Our December issue is out now and packed with festive fun, from top Christmas shows to gift ideas from local independent shops to the best New Year’s Eve parties in town. Plus our big Christmas giveaway is back, with more than £1,200 worth of prizes for one lucky winner!
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EDITORIAL Editor in chief Nicola Foley 01223 499459
nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com Chief sub editor Beth Fletcher Senior sub editor Siobhan Godwood Sub editor Felicity Evans Junior sub editor Elisha Young ADVERTISING Group ad manager Sam Scott-Smith 01223 499457 samscott-smith@bright-publishing.com Senior sales executive Harriet Abbs 01223 499464 harrietabbs@bright-publishing.com Ad sales manager Ed Grundy 01223 499463 edgrundy@bright-publishing.com CONTRIBUTORS Alex Rushmer, Angelina Villa-Clarke, Cyrus Pundole, Charlotte Griffiths, Siobhan Godwood, Sue Bailey, Daisy Dickinson, Jordan Worland, Ruthie Collins, Anna Taylor, Charlotte Phillips DESIGN & PRODUCTION Designer Lucy Woolcomb lucywoolcomb@bright-publishing.com manwaiwong@bright-publishing.com MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK Senior designer Laura Bryant Ad production Man-Wai Wong
opefully you’ve found a few quiet moments away from the Christmas madness with a nice cup of tea (or better, mulled wine) to read this issue of Cambridge Edition . As always, December is set to be one of the busiest months of the year in the city, and whether you want to dive into the seasonal silliness headlong or give it a wide berth with some festive-free fun, we’ve got inspiration that will serve you well for the weeks ahead. One event which deserves highlighting is the Mill
Road Winter Fair, a community-led celebration that never fails to warm hearts, fill bellies and bring the city together. As well as enjoying the best of the local food scene, it’s a brilliant chance to stock up on gifts from local makers and traders, hear great bands and catch up with friends – get the lowdown on page 30. Christmas is of course a time of celebration, so what better occasion to open a bottle of fizz? I recommend checking out local vineyard Saffron Grange, which blends traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology to create exquisite sparkling wines. With plaudits for this up-and-coming winemaker pouring in, we caught up with the couple sowing their hearts and souls into a patch of land near Saffron Walden to find out the story so far, on page 70. Glass of bubbles in hand, grab yourself a mince pie and curl up with a good book: we’ve got plenty of recommendations in a special Christmas edition of our book club. Turn to page 37 to hear what’s on the literary wish lists of a few familiar faces, plus discover their recommendations for books that give an insight into their various worlds, from fine dining to flower farming and radio-making. If panic is beginning to set in about your Christmas shopping list, take a deep breath and thumb your way to page 87 for our Gift Guide, which offers a round-up of amazing pressie ideas from independent local shops – or if you want to be in with a chance of winning yourself an incredible gift, check out the Edition Christmas giveaway on page 40. A huge prize bundle worth more than £1,200, it features a champagne afternoon tea, chocolate selection, beauty treats, a crate of wine, panto tickets and loads, loads more – all of which is neatly piled up by my desk and ready to be delivered by the Edition elves to the lucky winner just in time for Christmas! Elsewhere in the issue, Fitzbillies owner TimHayward shares Christmas
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CAMBRIDGE EDITIONMAGAZINE 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.
recipes and news about the cafe’s centenary celebrations (page 78), we tour the incredible hidden gem that is the New Hall Art Collection (26), round-up the best Christmas shows (21), and offer ideas for a New Year’s Eve to remember (51). Have a great Christmas and see you on the other side! Nicola Foley EDITOR IN CHIEF
This month’s cover illustration was created by Laura Bryant, senior designer at Bright Publishing
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Author illustrations by Louisa Taylor louisataylorillustration.blogspot.co.uk
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8 ● STARTERS Top things to do and see in the city, plus our favourite social media pics 11 ● ARTS & CULTURE Exhibitions, concerts and theatre highlights during December 19 ● ART INSIDER Ruthie Collins, founder of Cambridge Art Salon, shares her arty picks of the month 21 ● CHRISTMAS CRACKERS Want to watch a panto or other festive show? We’ve got the lowdown in our round-up 26 ● NEW HALL ARTS More than 500 works across all media include pieces by Tracey Emin and Bridget Riley 30 ● MILL ROAD WINTER FAIR What to expect at the huge one-day community festival of crafts, food and music 37 ● BOOK CLUB Familiar faces recommend a book, and reveal what they would like to see under their tree 40 ● CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY One lucky reader will win a whole load of prizes, worth more than £1,200 47 ● AFTER HOURS Comedy, gigs, festivals and more nightlife fun this month
51 ● NEW YEAR’S EVE We find out your options for 31 December, so you don’t have to 52 ● COMMUNITY HUB Community events, charity news and more from your local hub 55 ● LISTINGS Our at-a-glance guide to the top events and goings-on this December 63 ● FOOD NEWS The latest gastro happenings, from openings to pop-ups and exciting fresh menus 68 ● REVIEW La Raza is not just a late-night stop-off for a cocktail... there’s good food, too 70 ● GRAPE EXPECTATIONS Charlotte Griffiths finds out the future is bright for local vineyard Saffron Grange 77 ● CHEF’S TABLE Chef Alex Rushmer on why he’s setting aside novelty in favour of tradition this Christmas
78 ● FITZBILLIES’ CENTURY Tim Hayward looks back on a Cambridge institution, with a couple of recipes too 84 ● CAMBS ON A PLATE Sweet or savoury, the truffle is a perfect gift for your foodie friend this Christmas 87 ● GIFT GUIDE Present ideas for her, him and children this Christmas 92 ● INDIE OF THE MONTH We shine a spotlight on Bury Lane Farm Shop, which started small more than 35 years ago 95 ● BEAUTY Daisy Dickinson rounds up the beauty products on her radar this month 97 ● EDUCATION Artificial intelligence is being used to understand a pupil’s learning profile 99 ● HOME EDITION Tips and inspiration for your home and garden this month
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FEAST & FAST AT THE FITZ CULTURE P I CK
Food, glorious food is at the heart of the FitzwilliamMuseum’s latest exhibition, Feast and Fast , a fresh take on the history and culture of eating. The exhibition showcases treasures from the Fitzwilliam and other collections, and features three historical reconstructions by food historian Ivan Day which aim to provoke discussion around issues such as our relationship with animals and nature, and over- consumption in times of austerity. The exhibition runs until April and on the museum’s lawn for its duration is a huge golden pineapple, four metres tall and illuminated at night! The fruit, “discovered” by European colonists, was once an emblem of power. Now it comes in a can and is a symbol of the fair-trade movement. Nearly 300 objects are on display, including items from the university library, five colleges, Wisbech and Fenland Museum and Holkham Hall. fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
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GET A FIX OF FESTIVE CHEER WITH THESE CHRISTMAS IN CAMBRIDGE ESSENTIALS
1 NORTH POLE SKATING It’s become a mainstay of winter in the last decade, and now that it’s no longer exposed to the elements thanks to a new transparent roof, you’ve no excuse not to don your skates and cut through the Christmas rush to relax on the Parker’s Piece rink. Après skate, retreat to the Alpine Cabin bar for bratwursts, steaming cups of hot chocolate with marshmallows and mulled wine or cider. It’s open until 5 January . 2 MILL ROAD WINTER FAIR A fab, people-packed treat for festive shoppers, curious foodies and fans of live music on 7 December. Most of Mill Road is transformed into a car-free zone through which a parade and demonstrations entertain thousands of visitors, who are then tempted to feast on more than one of an incredible range of street food options. Arts and crafts stalls are packed with tempting gift ideas too – find out more on page 30. 3 CHRISTMAS SHOWS You’re never far from a festive show in Cambridge. This year the Arts Theatre is staging Cinderella , featuring the returning Wayne Sleep and Liza Goddard, until 11 January. Moving away from a traditional panto, Cambridge Junction hosts Wind in the Willows , an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza, perfect for
of the major punting companies operate throughout the winter season and will happily supply blankets, brollies, and even hot water bottles, to keep you cosy. 5 CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON TEA Indulge in Parker’s Tavern’s eye- popping Christmas afternoon tea. Starting with savouries such as crayfish pastry boats and sausage rolls, you will move on to sandwiches, before scones with clotted cream, lemon curd or jam. Sugar-dusted creations round off the tea, including snowman macarons and PT’s take on Ferrero Rocher.
anyone who loves, hates or is ambivalent about Christmas. From 11 December to 5 January. There’s also a special version of The Nutcracker in store at Saffron Hall. Get
the lowdown on page 21. 4 WINTER PUNTING
It may sound mad to some, but what better way to retreat from the
Christmas shopping crowds than a punt on the Cam, wrapped up blankets and sipping on mulled wine? Sure, the sights are stunning in summer, but glittering with frost or snow on a perfectly still and quiet river, they can be even more so. Most
GI F T IDEA
There’s always one giftee who’s impossible to buy for, and Love Cambridge has a handy solution with its gift card. Accepted by almost 200 traders across the city, the card can be spent at both high street and independent retailers, restaurants, cafes and leisure and entertainment venues in Cambridge. You can top up the card online with as little as £10 or as much as £500, and the credit is valid for 12 months. This initiative has the added bonus of supporting Cambridge businesses and the local economy. Win-win! For more great gift ideas, turn to page 87. love-cambridgegiftcard.com LOVE CAMBRIDGE GIFT CARD
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F EST I VE THEATRE • ART EXHI B I T IONS • CHR I STMAS CONCERTS • BOOK CLUB
IMAGE Ely Cathedral hosts a whole range of Christmas events, beginning with a switch- on service on 8 December
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King’s Parade gallery, Byard Art, has welcomed back its annual Christmas Cracker: a chance to peruse and purchase art, jewellery and more from over 50 talented artists. Running up until 24 December, there will be an evolving line-up of makers and artists, so there’ll always be something new to discover. Works on show range from original paintings to ceramics, photography and sculpture, with artists including Dawn Stacey, Frances Campbell and Danika Vautour displaying pieces. Everything on display is for sale, so if you’re after an arty gift for a friend or loved one this Christmas, it could be just the ticket. byardart.co.uk BYARD ART CHRISTMAS CRACKER
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SING SONG MERRILY ON HIGH! If Elf has taught us anything, it’s that “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear”; so get those vocal cords warmed up for a good old- fashioned singalong this month – there are plenty of opportunities in Cambridge. Gather around the huge Christmas tree at Ely Cathedral (so big it takes five days to decorate!), and sing carols while the illuminations are revealed at the switch-on service on 8 December. You can also bring kids along for stories, songs and snacks on the 12th, or join the Littleport Brass Band for a community singalong on the 14th. The Cathedral is also hosting a screening of The Snowman with a live orchestral accompaniment in a heartwarming farewell to the festive season on the 30th. The Leper Chapel, Cambridge’s oldest surviving building, provides an atmospheric backdrop to a Sunday evening of carols by candlelight on the 15th, or you can also join Cambridge Early Music for spiced wine and estampies (medieval songs) at the Emmanuel United Reform Church on the 12th. And finally, the biggie: A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, aka the service held in the King’s College Chapel on Christmas Eve, aka our city’s yearly chance to dazzle in front of a global audience of millions on the BBC World Service. The queue starts forming at around 7am and tickets cannot be booked in advance unless you’re a member of the college, so arrive early, wrap up warm and prepare for a wait. If you make it in, you’ll be treated to readings and carols, always beginning with Once in Royal David’s City , and always including one new, specially commissioned carol.
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Audley End House, the grand Jacobean stately home just outside Saffron Walden, is embracing the festive season with all kinds of special events throughout December. Create a traditional wreath in a workshop with the estate’s head gardener on the 2nd, or discover Enchanted Audley End; a beautiful illuminated trail around the grounds, which runs each weekend this month. Look out for the mirror ball alley, fairy-lit maze and talking tree – and be sure to warm up afterwards with a mulled wine or toasted marshmallow. You can also go back in time to discover how festive prep looked nearly 200 years ago at the Preparing a Victorian Christmas event on 21 and 22 December. The kitchen will be a flurry of activity as the cooks begin the Christmas feast for the Lord and Lady of the house, with traditional mince pies, gingerbread biscuits and Victorian-style Christmas puds to try. english-heritage.org.uk CHRISTMAS AT AUDLEY END HOUSE
If you’re feeling a little flat this month, turn your feet to Trinity College Chapel on 3 December for a stirring performance of Handel’s Messiah . Still every bit as powerful as when it was first written in the 18th century, this epic oratorio depicts the birth, life and death of Christ, and the eventual triumph of good over evil. The work has played a special part in the Western choral calendar since its first performance in Dublin in 1742, and with its thrilling choruses and beautiful arias – including Hallelujah – it’s no wonder. See it brought deftly to life by Cambridge’s Academy of Ancient Music, joined by VOCES8, VOCES8 Scholars and Apollo. Tickets are £27 to £35. aam.co.uk ACADEMY OF ANCIENT MUSIC
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Dive into the world of the Cirque du Soleil via the wonders of VR technology at Cambridge Junction from 27 to 31 December. Limina, creators of virtual reality theatre, have teamed up with the world- famous troupe to create an immersive experience, which transports you to “vibrant lands, rich with strange spectacles and illusions, where fire and water dance and mystical beings roam”. It promises to be a fantastic show, guided by your VR host. Tickets are £19.50. junction.co.uk VR EXPERIENCES
THE BAUBLE BARN
Exciting things are happening over in Steeple Bumpstead, near Haverhill, where a family has transformed a disused barn into a sparkling Christmas bazaar. The Bauble Barn is open throughout December, selling decorations galore, from stunning wreaths and garlands to ornaments, lights and, of course, baubles. “We want everyone to catch their breath as they walk into The Bauble Barn; it will be as much an experience as it will be a shop, every surface, beam, hook and door covered in Christmassy delights,” enthuses owner Sophie. “Upon entry there will be a forest of real Christmas trees that customers can choose from and buy. Past the Christmas trees there will be a room packed to the rafters with decorations – customers will be met with an onslaught of colourful baubles in all shapes and sizes, bejewelled birds and twinkling wooden reindeer, trailing glittery garlands and characterful Christmas gonks! The scene will be an ode to Christmas.” The Bauble Barn is open until 22 December, Thursday to Sunday, between 10am and 6pm. baublebarn.com
Relive a misspent youth at the Centre for Computing History, which is hosting a special edition of its retro gaming night on 6 December. With a bar from Lord Conrad’s Brewery and more vintage consoles and arcade fun than you can shake a joystick at, it runs from 7pm to 11pm. If you need something to keep you going, the organisers invite you to order a Deliveroo to the centre. So if takeaway, beer and video games sound up your street – get involved! computinghistory.org.uk RETRO GAMING NIGHT CHRISTMAS EDITION
DUXFORD ADVENT MARKET
A German-style festive fair, The Duxford Advent Market takes place on 7 December in the medieval church of St John’s in Duxford. It’s a chance to get in the Christmas spirit and browse all sorts of gifts in an atmospheric setting, as well as enjoying food, glühwein and entertainment. The event was founded in 2011 and has become a popular festive fixture for many, known for its broad selection of craft stalls. This year, kids can meet Santa in his grotto, too. duxadvent.com
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RUTHIE COLLINS, FOUNDER OF CAMBRIDGE ART SALON, GIVES HER ARTY PICKS OF THE MONTH
difficulties is based on Humberstone Road, and throws one of the best Christmas art parties of the season. Taking place on Wednesday 4 December, running from 5pm to 8pm, there are gifts and cards for sale, all made at Rowan, along with the chance to make your own decorations, plus live music, mulled wine and the mandatory mince pies. Watch out for The Hummingbirds, an all-female a cappella quartet, performing there; their harmonies give new entrancing life to classics, so will not fail to lift the spirits and shimmer a little festive sparkle into the darkest of corners. For anyone who has queued up to enjoy carols on Christmas Eve at King’s College Chapel, you may also know that King’s choirboys perform over the road in the Copper Kettle each year in the morning – amazing. But The Hummingbirds entice with a magic of their own. Finally, don’t forget to put Wind in the Willows at Cambridge Junction into your diaries. This festive production of Kenneth Grahame’s classic tale is from Figs in Wigs, a female-led performance company, and looks set to be a treat, opening on 11 December. “Following the success of New International Encounter’s Snow White last year, we’re excited to be making this year’s Christmas show with the hilariously smart Figs in Wigs,” says Matt Burman, artistic director at Cambridge Junction. “Our Christmas show is often a younger audience’s first experience of live performance and we know this is going to make people curious for more. “And for your seasonal theatre treat who could resist Figs in Wigs as all your
face to face, too, with an abundance of stalls throughout. Artist Andy Little has some excellent cards on offer for all the satirically-minded hedonists out there (Christmas is a party season, right?). This range of ‘magic dust’ inspired cards stars Santa and reindeer duo, Fatz and Red, with strictly adult content; a must for those who might be amused by the rampant pastiche of Christmas. Look out for his comic, too, exploring their adventures on magic dust; taking a dig at the often crass commercialisation of Christmas. “I like to experiment,” says Andy, whose influences include satirical illustrator and long suffering friend of Hunter S Thompson, Ralph Steadman. “I use photography to find textures to use in the colouring in of my cartoon characters.” Find Andy’s work at the Argyle Street Housing cooperative, plus at The Haymakers pub in Chesterton. Ironworks artist in residence Hilary Cox will be at the fair with community historian Helen Weinstein, too. “Come along and find out how you can join in with the creative, historical and environmental happenings locally – sharing our local history and stories through Ironworks’ fringe green spaces, creating artwork together and our blue plaque project,” says Hilary. “Helen and I look forward to seeing you!” Also massive on festive spirit for anyone looking to renew faith in good cheer is the fabulous Winter Warmer at Rowan, a firm must for your diaries. This arts centre for those with learning
o animal, according to the rules of animal etiquette, is ever expected to do anything strenuous, or
heroic, or even moderately active during the off-season of winter,” wrote Kenneth Grahame in Wind in The Willows . It’s December, and with a general election adding to an already crazed time of year, Good Government, Bad Government is a timely show. A collaboration from Michael Johnson and Frank Creber, it articulates the tensions impacting us all in relation to political infrastructure. It’s at the Alison Richard Building, home to thought provoking arts programmes throughout the year; find it on West Road at the Sidgwick Site. One thing the show addresses is what happens to communities when trust in democracy breaks down. Both a testament to community spirit and an exploration of darker sides of humanity, with the title referencing the Lorenzetti murals in Siena, the works in the show take everyday scenes from both East Anglia and East London and are often punchy, bold and guttural. The exhibition runs until 20 December. It’s easy to forget the good stuff in winter. It’s frantic. Exhausting. The cracks in our country loom ever greater. But Mill Road Winter Fair on Saturday 7 December is an annual reminder of the strength we can all find in community spirit. Kick-start your month with its thousands of visitors and a never-fail fix of festive cheer. It’s the perfect time to meet artisans and makers
familiar animal friends from the Wild Wood, in a bang-up-to- date new chapter of Wind in the Willows ?” Who indeed? Enjoy it, all.
“Mill Road Winter Fair is a reminder of the strength we can find in community spirit”
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CHRISTMAS IS COMING, AND A TRIP TO THE THEATRE IS ALL PART OF THE MAGIC. WE ROUND UP THE BEST SHOWS IN AND AROUND CAMBRIDGE THIS YEAR
28 NOVEMBER – 11 JANUARY CAMBRIDGE ARTS THEATRE CINDERELLA
This year’s Arts Theatre panto promises to be an absolute corker: Cinderella is working her fingers to the bone, dreaming of a better life, while her ugly stepsisters plot and scheme. But a surprise visit from her fairy godmother turns her life upside down. There’s obviously something about Christmas in Cambridge that keeps panto stars coming back for more – Wayne Sleep is returning a year on from his stint as the evil Abanazar in 2018’s Aladdin , while Liza Goddard makes her third visit to Cambridge, this year starring as the Fairy Godmother. And the panto wouldn’t be the same without audience favourite Matt Crosby, marking his 15th Christmas at the Arts Theatre – but his first ever as an Ugly Sister. “I’ve always been Buttons in Cinderella,” says Matt. “But Wayne and I did Aladdin together last year, and I said that if he would be one ugly sister then I’d be the other – and luckily he felt the same. The two of us started rehearsals a week earlier than everyone else, and it’s been a hoot so far!” And what is it that brings Matt back to Cambridge year after year? “I came 15 years ago as a favour to my friend Brad, who was directing the panto at the time. And I just loved it, it felt like home. When the lights go on, there’s nowhere more beautiful, and everyone is so friendly.” Matt puts the success of the Arts Theatre panto partly down to the great rapport between the cast. “There are so many people who come back, so it feels like a family – the audience pick up on the fun we’re having so they have fun, too.” Tickets start at £19. cambridgeartstheatre.com
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29 DECEMBER – 4 JANUARY CORN EXCHANGE
SAINT PETERSBURG CLASSIC BALLET
What better way to welcome in the new year than with an unforgettable visit to the ballet? For several years now, the Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet has delighted Cambridge audiences over the new year period with two stunning productions; this year, they’ve gone one better, offering a triple bill of Tchaikovsky ballets. In The Nutcracker on 29 and 31 December, discover the timeless story of Clara, who is whisked away on a fairytale adventure by her nutcracker prince. On 1 and 2 January, meet princess Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty , who is awakened from a deep sleep by her valiant prince. The wicked Carabosse and the beautiful Lilac Fairy are joined by a host of fairytale characters in this enchanting production. Finally, on 3 and 4 January, prepare to be swept away by the tragic beauty of Swan Lake , the tale of Prince Siegfried and his true love, Odette, who are fooled by evil sorcerer Von Rothbart and his daughter Odile – but would rather die than live apart. All three ballets feature a full orchestra and dazzling soloists. Performances vary between 2pm, 5pm and 7pm, and tickets start at £18. cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
21-22 DECEMBER SAFFRON HALL
THE NUTCRACKER AND I
Everyone knows the story of The Nutcracker – it has become almost synonymous with Christmas. But this show – created and performed by Romanian pianist Alexandra Dariescu – presents the classic tale in a way that’s never been done before. Featuring Alexandra playing live on stage alongside a single ballerina, the breathtaking Tchaikovsky score comes together with state-of-the-art digital effects to create a unique, multi- sensory, captivating Christmas treat for the whole family. The show has toured the world, playing to more than 700,000 people – 65% of whom were children – and we are incredibly fortunate to be welcoming the production to Saffron Walden this Christmas. Innovative, immersive and truly enthralling, this is an event not to be missed. Tickets from £4. saffronhall.com
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11 DECEMBER – 5 JANUARY CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION
THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS
The annual Junction Christmas show is far from a traditional panto, but this year’s show captures the very best bits – lots of physical comedy and audience interaction – while giving the concept a very modern, fresh reworking. It’s a heartwarming look at the theme of friendship, through the prism of Kenneth Grahame’s classic tale of riverbank animals, and adults and children alike will come away feeling as if they’ve had more than just an entertaining evening. Rachel Porter, Suzanna Hurst and Sarah Moore from theatre company Figs in Wigs, who are producing the show, explain: “The Junction has been supporting us since we started out in 2012, when we took part in their Escalator scheme promoting new acts from the east of England, and we were over the moon when they asked us to produce their Christmas show for this year,” says Sarah. “We picked The Wind in the Willows partly because it’s one of our favourite stories, but also because it’s almost always acted by men, and as an all-female group we wanted to give it a different slant. We also wanted to avoid anything too ‘princessy’, so that ruled out a lot of the more traditional fairy tales. It is a story about friendship rather than romantic love, which really appealed to us.” This new story catches up with Mole, Ratty and Toad a year after the events of the well-known book. “Toad is still obsessed with travel, but this time he’s expanded his horizons to space, and the three friends take off on an interstellar adventure,” explains Suzanna. The riverbank animals will also be embracing the festive season, in their own unique way: “The animals know that Christmas is important, but they’re not entirely sure why, so they get things a bit wrong!” says Rachel. The Junction is a great space for a more intimate Christmas show, and the Figs are really looking forward to performing there. “It offers lots of potential for audience interaction and trying out new things,” continues Sarah. “We’ve got lots of surprises in store for the audience, and we’re very excited about being part of a Cambridge Christmas!” Tickets cost from £10. junction.co.uk
21-22 DECEMBER THE MUMFORD THEATRE
A proper, old-fashioned Christmas panto aimed at children aged from three to 12, Jack and the Beanstalk at the Mumford Theatre is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Get ready to cheer for our hero Jack, boo the evil Mayor Botchett and roar with laughter at the antics of Barmy Bosworth and Dimples the cow as they try to get the better of Dame Lumpkin. With two performances on Saturday and two more on Sunday, it’s the perfect way to get your family in the mood for festive fun. Tickets are £10. aru.ac.uk JACK & THE BEANSTALK
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17-22 DECEMBER THE LEYS
If panto isn’t really your thing then the Cambridge Theatre Company’s production of Hairspray presents a cracking alternative. It’s 1962 in Baltimore, and loveable plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad has only one ambition: to dance on the Corny Collins show. Her audition transforms Tracy into an overnight star – and soon she’s using her newfound fame to win the heart of Link Larkin and fight for integration – all without denting her ’do! This rock ‘n’ roll rollercoaster ride has been enchanting theatregoers since its Broadway debut in 2002, and before that was a hugely successful 1980s movie. The Cambridge Theatre Company has performed more than 12 musicals in the last three years in venues all around the city, and is particularly proud of its work in offering opportunities to talented young performers in the community. HAIRSPRAY
Tickets start at £12.50. cambridgelive.co.uk
27 NOVEMBER – 7 DECEMBER ADC THEATRE
Little Red Riding Hood has grown up on the edge of the woods with only her mum for company. One day she runs into the forest in search of answers, but instead she meets the Big Bad Wolf, as well as her estranged father Robin, and his gang of anti-wolf revolutionaries. When this father-daughter reunion turns out to be more than she bargained for, Red must find her way back home through a forest full of magic and mystery. This year’s production, brought to you by the world-famous Cambridge Footlights comedy troupe, promises to be an unusual, hilarious and anarchic take on the traditional panto. As many of its stars are students, the show only runs until 7 December – so don’t hang about if you want tickets. There are shows every day except Sundays and plenty of matinee performances, too. Tickets start at £13. adctheatre.com LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD
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NEW HALL IS THE HOME OF THE BIGGEST COLLECTION OF ART MADE BY WOMEN IN EUROPE. RUTHIE COLLINS FINDS OUT MORE
o many people have fallen in love with the college, fallen in love with the collection, fallen in love with the building.
There’s a lot to love about this place,” says Harriet Loffler, curator for New Hall Art Collection at Murray Edwards College – and she’s not wrong. What started with the acquisition of Extase , a six-part work from US feminist artist Mary Kelly in 1986, has since grown to Europe’s largest collection of art made by women. Over 500 works across all media housed in a Grade II listed building, in an all-women college at Cambridge University with stunning gardens; the collection is an active challenge to gender inequality in the art world. Yes, the collection is in a college setting, but it’s a stone’s throw from the city centre up on Huntington Road, open 10am to 6pm, every day. “It’s a mini Utopia,” Harriet laughs. For lovers of great art, this is a utopia open to anyone, throughout the week. “It’s so different to the standard Cambridge college here and the usual ‘don’t walk on the grass,’ ‘closed to visitors’. We’re like – ‘come and make use of this wonderful resource!’” Harriet says. “There’s a freedom here, an invitation to come and enjoy the work.” And those that come, really do. Quite often, as with many of the
Emin. “There is a real spirit of generosity resulting from all the works being donated and being open to the public,” says Harriet. Generosity is key to the collection, which was amassed after a call was put out for further works in the late 1980s by then- president of the college, Valerie Pearl, who wrote to 100 artists asking for donations. Works were donated from artists including Paula Rego, Maggi Hambling and Turner Prize winner, Lubaina Himid.
more hidden museums in Cambridge, it’s just a case of knowing the collection is there. “People spend two or three hours here, with the self-guided tour. It can take a lot to step over that college threshold, so once here, they are very engaged.” It’s difficult not to be. Just a simple walk around the corridors of the college gives you intimate access to extraordinary pieces; excellent work, by many leading artists – from Bridget Riley to Tracey
“Just a simple walk around the corridors of the college gives you intimate access to extraordinary pieces by many leading artists”
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probably having to supplement their work, their studio practice, with multiple jobs, a bit like now. At that time there were few opportunities for women artists, their work was rarely shown in exhibitions and there was very little being sold or promoted; the collection offered them a vital platform and a community to be part of.” Harriet stops suddenly, to make a note. “It’s for a PechaKucha (talk) this Thursday,” she explains, accompanying the launch of a book that’s just launched, Great Women Artists , published by Phaidon, exploring five centuries of female creativity. “We know things are changing for women. There’s a huge desire from the public to see these works now.” We walk past a collection of pieces donated by Cambridge artists for the Nasty Women exhibition at Artworks, Victoria Road, in 2017; part of a global movement of female-led protest. Wendy Cope’s poem Differences of Opinion has been turned into
“I think she thought they might get around 25 but in fact a whopping 75 women gave work. Those women were being invited to be part of something that gave them a voice. The act of giving became a radical act, being part of something,” explains Harriet. “This speaks of so many things. Not just an incredible act of collective giving, but also spoke of a moment when women wanted to be represented. They were
ABOVE Billie Piper (A Combo Painting) by Rose Wylie, on display as part of New Hall Art Collection at Murray Edwards College
a piece by local artist Sue Law: black type on bold yellow echoing classic Guerrilla Girls palettes, whose now iconic lithograph Do women have to be naked to get into the Met. Museum? , is hung opposite. This sense of community, links to activism and a push for change, is palpable throughout the collection. “It’s important to give women a space where you don’t have to fight to be heard,” says Harriet. Though men are of course a key audience for the collection, collaborators and supporters as well. Like women, they are inspired by great art, too. 2020 will see change, with Harriet planning a rehang of many works, making the narrative of the collection more fluent. “I really want to make it better known, foster collaborations that connect the academic community
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IMAGES Above, the grounds at Murray Edwards College; Right, Models Triptych 1982-83 by Rose Garrard
and research with a wider public,” she explains. Current show Creative Connections, Portraits of Women Scientists and Artists from photographer Anne Katrin-Purkiss, running until March 2020, is doing just that – supporting a cross-disciplinary approach to presenting art. “This show is exploring the artist’s studio as a laboratory. All their work is based on experimentation, imagination and curiosity,” says Harriet. After that is a collaboration planned with Kettle’s Yard for Spring 2020, plus talks and workshops, the programme centring around landmark events, throughout the year – all with the collection at the heart. “This is the piece I normally end tours with,” she stops at Rose Garrard’s Models Triptych , mounted next to a curving stairwell, a cross-disciplinary piece depicting three historical female artists, fusing painting with installation. “I love this piece. It’s a brilliant symbol of what the collection represents, in that behind this work you can see the bricks and mortar of the building – we are the support structure for artists over history and now.” A piece reflective of New Hall Art Collection’s work as a vital champion for gender equality throughout the art world – that anyone can access. “I see the Collection as being really important in giving women a voice, a platform, and an academic context for their work,” says Harriet. “Come and visit!” Visitors are welcome to ask for a self-guided tour of the New Hall Art Collection from the Porters Lodge at Murray Edwards College, 10am-6pm daily. art.newhall.cam.ac.uk
“We are the support structure for artists over history and now”
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MI L L ROAD WINTER FA I R
FROM STREET FOOD FAVOURITES TO LOCAL CRAFT STALLS AND FUN MUSICAL PERFORMANCES, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THIS WINTER EVENT The fun of the fair
WORDS BY NICOLA FOLEY
ach year, on the first Saturday of December, the Romsey and Petersfield neighbourhoods come alive with music, dancing,
colourful parades and throngs of food stalls for the Mill Road Winter Fair. Founded in 2005 with the goal of celebrating the local community and attracting visitors to the area, the event has since blossomed into one of the most popular fixtures of the winter calendar in the city. These days, it attracts more than ten thousand visitors each year, with hundreds of stalls, a packed live music line-up and food on offer from around the world, but it remains an entirely volunteer- run event. “It’s built by the community
IMAGES Photos by Adam Cash. Mill Road Winter Fair sees the whole of this bustling street animated with entertainment, stalls and thousands of visitors
for the community”, says Chiara Satta from the Mill Road Winter Fair team. “It’s important for the people living on and off Mill Road, because it brings together different communities with their different faiths, beliefs and cultures. It strengthens friendships and relationships among each representative group or individual and their work, and makes cooperation between communities on both sides of the railway bridge possible. The Mill Road community is unique, and so is this event! “I’m personally really looking forward to seeing the parade and all the arts and crafts stalls around,” she continues. “The parade this year will be bigger, louder and more colourful! This year the theme is nature, so we expect a lot of children and adults dressed up as plants, flowers or trees, which is always very amusing.” With more live music than ever before, scores of Cambridge’s best-loved food and drinks companies and some new additions including poets and science demos, 2019 looks set to be a vintage year for the fair – here’s a taster of what’s in store!
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Fair day will see Mill Road closed to cars from East Road to Coleridge Road between 9am and 5.30pm, so bear that in mind when making travel plans. The roads nearby might become congested, too, but there should be plenty of parking available at the Queen Anne car park and the Grafton Centre, both of which are very close to the action. Cyclists will be asked to dismount as well. With more than 10,000 visitors, the fair gets very, very busy, so if you don’t like big crowds, you’re best to show up earlier in the day (around 10am to 11am), or towards the end of the fair in the afternoon. Good advice if you come with a group is to establish a meeting point, so you can reunite – we recommend choosing one of the pubs on the side streets! (These are also ideal for escaping the craziness and grabbing a warming glass of mulled wine, too. Top picks include The Cambridge Blue, The Kingston Arms and The Empress.) If you’re in need of assistance, look out for the stewards wearing high-vis jackets – they’ll be happy to help. Read the programme (this will be available at the top of Mill Road on Donkey Green and is also online), to find out where stalls will be located and what time the bands are playing and where. HAVE A FAIR TO REMEMBER HANDY TIPS FOR VISITORS TO THE MILL ROAD WINTER FAIR
“The Mill Road community is unique, and so is this event!”
from Tribeca, not to mention prosecco, mulled wine and seasonal cocktails from Gentleman Jim’s – a mobile bar in a beautifully restored horsebox. Mill Road itself will host stalls from Harston-based brewery Brewboard and Cambridge Biltong, while you can also check out the new housing development, Ironworks, where there will be a cluster of foodie traders including Simon’s Cider, Wylde Sky Brewing and Verrecchia, which will be serving tasty crepes. Another foodie hub can be found at St Barnabas Road, which will host street food heroes Guerrilla Kitchen and Steak & Honour, plus sweet treats from Gourmet
FOOD & DRINK The amazing range of food on offer at Mill Road Winter Fair is one of the event’s biggest draws, and this year the line-up of traders looks extra tasty. For the biggest concentration of eats, turn your feet to Gwydir Street car park, where you can take your taste buds on an international adventure with Venezuelan bites from Arepa’s Station, Spanish produce including Iberico ham from Azahar, authentic Italian pizza from Fired Up, Jamaican-South African fusion cuisine from Kerief Catering and Taiwanese treats from Ling Ling Steam Kitchen. There’s also pedal-powered coffee
Wrap up warm, arrive with an empty stomach and enjoy!
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IMAGES Photos by Adam Cash. Don’t miss the colourful parade, which begins at midday, or the chance to visit Mill Road favourites such as The Old Chemist Shop
Brownie and Joi Joi Bakehouse, which sells cupcakes and whoopie pies.
“There’s everything from handmade jewellery to cards and artisinal skincare”
PARADE The parade is a popular part of the day’s festivities, beginning its journey at Millcroft Court (opposite Thoday Street) at midday. Schools, families and anybody else who wants to be part of the parade is invited to dress up and show up to join the fun, cheered along by hundreds of spectators: get creative with the nature theme and bring your best dance moves. STALLS Need to get moving with your Christmas shopping? The fair is the perfect place! Donkey Green will once again host a huge array of stalls from local craftspeople selling handmade jewellery, cards, artisanal skincare products and more. Browse Cambridge illustrations by Roxana de Rond, wreaths and table decorations by Nature’s Posy and wooden homewares and gifts by Cambridge brand Stott & Shepherd – if you’re feeling the chill, head to the firepit to warm up.
is pitching up at the corner of Salisbury Street, and there are 14 busking points along the Mill Road mile to check out, plus the Cambridge 105 stage outside Tesco. Don’t miss the uplifting sounds of the Bibleway Gospel Choir, 1980s classics from Alive and Kicking, toe-tapping fun from the Fruity Clave Samba Band, ska’d up versions of classic tunes with Jason and the Skagonauts, or the funk and reggae stylings of the HiFi Dropouts. As well as musical performances, you can see morris dancing, swing dancing and Irish dancing displays, amongst lots more. millroadwinterfair.org
Moseying down Mill Road, there’s more stalls to be found at Ditchburn Gardens and the Bath House, both of which will be teeming with crafty delights, or keep going to Romsey Parade to see Camcycle’s pop- up park. Be sure to visit Hope Street Yard as well, which will have its usual eclectic traders plus buskers and the Thirsty bus for picking up a pint of something tasty. PERFORMERS Music is a big part of the fair, and as ever, there will be all kinds of bands and performers to seek out. Back by popular demand, the Shake Your Tail Feather stage
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BOOK CLUB
CAMBRIDGE EDI T ION C hristmas Boo k Clu b WE ASKED A FEW FAMILIAR FACES FROM AROUND CAMBRIDGE WHICH BOOK THEY’D RECOMMEND AS AN INSIGHT INTO THEIR WORLD – AND TO NAME THE BOOK THEY’RE HOPING TO FIND UNDER THEIR TREE THIS YEAR. GET YOUR WISH LISTS READY...
ANNA TAYLOR OWNER, ANNA’S FLOWER FARM
“One to pore over during long nights in front of the fire, dreaming of spring and summer days”
The E Myth Enterprise by Michael E Gerber is a small business classic, perfect for all start-up businesses. It’s essential reading that enabled me to focus on what I am good at, employ help where best required, and install systems to grow. The premise is that no one person can run and work in a business on their own with success. The Land Gardeners: Cut Flowers by Bridget Elworthy and Henrietta Courtauld is the book I wish I’d written: an inspiring coffee table book with such depth! It’s packed with gorgeous images of growing, cutting and arranging flowers. One to pore over during long nights in front of the fire, dreaming of spring and summer days in the garden. I hope it appears under my tree!
IMAGES Edition contributer Anna recommends a look at The Land Gardeners: Cut Flowers for its inspiring images
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BOOK CLUB
“I’d recommend it to anyone aspiring to work in radio”
TRISTAN WELCH CHEF DIRECTOR, PARKER’S TAVERN I’m currently reading Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh – it’s a whole new way to think about customer service, company culture and employee happiness – and the expectations that modern customers have of all businesses, not just restaurants. I’m only part way through, but am finding it so interesting. Christmas is an extremely busy time for us at Parker’s Tavern, but I should have a short break, and when I’m on holiday, I read fiction – it’s a real guilty pleasure. I’m hoping someone buys me the next in the Orphan X series by Gregg Hurwitz. Evan Smoak’s one of the good guys, and I’ve been looking forward to reading it.
EMILY MARTIN
PRESENTER, THAT FRIDAY FEELING (7PM ON BBC RADIO CAMBRIDGESHIRE & BBC SOUNDS) Being new to radio, I was given David Lloyd’s How To Make Great Radio by my proud (and hopeful) dad last Christmas. If you’re interested in radio, specifically how and why some things work on the air, this book is like finding out how a magician does their tricks. I’d recommend it to anyone aspiring to work in radio, or anyone who listens to the radio and admires the craft. This year I’m asking Santa for Gotta Get Theroux This by Louis Theroux. I have watched all his documentaries: the way he tells stories is always heartbreakingly complex.
IMAGES Above, How to make great radio by David Lloyd; Below left, The Handmade Loaf by Dan Lepard
LUCA FIORIO OWNER, GRAIN CULTURE For me, the best starting-out book in terms of bread-making is The Handmade Loaf by Dan Lepard – it’s quite old now but still the most accessible, down-to- earth book to guide the amateur baker into the world of fermenting dough. Sure, there are loads of prettier books out there, such as the first Tartine by Chad Robertson, for example. There are also quite a few pro reads out there too, such as Bread by Jeffrey Hamelman. But Lepard’s is, in my opinion, the perfect starting point. Under my Christmas tree I’d like to find Vickery’s Folk Flora by Roy Vickery. My son always likes to point out that I just ‘stare and glare’ at things: I particularly enjoy doing this out on a walk. Sadly though, despite me living here for quite a while, I don’t feel like I know as much as I would like about the British flora. This book should fill some of the gaps! OWNER, JACK’S GELATO The Perfectionist: Life And Death In Haute Cuisine by Rudolph Chelminski is a cautionary tale that reveals a lot of what lies beneath the apparent glamour of reaching the highest of heights in the hospitality industry. A wonderful and fascinating read for anyone. I’d like to be given The Countryman’s Cookbook by Haydn S. Pearson: I already have way too many books, so additions need to be exceptional and this one comes recommended from a source I trust. I also love cookbooks from generations past. JACK VAN PRAAG
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