Happy 12th birthday to us! Inside this issue, you’ll find inspiration for April and beyond, from a round-up of incredible glamping and outdoorsy getaways to news on this year’s Sound + Vision, an upcoming theatre festival, ideas for Easter days out, the best new books and a bumper guide to the summer’s fantastic music festivals.
YOUR MONTHLY FIX OF
LOCAL LIFE
APRIL 2023
Festival tickets and a luxury staycation! WIN!
CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST CULTURE, FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT IN THE CITY
EASTER Fitzbillies’ hot cross bun recipe, egg hunts & more
STAYCATIONS Incredible rural retreats around East Anglia
FESTIVALS Your guide to the pick of the bunch this summer!
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WELCOME
We’re 12!
elcome to our April issue – a bit of a special one, since it marks our 12th birthday! So firstly, let me say a big thank you to all our readers and advertisers for allowing us to keep doing what we’re doing; we really wouldn’t be here without you. On the cover for the first time is one of Cambridge’s most beautiful new landmarks, Cambridge Central Mosque on Mill Road. Unveiled in 2019, this iconic building is not just amazing to look at, with its intricate, vaulted woodwork and a magnificent golden dome, it’s also a model of sustainability: described as ‘Europe’s first eco-friendly mosque’. If you haven’t already, I recommend taking the time to go and have a look. On the pages ahead, you’ll find inspiration for April and beyond, from a round-up of truly incredible glamping and outdoorsy getaways (page 61) to news on this year’s Sound + Vision festival (page 21). We also get the lowdown on I’m Here, Where Are You?, an arts extravaganza dedicated to giving disabled creatives the spotlight that’s heading our way this month. Hear from festival co-founder Linda Rocco on page 18. Elsewhere, there’s ideas for Easter days out (plus Fitzbillies’ recipe for perfect hot cross buns!), the best new books, theatre highlights and a bumper guide to the summer’s fantastic music festivals. Enjoy the issue and see you next month!
EDITORIAL Editor in chief Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright.uk.com Editorial director Roger Payne Deputy chief sub editor Matthew Winney Sub editor Ben Gawne Junior sub editor Lori Hodson ADVERTISING Sales director Sam Scott-Smith 01223 499457 samscott-smith@bright.uk.com Ad manager Maria Francis 01223 492240 mariafrancis@bright.uk.com CONTRIBUTORS Miriam Balanescu, Mark Box, Charlotte Griffiths, Sally Petitt, Charlotte Phillips, Anna Taylor, Angelina Villa-Clarke & Elisha Young DESIGN & PRODUCTION Senior designer Lucy Woolcomb Junior designer Hedzlynn Kamaruzzaman
Ad production Man-Wai Wong MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck
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.
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Contents
35
50 FOOD NEWS 53 CHEF INTERVIEW 55 RECIPE 57 ELISHA EATS 59 EASTER FUN 61 TRAVEL 68 HALF MARATHON 70 BEAUTY 73 EDUCATION 85 HOME EDITION 98 GARDENS
05 WISH LIST 09 ARTS & CULTURE 18 BACKSTAGE 21 ON THE SCENE 22 BOOK CLUB 25 WRITER’S DIARY 28 ON THE BOX 31 PHOTO VIDEO 24 32 HUMANS OF CAMBRIDGE 35 FESTIVAL GUIDE 45 GIVEAWAY
Illustration by Hedzlynn Kamaruzzaman, inspired by a
photo taken by David Valinsky
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LOCAL LIFE
WISH LIST April This month’s must-haves from local indies
1. Jacket, £145, Ark Handmade in India, this intricate embroidered jacket comes in a range of colours and has an effortless boxy fit: perfect for jazzing up the simplest of outfits! 2. Mini egg box, £22, Hill St Local chocolatier Hill St’s Easter goodies include handcrafted chocolate woodland animals, plus these colourful delights, filled with ganache, caramel and hazelnut. 3. Katharina Klug limited edition bowl, £125, Kettle’s Yard An bowl by local ceramic artist Katharina Klug, inspired by the work of Lucie Rie. 4. Falmouth throw by Bronte, £79, Angela Reed This luxurious lambswool throw in a classic check pattern is a bestseller for homewares shop Angela Reed. 5. Orange glass candlestick holder, £15, The Manor Gift Shop A gorgeous glass candlestick that will add a touch of class to your spring table – there’s a range of colours available, so you can mix and match. 6. Velvet cushion fuchsia, £42.50, Angela Reed Lilac homewares are having a big moment: get in on the trend with this vibrant velvet cushion! 7. PCBLUME shirt prism pink, £38, Iris & Violet A classic button-up shirt in a perfect pastel pink, this denim top has a raw hemline and boxy fit, giving a relaxed but stylish feel.
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Culture Club
HIGH NOTES night at the opera ART EXHIBITIONS, GREAT GIGS, LITERARY LECTURES AND A FIESTA OF FESTIVALS
WITH A FLOURISH Three nights of magic come to the Arts Theatre courtesy of English Touring Opera. Read more on page 9
© JANE HOBSON
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CULTURE CLUB The must-see events around Cambridge this month Arts & Culture
THEATRE SPOTLIGHTS Unmissable April shows OF MICE & MEN 19-22 APRIL, CAMBRIDGE ARTS THEATRE
19 - 22 April
Following two displaced migrant workers in search of a better life and ending in heart- breaking tragedy, John Steinbeck’s portrait of a rotting American dream set in the great depression era has lost none of its power today. Re-live the enduring tale of friendship this month at the Arts Theatre in a brand-new production from Iqbal Khan, director of the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony. ENGLISH TOURING OPERA 13-15 APRIL, CAMBRIDGE ARTS THEATRE Enjoy a trio of performances by the world- leading English Touring Opera, bringing love, war, comedy and tragedy to the city between 13-15 April. Night one will be Handel’s celebrated Giulio Cesare , with an offering of Rossini’s last Italian opera Il viaggio a Reims the following day, and finishing with Lucrezia Borgia , Gaetano Donizetti’s pathos-laden tale of a complex woman in danger.
13 - 15 April
ROMEO & JULIET 1 APRIL, ADC THEATRE
In fair Cambridge, where we lay our scene, a young man and woman chase an idealistic future while a violent world implodes around them. In this fresh reimagining of one of the greatest love stories ever told, expect joy, humour and tears as Shakespeare’s work resonates in a new and entirely modern way. FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS: THE MUSICAL 25-29 APRIL, CAMBRIDGE ARTS THEATRE Based on the true story of the eponymous Cornish singing sensations – and their 2019 movie – this heart-warming show follows the group’s journey from Port Isaac to the Pyramid Stage. With shanties galore and laughs aplenty, you’ll fall for this feel-good story – hook, line and sinker.
25 - 29 April
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CULTURE CLUB
Full of the joys of spring Sally Petitt, head of horticulture at Cambridge University Botanic Garden, tells us about the delights this time of year brings Spring is a magical time to visit the Botanic Garden – not just visually, but it wakes up all of the senses. Emerging foliage is young and fresh, flower buds are preparing to burst, the air is full of scents and there’s a sense of anticipation as everything gets ready to bloom. In late March and early April, the cherry blossoms look stunning – the Yoshino cherry on the main lawn is a real must see, and there are several
other species of cherry blossom around the garden to look out for. We also have a succession of bright and blousy magnolia flowers, which look particularly striking against a blue sky. The long, grassy area on the fairway at the eastern end of the garden is peppered with naturalised bulbs in spring, making it a lovely place to sit with a picnic blanket. Meanwhile, the rock garden around the lake yields gems such as the pasque flower (pulsatilla vulgaris), the county flower of Cambridgeshire. A rare treat, as it tends to occur on limestone grasslands, the
flowering of this species often coincides with Easter, hence its common name. The Mountains House is another highlight, showcasing exquisite flowers native to alpine environments, such as fritillaria, saxifraga and tulip species. I also strongly recommend visitors look out for our jade vine – its flower spikes are an extraordinary colour, with some reaching up to 5ft in length! This climbing member of the pea family hails from the Philippines, with flowers believed to be pollinated by bats. Sadly, this amazing plant is under threat in the wild, so we pride ourselves on having a wonderful specimen here. It flowers
over many weeks in April and is always very popular with visitors. There’s plenty coming up over the next few weeks, including the Enchanted Egg Trail over the Easter holidays and the International Garden Photographer of the Year exhibition. Looking ahead to June, our Festival of Plants is a great family day out, offering stalls, advice, demos and craft activities. In July, our Sounds Green concerts will return, bringing live music to the garden every Wednesday, while Apple Day is back in October. Keep an eye on our social media channels for all of the latest news and updates.
BLOOMING BRILLIANT The revered Philippine jade vine (right) is the shining star of springtime at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, alongside grassy areas great for relaxing with the kids while being surrounded by nature
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CULTURE CLUB
LAST CHANCE! THE CAMBRIDGE FESTIVAL
It’s the last chance to catch events for The Cambridge Festival – a multi-disciplinary, multi-venue celebration of world-leading research coming out of our city’s famous university. Spanning films, talks, tours, family activities and more, the event is organised by the uni’s public engagement team and comprises over 300 – mostly free – events in total. On 1 April, join in with Uncomfortable Cambridge: a fun and thought-provoking walking tour encouraging a closer look at topics sometimes brushed under the carpet, including the legacies of empire in our city. Also on the 1st, you can head along to the Centre for Mathematical Sciences for a day of scientific discovery, learning how Cambridge brains are instrumental in tackling problems from climate change to modelling the spread of pandemics. Also promising to be fascinating is the ‘Psychopaths and the Impetus to Power’ talk by Clive R Boddy at Anglia Ruskin. He’ll draw on his and others’ research to explain how leaders with psychopathic tendencies reach the top of their fields via ruthless self-promotion, and what happens when they get there. You can also catch a discussion of what the future holds for the Fens, a Botanic Garden poetry trail running until 2 April, a workshop on writing period drama on 2 April, and a chance to explore the short life and mysterious death of Jeremiah Horrocks – who came to Cambridge in his teens
to study astronomy and ended up changing the way we see the universe. Check out the full programme and book online at festival.cam.ac.uk
Wacky and wonderful events this April, from bingo with The King to a family rave Take a punt
RETRO COMPUTER FESTIVAL: JAPAN
BURNIN’ LOVE BINGO Elvis Lesley, aka comedian Tracey Collins, will be leading a crooning, swooning and absolutely hilarious bingo session in the Town and Gown Theatre at 7.30pm, 8 April. Expect prizes, pelvis gyrating and pumping tunes while you play – enjoy a performance from the King of Rock ’n’ Roll as you’ve never seen him before!
BIG FISH LITTLE FISH ‘Family fun for the post-rave generation of parents’ is promised at Cambridge Junction’s kid-friendly clubbing on 23 April. Barrington and DJ Trax will be on the decks playing old-school rave classics and drum and bass, while kids and parents hit the dance floor. Enjoy snow machines, glitter cannons and club lighting (no strobes).
The Centre for Computing History – our city’s amazing computing archive – will host a festival dedicated to Japanese computers, consoles and handhelds on 1-2 April. Showcasing machines by the likes of Bandai and Sega, the museum has also invited enthusiasts to show off their collections and share stories.
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CULTURE CLUB
ANGLIAN POTTERS 40TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION Founded in 1983 to represent the best in East Anglian ceramics, Anglian Potters is now a thriving association of more than 500 active members. Bringing together talented creators from across the region, the group regularly hosts showcases, offering a chance to explore a diverse range of handmade pieces: a perfect opportunity to purchase a unique gift for a loved one. This month, the group celebrates its 40th anniversary with an exhibition at The Undercroft Gallery, Norwich. Open daily from 8-23 April, the event will show a range of eye-catching ceramics, full of charm and character, and ideal for adding flair to your living space. Select members of Anglian Potters will also show their wares this month at the Babylon Gallery in Ely for a special exhibition exploring how colour, surface pattern and decoration can be used by contemporary studio ceramicists. Find out more about all upcoming events at anglianpotters.org.uk
STAPLEFORD GRANARY Three Painters, One Sculptor
Arts hub Stapleford Granary is hosting an exhibition curated by Alan Kluckow until 16 April, giving a chance to see almost 50 amazing works from four different artists. Enjoy sculptures by Ian Turnock, as well as landscapes from Susan Laughton and pieces from Tom Benjamin, who paints with oils that allow him to catch changing light; capturing moments of sun on water, dappled shade and dusk. Also displaying is Philip Maltman, who describes his approach as capturing ‘the aftermath of human intervention in nature’. Depicting wild and vivid flowers
with graffiti-like handwriting overlaid, his work suggests urban and natural worlds co-existing. “At first glance, the work of these four artists couldn’t be more different from one another, but there are common themes of light, landscape and nature,” comments Kate Romano, CEO and artistic director. “Alan has grouped the paintings and sculptures in small ensembles, subtly making connections between colours, textures and materials. They flow through the space like themed variations, quietly offering an invitation to see the world in a different way.”
Fly back in time for a roar-some prehistoric adventure at the Grand Arcade shopping centre, which will transform into ‘Jurassic Arcade’ this Easter half-term. Featuring a herd of full-size animatronic dinosaurs, this fun-packed educational event runs 1-16 April. It’s a chance to get up close and personal with magnificent beasts, take part in a giant dinosaur egg hunt and more. Dino fans can pick up a free Jurassic Trail map to guide them through 250 million years of natural history, encountering supersized species including T-rex, stegosaurus and velociraptor. There’ll be a feast of fascinating facts accompanying each exhibit, plus a competition to draw your own ‘Cam-saurus’ – with the winner’s design turned into a personalised soft toy! grandarcade.co.uk CALLING ALL INTREPID ADVENTURERS!
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CULTURE CLUB
FULLY BOOKED!
As Cambridge Literary Festival returns for its 20th year, we review what’s in store
Bringing star writers, leading thinkers, journalists and other luminaries to our city since 2003, Cambridge Literary Festival is back this April marking two decades of celebrating the written word. As always, the line-up is bursting with big names, from heavyweight authors to household names from the worlds of politics, food, music, television and art. Among the 50 events, must-sees include Pattie Boyd’s talk on 21 April, in which the model, muse and photographer shares insights into her book My Life In Pictures . A visual treasure trove of photographs, letters and diaries from her storied life, this coffee table tome gives a gorgeous snapshot of 60s counter-culture. Also not to be missed is a conversation on the cost of living crisis between cookery writer and TV personality Jack Monroe, and Kit de Waal, author of My Name is Leon . Bringing their own extraordinary stories to the fore, they will share lessons learned and discuss their new books. On the fiction front, Maggie O’Farrell introduces her latest novel The Marriage Portrait , Curtis Sittenfeld discusses the critically acclaimed American Wife and Rodham , and Bonnie Garmus looks at her breakout literary hit Lessons in Chemistry over lunch at the University Arms. Another standout feature of this year’s event is the Room of One’s Own lecture, delivered by Ali Smith. The first of a new series, this partnership between the festival and Newnham College will bring an annual opportunity for the foremost women writers to share their work. Also debuting is the Cambridge Series, designed to ‘lead the conversation for the intellectually curious’. It brings together revered physicist Professor Athene Donald, who makes a case for diversity in modern research; Professor Chris Clarke, with an exhilarating reappraisal of 1848 as a dramatic year in European history; as well as British Academy Book Prize winner Sujit Sivasundaram. He reimagines the British Empire from the perspective of indigenous peoples in the Indian and Pacific oceans, seeing afresh the divisions shaping our environments and cultural identity. Festival director Cathy Moore comments: “For the last 20 years, I’ve been inspired and captivated by books, transformed by well-crafted argument and railroaded into the digital world. I’ve seen the festival grow into an inspiring alchemy where everyone from Nobel laureates to TV personalities mingle with academics and our intellectually curious audiences. We have evolved with our audiences and are particularly excited to launch three new elements this year: the Room of One’s Own lecture, the Cambridge Series and our State of the Nation lecture. ” For listings and tickets, visit the Cambridge Literary Festival website. cambridgeliteraryfestival.com
Cambridge Literary Festival is back this April, marking two decades
ESTEEMED THINKERS Events include sessions with Tim Marshall (left), Jack Monroe (centre), Linton Kwesi Johnson (right) and Pattie Boyd (top)
14 APRIL 2023 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
CULTURE CLUB
MYTHIC QUEST Laura Shepperson, author of The Heroines, comes to Waterstones on 12 April
CAMBRIDGE COMEDY AT
JUNCTION
7 APRIL COMEDY
CONNOISSEURS Jesterlarf Comedy Club invites comedians to revisit their favourite Edinburgh shows from years gone by. Expect song and cabaret from Frank Sanazi and Elvis Corpseley, quick-fire gags from Mike Gunn, as well as surrealism and silliness from the Edinburgh Fringe Comic Originality award-winning Dan Lees. Ninia Benjamin comperes. 14 APRIL THE NOISE NEXT DOOR Get ready for some improv anarchy with acclaimed comedy troupe The Noise Next Door. Taking their cues from audience suggestions, this quick-thinking quartet devise scenes in the blink of an eye, weaving in witty one- liners, spontaneous songs and ludicrous characters – every show offers a unique experience!
BOOKWORMS Events at Waterstones
A busy schedule of talks is lined up for Cambridge Waterstones over the coming weeks, beginning with bestselling novelist Penny Hancock, who stops by on 5 April to discuss her latest book The Choice . Next up are Jennifer Saint and Laura Shepperson on 12 April, who look at the art of retelling ancient myths, having penned hits like Ariadne and The Heroines . Catch Small Joys author Elvin James Mensah on 3 May, and writer of The Windmill Murders Mandy Morton on 4 May. Details and booking can be found on the Waterstones website.
ANCIENT TALES Jennifer Saint’s latest book based on Greek mythology, Atalanta, is set to be released in early April
15 APRIL KEVIN JAMES THORNTON
A social media star with more than two million followers, Kevin James Thornton’s endearing musical comedy spans growing up gay in a fundamentalist church, 90s nostalgia and cringe-inducing coming-of-age stories. Expect a liberal use of autotune.
TOP PICK THE CAMBRIDGE DAY FESTIVAL
Taking over Cambridge Junction’s spaces, indoor and out, Jacfest’s Cambridge Day Festival is a one-day event running from 2-10pm on 1 April. Spanning house, garage and disco, headliners include Brandon Block, Pied Piper and Ratpack, while outside will be a food court with pizza, vegan treats and more. Plus, don’t miss the chance to party on the disco bus!
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CULTURE CLUB
HOPE IS DAFFODIL BRIGHT
With a cast of real and fictional characters, a new novel shines light on the local women leading the home front in World War II When Zoë Jasko’s grandmother passed away, she inherited a box labelled with the words ‘Soldiers’ letters from the second world war – some historically interesting’. The box and its contents gathered dust at the back of a wardrobe for decades, until Zoë’s mother began reminiscing about her wartime childhood, prompted by coverage of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. The box was pulled out for inspection, revealing a treasure trove of characters, memories and missives that would go on to inspire Zoë’s new book, Hope is Daffodil Bright . An historical novel set in Grantchester, the book blends a fictional narrative with a biography of the real-life Lady Alice Bragg – one of the most intriguing characters to emerge from the box of letters. “She came to Cambridge as an undergraduate and had 13 offers of marriage before she left!” laughs Zoë. “Her tutors told her she wasn’t going to amount to anything; it was the roaring 20s and she had pretty much gone to Cambridge to find a husband.” She did – a Nobel Prize-winning husband, at that – but she went on to achieve much more, becoming the leader of the Women’s Voluntary Service and serving as mayor of Cambridge in the 40s. “I was just so intrigued by her, by the women of that generation, how they hit the ground running and really delivered,” comments Zoë. In the book, Alice’s story entwines with a fictional plot inspired by the life and experiences of Zoë’s grandmother, a vicar’s wife who ran Grantchester’s canteen for soldiers, and her contemporaries. Through letters and other accounts, Zoë discovered how important the care received in Grantchester had been to the hundreds of soldiers that stayed there, discovering “again and again, the soldiers write after they left that it was the best place in their army career and all the years of being at war,” says Zoë. “Being looked after by the women of Grantchester made them happy when life was really difficult. It made all the difference to them and that comes through loud and clear.” The book gives voice to these women who kept the home fires burning, exploring their hopes, heartaches and memories of war as the years passed. “The service these women gave to our country, in my view, should not be forgotten,” urges Zoë. Pick up your copy from bookstores including Waterstones, or visit the website below to learn more. zoejasko.com
LOCAL STORY Zoë was inspired by photos of her grandmother and the WVS canteen in Grantchester, now known as the Reading Room (above)
A fabulous day out for over 100 years, the South Suffolk Show offers a traditional celebration of rural life with stalls, displays and a variety of attractions. Taking place on 14 May at Ampton Racecourse near Bury St Edmunds, there will be plenty to do and see throughout the 95-acre showground, from stalls to fairground rides, falconry displays and terrier racing. Catch the amazing Bolddog freestyle motocross display team performing death-defying stunts, as seen in the semi- finals of Series 8 of Britain’s Got Talent . Head along and see for yourselves what Simon Cowell called ‘one of the most incredible things we’ve ever had on this show’ as they soar and somersault through the air. See wood carvers in action, farriers in the forge, gun dogs working and the Ferretworld Roadshow, which will be looking for volunteers to race against its ferrets! Plus, the art and craft marquee will be packed with unique creations, the food hall full of tempting treats and the all-new Eat Street lined with speciality artisan food vendors to treat your taste buds, together with cooking demonstrations from local chefs. southsuffolkshow.co.uk SOUTH SUFFOLK SHOW
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CULTURE CLUB
Make Way BACKSTAGE A returning theatrical festival shifts the spotlight to disabled creatives and actors – Miriam Balanescu meets the organisers
D espite national survey statistics revealing nearly 20% of the UK’s population have a long-term disability, we rarely see the physical and mental challenges that many of us face authentically reflected in the arts. Theatre remains a somewhat closed-off industry – and the reason behind this is simple, says I’m Here, Where Are You? co-founder Linda Rocco. “Everyone has creativity in their bones, but not everyone gets the same access to unleash it – especially if you’re deaf and disabled,” Linda explains. “Disabled artists have been historically excluded from theatre due to the industry’s very nature, which facilitates working conditions unsuitable for those with disabilities: long working hours, strenuous audition processes and inaccessible facilities.” Together with her collaborator, producer Liz Counsell, art curator Linda concocted a theatre and arts festival that levels against these exclusions. Held at Cambridge Junction, the programme gives centre stage to disabled creatives, including the autistic siblings behind Brotherly, Otherly, Disorderly. A love letter to sibling care and neurodivergent solidarity, this show offers celebratory theatrical toolkit for navigating a neurotypical world. “The need to see deaf and disabled artists onstage, particularly following the Covid-19 crisis, where so many experienced and producers to work in accessible and sustainable ways, forging models of best practice for the industry to widen access both onstage and off.” This year’s I’m Here, Where Are You? is Linda and Liz’s second festival, after the first in 2019. The pair crossed paths when they joined a programme at the Junction to support independent producers. “We applied for Vision Mixers separately, but our ideas were so intrinsically linked that the team at Cambridge Junction brought us together,” Linda recalls. serious illness and isolation, is urgent,” insists Linda. “We also aim to establish optimal conditions for disabled artists
25 - 30 April
OPEN ACCESS The festival showcases work including Brotherly, Otherly, Disorderly, shown above and below
“The Junction has been a fantastic partner that has supported us since the very beginning and continues to do so for our 2023 festival edition,” she continues. “It means a lot to us to have the support of such a great venue, and staff that really understand and get on board with what we stand for with our programme. “Originally, the festival was meant to happen every two years – first in 2019 and then 2021 – but Covid-19 got in the way.” The duo’s festival aims to
work, local creativity and theatre-going,” she expresses. Theatre, Linda argues, offers the perfect medium for exploring disability, queerness and identity politics. “Live performance allows the crafting of a safe space where difficult conversations and complex themes can be platformed,” she says. “Disabled people often have an intersectional relationship with marginalisation and feeling othered, so to explore this onstage feels natural and exciting. It also means the work is relatable to so many people who previously haven’t felt represented.” More spaces like this are needed, with fringe theatre truly paving the way for the wider industry to open up. Hopefully it’s only a matter of time, Linda says: “Our stories are as relevant and important as everyone else’s – and need to be heard.”
Our stories are as relevant and important as everyone’s
‘create a space for deaf and disabled communities to come together and experience disability celebrated and cherished creatively’. Its hiatus has given
the team time to gear up to a dazzling extravaganza of events spanning five days and going beyond the Junction, engaging the wider public to contribute their own stories. “The festival this year is the most ambitious iteration so far,” Linda says. “We want to bring accessible and entertaining work from the UK’s best deaf and disabled artists outside of London, as an entry point for a wider demographic of non-theatre- goers to inspire interest in disabled-led
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CULTURE CLUB
ON THE SCENE
THE FUTURE Vision for Ahead of Sound + Vision’s return, Miriam Balanescu catches up with LA-based folk-adjacent artist Shannon Lay
I have a straw in that river,” she says. “I tap that tributary of the vast river of musical knowledge that runs through all of us.” But traditional folk has a ‘timelessness’ that she wouldn’t want to make a claim to. “It feels like a big responsibility to take on that label.” Folksy instrumentation does run through Shannon’s work, stemming from her roots as a guitarist. “‘Singer-songwriter’ carries a strange connotation, even though it’s literally what you do – most musicians are to an extent singer-songwriters,” she claims. “When I first started playing solo, I avoided acoustic guitar altogether because there are so many assumptions. When someone gets onstage with an acoustic guitar, you judge before they play a note. So I played electric for a long time, and felt like I had to maintain this edge.” Now, she has surrendered: “When we embrace the parts of ourselves that make us cringe, it ends up being our most powerful point of inspiration.” Shannon is one of the more established artists to feature at Sound + Vision, which is putting emphasis on making a home for up-and-coming acts, joining forces with the Junction’s talent nights The Fiver and New Routes. Co-founder Ruth Cousens hopes the combination of music and comedy will help audiences find something new, letting them hop between events. “Last year, people were using their wristbands to see things they wouldn’t have otherwise,” Ruth says. On her first tour in years, Shannon is looking forward to a more relaxed approach: “At this point, I’m obsessed with finding the right environments to play in,” she insists. “When you put music in a setting that creates an experience rather than just me fighting a room of people, it’s much nicer.”
21 April
WELL-TRAVELLED Shannon Lay is touring the US and Europe. See her at The Six Six at this year’s Sound + Vision
L ast year, Sound + Vision – a line-up of music and comedy. Occupying the city’s best venues, the festival aims to create a buzz around Cambridge’s creative scene over one long weekend, showcasing the region’s up-and-coming artists plus some out-of-town talent. This year will see the Junction, The Blue Moon, The Portland Arms, Thirsty, The Six Six and the NCI throw open their doors to laugh-makers and musicians alike. Los Angeles’ own Shannon Lay is one of the festival’s hottest acts, due to perform at The Six Six on 21 April. The former Feels guitarist dived headfirst into a full-time career as a musician in 2017. “It was a very full moment, like the ‘zero’ card in tarot,” Shannon says. “It shows someone just carelessly jaunting towards a cliff. It was a real moment of: leap and the net will appear.” Following a nomadic early twenties festival which found its footing in Norwich – landed in Cambridge, bringing with it a jaw-dropping spent touring, she signed with Sub Pop in 2018 to embark on a solo career. Her albums August and Geist were launched in 2019 and 2021, both to critical acclaim. Now, she’s enjoying taking things easy, picking up ceramics as a hobby: “It’s such
a full-body craft. I didn’t realise how much strength it took.” A sense of introversion is intrinsic to Shannon’s soul-searching songs – pushed deeper by the pandemic. “I turned 30 in 2020, so I crossed this threshold, and it was very serendipitous for me because I was able to go inward in a way that I had never done before,” she explains. “I was able to just fall apart – look at all the pieces, decide what I wanted to keep and what wasn’t mine any more. “My last record was a solitary journey,” Shannon continues. “I wanted to express what I was going through in such an isolated time, because I could feel other people experiencing something similar. The most amazing things come from stillness. It’s such a simple act, but also allows all this growth to occur.” With various influences, including science fiction – Dune inspired her single Rare to Wake – Shannon’s music is hard to put a finger on. Though many define it as ‘folk’, she’s hesitant about this label. “I feel
I was able to go inward in a way I had never done before
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CULTURE CLUB
CAMBRIDGE EDITION Book Club Supernatural noir, mysterious historical fantasy and incredible encounters with the great outdoors – these are our top April reads
WORDS BY CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS
Bad Cree BY JESSICA JOHNS
Set in Canada, this unsettling debut novel follows Mackenzie, a young Cree woman that’s begun to have disturbing visions at night. She’ll be holding a crow’s severed head in her hands or finding herself underwater, struggling to breathe – yet when she blinks awake, the bird disappears and she’s back on dry land, wrestling with the horror of her nightmares. She contacts family for reassurance, but the dreams keep coming; her mind is taking her back in time, forcing her to return to the scene of a family lakeside holiday, before the unexpected death of elder sister Sabrina. And no matter how hard she tries to
outrun the past, she cannot escape her own head. Plagued by increasingly disturbing visions and haunted by crows around the city of Vancouver, Mackenzie decides to return home to Alberta, where her family welcome her with open arms. Ever so slowly, she starts to uncover the truth about her sister’s death and the significance of that holiday. Steeped in Cree tradition, the complicated dynamics found in strong families and the perennial challenges of coming-of-age, this novel smoulders its way towards a gripping, supernatural and unforgettable conclusion.
FAMILY AFFAIR Bad Cree is a tension-filled debut filled with rich characters, dark mysticism and generational trauma
22 APRIL 2023 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
THE GRIEF NURSE BY ANGIE SPOTO
This haunting historical-fantasy mystery is set in an alternate reality where the pangs and pains of undesirable emotions can be removed – but only for those well-off enough to afford the services of a Grief Nurse. These skilled individuals are ‘kept’, safe but isolated, at the heart of wealthy families such as the Asters. When the Asters’ eldest son passes away, their Nurse, Lynx, is on hand to soothe away the sorrow and anguish felt by the immediate family. As guests arrive for the wake at the secluded island of Mount Sorcha, the Asters’ family seat, it’s not long before more deaths occur, and it starts to look as though someone – or something – is out to wreak havoc in this privileged family unit. The clever concept at the heart of the novel – that grief can be physically removed from an individual – is deftly explored, with frequent meditations on the nature of suffering and loss, and whether it is better to fully experience one’s emotions or have them whisked away. Angie Spoto writes beautifully, with tiny vignettes depicting connections between characters that linger in the mind long after the book’s dramatic conclusion, and astonishing descriptions of the otherworldly state that Lynx and her fellow Grief Nurses enter when removing emotion from their ‘owners’. An unexpected and affecting book, with a deeply thoughtful core premise.
Undesirable emotions can be removed – but only for those well-off enough to afford a Grief Nurse
THE GREAT OUTDOORS This collection of inspiring travel tales is a perfect read for the adventurer in your life
WILDER JOURNEYS
COMPILED BY LAURIE KING & MIRIAM LANCEWOOD If you’re planning adventures in 2023, this book should be at your bedside. Put together by Laurie King and Miriam Lancewood, it’s a unique compendium of travel tales with one thing in common: all the stories document extraordinary encounters with the natural world, sharing wisdom gleaned from wild adventures. Follow a family of sea eagles in Scotland with filmmaker and Strictly winner Hamza Yassin, spend a day hunting and gathering in New Zealand’s wilderness with Miriam Lancewood, or experience the slopes of Everest with Sophie Sung-Bin Hilaire. All these adventures and more are contained within this fabulous book, ideal for dipping in and out – or submerging yourself for a longer reading session. Featuring extracts from longer stories, standalone short tales, poems and illustrations, this is a gorgeous book and a must-buy for anyone who loves the great outdoors – or a perfect gift for someone in need of spending more time with nature.
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CULTURE CLUB
Dip into the creative life of Wenyan Lu, writing tutor at Hills Road, as her first novel The Funeral Cryer is released A Cambridge WRITER’S DIARY
When I was little, I wanted to become a writer, but I never tried very hard because I didn’t know what I should write about. Then I moved to the UK with my husband and had more time, because I stopped working when I first came. I had time to think. It took quite a few years to realise what I wanted to write. Now I have a better idea about it, but I’m still exploring! I used to think that the topic of The Funeral Cryer was too much to write about and didn’t really want to touch something so deep down, because that kind of sorrow is – I think in everybody’s mind – a taboo. I had the idea and thought I could write about it, but couldn’t handle it. Who will understand this? It’s a different culture. Then I had a Mexican student who was telling me about the Day of the Dead. In China, we have a similar thing called Sweeping the Tomb, or Clear and Bright, because it’s in spring. It’s more about remembering your ancestors. My Mexican students also told me that they actually have funeral cryers as well. I did quite a lot of research about funeral cryers, because I knew they existed, but I’m from Shanghai – a very big city. I wasn’t quite sure about it. In some remote places in China, there are still quite a lot. I understand my own culture more when I’m not in that country any more. I go back to China once a year for summer. I’m more Chinese when I’m in the UK. I
I spoke to a friend of mine who’s from the region where the book is set. I asked her to describe her village. She left her home over ten years ago, and said a lot of people are still quite poor. It’s called a Western Mud, because it’s on the Western Mud River. I said, what’s in your village, is it beautiful? She said there’s nothing there. Because I am a part-time teacher, I teach during the day and my time every day is kind of different. When I can’t write, I am always writing in my mind. Whatever I’m doing, I’m thinking about it; even if I’m cooking, I just think about the novel. So whenever I have time, I can write a lot. I can’t wait to be able to sit and write. I know some people are too busy to write and they’ve got full-time jobs, but if you really want to you can make it happen. When I was writing this novel, I felt very lucky, I knew what to do. Before I start writing, I don’t make a plan, but I know where it’s going. I have pictures, like a film, in my head – so I just describe the scenes. I won’t let my unpublished novel, The Martyr’s Hymn , go. Before that I had another two, but this and The Funeral Cryer are the only ones written in the first person; I think this is my style. It’s easier for me to tell the story in the first person. I sent The Martyr’s Hymn to a well-known agent, too. He said he really liked it, but thought the market was very niche. Actually, ever since then, the market has been different and more diverse, but we need to get this one done first!
hardly ever express my opinions, possibly down to my upbringing and education. I want myself to be heard, but can’t just go around telling people this is my opinion. I want to use a story to convey it. Because there is not much truth in real life, I want to discover truth in fiction. I want to tell people’s stories from my view, how I perceive stories and human beings. IN MOURNING Wenyan Lu’s novel tells the story of a woman living in a remote Chinese village, who cries at funerals for a living
That kind of sorrow is – I think in everybody’s mind – a taboo
The Funeral Cryer is published on 4 May
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
C ambridge BID is excited to at the Downing Place United Reformed Church in Cambridge, and will offer job seekers the opportunity to meet with local employers, learn about new career opportunities and network with professionals in their field. The Job Fair will feature local employers from a variety of industries, offering opportunities for job seekers with different skill sets and experience levels. Attendees will be able to converse with potential employers, ask questions and submit their résumés for consideration. cambridgebid.co.uk announce its upcoming Job Fair on 20 June. The event will be held JOB FAIR
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK APRIL 2023 27
SCREEN TIME
SKATER BOY ROLLING WITH IT Ryd Cook is one of Cambridge’s up-and-coming filmmakers. Miriam Balanescu meets the man behind the camera A s a small city and filmic hub – boasting one of the longest- running film festivals in the country and oft depicted on- passion lies in performance and always has done,” he states. “As a skateboarder, there’s an element of performance. There are a lot of reasons I love skateboarding, but one of them is that it’s a chance to perform.” He adds: “More skateparks would be a really good thing for film, as strange as that might sound – but I think it’s true.” As well as these three loves, Ryd
France, Japan – it’s a cinematic world tour! These are our April picks
screen – Cambridge has fostered a close- knit community of aspiring filmmakers. Ryd Cook is one of them, having grown up in Bar Hill on the outskirts and realising early on that he loves being both in front of – and behind – the camera. Now, he is preparing to release his first feature film. “As a kid, I’d play with my dad’s video camera,” Ryd recalls.
started his film career as a projectionist. “It’s given me perspective on distribution and exhibition of films, which is a really key part of films
being seen, as well as understanding how they work – the frames, the sound and how to get them seen and heard properly in a
“I loved filming things and being on camera as well. Watching myself back afterwards, it was kind of a magical time-travel thing.”
I’m pivoting towards
THE NIGHT OF THE 12TH
performing
Stacking up an impressive ten César nominations with six wins, Dominik Moll’s latest is a sinewy crime drama with more than one twist. Where to Watch: UK cinemas When: 31 March
cinema,” explains Ryd.
Ryd has developed an unusual niche – he is a self-proclaimed ‘acting skateboarder’, having performed on- screen as a skateboarder in films such as Netflix’s Legacy of Lies . The unusual pursuit stemmed from another childhood memory. “In my teens, my brother was able to borrow a camera from Long Road Sixth Form College and we would use it to film each other skateboarding,” he says. For Ryd, filmmaking, acting and skateboarding are all in the same vein. “My
Cambridge has been key for this up- and-coming filmmaker, whose shorts so far have been screened around the world, picking up a host of awards. He currently runs the course ‘Shooting and Editing Your Research Video’ at the University of Cambridge, and has long been involved with the Cambridge Film Festival, even putting together his own programme of fellow local filmmakers. “The Arts Picturehouse in particular is an excellent hub for filmmakers,” Ryd says. “The city is small – which I think is a good thing. Most filmmakers in Cambridge know one another or will cross paths. That’s lovely, because every filmmaker can get in touch, support one another and go to each other’s screenings. You can quite easily make screenings happen. “You’ve got lots of wonderful places in Cambridge just to put on your own film screenings, which is incredible.” Up next, Ryd’s feature film Hard Edges , made with friend and writer-director Carl Peck, is in the rough cut stage, almost ready to be unleashed into the world. There may also be changes on the horizon for Ryd: “I’m pivoting. I’ll always be a filmmaker – I still am a filmmaker. But I’m pivoting my career towards performance.”
ONE FINE MORNING
Mia Hansen-Løve returns with a delicate meditation on romantic entanglements, emotional hardship and parenthood, starring Léa Seydoux. Where to Watch: UK cinemas When: 14 April
TRY THIS TRICK AND SPIN IT Ryd got his start creating skate films, and is now preparing to release his first feature, Hard Edges
28 APRIL 2023 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
SCREEN TIME
One teen strives to save Japan from malevolent supernatural forces in this high-octane odyssey. Where to Watch: UK cinemas When: 14 April SUZUME
An adaptation of Judy Blume’s bestseller – written 50 years ago – perfectly capturing ARE YOU THERE, GOD? IT’S ME, MARGARET
LOVE ACCORDING TO DALVA A harrowing yet tender look at adolescent life after rupture – with an outstanding performance from rising star Zelda Samson. Where to Watch: UK cinemas | When: 28 April
the growing pains of girlhood. Where to Watch: UK cinemas When: 28 April
Discover animated marvels and unforgettable sci-fi at the Arts Picturehouse this month Picturehouse Picks
YOUR NAME & WEATHERING WITH YOU: DOUBLE BILL Get your double dose of Makoto Shinkai ahead of Suzume . 2016’s Your Name is a body swap film unlike any other, while Weathering With You sees a supernatural explanation for rainy days. 8 April
WATERSPRITE POP-UP PRESENTS AN INTRO TO... PROTEST: QUEEN & SLIM A first date goes off course when ‘Queen’ (Jodie Turner-Smith) and ‘Slim’ (Daniel Kaluuya) are pulled over on their way home. A gut-twistingly tense film, tussling with issues of race, police trust and empathy. 24 April
WEIRD WORLD OF SCI-FI On 10 April, Martika Ramirez Escobar rhapsodises on the heyday of action cinema with Leonor Will Never Die , about a woman who becomes trapped within her own unfinished script. The Heroic Trio follows on 17 April, topped off with Junk Head on 24 April. For more sci-fi, check out the Alien and Aliens double bill on 26 April.
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PHOTO VIDEO 24
3 - 4 June
An extravaganza of photography comes to the city for 2023 – don’t miss out! C alling all photo enthusiasts, videographers and content creators! Photo Video 24 – a huge festival of imaging – is hitting Cambridge this summer for 24 hours of with you on the streets. Also at the hotel, you can join portrait classes and workshops to help you get to grips with video, plus take advantage of feedback sessions The imaging event of the year!
with the knowledgeable Photography News team. There will be contests for the best pictures and videos taken during the event too, plus an hourly photo challenge and a very special treasure hunt with prizes donated by MPB. If you’re keen to get involved, registration opens in April – keep an eye on photographynews.co.uk for confirmation. All walks and events will be bookable at the point of registration. Some events will be paid for, but many are free, so you don’t have to reach into your pocket if you don’t want to. And, of course, you don’t even have to book any events, you can simply head along, get involved and enjoy getting creative for 24 hours! Everyone who joins in will get a Photo Video 24 passport with tips, guides and challenges (including prizes!), and if you survive the full 24 hours, you’ll get a memento to remember your day.
photo- and video-related fun: and you can be part of it! Running 3-4 June, the event will feature workshops, competitions, photo walks and talks, giving attendees a chance to hone their skills, get expert feedback, try new equipment and pick up fresh techniques. It’s hosted by BRIGHT, publishers of Cambridge Edition and leading imaging titles such as Photography News , Pro Moviemaker and Definition , and has been taking place annually in London for a decade. This year sees the festival move outside the capital for the first time, bringing a host of activities to the city including sunrise photo walks, a climb to the top of St Mary’s for a bird’s eye view of the city, and a street photography session with Mark Box (aka @humanofcambridge). The event base will be the Graduate hotel in the heart of the city centre, which will be a hive of activity throughout the 24 hours. Event sponsor MPB will host a series of sessions, and you’ll have the chance to get your kit valued or borrow equipment to take out
Visit photographynews.co.uk for details and to register
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STREET STYLE
Cambridge Photographer Mark Box shares some of his favourite portraits from the streets of Cambridge this month – can you spot anyone you know?
Lovely colours layered throughout this Steve Zissou-style look
Back to the
old school!
ABOUT THE PROJECT Humans of Cambridge is an Instagram photoblog by local photographer Mark Box. It began as a lockdown project and has turned into a sensation, featuring an ever-growing number of Cambridge’s colourful characters on the @humanofcambridge grid. Mark is out most days snapping, and can usually be found in the Market Square, on King’s Parade, Burrell’s Walk and Garret Hostel Bridge – your best bet for being papped is to head out around lunchtime wearing something suitably eye-catching!
Now I get why ‘You’ve just found out you’ve won a million potatoes!’ was so funny! @jesswebbie
32 APRIL 2023
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