hardest days, and now it is time to support them.

LAYCIE BECK I feel that the arts are one of the most important parts of modern-day society. They allow people to creatively express themselves through acting, art, dance and music. However, the arts also allow us to escape from the stress and pressures of our day to day lives. Even if it’s just for an hour or two, picking up a camera and taking some photos or

picking up a paintbrush can help people feel better by being creative and productive. I also feel that the arts also allow different ideas to be exchanged, and they also allow people to see things from someone else’s perspective, whether it is through seeing a film, listening to a song, or watching a play.

HELEN BARBER There are so many aspects of “the arts” that are present in my life. It takes its form in the films and TV shows that I watch with friends, it fills silences with music that matches any mood, its architecture welcomes me into every building, and its colours decorate walls all over the city with artwork. It can be easy to take the arts for granted. However, it’s good to remind ourselves that they are constantly surrounding us, and

that if everything the arts influences was taken away there really wouldn’t be much left. My favourite thing about the arts is that it opens the spectator’s mind to other people’s experiences, so it’s quite empathetic in that sense. So, every time I visit a gallery, watch a play or read a book I learn something new while also having a fun time.

HIMANSHU SALIYA If you ask any creative person or for that matter a person who considers himself not creative, then every answer differs because the idea of art is unique to everyone. For me - an amateur writer - War and Peace is art and for a coder it might not be but for him, few lines of code may be art. Art means different things to different people.

For me, anything that inspires me to write or at least make me want to write is art. A few months ago, I was listening to a song and it inspired me to write a story. Art inspires art. If you see a movie, a painting or listen to any music and it makes you want to write or paint then that is art and that is what art means to me.

SPORT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Alex Brinton

NEW DEAL, NEW START The new TV deal for the Women’s Super League heralded a new dawn for women’s football. Sports Editor Alex Brinton caught up with some of Nottingham Trent’s elite women’s players to find out what they made of it.

Mai Moncaster (MM) Position: Central Midfield Age: 19 Course: Coaching and Sport Science Club: Nottingham Forest Favourite player: Lucy Bronze

Who were your football idols growing up? MM: Steph Houghton was my main idol. The status as Manchester City and England captain is what you aspire to be when you’re looking into the future. LD: Steph Houghton is certainly up there, especially after the London 2012 Olympics. She was a huge figure after what she achieved there and so most young girls admired her. Aside from her it’s the generic big names in football, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. ST: I think probably Michael Carrick, he was my main idol. I looked up to Roy Keane as well, but I only saw him play live when I was really young. I watched a lot of him on YouTube when I was growing up. From women’s football I don’t have that many really, but maybe Casey Stoney.

Did you ever feel there were barriers put in your way because of your gender? Laura Dexter (LD) Position: Striker Age: 22 Course: Coaching and Sport Science Club: Nottingham Forest Favourite player: Toni Duggan

MM: The main barrier was where teams were. There were not many teams around where I live and so I would have to travel quite far to play. It would be a struggle sometimes but it also was not too much of an issue. ST: I always felt like I wasn’t really taken seriously at school. But I knew I was different from a lot of girls because I was playing in Centers of Excellence. They made me feel special and so did my parents so I didn’t really see the same barriers as other girls. But I knew they were there.

Sophie Tudor (ST)

Do you have any funny stories about surprising boys with your football ability?

Position: Central Midfield Age: 21 Course: Coaching and Sport Science Club: Nottingham Forest Favourite Player: Tanguy N’Dombele

MM: There was one time when I was walking through the town centre near this pub and I said to this group of lads “if I can do an around the world, will you give me a quid each?” They agreed and I then did the around the world in front of them. I think I got about seven quid from it. LD: I often joke with my boyfriend about wanting to play for his six-a-side team and he won’t let me

because it’s a ‘lads’ league. But the other night there were only five players so I was able to play and afterwards, the opposition was telling him I should play every week. I just looked at my boyfriend and said “they’re not wrong”.

What were your first thoughts about the new Women’s Super League TV deal? MM: It was probably a bit of a relief, it was the next step that needed to happen. It made me smile as it’s been a long-time coming. We’ve been waiting a fair while for something like this to happen in the women’s game so it was a mixture of relief and happiness - it’s a proud time to be in women’s football. LD: I was very surprised because there have been international games recently that haven’t been shown on TV. It’s massive for women’s football to get it out there more. It has grown so much in the last 10 or 15 years, but I think it will be a massive step up in publicity. ST: Obviously, I was pleased that women’s football is taking another step up. But part of me was quite defensive because there is going to be men out there saying ‘what is this’ and being very critical. The initial step is great, it’s amazing for women’s football and I think it is the start of something new. After a while I think it will become more accepted as it becomes more normal.

How do you think the TV deal will change women’s football? LD: As well as promoting the WSL it will help promote lower leagues too. There is a massive gap between the WSL and the next four tiers. The teams in those lower tiers get so much less publicity. So for the WSL to be nearing the level of the Premier League, I think it will hopefully promote the leagues below too.

expect more publicity equals more funding. People at this level in the men’s game are semi-professional or pro, so I think that could have been the case for us too by now. ST: I think it definitely would have been a lot tougher. It would probably make you into a stronger and better player and more respected as a player. More girls would be into it so I would probably have more friends from a younger age. I remember I moved schools when I was young and at lunch I went to sit on the table with the boys. I got some funny looks from the girls, but I didn’t want to talk to them about make-up. I want to talk about the game on the weekend.

What do you think the status of women’s football will be in ten years time? MM: That’s a hard one. I hope for the status to be higher and I would love for it to be as high as the men’s game, but a lot needs to change for that to happen. We’ll see what happens. LD: I would like to think it will be as equal as it can be. The standard of football is different, that is obvious. It’s a completely different game and the way it is played is different. But I would like to think it is promoted in the right way so that people don’t expect us to be playing as quickly or tactically-minded as men. Hopefully, people will appreciate it for being women’s football. ST: I think it will be a lot more respected and not so sexualised. People will talk about what player played well on the weekend rather than which one is fit. People will actually enjoy watching it rather than just sit there slating it.

Do you think the women’s game could ever be as big as the male side of the game?

ST: The standard will definitely get better as more money comes in through advertising and other sources. More money means better quality coaches, better quality players and better quality facilities. These things can only be good for the women’s game.

MM: I really hope so. Now that female participation in sport is becoming much more regular, that side of things is really on the way up. That can only really improve so yes, I think we could be equal to the men one day.

How different do you think things could have been if this happened when you were growing up?

ST: No, I really don’t because it’s a different game. Honestly, men are fitter, men are quicker, they have bigger muscles than us, they’re built differently and the game is different. They will always have that over us, but that’s normal. I’d love it if they could be equal but it’s just not realistic.

LD: I think more teams in the second and third tiers would be semi-pro or professional by now. It depends on how much money is thrown into it as you would

SPORT Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Pete Trifunovic, Image Credit Ollie Thompson

MISSING VARSITY With the cancellation of varsity, the battle for sporting supremacy in Nottingham has been pushed back another year. Pete Trifunovic spoke to two of NTU’s elite sportspeople about missing the popular sports event. The chants, the rivalry, and the bragging rights – just some of the reasons for why the Nottingham Varsity series takes over university life every spring. Well, in normal circumstances it would. For the second academic year running, we’ve been robbed of the chance to see both universities’ best athletes battle it out across a wide array of sports – 28 to be exact. Last year’s series was snatched away from us right before it was about to kick-off. The training was complete, the tickets had been sold, and the excitement was bubbling. However, with just two days to go, the pandemic put a stop to it all. It was heart-breaking for many athletes from both sides of Nottingham’s university divide, especially those that saw the 2020 series as their last chance to compete before their time as students came to an end. “It’s such an amazing event that every Trent athlete should get to experience it”, said Imogen Hill, who played for Nottingham Trent’s women’s basketball team in their narrow 66-52 varsity defeat back in 2019. For many of the athletes competing, varsity is often the biggest audience that they’ll play in front of during their sporting careers. Perhaps part of the beauty of varsity is that many students going to events don’t know the athletes that they’re supporting but cheer them on like they’ve shared a student house with them for three years. Of course, it all comes down to whether you bleed pink and blue, or green and gold.

If it’s the former, then the Trent Army will back you to the hilt, whether you’re a flatmate or a stranger. If you’re the latter then, the less said, the better... As Tauhid Ibrahim, who represented NTU in Ultimate Frisbee two years ago, put it simply: “It always produces a massive crowd that come to cheer you on, so when loads of people are watching you it feels like a professional sporting event.” Despite many Trent sports clubs taking part in BUCS competitions during the year, the biggest match of the season is undoubtedly varsity – it just means so much more. “It’s great to look at the people playing in varsity, no matter the sport they’re taking part in and seeing how determined they are to beat the University of Nottingham.” “Throughout the year, you hear people speak about the varsity series and how big the rivalry is, so it fires you up to try and win no matter what. “The competition between the two sides and the ‘no holding back’ part of the event is amazing to see,” added Tauhid, who’s held the position of Competitions Officer at NTU Ultimate Frisbee for the past two years. Meanwhile, Imogen, who has since gone on to represent Trent in their Women’s National Basketball League side, recalls the raucous atmosphere inside the Motorpoint Arena that made her experience so memorable. “The thing that makes varsity so special compared to other sports fixtures is the rivalry between the two universities. The chanting from both crowds really sets the atmosphere and the intensity of the game. “It was nerve racking to play in-front of such a large crowd, but it’s an amazing feeling when your number is called out and you run out into the arena.” The Motorpoint Arena - host to both the ice-hockey and basketball fixtures - is just one of a number of Nottinghamshire venues to welcome varsity matches each year.

Football matches take place at Basford United’s Greenwich Avenue home just north of the city, whilst Nottingham Rugby’s Lady Bay ground plays host to the always-feisty rugby union and rugby league fixtures that bring the curtain down on the varsity series. That’s alongside the several fixtures that take place at both universities’ sports facilities. Each university hosts a ‘Super Wednesday’ event during the series too, turning their respective campuses into sporting festivals for the day and hosting a plethora of sports – from trampolining to table tennis and karate to handball. As someone who’s sport is part of the Super Wednesday events, Tauhid describes how much he enjoys the entire occasion that varsity creates when he admits: “You get to see all your club together so it’s really fun, especially when the weather’s nice during the summer.” Speaking about the disappointment of not being able to play in a varsity series for a second year running, he said: “It is a huge bummer and I do feel for those who are in their final years and not able to play for Trent again in this huge event. “I’ll definitely miss how the event brings everyone together, and how alumni are so involved as well.” And it is hardly surprising alumni are so keen to remain involved – varsity is the highlight of many students’ time at university and as Imogen adds: “It’s one of the things I’d love to experience again before I finish university.” It’s the memories of success, playing in big venues and of course, being backed on by passionate and - more often than not – drunk students, that make varsity such an experience for those donning their university’s colours.

VARSITY IS SUCH A UNIQUE AND SPECIAL SPORTING EVENT, UNLIKE ANY OTHER “We were drawing, and it was a really long point, so everyone began to tire. “In the end I managed to score by reaching highest [for the frisbee] and skying my opponent – the cheer from the side-line topped it off too.” At the end of the day, varsity is such a unique and special sporting event, unlike any other – and the reasons for loving it are different for everyone, whether you’re competing or just supporting. But, of course, the fact it only comes about once a year makes it particularly significant – one shot to earn those bragging rights. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, after a two-year hiatus, expect next year’s varsity series to be a passionate one, both in the stands and on the pitch, court, or field. But, then again, isn’t it always?

Both Tauhid and Imogen have fond memories, even if the score lines didn’t go their way. For the basketball guard, it was the atmosphere of the event that made it such an exciting experience, even when her side weren’t on the court. “The men’s game was really intense, and I remember the crowd going crazy during the final minutes of the match. ”On the other hand, Tauhid’s best memory was a personal one.

SPORT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Matt Lee

SUMMER SPORTING CALENDAR

NOTTINGHAM OPEN

Last year’s Nottingham Open was cancelled alongside many other major summer events from the grass-court circuit. The Lawn Tennis Association are “cautiously optimistic” that this summer’s series can go ahead. If spectators EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS cannot attend, the LTA still hope to run the tournament but behind closed doors. Wembley Stadium is set to be the host stadium for the Euros Final and Semi-Final for the first time since 1996. Brief speculation suggesting the entire competition could be hosted by Britain were dismissed by the Government, but crowds could fill up half of Wembley’s capacity as Gareth Southgate looks to guide England to their first major competition trophy since 1966.

JUNE 5-13

EFL FIXTURE RELEASE DAY After a fairly forgettable 2020/21 season, Nottingham Forest fans will hope to have more to cheer about in the upcoming campaign. The Reds will learn who they will face and when on June 24 as the EFL fixtures are released. The opening day of the season is August 7.

JUNE 24

TOKYO OLYMPICS

JUNE 11 - JULY 11

ENGLAND V PAKISTAN Trent Bridge will host Pakistan for the first time since June 2019, as England take on Pakistan in the first of three Twenty20 matches. Following on just a few days after the two sides competed in the ODI format, Chris Silverwood’s side will look to kickstart the three-game series with a victory ahead of trips to Headingley and Old Trafford.

Despite being delayed by a year and possibly only Tokyo residents allowed to spectate from the stadiums, this summer’s Olympics could prove to still be entertaining. Nottingham’s very own Emma Wilson is to feature in the sailing along with John Gimson (Leicester). Derby’s Ben Connor will pound the streets in the marathon. TRENT ROCKETS V SOUTHERN BRAVE

JULY 16

JULY 23 - AUG 8

Both the men’s and women’s Trent Rockets teams take on the Southern Brave on July 24 as The Hundred gets underway. Supporters will hopefully take to Trent Bridge to watch England duo Joe Root and Natalie Sciver take on Southern Brave teams including Jofra Archer and Sophia Dunkley.

JULY 24

SPORT Design by Karima Morsli, Words by Alex Brinton

SUMMER NIGHTS WITH SIX APPEAL Cricket is back in Notts with the promise of thrilling entertainment. Alex Brinton tells you how to soak up the unique atmosphere.

It’s not just the T20 Blast that will be rocking Trent Bridge this summer as the brand-spanking new competition The Hundred rolls into town.

The Trent Rockets will take up residence at Trent Bridge from Saturday July 24 until Sunday August Picture the scene – a warm sunny evening, cold 15. If you find yourself in Nottingham while this is beer in hand, surrounded by your mates, and going on, then make sure to give it a watch. high-quality cricket being played out in front of you. The new tournament is designed to bring new fans into cricket, so if it’s not your first-choice Seems ideal, doesn’t it? sport this could be the thing for you. Each team has just 100 balls to score as many runs as possiIt’s been so long since we have been able to at- ble. The Rockets have the No.1-ranked T20 batstend sports matches, but if we keep following the man in the world in Dawid Malan and the second government’s roadmap out of the pandemic, T20 best T20 bowler in the world in Rashid Khan, so cricket could be on the menu for a lot of us very they’re shaping up well. soon. An evening at T20 cricket can have a festival atTrent Bridge - home to the Notts Outlaws - is just mosphere at times with loud music, fireworks, a short trip from Uni. Take the tram to the train friends and your fair share of drink. Just sit back station, and then walk from there, or better still and let cricket provide the entertainment this use the electric scooters. They are a great laugh, summer. and you can park them within a five-minute walk of the ground. Maybe don’t use them on the way back if you’ve had a few drinks... The Notts Outlaws are the reigning champions of the Vitality T20 Blast after winning last year’s final against Surrey. They also won the title in 2017 and boast one of the strongest teams in the country. At the top of the batting order, they have the devastating Alex Hales. Hales has been described by many pundits as, ‘one of the best white-ball players in the world.’ If he is batting, make sure that you keep your eyes on the ball, because you could find it travelling in your direction. The Outlaws have their first home game, against the Birmingham Bears, on Thursday June 10, just 11 days before it looks like all restrictions will be lifted. On June 18 they face off with local rivals, the Derbyshire Falcons. After the restrictions are lifted on June 21, Notts have another five games that will hopefully see Trent Bridge packed out with no social distancing rules in place.

SPORT Design by Sophie Puffett, Words by Michael Vincent

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE HUNDRED This summer sees the launch of a new cricket competition in the UK Michael Vince tells you how it all works. In July, Nottingham will be one of seven cities in the UK to host The Hundred. The new tournament devised by the ECB will bring a new twist on short form cricket. The tournament is an exciting new initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to entice new audiences to the English domestic game. Many of the world’s elite cricketers from both the men’s and the women’s games will take part in the tournament. Many rounds will feature double headers, meaning that the women’s game and the men’s take place back-to-back. Tickets can usually be purchased from £14 for adults and all tickets at £5 for between 6- and 15-year-olds, meaning affordable prices to see exciting cricket in a new setting!

How The Hundred Works As stated before, the innings will last 100 deliveries each. Fairly clearly the team with more runs after both have used their allotted time will win. Bowlers

will deliver five deliveries at a time or can deliver 10 consecutively (depending on the captain) and each bowler can deliver a total of 20 balls in a match meaning the tactical battle for struggling batters facing individual bowlers will be brought to a new level. Each team will also use a 25 ball powerplay where only two opposition fielders will be allowed out of the fielding ring.

Trent Rockets The Trent Rockets have some very strong players. The men’s team has the world’s premier white ball bowler in Rashid Khan together with England great and current Test captain Joe Root. The women’s team can introduce UK audiences to young speedster Sophie Molineux (current ODI bowling average of 9) and boasts maybe the strongest domestic pairing in the tournament with (soon to be married) Nat Sciver and Katherine Brunt providing alltime great all-round skills. Together with their established stars both teams can boast young and exciting talent such as leg-spinner Sarah Glenn and more established county stars looking to light up a bigger stage like men’s captain Lewis Gregory.

PLAYERS TO WATCH Birmingham Phoenix Men - Moeen Ali Women - Ellyse Perry London Spirit Men - Glenn Maxwell Women - Tammy Beaumont

Manchester Originals Men - Jos Buttler Women - Sophie Ecclestone

Oval Invincibles Men - Sunil Narine Women - Dane Van Niekerk

Northern Superchargers Men - Ben Stokes Women - Alyssa Healy

Southern Brave Men - Jofra Archer Women - Dani Wyatt

Trent Rockets Men - Rashid Khan Women - Nat Sciver Welsh Fire Men - Keiron Pollard Women - Meg Lanning

THE NOT-TO-MISS FIXTURES AT TRENT BRIDGE Saturday July 24 – Trent Rockets v Southern Brave

Friday August 13 – Trent Rockets v Birmingham Phoenix

Monday July 26 – Trent Rockets v Northern Superchargers Sunday August 15 – Trent Rockets v Manchester Originals

THIS ISSUE OF PLATFORM WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT

WRITERS

Faith Pring Marta Tavaras Katie Green Jack Proverbs Helen Barber Kieran Burt Kyran Wood Frankie Galton

DESIGNERS

Ellie Daglish Irene Bisoni Laycie Beck Alex Brinton Robbie Nichols Ellie Moylan Matt Lee Yasmin Turner

Sophie Puffett Karima Morsili Faith Pring Marina Garcia Salcedo Tara Thomas Jacob Greenwood Kirsty Lemm Emily Houghton Gracie Elliot

Kirke Viira Sophie Avant Ignas Vieversys Megan Betts Jessica Piazzi Michael Vincent Pete Trifunovic Himanshu Saliya

PHOTOGRAPHERS Tom McNeill Joey Wong

A special thanks to Alex Haylock for creating our wonderful front cover