The Ocelot August 2019 edition

Lifestyle and Culture Magazine Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and West Berkshire

No: 158 August 2019

Free

The education of Rita p29

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/ STYLE / EATS / BREWS / SCREEN / COMMENT 24/07/2019 11:56

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GETRZ - The future sound of Swindon? p26 Magazine highlights 04 The rant 06 Encyclopaedia Ocelotica 08 Up the Wye without a paddle 20 Pride 24 Henley Festival

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The Editorial Team EDITOR - Jamie Hill - jamie@theocelot.co.uk DEPUTY EDITOR - Ben Fitzgerald - ben@theocelot.co.uk THE SCRIBBLER - Claire Dukes - claire@theocelot.co.uk The Sales Team Dave Stewart dave@theocelot.co.uk - 07872 176999 Rosy Presley rosy@positive-media.co.uk - 07717 501790 Main Number - 01793 320043 Positive Media Group, Old Bank House, 5 Devizes Road, Swindon SN1 4BJ PRINTED BY - Deltor, Saltash, Cornwall

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Hell in a handcart?

By Jamie Hill

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Are we just stuck arguing about what door to get out of the house whilst it becomes an inferno around us?

It feels like the brink.

Or are we already past the brink?

Is life now a non-stop carousel of Katie Hopkins’ horrid ‘everyone’s thinking it’ soundbites/Johnson’s kerfuffles/ Donald ‘Send them back’ Wotsit Hitler/Brexit til it hurts/Piers redfaced bursting bloodvessel angry Morgan/ political correctness gone mad / Love Island/ Fake News ‘winning’/ free the journalist Tommy Robinson/ Weinstein misogyny/ Jeremy ‘What Brexit?’ ‘What antisemitism’ Corbyn and remoaning lefty snowflakes?

Or are we still alright? Can we back away from the edge?

Or has the climate emergency already done for us? Are we just stuck arguing about what door to get out of the house whilst it becomes an inferno around us?

Can we still choose diplomacy over gung-ho jingoism?

Or do we now all need to pick a side? Do we need to stand up for what we believe in?

Has life got that ridiculous?

Is it all fake news?

The short answer is ‘I don’t know’ and nor does anybody else. What was ridiculous four years ago is now more real than

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it ever has been.

Elvis could suddenly reappear in a Tesco wearing a Tiara riding Shergar shouting ‘I shot JFK and then I faked the moon landings’ and no-one would be surprised.

Not nowadays.

And here’s us British. The stiff upper lipped ‘rational thinking’ British willing to set the United Kingdom on fire for no good reason than ‘it’s what we voted for innit?’

We’re meant to be the cold emotionless sensible lot who always see every side of the argument. Us British don’t go screaming down into the abyss shouting ‘Brexit means Brexit’ but we do. Nowadays.

Bugger the consequences.

Bugger the backstop. Bugger everything.

We want Britain back. We want it like it was before all ‘dese foreign’ people came here and took our jobs, stole our futures and injected chicken tikka massala into our mouths like it was crack for the masses.

We want it back to when it was just us. No-one else. Who cares about some IRA bombs?

Those explosions happen to other people and not us.

And what the billy heck is

going on with Iran? Are we now picking up the pieces left by Donald Trump wanting to see the world burn or will we be fanning the flames ourselves?

Are we now a country run by the angry ‘capitalised badly spelt’ voices of social media?

This country. Our countrymen who have been beaten round the head with austerity for so many years that we are left bruised and bloody and looking to blame anybody else for our misfortune.

“It was benefit cheats.” Say our leaders.

“It was them immigrants. I saw them do it.” Say other leaders.

When in fact it was our leaders who went and done it. It was them with their policy after policy launching a wrecking ball through the poorest of our society knocking us all down like so many skittles.

But we are all to blame as our country turns against us making us all into extremists when we were all mostly moderates before.

And it is moderation that we need again. Rational arguments.

Facts over feelings not feelings over facts.Can we still shut the populist pandora’s box of the far right and the far left? Or is moderation now out of reach. I just don’t know. No-one does.

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AUGUST 2019 FRI 2nd FAMILIAR SPIRIT, WARS, IMMERSE + HERIOT NOW AT THE VIC - HARDCORE ORIGINALS - 8pm-11.30pm - £5 adv/£7 otd SAT 3rd ALTERNATIVE 80’S DISCO - VIDEO DJ - 9pm-3am - Free Entry FRI 9th POOL, ATARI PILOT + HAYDON - ORIGINAL GRUNGE & ALT-ROCK - 8pm-11.30pm - £3 SAT 10th OFFICIAL PRIDE AFTER PARTY - SWINDON PRIDE 2019 - 10pm-3am - £6.50 adv/£7.50 otd SUN 11th TRAGEDY - ALL METAL TRIBUTE TO THE BEE GEES & BEYOND - 7.30pm-10.30pm - £10 FRI 16th LAST CALL & BLACK TREE VULTURES - A NIGHT OF NU-METAL COVERS AND ALT-ROCK ORIGINALS - 8.30pm-11.30pm SAT 17th LEV’S ALTERNATIVE CLUB NIGHT - ROCK, PUNK, METAL, INDIE TRACKS ALL NIGHT - 9pm-3am - Free Entry

FRI 2nd EMERGENCY BANTER - HARD ROCK COVERS - 9pm-11.30pm SAT 3rd THE BULLTOWN BOYS - ROCKABILLY, SURF, ROCK’N’ROLL, GARAGE, PSYCHOBILLY - 9pm-11.30pm FRI 9th HOOCH - THE UNCONVENTIONAL 90’S COVER BAND - 9pm-11.30pm SAT 10th RAVE AGAINST THE MACHINE - DANCE CLASSICS FROM THE 90’S AND BEYOND PLAYED LIVE! - 9pm-11.30pm FRI 16th THE LIZZY LEGACY - CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF THIN LIZZY AND GARY MOORE - 9pm-11.30pm SAT 17th HAMSTERS FROM HELL - A MIX OF BLUES-ROCK WITH SKA & REGGAE INFLUENCE AND A PUNK ATTITUDE - 9pm-11.30pm FRI 23rd DAMN GOOD REASON - CLASSIC ROCK COVERS LIVE AND DIRECT FROM WITNEY... - 9pm-11.30pm

SAT 24th CHEESY 90’S VS ALT-90’S - CLUB NIGHT - 9pm-3am - Free Entry

SAT 24th RAZE-REBUILD + SPECIAL GUESTS - ALT ROCK WITH A MELODIC PUNK SOUL, HUGE HOOKS, SLICK GUITAR LINES AND HEARTS WORN FIRMLY ON SLEEVES - 9pm-11pm

FRI 30th REMINISCE - DRUM N BASS NIGHT - 9.30pm-3am - Free Entry

FRI 30th BUILT FOR COMFORT - RHYTHM AND BLUES COVERS - 9pm-11.30pm

SAT 31st BLACK PARADE - 00’S EMO ANTHEMS - THE BEST UK EMO CLUB NIGHTS COMES TO SWINDON - 11pm-3am - £4

SAT 31st SHEPHERDS PIE - CLASSIC HEAVY ROCK COVERS SPANNING THE LAST 40 YEARS PLAYED EXACTLY AS THEY SHOULD BE, LOUD! - 9pm-11.30pm

FRI 23rd PRIVATE PARTY - THE ROLLY OPEN AS USUAL - 8pm-12pm

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By Ben Fitzgerald

Encyclopedia Ocelotica: The dance epidemic of 1518 In the hot summer of 1518, in Strasbourg, a woman called Frau Troffea stepped out into the street and started dancing. A bit strange, I suppose, but nothing compared to what was to come.

People looking out of the window at old Frau Troffea noticed that she was still getting on down a couple of hours later.

One woman locked in her own silent disco. And perhaps, having had a couple of steins of beer, others decided that it might be a laugh to join in.

For some inexplicable reason, none of the dancers felt the need to stop. And according to contemporary accounts, they danced through the night and through into the next day.

By now, word had begun to spread around the city and people were drawn to the increasingly bizarre spectacle - some of whom then felt the need to fling themselves into the fray and throw some shapes themselves.

Everyone was having fun when some of them began ruining the mood by dying from dehydration and exhaustion.

When the quietly freaking

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out city elders failed to make everyone behave themselves and go home (presumably by playing Sinatra’s New York, New York and switching on the lights), they decided that what these crazy ravers needed was an opportunity for yet more dancing.

They cleared an open air grain

market and horse fair for the gyrating loonies - and even hired musicians to encourage them to get it out of their systems.

After racking up dozens more deaths, the city rulers agreed that perhaps encouraging more of the deadly dancing was, on reflection, a mistake.

They then tried to ban music and dancing in public and finally took the hardcore that were left to a shrine dedicated to St Vitus where their bloody feet were placed into red shoes and they were led around a wooden figurine of the saint. Over the next few weeks the dancers finally ceased their wild movements.

So what the blue blazes was

going on?

Some have speculated that the dance epidemic of 1518 could have been the result of ergot poisoning. The ergot mould grows on damp rye and produces a chemical related to LSD. In high doses, it has been known to induce hallucinations and violent twitching which could well be mistaken for dancing (if you’ve ever seen me dance).

The poisoning has also been associated with numerous other outbreaks of hysterical behaviour, especially the Salem Witch Trials.

Others have speculated that the dance epidemic was an example of mass hysteria where large groups of people become strongly influenced by the behaviour of others around them - such as the screaming girls at a Beatles concert or the hordes of drones unthinkingly watching Love Island.

Whatever the cause, we can turn to the wisdom of Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine when they issued their cryptic warning in 1987 ‘The Rhythm is going to get you’.

If only they were plying their Latin infused pop in 16th century France - lives could have been saved.

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Messing about on the river! or... how to waste time well

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here’s something about rivers, that turns even the most cynical among us into budding Zen Buddhists.

Constantly moving yet permanent, bending and responding to the landscape, reflecting the sky above one minute and allowing you to peer into the depths another… they are also an excellent cure for a hangover.

On day two of my weekend catch up with my good friend Chris and still reeling from the sledgehammer of multiple pints the night before - I found myself being forced to make an unsteady leap of faith into our open topped canoe as it rapidly ploughed downriver having been launched from a near vertical bank with rather more enthusiasm than skill or thought - in some ways like a metaphor for the entire weekend itself.

And as I unfolded myself from the bottom of the canoe, laughing like a fool, I was reminded of the

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wise words of Ratty in The Wind in the Willows: “Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing — absolutely nothing — half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.

Simply messing... about in boats — or with boats. In or out of ’em, it doesn’t matter. Nothing seems really to matter, that’s the charm of it.

Whether you get away, or whether you don’t; whether you arrive at your destination or whether you reach somewhere else, or whether you never get anywhere at all, you’re always busy, and you never do anything in particular; and when you’ve done it there’s always something else to do, and you can do it if you like, but you’d much better not.”

And this, in essence is the appeal of spending a couple of days meandering down on the Wye River, thanks to Wye Valley Canoes, at Glasbury, from whom we were renting our craft.

The company boasts a fleet of canoes, single and double kayaks and mountain bikes to hire. There is also an excellent cafe and a bunkhouse catering for up to 26 people.

Canoeists are provided with a waterproof barrel each to pack away your possessions, a laminated map of the river and some quick advice about how to navigate the rapids like a pro.

And then, with a splash and a cheery wave, you’re off.

And as the canoe centre receded into the distance, we were left with the tranquility of the river, which meanders, unspoilt for mile after tree-lined mile through the stunning Wye Valley.

Along the way we spotted the neon flash of a kingfisher, the low level acrobatics of the swallows skimming above the water to catch insects, the submerged head of what I imagine was an otter and some kind of massive brown feathered bird which I’m

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By Ben Fitzgerald

For more information contact Wye Valley Canoes 01497 847213 or log on to www. wyevalleycanoes.co.uk too ignorant to name - but it could well have been a seagull.

The tranquility was occasionally broken by the rushing sound of approaching rapids, which demanded that we cease our inane chatter and man the oars - to avoid running into hidden patches of rocks or running too close to the bank.

At one point, through a combined lapse of concentration and lack of any real boatmanship, we smashed full-tilt into an overhanging tree, tipping the entire boat at an unnerving angle and threatening to fill it to the brim.

Somehow, thanks to panic induced strength, we were able to push away from the bank and were unceremoniously swept through the rapids and ejected into the calm waters once again.

We pitched up on the river bank to recover from our ‘near death’ experience and spent an unproductive hour, half heartedly

reading newspapers, eating and arguing about our favourite musical sub genres.

These were agreed to be Contemporary Alt-Americana, Classic Rock circa 1966-74, West Coast psych folk, and the groundbreaking jazz of the early 60s.

We didn’t get on to cheese choices as we were a little pressed for time because we had to head off for another aquatic meander. Eventually we pitched up at Hay on Wye to nose around the myriad of bookshops (I found a book called Success with Carp) before heading back to our boat.

Our campsite was in the back garden of a pub - The Boat Inn at Whitney on Wye - where we were served up with an artery-challenging full English breakfast by the robust patron who possibly jokingly enquired: ‘You are normal aren’t you boys?

You don’t want any vegetarian

breakfasts do you?’ It felt a little bit like the movie Deliverance.

Even though neither of us were veggie, Chris suggested that we should probably play it safe and order extra black pudding if we wanted to make it out of there alive.

Happily we retreated back to the boat without having to engage in any banjo duels for the final leg of our epic trip - an eight mile stretch of yet more unspoilt river leading us to the final rendezvous where the Canoe Centre had sent a minibus to retrieve us.

We were sad to leave and return to our humdrum lives and responsibilities - like waking from a dream. It’s fair to say that over the two days, we had become so attuned to nature that it was difficult to tell where we ended and the river began…

Either that or we both had very wet trousers.

Probably that actually.

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Artist depicts Bipolar disorder through bear in new book Words by Claire Dukes

In 2019 we’re talking about mental health more and more - and that’s brilliant. However, one person’s mental health journey is usually different to another’s.

James Osborn, 29, is an artist with Bipolar and will be releasing his first book, Nanook the Bipolarbear, 6 August. James hopes that the book will not only offer solace for those on their own mental health journeys, but for people who may know someone with Bipolar and not understand what they might be going through.

James says, “It’s now becoming more accessible to say that you have a mental health illness, to say you have depression, to say you have Bipolar, but there’s still a huge amount of miseducation as to what that means. So, for instance, I can say I have bipolar and everyone thinks I have massive mood swings, and you’re either one of the other, but the reality is way more complex than that. I’ve found that a lot of people who haven’t got a lot of experience in the area of mental health have been saying that they find the bipolar bear helpful in opening up their minds in understanding why their niece, nephew, cousins, brother, or friend, act the way they do – why they behave in the way they do.

“First and foremost, through the book I want to validate how people are feeling and that they’re not alone.”

As an alternative to medical lingo, James has created a digestible and - quite frankly - more interesting way to open up the conversation about mental health through a series of infographics, with humour playing a vital part. “Just the concept of a bipolar bear is funny,” says James, “and I think humour is often essential for people who are dealing with their own mental health issues. But, also, it’s a great way to help people understand it and the role that comedy plays generally in society as a tool to educate people is massive.

“The way I approach it is that I want to tell the story of what’s happening, and some of what’s happening is genuinely ridiculous! A lot of what you end up in, when you’ve got quite mental ill health,

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Above: James Osborn Book launch: 6 August at Darkroom Espresso, Swindon Website: www.patreon.com/nanookthebipolarbear Publisher: Black Eyes Publishing UK, Gloucestershire

is situations that make no sense – even to yourself when you’re in your rational mind. It’s a way of presenting it so people can stomach it, because quite often people can’t stomach the harsh realities of something.”

As well as illustration, James is also a poet who co-runs The Rusty Goat Poetry Corner in Swindon.

He believes that creative expression can often be more effective when dealing with mental wellbeing which is where Nanook comes in. He says, “A lot of my inspiration comes from sitting at poetry events. I think that’s how we change society at large; to have art, music, theatre, poetry, and any other creative pursuit make it okay for anyone to talk about their mental health.”

In a fun turn of fate, it was at a poetry event that James met his future publisher - Black Eyes Publishing. Peter Lay, Black Eyes Publishing owner, said: “As a publisher, we’re looking for stuff that’s maybe a bit different and stuff that’s edgy.

“I’d seen some of James’ drawings on the internet and when we started talking, he told me he had this book full of stuff and immediately my ears tweaked.

When he sent it through, I was blown away by it.

“As someone who actually suffers from this [Bipolar], I think it’s really good and I think it could do really well.”

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REVIEW: Stranger Things 3 – “possibly the best season yet” Words by Genna Pugh

4th July - US Independence Day or as many Netflix fans will know it, Stranger Things 3 Day. The hit Netflix show is back for a third and possibly the best season yet.

Did I watch all the episodes in one day? Yes. Will I regret it when there’s not another season for a possible 2 years? Probably. The Duffer Brothers have done it again and Stranger Things season 3 has not disappointed.

Quite possibly their best season yet, the sci-fi drama has taken it up another notch and created another eight great episodes with a definite increase in gore! The budget for this season has clearly been heightened, and the homage to the 1980s was brilliant, with the new shopping mall for this season really adding to the overall vibe. From the soundtrack to fashion, you really can’t forget the era in which this programme is set.

However, you can’t forget the real stars of the show. The young cast, including rising star, Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven, continued to blow me away with their phenomenal acting, you almost forgot that most of them are only 14 to 16 years old.

But as well as the original cast, there are also new members including Maya Hawke as Robin, a worker at Scoops Ahoy and colleague of Steve’s, and Priah Ferguson, who returns as Caleb’s younger sister Erica in a recurring role. With her sassy comments like “You can’t spell America without Erica” she has quickly become one of my favourite characters!

As well as its usual gore and guts, thanks to the mindflayer, this season is also incredibly emotional and I am not ashamed to say that a moving letter by Jim Hopper at the end of episode 8 did make me shed a tear or two!

If you are still yet to watch this brilliant web series, then it is available to watch on Netflix.co.uk

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By Darren Willmott of vinesight.me

Vineyard diplomacy

Whether you’re a fan or not, the recent state visit from US president Donald Trump was a talking point for many reasons, not least the hospitality he enjoyed throughout his stay.

Chief of these was the state banquet thrown in his honour by the Queen.

Being 6 months in preparation, it took palace staff four days just to lay the table! By the end of the night over 1,020 glasses of wine had been served to 170 VIPs (a thirst-slaking six glasses per guest on average).

Joining Donald and his wife Melania were the Queen, 15 other members of the Royal Family, Theresa May and numerous others with cultural, diplomatic or economic ties to the US. The wine list for events such as this need to be fully considered lest they make a political faux pas by snubbing the efforts of the visiting nation. Safe in the knowledge that Trump wouldn’t be partaking of any vinous delights (he’s famously teetotal) they were able to quite rightly focus on the talents of our own

homegrown producers alongside some classic French examples.

Proceedings began with a speech by the Queen using the 2014 vintage of her own sparkling wine Windsor Great Park to toast the President and “the continued friendship between our two nations” as well as “the health, prosperity and happiness of the people of the United States”.

A starter of steamed halibut with watercress mousse and asparagus spears in a chervil sauce kicked off the 3-course menu. Just like the meticulous planning of the event all courses were served with military precision over exactly 1 hour and 15 minutes.

A notoriously brisk eater, guests are also forbidden to continue eating after the Queen has finished, so in no time at all it was straight on to the main; saddle of new season Windsor lamb with herb stuffing, spring vegetables and a Port sauce.

Both courses were paired with either a white wine from Burgundy (Loius Jadot’s Domaine Duc de Magenta 1er Cru

Morgeot Chassagne-Montrachet 2014) or a red from Bordeaux (Château Lafite Rothschild 1990).

Out of interest, if you fancy recreating the menu at home the Burgundy will set you back about £75 a bottle.

The Bordeaux on the other hand will cost you about £1,400 – somewhere equivalent to the average UK monthly wage. I think I’ll stick to the red thanks, waiter!

For dessert, a strawberry sable with lemon verbena cream was served up alongside another English sparkler, Hambledon Classic Cuvée Rosé.

It was then on to the Churchill’s 1985 Vintage Port to round off the night.

As the guests left, presumably lightly giddy from the circumstance, the food and more likely the six glasses of wine, spare a thought for the servers.

Even now they’re probably still hand-cleaning the more than 8,000 pieces of cutlery and crockery used on the night, before they safely tuck them away one-by-one until the next time.

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By Ben Fitzgerald

Leek and smoked cheese macaroni

An invigorating dinner, this goes well with salad or a generous helping of wilted greens. Make more than you need, as this freezes well either before or after it is baked.

400g macaroni drizzle of olive oil 40g butter 4 small leeks (about 400g), washed and shredded 4 heaped tbsp plain flour 800ml milk 200g smoked Cheddar, grated, plus extra for topping 2 tsp Dijon mustard, or to taste 4 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional) salt and pepper Heat the oven to 200°C/Gas 6. Boil the macaroni in a pan of salted water until nearly cooked, about 8 minutes. It should be slightly too al dente to eat. Drain and toss in a little olive oil to stop it sticking together.

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While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a small pan on a low heat.

Add the leeks and cook gently until soft, about 7 minutes, stirring now and then. Add the flour and stir over a low heat for 2 minutes, then gradually stir in the milk (a whisk helps avoid lumps). Add the cheese and heat gently, stirring, to thicken the sauce and melt the cheese.

Season to taste with mustard, salt and pepper.

Combine the pasta with the leek mixture and transfer to a baking dish. Sprinkle over a little more cheese and the breadcrumbs, if using, and bake for about 20 minutes, until golden on top.

Variation * Add some leftover cooked chicken or fried bacon pieces to the leek mixture before baking. * For extra veg, stir through some blanched and chopped kale, cabbage, spinach, chard or broccoli. www.riverford.co.uk/recipes

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Weighbridge Brewhouse launches new menu – but has it hit the mark?

For people, including myself, who have been born and raised in Swindon we all know that the Weighbridge Brewhouse is a household name for fine dining – whether you agree or not, it’s just what it’s always been known for. But changes in management, and new dishes on trial, have left people saying that it’s failing to “hit the mark”.

So, to try and rectify this, ahead of its relaunch a selection of local businesses, loyal customers and press were invited for a complimentary dry run of the Weighbridge’s new menus.

First off the introduction of the new cocktail bar has implemented a more bougy feel to the space – something, until recently, which had been really lacking in Swindon, so it was great to see this historic establishment add in some contemporary features.

Upon arrival you’re immediately hit by new design changes, with fabulous touches – from fake grass and cute

flower pots outside, to colourful touches on the upholstering and illuminated maple trees on the inside. In this regard the Weighbridge is wonderfully enticing and not as stiff as it once looked.

As a party of four consisting of two meat eaters, a pescatarian and a vegan we were able to take on a variety of dishes on this slightly smaller, but still very vast, menu.

As a rule of thumb, I tend to stay away from fish dishes unless it’s a relatively fresh catch, but when you’re offered a free meal it would be unconscionable not to go in for a whole lobster.

Appearance wise I couldn’t fault it but taste wise it was okay. Just okay. In hindsight I should have opted for the Brixham plaice, or even the ale battered market fish, because unless you’re a speciality fish restaurant the lobster isn’t something just to have on the menu to make it feel fancy. I ate it, for sure, but wasn’t amazed

Words by Claire Dukes Penzance Dr, Swindon SN5 7J www.weighbridgebrewhouse.co.uk

nor outraged by the dish.

Meanwhile the overall rating of the steaks was that they were “enjoyable” but the chaps wouldn’t have paid £35 for the meal. However, the Weighbridge have brought back the Dauphinoise potatoes which was a particular highlight as a side dish for both diners.

Unfortunately my vegan guest said the Superfood salad wasn’t “exactly mind-blowing” but a side order of sweet potato fries managed to ‘beef’ it up.

The main aspect that I took away from our dinner was that some faith has been restored in this restaurant. Having taken on comments from previous errors, it is apparent the team are actually really trying to bring this place back to its former glory - with some chic new touches. All in all the staff were a delight, and I genuinely hope the Weighbridge Brewhouse takes off under this new refurb because it has a lot of potential!

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Theatre: the month ahead Alice in Wonderland, Lydiard Park, Swindon, 2nd August

Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, largerthan-life family musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement.

Follow Alice and the White Rabbit as they set off on a colourful adventure and meet a host of outlandish characters including Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat and the Mad-Hatter! Immersion Theatre bring their trademark energy as children and adults alike are invited to see this classic story brought vividly to life before having the opportunity to meet the characters after the show.

Bring picnic blankets, rugs or low-back chairs and enjoy live theatre in the beautiful surroundings of Lydiard Park.

Refreshments are also available on site.

Gates open at 4.30pm. www.swindontheatres.co.uk

T.Rextasy, Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 3rd August Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era. T.Rextasy have now been performing around the world for over 20 years, a career that ironically out lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. The band is now accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc Bolan’s family, estate, original ex-members of T.Rex, and Bolan’s catalogue management. The band has been described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’. https://swindontheatres.co.uk

The Wizard of Oz, Salisbury Playhouse, 7-10th August Stage 65 Youth Theatre brings a bold new staging to this family favourite – a magical adventure for all ages.

When a vicious tornado tears through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog Toto are thrown into the wonderful world of Oz. Seeking

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a way home, they journey down the Yellow Brick Road towards Emerald city in the hopes of finding the wizard. On the way, they meet a scarecrow, a tinman and a cowardly lion. https://www.wiltshirecreative. co.uk

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By Ben Fitzgerald

Warhorse, New Theatre, Oxford, 22nd August - 7 September Following a sell-out run in 2017, the National Theatre’s acclaimed play Warhorse returns to Oxford this summer for three weeks only.

Don’t miss the theatrical event of the summer!

At the outbreak of World War One, Joey, young Albert’s beloved horse, is sold to the Cavalry and shipped to France.

He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in no man’s land.

Albert, who remained on his parents’ Devon farm, cannot forget Joey. Though still not old enough to enlist he embarks on a treacherous mission to find him and bring him home.

Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness.

At its heart are astonishing lifesized horses by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, who bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to thrilling life on stage. War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical event which takes audiences on an

extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. The show contains loud sound affects, gunfire, flashing lights and strobe lighting. http://www.warhorseonstage. com/tourdate/oxford/

The 39 Steps, Barn Theatre, Cirencester, until August 10th A cast of four deftly takes on a Hitchcock classic, The 39 Steps, in this wonderfully inventive parody adaptation of John Buchan’s 1915 novel.

The 39 Steps follows the adventures of handsome hero Richard Hannay as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and devastatingly beautiful women.

The show is a frantic farce, jam-packed with slapstick humour, a barrage of accents and hatswaps culminating in chaos and calamity.

This wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun, thrilling action and a colossal number of costume changes.

Madcap hilarity for all the family. If you were a fan of our Hound of the Baskervilles then you’ll love The 39 Steps! Roll on the belly laughs. https://barntheatre.org.uk/performances/the-39steps

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The 39 Steps at the Barn Theatre ‘Jolly good show ol’ chap!’

Words by Claire Dukes

Murder, secret agents and farcical chaos awaited me at The Barn Theatre last month, and I was not left disappointed.

Adapted from John Buchan’s 1915 novel, The 39 Steps follows the story of the dashing, and pompous Richard Hannay – the unlikely, and loosely titled, ‘hero’ of this story. After a murder takes place in his London apartment, the English gent tries to clear his name. On his journey he encounters more than 100 characters, played out by just four actors...

Director Joseph O’Malley has done well to orchestrate this double-crossing action on the Barn’s small stage, consistently

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evoking a clear-cut Carry On execution with farcical physicality and quick wit. The show is potentially over-worked due to the lack of space, but O’Malley got inventive with scene swaps which really paid off – a highlight was the airplane chase using some lighting, toy airplanes, a sheet and the clowns.

A nice little nod to the novel’s Hitchcockian roots. Furthermore, Mike Leopold’s set came across both clever and kitsch and was a perfect aid to the - sometimes repetitive - slap-stick action.

For me the clowns took centre stage - well executed and versatile performances at an unforgiving pace. Meanwhile

Max Hutchinson gives Hanny plenty of dashing arrogance.

Although there was no spectacular character arc by the end, Hutchinson delved into the energetic physicality that was demanded from his character.

The Barn’s 39 Steps does well to play on parody, as well as signature stereotypes, - that audience digested on cue - and ultimately our four actors and 140 characters deliver on the top-notch script writing. It’s daft, dashing and carefully chaotic - I must say it was a jolly good show ol’ chap.

The 39 Steps takes place at The Barn Theatre, Cirencester, until 10 August. www.barntheatre.org.uk

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Pride is back

By Ben Fitzgerald

The LGBTQ+ Festival will be returning to Swindon on Saturday 10th August.

The event, sponsored by Nationwide Building Society is now in its 11th year. Kicking off proceedings will be a vibrant parade just after 11am, that will weave its way through Old Town.

And there will be a variety of performances taking place on the main stage throughout the day including performances from headline acts N-trance.

Electronic dance group N-trance has sold over five million records worldwide and some of their hit

singles include “Set You Free” and “Forever”.

Faye Whitmarsh, Head of Culture & Inclusion at Nationwide Building Society said: “We are passionate about valuing human difference and inclusion.

These events are a great opportunity to celebrate in a fun and fully inclusive way, and bring our members, employees and the local community together.”

Chairman Kristian Wheeler said, “Having Nationwide back onboard as our Main Sponsor for 2019, is an incredible

achievement and shows how businesses are supporting their LGBTQ+ staff and the whole community of Swindon & Wiltshire.”

The Old Town Gardens will be filled with a burst of colour and Festival atmosphere, centered around the Nationwide Stage and Stephen G Sloan Stage (sponsored by Thames Water). The Festival will also have a Family Zone, Arts Zone, Shopping Zone, Community Zone, and Craft zone which is new for 2019. For more please visit www.swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk

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Music: the month ahead Reading Festival, 23-25 August

It’s time to dig out your wellies and mirrored shades - because Reading Fesival is looming over the horizon.

Friday night headliners include The 1975, Royal Blood and The Wombats. And if that’s not enough for you, how about a Saturday night helping of Post Malone, Twenty One Pilots and the Blossoms.

Bringing the event to a close on the Sunday evening are the mighty Foo Fighters, A Day To Remember and Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes.

And if it’s comedy you’re after, Josh Widdicombe, Bridget Christie, Russell Kane, Tom Allen and Marcus Brigstoke are among the top flight entertainment on offer.

The 1975: I’m not saying I’m the Jesus of Rock... that’s for Tickets and info: www.readingfestival.com others to say.

Royal Blood: You can see the resemblance if you squint

The Foo Fighters: They are reaching out to you... they almost certainly want to steal your soul.

Illustrations launch party, The Vic, Swindon, 1st August Illustrations will be celebrating the launch of their new album ‘Make Fun’ on August 1st, at The Vic in Old Town, Swindon. The event will feature a bespoke Illustrations performance and support from Sister Bliss, Zero Gravity and Tea Ceremony.

Dress code: 1967.

Doors open at 8pm https://thevicswindon.com

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By Ben Fitzgerald

Spex, Dirty Bones, Oxford, 3rd August Self-proclaimed Jedi-in-training, Spex (aka Mr Spex aka Spectacles) is a DJ, promoter and radio personality. Part of Oxford legends 2xclusive Ents since 2009, Spex has supported the likes of Ashanti and Tim Westwood, and appeared on Charlie Sloth’s “The Plug” album tour. Book your spot and come through Dirty Bones Oxford to get your weekend poppin’ off. https://dirty-bones.com/locations/oxford

Spex: A man will play his record collection

Little Steven, O2 Academy, Oxford, Sunday 25th August Legendary rock and roll icons, Little Steven And The Disciples Of Soul, release their new album, Summer Of Sorcery, this year, marking their first full album of new material in 20 years.

Steven Van Zandt and his all-star, 14-piece band will then head out on a thrilling musical journey around the world, performing the buoyant and spirited new songs to fans across the nation.

Little Steven: Apparently, he’s only eight inches tall. Cracking guitarist though.

Wayne Hussey, The Bullingdon, Oxford, 31st August

Former frontman of The Mission, Wayne Hussey drops by Oxford’s Bullingdon on 31st August as part of his Salad Daze Tour. Supported by special guest Evi Vine

Wayne Hussey: Rumour has it that there is nothing behind those sunglasses... just empty holes.

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Henley Festival 10-14 July 2019:

I

think it’s my favourite festival, since you ask.

I’ve been to Henley twice now and each time I’ve come away thinking ‘why aren’t all festivals like this?’

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy wandering through a post apocalyptic wasteland of discarded tents, beer cans and bodies - but I can’t help feeling that, being at the business end of middle age, I’m entitled to a more refined experience - I’ve done my time in the trenches.

And with lovely Henley this is what you get.

First off, there’s a dress code it’s strictly black tie.

I know what you’re thinking ‘No fascst is going to tell me what to wear, I like to dress how I like when I go to a festival, don’t box me in, I’m an individual…’ before putting on obligatory wellies and floaty yoga trousers

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like everyone else.

Having an excuse to suit up is part of the fun, where else can a chap rock a cravat I ask you?

And after a few failed attempts, there’s a manly satisfaction you can take in being able to tie a proper bow tie (avoid those predone ones - because you can’t untie them towards the end of the evening and look suitably louche).

And although the event takes place over five days, doors open at 6pm and there’s no camping over - which means that the festival organisers are able to ensure everything is gleaming with none of the accumulated tides of flotsam and jetsam that you get with other festivals.

There is plenty of amazing food on offer at Henley, including The Riverside Canteen and St James Restaurant as well as food stalls such as BBQ Club, Halloumi Guys, Snob Lobster and Hotel

Chocolat. But many savvy festival goers like to pre-load with a picnic in the field outside.

And it’s become a bit of a thing, with visitors setting out their salmon sarnies on picnic tables with white tablecloths and candelabras.

Wandering around with a bottle of Champagne swinging loosely by your side watching a myriad of boats meandering their way along the Thames felt a little like attending a really decent wedding - without all the hassle of having to endure the speeches.

And there’s plenty of oddness to enjoy - from a man selling cigars from a pram to a genuinely terrifying trio of pretend grannies riding on oversized tartan motorised shopping trolleys.

The comedy tent featured top flight acts such as Richard Herring, Ed Byrne, Julian Clary

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black tie and bubbly!

and Andy Hamilton.

And let’s not forget that Henley is a great place for rubbing shoulders with the stars. Last year I rubbed shoulders with Children’s TV legend Johnny Ball (Zoe Ball’s dad) until he asked me what I was doing and moved away.

And this time around we were joined by troubled PM Theresa May (although by the time this comes out, she will no longer be PM… or troubled for that matter) who danced to Abba tribute act Bjorn Again, which was nice.

Apparently, magician’s sidekick Debbie McGee (and former Strictly contestant) was also there, as was former Dr Who actor Matt Smith, but I didn’t see them, so no shoulder contact there.

The festival line up was an eclectic mixed bag of musical talent. The opening night of the event, on Wednesday, saw Boy George take to the floating

stage, with Jessie J headlining the following evening.

I was there on Friday night to see Tom Odell throw himself into his set, channelling the spirit of Elton John and borrowing a few piano antics from Bill Haley. Not being an Odell officionardo, I wasn’t sure what to expect. He pulled off a particularly polished performance backed by his blistering band who were as tight as you like. And I do like.

The day was rounded off with an evening of retro 90s massive ‘chunes curated by Radio 1’s Jo Whiley which went down a storm among the besuited masses.

Saturday evening’s Bjorn Again was a bit of a strange one, because I love Abba but this wasn’t Abba - but they were better than Abba would be now at playing Abba.

What I’m trying to say is that it made for an intoxicatingly

By Ben Fitzgerald

brilliant evening - I was surprised to find out that I know almost every word of almost every Abba song in their greatest hits catalogue. Which makes me worry what important information has had to be cleared from my brain to make room for this Swedish nonsense, I suppose we will never know. The last night of the festival saw the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra taking to the stage to play songs from the movies - It was obviously amazing (it’s the Royal Phil after all) but there’s only so much ET and Star Wars you can listen to, and it was getting chilly - so Mrs Fitzgerald and I dropped by the Jazz tent where we dug an Anglo/Itallian Jazz outfit, Hetty and the Jazzato Band, and drank whiskey spiked hot chocolate and danced the night away.

For more informaiton see: http://henley-festival.co.uk

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L to R: Dan Geary (drums), Declan Casey (guitars and vocals), Toby Pollitt (bass) and Joshua Heather (vocals and guitar)

G E T R Z

The next big band to come from Swindon?

Words by Claire Dukes

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @GETRZ

Since their inception as a four-piece in 2017, indie-punk rock outfit GETRZ have quickly made a name for themselves in their home town, Swindon, and have gone on to play venues in Bristol, London and major festivals including Isle of Wright and Truck.

Despite being a young and unsigned band, GETRZ say they have matured quickly which, alongside their close friendship, has attributed to growing offers to play gigs. Declan Casey, singer and guitarist, says: “We weren’t taking it seriously at first – it was just something to do. When we started realising that we could actually make something of it, we started putting the effort in and have gone from there to where we are today. Nothing’s just

going to drop in your lap - it makes you work harder. We see it as a challenge more than anything.”

Toby Pollitt, bassist, adds: “If you want it, you’ve got to put the work in - I don’t want to be stuck in a 9 to 5!

But I feel like a lot of bands take their roles too seriously - at the end of the day we’re just four mates.”

GETRZ are a strange ensemble.

I’ve seen them on stage and, yes, they are riotous with energy – which they maintain is what attracts their audience - but whilst sat down over some soft drinks and cigarettes they’re incredibly placid much to my surprise.

“The mad thing is we’re all quite calm people, but we’re just catalysts for each other,” says Toby. “Like, as soon as I’m with these geezers on a night

Photograph by Jack Kimber Photography

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out I go from this quiet guy to nutty. Otherwise, I’ll happily sit at home with a cup of tea and watch shite.”

Declan adds: “It comes with the music – the more we’ve developed, the heavier our sound has got and that affects how we are on the stage.

It’s just pure energy. You play heavy shit, you play loud shit, you play aggressive shit and our performance comes with it.”

Whilst some bands function better with allocated roles, GETRZ are a band of instrumental versatility and frequently swap instruments throughout their sets. According to the band this is all part of conveying a big part of what GETRZ are all about. “A lot of bands will just have the frontman write everything,” says Declan, “and then just layer everything else on top but we’re not about that.”

Dan adds, “We try not to leave a spotlight on anyone – we try to make sure that everyone’s got their part and you’re here to watch the whole band. We like that we don’t have a frontman, we have a frontline.”

To date the band says they have now played more than 200 gigs and this month, 23 August, GETRZ will also be releasing their latest EP following the release of their single She Heard I’m a Dreamer. Speaking of the latest track Declan says: “It’s about struggling to achieve your dreams in modern society. Music can be such a safe space, and high-quality outlet for people – almost like an escape. We’re big supporters of the youth culture, and I think it’s quite difficult for a lot of young people to get their voices out there.”

Toby adds: “In the past five or six years the whole world of politics has got youth involved. The classic example is looking at Brexit – the amount of youth voters was nothing compared to the

older generation, who probably now regret the decision on Brexit whether they’re for or against because people felt uninformed. You need to inform the youth, and I’m not saying that’s what we do with our music, but we want to get the young people involved.”

The band stress they are grateful for the support they’ve received from their home town, - particularly from their peers - but for the time being they’re setting their sights further afield.

Dan says: “We’ve had a great response from Swindon, and it’s great to see that people are just as invested in it as we are. It just makes sense to support the local music scene! It’s growing a lot and I’m really happy to see that.

“We’re trying to stay away from Swindon a little bit - we’re trying to space it out a little bit so we can go around some other places and get some new followers.”

In September the band are preparing to take their new EP out on tour with music promoter This Feeling, taking this as an opportunity - after they deleted their first self-titled EP - to firmly align their music and live performances with their own ethos and work ethic. Dan says: “Everyone we’ve worked with tends to share the same mentality.

We want to create a space where people can come to a gig, have fun, enjoy some music and have a good night where you don’t have to worry about people judging you. We don’t care what people wear or things like that, just as long as you’re having fun that’s what matters.”

Declan adds: “We use our music as a ‘fuck you’ to people that are telling us what we should be doing. Just because it worked for them, doesn’t mean it’s going to work for us. The fact that we’re working without an agent, or manager is proof that other people can do that.”

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Local charity and record label bring recording studio to Cowley Centre Fusion Arts and Upcycled Sounds have launched a pop-up recording studio, community gig and exhibition space in Cowley Centre.

The space has been built in one of a number of disused shops awaiting redevelopment and was opened on July 17 with a sold-out gig and exhibition.

The project is a collaboration between Fusion Arts, an Oxford charity, Upcycled Sounds, a local audio production team, artist collective and record label, with support from the landlords New River, Oxford City Council and Templar Square Shopping Centre team.

The space opened with a sold-out night of neosoul, folk and alternative music from local Upcycled Sounds Records artists, Theo, Rosie Caldecott, Limpet Space Race and Jay Sunaway, alongside a collage exhibition from local artist Kelvin Jenkins.

Upcycled Sounds is an independent audio production company, record label and artist collective based in Oxford for several years. As well as working around the world doing film and documentary sound, they are at the heart of several non-profit music initiatives in Oxford: a threeday music festival, a new venue and gig series at Tap Social, Tandem Arts Collective and annual international folk music exchange programmes and electronic music residentials. They have been running a recording studio and record label in East Oxford for the last year and are delighted to be teaming up with Fusion Arts to transform a larger space.

Hannah Jacobs, of Upcycled Sounds, said: “It was amazing to open our doors to so many excited people. The launch was packed out and we had a great night of music, art and conversations.

People were blown away by how the space has transformed from a dilapidated empty shop to a colourful, vibey and inspiring studio - it’s almost unrecognisable! We’ve already had loads of people coming forward with creative ideas and projects for the space, so we’ve got lots to look forward to”.

The space has been completely transformed over the last few weeks by the Upcycled Sounds

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Collective and Fusion Arts teams. They have cleaned up, re-structured, soundproofed and decorated the shop entirely themselves, in line with Upcycled Sounds’ strong DIY and eco-friendly approach.

Alongside state-of-the-art audio equipment, they are sourcing sustainable materials from local organisations RAW Workshop, Oxford Wood Recycling, Emmaus and Orinoco Scrapstore. One of the baffles is even triple upcycled from the remains of a previous Tandem Festival stage, originally made of rescued floorboards.

Kieran Cox, Artistic Director of Fusion Arts, said: “We chose to work with Upcycled Sounds as, like Fusion Arts, they are committed to DIY creativity, experimentation and diverse cultural programming.

They run so many inspiring creative initiatives, supporting and developing artists, with positive social and environmental impact at the core. We want to support their work through this residency space and allow them to develop further and keep creating inspirational, high-quality music.”

Fusion Arts is an Oxford arts, equality and education charity. For more than 40 years they have connected artists with communities and inspired hundreds of bespoke creative projects.

Fusion Arts works with artists, organisations, communities and landlords to enrich lives by opening up underused spaces across Oxford to create temporary and permanent places for artists and communities to make, show, participate in and experience arts together.

Mary Clarkson, Oxford City Council Cabinet Member for Culture and City Centre, said: “We are excited to see pop up initiatives like this in Oxford – especially where the theme is art, culture and performance. We want to encourage more landlords to think about offering empty commercial property for pop-ups and events like this, which provide spaces for people to experience their local area differently, and engage with the diverse cultural communities in the city. We’re pleased to be working with Fusion Arts as one of our long-standing commissioned cultural partners.” www.fusion-arts.org

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INTERVIEW

Livin’ the Rita Loca

Rita Ora plays Windsor Racecourse on Saturday 24 August. Here’s what she had to say...

You are the first female British artist to ever have 11 Top 10s in a row. What does that milestone mean to you?

It’s crazy. Look: I never get bored of hearing it because it’s such a crazy and incredible achievement. I’m so proud. There’s so many incredible British musicians and to be able to have that in my back pocket, for now, is truly an honour. I’m so happy that my fans like my music. Without them, I won’t be able to do anything.

Let’s talk about your album Phoenix.

What would you say, from an emotional standpoint, was different about making that record from Ora? In Phoenix, they were the things that hurt and affected me but ultimately, made me a better songwriter. My first album Ora was a party album. There were so many vibes to it. Don’t get me wrong. There are a few party tracks in Phoenix, too, but there’s way more depth in my lyrics.

‘Your Song’ was both mine and Ed’s (Sheeran) energy. It was so easy to write with him, so it was natural.

How did you link up with Rudimental for ‘Summer Love’?

I started off doing drum and bass. ‘Hot Right Now’ was the first drum and bass song to go number one in the UK and that was a big achievement for me. Over the years, I’ve been jumping on DJ beats and that’s when I got involved with Major Lazer and Diplo. It was sort of in my blood to work with someone like Rudimental. They make great music to rave to but they also make incredibly emotional music for festivals. It was almost a given. It helped that they’re on my label too.

What are your hopes for the rest of the year?

Finishing this tour. Hopefully putting out another album. Now that I’ve opened this door again, I don’t want to have that big gap anymore.

My goal is to put out as much music and do as many movies as I can.

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Agony Girl Six-year-old Amy has adopted a family of slugs in the garden (she’s even got the slug repellant to hand in case they attack), but she’s still got time to answer your questions.

We read her the questions and these are her answers... honest.

Dear Amy, I am a 44 year old girl and play football for a girls team where most of them are half my age and a lot are half my weight. Am I too old and fat to keep playing?

Emma from Marlborough No. You should keep playing because it doesn’t matter as long as you’re good at football!

Dear Amy, Most of the time I’m really cool. When I walk down the street I strut and I’m always snapping my fingers in a cool way but just lately I’ve been finding it really hard to stay cool especially in this heat. How do you stay cool when it’s hot outside?

Gary, Trowbridge You mean cool like my brother George? You should get a fan and cover yourself in ice and just lie in it.

Dear Amy, Is it economically feasible for us to return to the moon? Would you ever visit the moon?

Gaz, Newbury Yes I would visit the moon but only to say hello to the Aliens who love underpants who live up there.

We shouldn’t return to the moon though because we won’t fit everybody on the spaceship to get there and it doesn’t have any oxygen so we would all die.

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Dear Amy, I hear you like dancing. What’s the best dance that you can do?

Tracey, Oxford I don’t know. I do a dance called nothing where I don’t do anything. I do dance but I don’t have any names for the dances.

Dear Amy, Weirdly I’ve just been made the new Prime Minister. It was only meant to be a wheeze to wind up my chum Giles but now I’m actually in charge of a whole country. How do I fix this mess?

Boris, Westminster I would make my sister play hide and seek with me if I was in charge. That would help. But if I was in charge of the whole country I would make it so that we all just love each other and get to play all the time (but you wouldn’t have to play Barbies if you’re a boy as boys don’t like Barbies. They prefer fighting.)

Dear Amy, Would you prefer four arms or four legs?

Quentin, Oxford I don’t want any extra arms or legs. I only want two arms and two legs. Why would I want more?

To write into Agony Girl send in your questions to editorial@theocelot.co.uk

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