Cambridge Edition July 2021 - Web

Our July issue has landed – and it's a bit of a special one for us, as it marks a decade of Cambridge Edition! We're seeing in our tenth birthday in style with a celebratory issue that unveils a new-look design for the magazine and features an incredible giveaway, plus, as always, we’ve also got the latest from the food scene, this month’s unmissable cultural goings-on and a couple of new regular features to seek out, too. Have a read here!

YOUR MONTHLY F IX OF

LOCAL L I FE

JULY 2021

£1000+ PRIZE GIVEAWAY INSIDE! See page 30

FROM GREAT GIVEAWAYS TO FABULOUS FOOD AND TOP TIPPLES – JOIN THE PARTY WITH A SLICE OF THE CITY’S FINEST

To all of our readers, advertis

Celebrating 10 years distrib throughout Cambridge & surrounding areas

sers and distribution partners

buting

If you’d like to be part of our next exciting chapter, reach out to the team to find out how to get involved!

Contact the team

Sales Hannah Gurney ∙ 01223 499463

Editorial Nicola Foley ∙ 01223 499459

WELCOME

en years ago, we set out to make a magazine that celebrated Cambridge – and optimistic as we were about our little project, I don’t think I’d have dared hope that we’d still be going strong a decade later. In the time that’s passed, we’ve seen the city swell in size, the tech cluster boom, the food scene transform (much for the better), and the community of independent businesses grow, diversify and thrive. It’s been a fascinating time to chronicle life here – and I must say that for a city that’s supposedly slow to embrace change, we’ve sure seen a lot of it from where I’m sitting. There’s a celebratory mood in this issue as we welcome back Cambridge’s arts scene (page 18), team up with some of our favourite businesses for a huge birthday bonanza giveaway (page 30), and unveil a fresh new look for the magazine. Much as we’ve tried to capture Cambridge’s best bits over the years, there’s also a talented collection of Instagrammers doing exactly the same thing in the social media realm – see their stunning work and read about their inspirations on page 50. Another keen local snapper we’ve caught up with this month is Mark Box, the man behind the local sensation Humans of Cambridge. Having been lucky enough to be featured on his page, I know what a boost being part of the project can give subjects, so I was fascinated to hear the perspective from the other side of the lens. Have a read on page 26. As always, we’ve got the latest from the food scene, this month’s unmissable cultural goings-on and a couple of new regular features to look out for, too. I hope you enjoy the issue and thanks for reading – we wouldn’t be here without you. Here’s to the next ten years! Happy birthday, Cambridge Edition!

Cambridge Edition Magazine Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire CB22 3HJ, 01223 499450, cambsedition.co.uk • All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of the publishers. • Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Cambridge Edition or Bright Publishing Ltd, which do not accept any liability for loss or damage. • Every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct. • Cambridge Edition is a free publication that is distributed in Cambridge and the surrounding area. EDITORIAL Editor in chief Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com Editorial assistant Frances McNaughton 01223 499469 francesmcnaughton@bright-publishing.com Editorial director Roger Payne MatthewWinney ADVERTISING Group ad manager Sam Scott-Smith 01223 499457 samscott-smith@bright-publishing.com Sales executive Hannah Gurney 01223 499463 hannahgurney@bright-publishing.com CONTRIBUTORS Charlotte Griffiths, Alex Rushmer, Anna Taylor & Elisha Young Chief sub editor Alex Bell Sub editors Elisha Young & DESIGN & PRODUCTION Senior designer Lucy Woolcomb lucywoolcomb@bright-publishing.com Ad production Man-Wai Wong MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden &Matt Pluck

EDITOR IN CHIEF

F IND US @CAMBSEDITION | CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

Contents

08 Starters This month’s wish list from local indies, and ideas for getting out and about this summer 11 Arts &Culture All the latest arts events to get excited about, plus an interview with Humans of Cambridge 28 Edition Book Club Our resident bookworm Charlotte Griffiths gives us her take on a few new fiction releases 37 Food &Drink Food news, summer drinks, the latest from chef Alex Rushmer, plus a new foodie column 50 Capturing Cambridge Five of our favourite Instagrammers talk us through showing off the city in pictures 55 Eco Cam Local minimal-waste shop Green Weigh gives us the lowdown on its eco-friendly ethos

57 SaffronWalden Spotlight Your guide to all the best things to see, do and eat in local market town Saffron Walden 67Weddings We’re warming up to weddings again, with help from some local businesses 69 Beauty &Wellness Treat yourself this summer with some of these fantastic makeup and skincare products 71 Indie of the Month We speak to family-run company Award Leisure about its new Cambridge showroom 72 Education We explore the benefits of outdoor learning, plus Steiner School talks new qualifications 83 Home & Interiors A sneak peek into Cambridge’s most amazing interiors, plus some colourful decor details

30 Birthday Giveaway We celebrate ten years of Cambridge Edition with ten fantastic prizes from local companies

This month’s cover illustration is by Lucy Woolcomb, based on a photo by John Scott . Visit his Instagram @johnhenryscott

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LOCAL L I FE Starters

3 things to do this month IDEAS FOR GETTING OUT AND ABOUT IN THE CITY THIS SUMMER

TAKE A LIDO DIP Nothing says summer in Cambridge like a dip in Jesus Green’s huge, open-air swimming pool. At 91 metres, it’s one of the longest lidos in Europe, and there’s ample space for sunbathing and ice-cream eating along the sides, if you don’t fancy exerting yourself too much.

MESS AROUND ON THE RIVER A Parker’s Tavern afternoon tea is the perfect accompaniment to a float down the River Cam, as Rutherford’s Punting has correctly identified. Pick up a bottle of fizz from the wine merchants, hop aboard your boat, and enjoy dainty sandwiches, scones, cake, Eton mess, macarons and more.

GET A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW There’s a new landmark on Parker’s Piece in the shape of a huge 118ft Ferris wheel. Offering views across the city, it’s ideal for when you’ve got friends or family visiting. One ride costs £6, or opt for the deluxe experience, with a VIP gondola to yourselves (£50 for two people/£70 for four).

Over the past year in particular, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden has been a sanctuary for the local community, offering a much-needed green space to escape to during difficult times. “The garden is a special place that means so much to so many people, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating our 175th year of being on this site,” says Beverley Glover, director at the Botanic Garden. There’s plenty on this summer to celebrate, including late-night openings every Thursday in July, a new ‘Mystery History’ family adventure trail, plus more in-depth, scientific trails for adults to enjoy. There’s also the free-to-enter photography competition, so you can try your hand at capturing the garden’s spirit and beauty. Head to the website for full details and pre-book your tickets. botanic.cam.ac.uk Garden delights 175TH ANNIVERSARY

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STARTERS

July

THIS MONTH’S MUST-HAVES FROM LOCAL INDIES

1. Peppermint & eucalyptus soap, £6.50, Isle Soap Co Made in Sutton, Ely, this gorgeous botanical soap will energise and revitalise you with its essential oils and Himalayan pink sea salt. The swirls of French green clay make it rather lovely to look at, too 2. Bottle vase (single), £38, Kettle’s Yard Handmade by The Very Less pottery studio in Cambridge, these ceramic vases take inspiration from the Japanese shinogi technique, in which the glaze is allowed to pool and break, creating completely unique pieces 3. Recycled glass-effect wine glass (set of four), £20, Alfresco Dining Company Perfect for picnics, camping and alfresco entertaining, these acrylic wine glasses are virtually indestructible, while also looking gorgeous 4. Satin blouse, £68, Iris and Violet This soft pastel blouse is perfect for throw-it-on summer chic, and it’s from new Cambridge shop Iris and Violet, which opened on St Mary’s Passage in June 5. Duration six pack, £23, Pint Shop Fancy trying some great new beers? Pint Shop is selling six packs of tinnies from Norfolk’s excellent Duration brewery, with selections including Happiness Runs pale ale and Dripping Patch IPA. Order via Click It Local 6. Clara Victorian glasshouse dress, £89, Lilac Rose This flattering, flowy frock by Emily and Fin puts a modern spin on a classic 1950s style. Perfect for a summer garden party or wedding, it’s available at Bridge Street’s Lilac Rose 7. Cambridge parasol, £175, Ark Create some stylish summer shade in your garden with this beautifully bohemian parasol. Handmade by a family business in Bali, you can pick one up at Ark in the city centre

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Culture Club

SUNNY SCENES Painting the town THERE’S A WHOLE HOST OF ARTS EVENTS TO ENJOY THIS MONTH, FROM THE RETURN OF YOUR FAVOURITE FESTIVALS, TO THE LATEST LOCAL EXHIBITIONS. GET READY TO SEE THE CITY IN FULL COLOUR

IMAGE Street artist Giacomo Bufarini, known as RUN, has created several bold and colourful wall murals as part of the FitzwilliamMuseum’s exhibition The Human Touch

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CULTURE CLUB Arts & Culture THE MUST-SEE EVENTS AROUND CAMBRIDGE THIS MONTH

Great for kids!

Ely Museum reopens Back in September 2019, Ely Museum closed its doors for planned redevelopment, but no one could have anticipated the year that was to follow. Delayed by lockdowns, restrictions and the myriad unforeseen circumstances that characterised 2020, the museum remained closed for a further six months, spending the extra time transforming the space and getting ready to relaunch just in time for the summer. Telling the story of the city and the surrounding Fens, Ely Museum offers intriguing exhibitions, ancient artefacts and galleries. The museum’s Old Gaol has been updated for a 21st-century audience, complete with a full restoration of its historic features. The galleries now offer a more hands-on experience for all ages – whether you want to learn about the Fens through exploring objects and educational videos, or delve into Roman history while handling pottery and dressing up in a toga. “We are so excited to finally be able to welcome visitors back into the museum,” says curator Elie Hughes. “We hope everyone will enjoy visiting the museum and finding out about the fascinating local landscape and the stories of the people who have lived here.” Head to the Ely Museum website to book your timed tickets, and find out more about visiting the museum at elymuseum.org.uk

Taking place from Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 July, the Duxford Summer Air Show promises a weekend of fantastic family entertainment. There’s an amazing array of aircraft scheduled to take to the skies, including the world-famous Red Arrows, as well as the UK’s premier military display team, the Falcons. On the ground, entertainment is provided by living history groups and interviews with pilots, as well as visits and talks from ZooLab and its live reptile collection. iwm.org.uk Must-see! DUXFORD SUMMER AIR SHOW

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CULTURE CLUB

10 July

UNMISSABLE ART

COMING UP AT KETTLE’S YARD

Bringing together work by ten British African diaspora artists, the new exhibition at Kettle’s Yard shines a spotlight on some of the most important cultural and political issues of our era. Running from 10 July, Untitled: art on the conditions of our time , shows works from artists including NT, Larry Achiampong, Barby Asante, Phoebe Boswell and Evan Ifekoya. The title of the exhibition refers to the long-standing historical convention of leaving artworks ‘untitled’ in order to minimise reliance on contextual information, and to focus attention on the works themselves. “This exhibition takes a bold curatorial approach to the often paradoxical question of curating ‘black survey shows’,” says curator Paul Goodwin. “Instead of focusing on blackness ahead of the works themselves, Untitled flips this and focuses on the works. Questions of blackness, race and identity are then shown to be entangled in the multitude of concerns – aesthetic, material and

political – that viewers can encounter without the curatorial voice obscuring the works.” The exhibition is a new reiteration of a production by the New Art Exchange in Nottingham, which was shown in 2017. There’s also a last chance to catch Empathy Objects , which displays a series of artworks created by the gallery’s current Open House artist-in-residence, Enni-Kukka Tuomala. Enni-Kukka has been working with local groups and residents on the Campaign for Empathy x North Cambridge – claimed to be the world’s first community-centred campaign promoting empathy through art – which was designed to foster a sense of connection during the pandemic. This collaboration has resulted in a series of artworks inspired by the collection at Kettle’s Yard and people’s experiences in the local area. You can check it out until 7 July. kettlesyard.co.uk

IMAGES (Above) A production still from Greta, by artist NT, whose new work is appearing at Untitled. Greta is a new three-channel film, focusing on muse, Greta Mendez. Photo by Thierry Bal. (Right) The Empathy Objects exhibition, curated by artist-in-residence Enni-Kukka Tuomala, asks: what memory stands out from your childhood?

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CULTURE CLUB

Green Street has just become home to a unique new art gallery. Founded by artist Carla Nizzola, who has more than a decade’s experience in the art world, Extraordinary Objects is as much a museum as it is a gallery, providing Cambridge residents and visitors with a unique opportunity to examine and enjoy rare objects in the flesh. “I am so pleased to finally open Extraordinary Objects in our eclectic city,” says Carla. “The gallery is an extension of my personal collection. I believe works from different genres have an extraordinary way of complementing and elevating each other, and fossils, antiquities and minerals have always been displayed alongside contemporary artworks in my home. Watching people being blown away when they first see a piece in the collection is the best feeling. So, welcome all – come and ignite your curiosity in the heart of Cambridge!” extraordinaryobjects.co.uk EXTRAORDINARY OBJECTS New in town

Organised by the Cambuskers Community Group, the Buskers and Street Performers Festival brings the very best local variety acts to the streets of Cambridge. After a year’s hiatus due to lockdown, the festival is making a big comeback, showcasing an amazing array of talent. “I’m really excited the festival is back on the streets of the city, and I’m looking forward to the fabulous array of talent Cambridge has to offer,” says festival director, Heather Bevan-Hunt. “We hope the performances bring a smile to people’s faces after a very difficult year.” For the first time, the festival features a children’s corner, with some fabulous storytellers taking part, as well as performances on the city-centre streets. You can catch the festival from 10am on Saturday 17 July until 5pm on Sunday 18 July. cambuskers.org Cambridge Buskers Festival

17 July

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CULTURE CLUB

HAVE A LAUGH

Cambridge Comedy Festival This year, the Cambridge Comedy Festival has been expanded into a fully fledged three-day experience, hosted by Grange Farm in Abbots Ripton, Huntingdon (formerly home to Secret Garden Party). The fantastic countryside location allows for multiple stages, on-site camping and even a freshwater swimming lake. There will be more than 150 acts appearing across four stages over the weekend, with headliners including Rob Beckett, Milton Jones and Darren Harriott on Friday; Ed Byrne, Gary Delaney and Russell Kane on Saturday, and Al Murray, Seann Walsh and Rosie Jones on Sunday. In addition to the big-name acts on the ticket, you can also catch some of your favourite comedians getting in on the DJing action in the Glade Bar area after the shows are over. There’s plenty of family fun and kid-friendly comedy on offer, too. So, whether you’re there to see the household names, the very best circuit acts or left-field fringe legends, this year’s Cambridge Comedy Festival won’t disappoint. The festival is running from 9 to 11 July, with tickets available from the Cambridge Comedy Festival website, which offers options for both weekend passes (with or without camping), and day tickets. cambridgecomedyfestival.com

Apply now! CSVPA SCHOLARSHIP Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSVPA) has launched a fully funded Access All Areas scholarship, in partnership with Cosmopolitan magazine. The successful

If you’re looking to broaden your horizons this summer – or delve into a subject you’ve always been interested in from afar – the University of Cambridge’s Virtual Summer Festival of Learning may be just the ticket. Running throughout July, the festival allows you to study a vast array of subjects, whether you’re a student, professional or retiree. Delivered by leading Cambridge academics and invited subject specialists, there are more than 85 one-week courses and 60 talks to discover, with subjects ranging from archaeology and visual culture to biological science and engineering. You can browse the range of courses on the website, and advance booking is recommended. ice.cam.ac.uk Virtual Summer Festival of Learning

applicant will receive a full scholarship for

any of the school’s arts, design and performing arts courses. Anyone can apply, with applicants invited to either submit content on their preferred social media platform, or send a portfolio and written statement by post or email. “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Hearst UK [ Cosmopolitan ],” says Karin Askham, rector at CSVPA. “Our equal opportunities policy reflects our belief in cultural diversity that embraces individuals and promotes community spirit. We particularly encourage applications from those who feel they are from under- represented groups in the community.” The scholarship starts in September – visit the website for full details. csvpa.com

9-11 July

From performing arts company METIS, in partnership with UK-wide cultural programme Season for Change, comes new show Love Letters to a Liveable Future . An escapist, fantasy- filled take on global transformation, it’s showing on 21 and 22 July. Artistic director Zoe Svensden and her team aim to inspire urgent and inclusive action on climate change, through their defiantly hopeful on-stage imaginings. Tickets can be found on the Junction website. junction.co.uk LOVE LETTERS TO A LIVEABLE FUTURE

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Back on the scene Return of the arts

Don’t miss it!

WORDS BY FRANCES MCNAUGHTON

THE CITY’S ARTS VENUES ARE ONCE AGAIN ABUZZ WITH EVENTS AND EXCITEMENT. WE’RE WELCOMING THEM BACK WITH OPEN ARMS

is Ralph Fiennes starring in, and directing, a world premiere production of T. S. Eliot’s Four Quartets . “Ralph has a huge catalogue of performances under his belt, so it’s a privilege to have him visit us in Cambridge,” Caitlin says. There are also performances of the musical Blood Brothers , Julian Clary and Matthew Kelly star in new drama The Dresser , and Mischief Theatre is presenting two laugh-out loud comedies – Magic Goes Wrong and Groan Ups . Similarly, the ADC Theatre has plenty in store over the next month. Mid-July sees Ballet Central return to the venue with another excellent dance show, and the following week welcomes a production of The Playboy of the Western World , an Irish drama that scandalised audiences when first performed in 1907. Before closing for August, there is a performance from stand-up comedian and mathematician Harry Baker, along with the play Nothing Great is Easy – the incredible true story of the first person to swim the English Channel. The Junction is hosting a season launch celebration on 21 July, including a public outdoor performance from the fantastic Gandini Juggling in the evening, and the world premiere of a new show called Love Letters to a Liveable Future from METIS, directed by Junction associate artist, Zoë Svendsen. “I’m so looking forward to the return,” Matt enthuses. “We’ve got an amazing programme lined up, with the likes of John Grant, This Is The Kit, Shame, Snapped Ankles and Black Country, New Road. I want to go out dancing more than anything else right now, and Warning is long overdue its 25th birthday party!” There’s no doubt it’s an exciting time for arts in the city, and it looks as though the future is only set to get brighter as restrictions ease. “It’s fabulous to have audiences back in the building,” says Matt. “When the time is right, restrictions will be lifted further, and we really hope to present larger-capacity gigs soon.” Jamie adds: “I am as optimistic as you can be after a year where it has been impossible to predict what will happen next. I’m excited to see live theatre again and hope we are experiencing the loosening of restrictions.” To support the venues mentioned, you can check out upcoming shows, book tickets and donate via the websites below. adctheatre.com cambridgeartstheatre.com junction.co.uk

For over a year now, our arts and culture heavyweights have been in hibernation. The pandemic saw the curtain come crashing down on the city’s biggest venues, forcing them to wait in the wings for what would be the longest interval of our lifetimes. Thankfully, huge public support and government grants have ensured the futures of our favourite venues, despite the exceptionally challenging circumstances. “It’s been extremely difficult since we closed our doors in March 2020,” explains Cambridge Arts Theatre marketing manager, Caitlin Clark. “Arts professionals, creatives, performers and theatre staff across the country have faced so much uncertainty, and felt such sadness for the industry we all love. Covid-19 and the subsequent national lockdowns have proven how essential the arts are to us all – to connect, inspire, educate and entertain.” Matt Burman, artistic director at Cambridge Junction, agrees: “Arts and culture have become even more important to our lives, with music, films, books and creativity helping many to find their own way through the isolation we’ve all felt. When your business and passion is bringing people together, the necessary restrictions of lockdown feel like a genuinely existential threat.” Adapting shows to suit a virtual audience became a necessary requirement for survival, and 2020 saw many live streams and at-home events fill the calendar. “We’ve done a lot over the past year to ensure arts and culture have remained a part of everyone’s lives,” Matt says. “Including sharing work online, making films and hosting Zoom workshops with young creatives.” This new format looks set to continue, as audiences have warmed to the virtual viewing experience. “The past year helped me understand that ‘theatre’ does not have to be limited to a specific venue, or even the medium of live performance,” says Jamie Rycroft, manager at the ADC Theatre. “We are keen to keep livestreaming some of our shows moving forward.” Now they’re back on the scene, it seems the city’s star players won’t be going anywhere, anytime soon. “The team feels wonderfully optimistic working on a reopening season, extending right through to 2022 and beyond – a sure sign we are back and ready to welcome our audiences again,” Caitlin affirms. And it’s a fantastic reopening season, with a host of shows to tempt theatregoers. A highlight

IMAGES Cambridge Junction (top) is ready and waiting; productions of No Quarter (above right) and Macbeth (above) have gone on in lockdown at the ADC; Cambridge Arts Theatre (below) has a superb summer line-up

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CULTURE CLUB

Top culture picks

A FASCINATING EXHIBITION AND A WHOLE MONTH OF EXCITING ART EVENTS!

THE HUMAN TOUCH It’s your last chance to catch The Human Touch exhibition at The Fitz. Showcasing works of art spanning four millennia, it explores the role of touch in human experience, offering an opportunity to reflect on both the value and dangers of it. And after the year we’ve had, it’s more relevant than ever. Book tickets online so you don’t miss out. fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

OPEN STUDIOS Cambridge Open Studios is the region’s largest art event, featuring an exciting range of exhibitions by more than 300 artists, with 40 new local members taking part this year. Exhibitors are opening their home studios to the public across the four weekends in July, with an additional cohort of artists displaying their work in The Pitt Building on Trumpington Street. There are also nine art galleries taking part in the region. Head to the website for dates and

full participation details. camopenstudios.co.uk

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CULTURE CLUB

This summer is packed with cultural events to keep you entertained. Kick things off with a performance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at The Orchard Tea Garden in Grantchester, taking place on 1 July. Despite being more than 400 years old, the play still packs a punch and this interpretation – performed by actors from Drama Impact – is a satisfyingly rounded rendition that’s sure to be enjoyed, especially in the gloriously historical setting of the orchard. Tickets from £13.52, available to purchase via Eventbrite. For some silver screen magic under the stars, join Enchanted Cinema at its two summer residencies in Cambridge. One is in the gorgeous walled garden at the Gonville Hotel, and the other is on the rolling riverside meadow belonging to The Plough pub in Fen Ditton. You can even arrive to the latter by boat if you fancy being extra flash – head to camboats.co.uk to book your spot. Films this season include Moulin Rouge, Jojo Rabbit , Rocketman , Dirty Dancing and Titanic and, as always, the Enchanted Cinema team will be working their magic with festoons of fairy lights, installations and retro deckchairs, as well as offering prosecco, popcorn and food from top-notch local vendors. Kicking off on 17 July, Audley End Miniature Railway’s Summer Festival is loaded with activities and entertainment for the whole family. Wander through its magical Fairy and Elf Walk, making sure to keep an eye out for their hidden woodland homes, and enjoy the enchanting performances at the stage area, with a different show each month. There’s also an adventure play and games area, as well as the brand-new nature corner, to enjoy – and you can top it all off with a tasty treat from the ice cream hut. The Summer Festival is running until the beginning of September, but we recommend booking in sooner to make the most of the warmer weather. Heading into August, free concert programme Music in the Parks is coming to Cambridge, featuring a diverse selection of music – from local jazz and folk, through to the summery strains of brass bands. The concerts are taking place in a variety of neighbourhood parks, including Cherry Hinton Hall and Jesus Green, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy relaxing, music-filled Sunday afternoons with friends and family in the summer sun. “These relaxed music events, organised by Cambridge City Council, will give people a long overdue opportunity to enjoy some live outdoor entertainment, with the added benefit of the city’s green spaces at their summer best,” says Anna Smith, executive councillor for communities. Out and about THERE’S A GREAT SELECTION OF OUTDOOR ART EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO, WITH SOMETHING FOR ALL THE FAMILY TO ENJOY ALFRESCO ENTERTAINMENT

Enchanted Cinema

Music in the Parks

Audley End Miniature Railway

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CULTURE CLUB

Great gifts CURATING CAMBRIDGE Browse an array of gifts, games and more at Curating Cambridge, a new online space selling pieces inspired by the University of Cambridge museums’ collections. Among the highlights are beautiful Kettle’s Yard prints, featuring artists whose work forms part of the gallery’s permanent collection, such as Christopher Wood and Henri Gaudier-Brzeska; while The FitzwilliamMuseum’s offerings include tongue-in-cheek ‘masked masterpieces’ cards, which reimagine famous portraits with the addition of Covid-safe face masks. There’s also a delicate, floral gin using hand-picked botanicals from the Botanic Garden, a ‘Clapmash’ tin plate with a design taken from a 17th-century glazed earthenware bowl in The Fitzwilliam Museum, and deckchairs featuring the marvellously bizarre depictions of flora by John Stevens Henslow – one of which we’re giving away inside this issue (page 31). curatingcambridge.co.uk

There are plenty of great comedy events this month to put a smile on your face, so we’re sure something will tickle your fancy. On 14 July, the Big Deal Comedy night hits The Town and Gown in the city centre, offering an intimate evening with both seasoned comics and rising stars. Or over at the Junction, hear from the likes of Tiff Stevenson and Shazia Mirza, who are both stopping by on 24 July and will be delving into some of our most startling cultural conundrums, as well as shining a light on the extreme sport that is womanhood. On 26 July, meanwhile, comedy sisters Flo & Joan (pictured above) bring us an hour of mischievous musical numbers. To round off the month, the Portland Comedy Club is back on 30 July – delivering an evening of hilarity, with flowing drinks and an upbeat atmosphere. The bill is to be confirmed, but you can expect a varied and high-quality selection of performers. THIS MONTH’S TOP COMEDY GIGS ALL THE LAUGHS 26 July

IMAGES (Clockwise from top) Ezra Pound art print by Henri Gaudier-Brzeska, £20; Curator’s Gin, £39.99; Midsummer Meadow tea towel, £9; Clapmash Fruit tin plate, £7. All available to purchase

from the Curating Cambridge website

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The Cambridge Literary Festival successfully took its offering online during the pandemic, hosting three hugely popular digital festivals, but the team is raring to get back to in-person events. Join them on 28 July at West Road Concert Hall, when former Lib Dem leader (and Strictly star) Vince Cable discusses his new book, Money and Power: The World Leaders Who Changed Economics . At the same venue on 4 August, Turkish-British writer and activist Elif Shafak introduces her new book, The Island of Missing Trees – a magical tale of star-crossed lovers in war-torn Cyprus in the 1970s. It’s the follow-up to Elif’s lauded previous novels, including The Bastard of Istanbul and Three Daughters of Eve . On 29 September, it’s the turn of Colm Tóibín and The Magician – a story of 20th-century literary titan, Thomas Mann. Heading into autumn, Amartya Sen comes to Cambridge to discuss his new memoir on 12 October. For all the new fans around the world that the event picked up during lockdown – as well as those who prefer to watch at home – the team is livestreaming all events or sharing online afterwards where possible. cambridgeliteraryfestival.com Cambridge Literary Festival READ ALL ABOUT IT

RUSSELL BRAND 10 OCT, 6PM, £33.33 CORN EXCHANGE The provocative comedian and podcaster brings his new show, in which he reflects on the pandemic, to the Corn Exchange.

WYSING POLYPHONIC ART FESTIVAL

Looking ahead to September, Wysing Arts Centre’s annual festival of music and sound is back, with the 12th edition curated by A---Z (Anne Duffau, senior tutor at the Royal College of Art). This year’s celebration, titled Under Ether , will wander into the esoteric realm, exploring magic and speculative futures. The day’s offering of open-air performances, music and readings will utilise a new outdoor stage, as well as sites across Wysing’s woods, and feature artists including FAUZIA, Juliet Jacques and YaYa Bones. There are a further two follow-up events across September, completing the trio of rituals centred around optimism, resistance and alternative realities. Wysing Polyphonic: Under Ether takes place at Wysing Arts Centre on 4 September. Suggested donations are £8 or £20. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite. eventbrite.co.uk

NEON MOON HALLOWEEN 30 OCT, 8PM, £28 CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION The Neon Moon Burlesque and Cabaret Club returns with a huge Halloween party. Expect incredible performers and next-level costumes.

4 Aug

THE DARKNESS 24 NOV, 8PM, £35.50 CORN EXCHANGE The spandex-wearing rock gods hit Cambridge, playing tunes from their new album Motorheart , as well as old faves like I Believe In A Thing Called Love.

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ADVERT I SEMENT FEATURE

3-4 July

GET SET FOR INDEPENDENTS’ DAY UK!

Love Cambridge is the brand developed by Cambridge Business Improvement District (BID) to deliver a range of events and projects that animate and entertain our city. Offerings include the Love WHAT IS LOVE CAMBRIDGE?

rebuild following the restrictions of 2020/2021. Despite the uncertainty of the past year, indies have continued to play a vital role. Show your thanks by simply heading out across the weekend of 3rd and 4th July (and beyond) and spending a few pounds at independent or locally owned retailers. The money that goes directly to our independent shops makes a real difference to business owners and our regional economy.

ndependents’ Day UK this year is featuring a full weekend celebration of the indie retail sector. The national campaign supports and celebrates independents all year round, but with a special focus on 4 July. Independents account for around 65% of the approximately 290,000 UK retail outlets, and are at the heart of communities throughout the country. These businesses need our support more than ever, as they

Cambridge Gift Card, open-air cinema nights, Wimbledon screenings,

magazines, maps and more. Visit love-cambridge.com or @LoveCambridge_ on socials

24 JULY 2021 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

ADVERT I SEMENT FEATURE

BIG-SCREEN FUN Popcorn at the ready, Cambridge BID’s alfresco cinema returns to the Market Square this summer. These much-loved events animate a space that’s usually quiet and unused at night, bringing it to life with a family-friendly evening of fun FREE OUTDOOR CINEMA This year, the programme of free films is set to delight audiences of all ages, with double screenings in July and August. There will be two different films each evening, starting from 6pm. The season opens on 23 July with the final instalment from Woody and the gang, Toy Story 4 , followed by Will Smith in the all-singing, all-dancing Aladdin reboot. Then, on 13 August, it’s the turn of The Secret Life of Pets 2 and Yesterday , the Beatles musical film the world fell in love with in 2019.

1. YOU HAVE MORE CHOICE Cambridge indies are amazing places to pick up unique and interesting products you won’t find in large chains. They’re perfect for gifts, offering a wide range of creative and personal ideas to impress friends and family. Cambridge has numerous artsy and eclectic gift shops to browse. Check out Jacks on Trinity for a quintessentially Cambridge treat, Ark for that quirky present, or pop to the new streetwear store Groovy Garage for vintage finds. A face-to-face interaction with a local shopkeeper is far more interesting than one with a computer screen. The great thing about shopping independent is that you can ask questions, communicate, and get to know the person behind the business. There are plenty of boutiques across the city for those important purchases, including Bowns, Boudoir Femme and Lilac Rose for ladies; Trotter & Deane, Giulio or Sevenwolves for menswear. 3. IT’S MORE ECO-FRIENDLY Shopping local is definitely the ethical choice, with fewer deliveries meaning fewer trucks on the road and lower emissions. When it comes to produce, you’re often supporting local farmers, while safe in the knowledge that your food has had a short field-to-plate journey. For amazing local meals in Cambridge, we recommend Vegan Vice for delicious vegan food, or The Cambridge Chop House for a Sunday roast or steak. Cambridge is home to more than 250 independent businesses, ranging from gift shops to delis, fashion boutiques and more. Pick up an Independents Map showcasing great indies – and explore, shop and eat local. Visit love-cambridge.com for city trails and inspiration on Cambridge’s hidden gems. 2. YOU GET A MORE PERSONAL EXPERIENCE GREAT REASONS TO SHOP LOCAL!

THE OLYMPICS 23 JULY–8 AUGUST

The biggest sporting show on earth is coming to a screen near you! Head to the Market Square on 23 July to see the opening ceremony at midday. From 26 July, you can catch the rest of the action in Station Square. Cheer on Team GB as they battle it out for podium places in Tokyo. Timings will be subject to the schedule, but expect most of the activity to be from lunchtime.

All events are subject to Covid-19 restrictions. Please keep an eye on our social media pages for up-to-date information.

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STREET STYLE

LOCAL LIFE Humans of Cambridge MEET MARK BOX, THE MAN BEHIND THE PHOTOBLOG THAT’S GOT THE CITY TALKING

WORDS BY NICOLA FOLEY

art, kaleidoscopic hair and amazing outfits, often showcasing a more alternative, diverse side of Cambridge than we’re used to seeing. Mark struggles to pick a favourite, but the person who sticks out most in his memory is a redheaded girl wearing green, photographed on Burrell’s Walk. “It’s one of my best-known pictures from the series, definitely,” he says. “Her style was iconic – it looks like a shot from the 70s, and I love that.” With every new portrait added, the follower count grew. We delighted in spotting our friends and neighbours, recognising the person who serves us coffee, who we nod to on our morning commute, or whose clothing we’ve admired from afar. Sometimes, we even spotted ourselves. After months of social distancing, the project seemed to connect people, bringing the community together and capturing the soul of the Cambridge through its colourful residents. Every single person photographed gets featured, and for those immortalised on the @humanofcambridge grid, it can be a

he Humans of Cambridge project began by accident. Mark Box, whose day job is photographing artefacts at the University Library,

was out walking with his camera when he spotted a perfect photo opportunity: a woman lost in her thoughts, looking out across a sun-dappled field in Waterbeach. “I sat down and had a chat with her, and she was very open with me, which I really liked,” he remembers. “It gave me the inspiration to approach people, ask them how they’re doing and if I can photograph them. The shot itself looks nothing like what I do now – but it was important, as it got me talking to others and started the whole thing.” Pleased with the interaction and resulting photograph, Mark decided to evolve the idea into a series, setting up the @humanofcambridge Instagram account and beginning his new project in earnest, taking pictures of people he crossed paths with on his regular walks around the city. His aim was to get at least one portrait per day, but he now

ABOVE Mark Box gets just as much joy from interacting with strangers as he does photographing them

well, and said she was just so pleased, because her daughter didn’t send many photos of herself.” As for Mark? “I know it’s a bit cliché,” he laughs, “but the experience has given me more faith in humanity. What’s really special is that you actually get to meet and interact with complete strangers; sometimes making friends. There are people I have photographed who I regularly bump into and have conversations with – and for me that’s quite special. When I used to be a club photographer, even though I was interacting with thousands of people, it could be quite lonely – but with this, you can stop, observe, and get the bonus of hearing what people have to say.” Looking to the future, Mark would love for Humans of Cambridge to be turned into a book or exhibition – perhaps showcasing the most popular pictures. You’ll also be able to see his photos in Cambridge Edition , as we’ll be featuring some of our favourite Humans each issue. If you’d like to be part of the next chapter, Mark’s regular haunts are the Market Square, King’s Parade, Burrell’s Walk and Garret Hostel bridge – and he’s most commonly found snapping around lunchtime. He’s happy to be approached, but if you want to get noticed, your best bet is to dress to impress – and “wear something eye-catching that represents you!”

often takes up to 15 in a single stint.

IT’S GIVEN ME MORE FAITH IN HUMANITY

surprisingly profound experience, says Mark. “The emotions of people when they feel they’re getting noticed is amazing – often they say ‘thank you for making my day’,” he smiles. “One thing I really enjoy about

The vast majority of those he approaches agree to being part of the project, he says, claiming an impressive ‘hit rate’ of around 90%. When it comes to choosing subjects, he’s drawn to uniqueness,

the project is the impact that my pictures can have on the subjects, but also on their families. A really touching one I remember was a young girl in a wheelchair, waiting at the bus stop on West Road. What caught my eye was her amazingly bright-red lipstick. I cycled by and thought, ‘Wow, I need to photograph her’. So, I went back and introduced myself, and she was chuffed to bits and really happy – and then her mum contacted me as

either in a person’s looks or style. “It could be colours or clothing, or that they are wearing something that makes them stand out from the crowd,” he explains. “If somebody has unique features, and looks different from the average person... just that individuality. The fashion from the students, in particular, is a joy to see!” As a result, the ever-growing collection of photos is a burst of bright colours, body

Follow @humanofcambridge on Instagram

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STREET STYLE

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ARTS & CULTURE

Book Club THIS MONTH, WE HAVE FIVE EXCITING NEW READS FROM WOMEN WRITERS – PERFECT TO ENJOY ON YOUR SUMMER STAYCATION CAMBRIDGE EDITION

WORDS BY CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

BY NATASHA BROWN ASSEMBLY

Every word in this 100-page debut smacks of resigned, cool fury, as the anonymous black British narrator reflects on her post-Oxbridge career choices, the colleagues at the bank where she’s climbing the corporate ladder, the options presented to her, and the state of the country she calls home. This is an unflinching book about privilege, sexism and injustice. “The son, of course, insists the best things in life are free,” the narrator muses, while walking the grounds of her partner’s family home. “All this was, is, free to him… [young, privileged people] take chances, pursue dreams, risk climbing out to the highest, furthest limb... knowing the ground beneath is soil, soft grass and dandelions.” It holds a mirror up to society, and what you see will leave you uncomfortable. Read it in one sitting, and work out what you can do to effect change.

BY DANTIEL W. MONIZ Milk Blood Heat A glorious, life-affirming collection of stories and unforgettable characters that capture the profound moments of connection offered by every interaction, every day. Moniz’s short vignettes spin stories of love, friendship and sisterhood – and take us from city rooftops to aquariums, from churches to the open ocean, from death into life. Each tale is vividly rendered like a personal memory, with conclusions that linger long into the next chapter.

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ARTS & CULTURE

BY LISA TADDEO ANIMAL Lisa Taddeo’s breakout book Three Women documented confessional conversations with a trio of real women. Similarly, this novel shines most in the therapy-like sections, where narrator Joan talks through her past trauma with Alice, the woman she’s come to the desert to find. These sections perfectly capture that exhausting tension and freeing release when someone flips accepted truths on their head, like an optician sliding new lenses into test frames and snapping everything into focus. Animal is, as the title suggests, a wild thing: violent, visceral, beautiful and deadly, like a captive wildcat just waiting for you to slip up with the door of their cage. “I felt sick with myself and, at the same time, unburdened,” Joan says after one conversation with Alice. “I thought I’d been honest with myself. But I hadn’t. I’d been telling myself ghost stories my whole life.” Joan’s obsessions with sex, herself and destructive behaviour patterns all start to make narrative sense as we learn more about her past. The grim resolution looms in the book’s periphery, circling the narrative like the coyotes that haunt the hills outside Joan’s rented house. The stories she shares are difficult to hear and sometimes deeply upsetting, yet Taddeo’s skilful stylistic flourishes make it impossible to look away. A hard, but insight-packed read.

BUILD YOUR HOUSE

BY VIOLET KUPERSMITH AROUND MYBODY This huge, sweeping, dizzying debut defies categorisation, and will leave your head spinning in the best possible way. A young American woman, Winnie, has gone missing in Vietnam, and her sort-of-boyfriend, Long, begins increasingly frantic attempts to find her, gradually realising the seriousness of the situation. We’re then immediately whisked up to the country’s highlands, 18 years earlier, to watch a funeral procession in a rural town. The time travelling continues in beautifully crafted snapshots like interlocking rooms, each one leading to another in an unexpected way; haunted by ghosts that become increasingly familiar as the connections between characters unfold. It is a sensorial fever dream of a book that will frequently make you stop, blink, reread sentences and remain profoundly unsettled – not just by Kupersmith’s deft employment of terrifying magical realism, but by the country’s violent colonial history and decades of cruelty and wrongdoing. Her ghosts are left bloodthirsty for revenge, lying silently in wait for her characters, hidden just beneath the surface of the story.

FreshWater for Flowers BY VALÉRIE PERRIN

Set in a picturesque French village, this book follows Violette Toussaint, a young woman who savours life – sipping at it like “jasmine tea sweetened with honey”. A cemetery caretaker by occupation, her graveyard is a far from sinister setting – as anyone who spent lockdown walking through Mill Road Cemetery is aware, these resting places can be truly peaceful and filled with life, if only you know where to look. As we learn more about Violette, and the circumstances that led to her unusual career choices, other stories start to weave between hers like different instruments playing an ensemble piece. This book is exquisitely composed and devastating in places, packed with meaningful meditations on life, death and love, and may leave you longing to adopt some of Violette’s considered routines – while also hoping to avoid the heartbreak that led her to this way of life. Though packed with references to literature and music, it’s the meals that linger in my mind: Violette’s summer “salads of multicoloured tomatoes, a few cheeses and a large baguette”, shared with other members of the caretaking team or the local priest in her cottage’s garden. This is not Perrin’s first novel, but it is her English-language debut, and has collected an array of awards. It’s now been translated into over 30 languages and even became the best-selling book in Italy in 2020, which should be more than enough to nudge it to the top of your wish list.

IMAGE Animal is Lisa Taddeo’s first foray into fiction after the success of her first book, Three Women. It’s a tense, but beautifully written narrative

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The Edition

TO CELEBRATE TEN YEARS OF CAMBRIDGE EDITION, WE’RE GIVING AWAY TEN FANTASTIC PRIZES

10 PRIZES FOR 10 YEARS

1 Sanctuary Spa gift set

Sanctuary Spa has given us a huge bundle worth over £100 to help one lucky reader pamper themselves to perfection! The sensational selection includes bath salts, sleep mist and a gorgeously fragranced reed diffuser set, as well as skincare treats like a nourishing body souffle, luxury bath float and body lotion, plus calming CBD oil and a de-stress, warming body balm. uk.sanctuary.com

The upcoming Cambridge Shakespeare Festival promises to be one of the biggest cultural events in the city this summer – and we’ve got four tickets up for grabs for one lucky winner. The extravaganza will feature a selection of vivid and spectacular performances of some of Shakespeare’s classic plays, including Macbeth , Richard III and A Midsummer Night’s Dream , all in full period costume with live Elizabethan music. The perfect way to spend a summer evening! cambridgeshakespeare.com Tickets to this year’s Shakespeare Festival 2

Fancy winning one of these fantastic prizes? Visit the Cambridge Edition website at cambsedition.co.uk and hit the Competition tab, where each will be listed. Seen a few that catch your eye? You can enter as many of the ten giveaways as you like – good luck!

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COMPET I T ION

OVER £1,000 OF PRIZES UP FOR GRABS!

Grape Britannia 3

Award-winning, Cambridge-based independent wine merchant, Grape Britannia, is offering you the chance to take home a pair of English sparkling wines, worth £102! The winner will be treated to a bottle of Balfour Hush Heath’s Victoria Ash Blanc de Blancs MV, which crackles with citrus and orchard fruit flavours, plus Albourne Estate’s Brut MV, with hints of peach, melon, ripe lemon and brioche. Cheers to that! grapebritannia.co.uk

Curating Cambridge is a new website showcasing unique and intriguing gifts inspired by the diverse collections of the University of Cambridge (find out more on page 22). We’re giving away a stylish Tayloria deckchair, featuring an unusual design taken from the teaching charts of John Stevens Henslow, professor of botany at the University of Cambridge between 1825 and 1861. The fabric depicts the microscopic details of flora such as lichen and moss, which – although produced almost 200 years ago – are surprisingly modern in their bold use of line, colour and text. The Whipple Museum of the History of Science holds over 100 of Henslow’s botanical charts within its collection. curatingcambridge.co.uk Curating Cambridge 4 WORTH £120

Arts Theatre Tickets! Fancy treating yourself and three friends to a trip to the theatre? We’re giving away four tickets to a production of the winner’s choice at Cambridge Arts Theatre! You’ll have your pick of upcoming shows, including the Willy Russell classic Blood Brothers, (3-7 August) and The Dresser , Ronald Harwood’s evocative, affectionate and hilarious portrait of backstage

life, which runs 12-16 October. cambridgeartstheatre.com

Cranes Cider Bundle! Cranes is offering one lucky winner the ultimate cider bundle, including the full range of Cranes Ciders in six refreshing flavours, such as raspberry and pomegranate, as well as traditional apple. Only natural ingredients are used in the creation of Cranes Cider, so they contain 30% fewer calories and 40% less sugar compared to brand leaders. The prize also includes Cranes’ spirit range, handcrafted in small batches. Cranes products are crafted in Cambridgeshire by co-founders (and twin brothers) Ben and Dan, and you can purchase them at Tesco, Morrison’s, Ocado, Co-op, Amazon and the Cranes website. drinkcranes.co.uk 6

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