YOUR MONTHLY F IX OF
LOCAL L I FE
NOVEMBER 2021
THIS MONTH ’ S TOP GIGS! See page 29
Discover the season HEARTY FEASTS, COSY TREATS AND THE START OF THE CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
CITY’S BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS & CRAFT EVENTS THE FUN OF THE FAIRS
LITERARY & FILM FESTIVALS RETURN THIS MONTH CAMBRIDGE CULTURE
EXPLORE SPECTACULAR WINTER ILLUMINATIONS THE LIGHT FANTASTIC
S IGN UP TO OUR DIGITAL I SSUE AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
WELCOME
Cosy season
EDITORIAL Editor in chief Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com Editorial assistant Frances McNaughton 01223 499469 francesmcnaughton@bright-publishing.com Editorial director Roger Payne Chief sub editor Alex Bell Sub editors MatthewWinney & Harriet Williams ADVERTISING Group ad manager Sam Scott-Smith 01223 499457 samscott-smith@bright-publishing.com Sales executive Hannah Gurney 01223 499463 hannahgurney@bright-publishing.com CONTRIBUTORS Mark Box, Charlotte Griffiths, Alex Rushmer, Anna Taylor & Elisha Young DESIGN & PRODUCTION Senior designer Lucy Woolcomb lucywoolcomb@bright-publishing.com
hristmas has come early this year at Cambridge Edition , and we’ve broken our tradition of keeping C word mentions to a minimum until December – diving into the festive fun a month early. From amazing light displays to ice skating, craft markets, gift ideas and delicious Yuletide treats, step into Christmas in Cambridge with us from page 37! In Anna’s gardening column, there’s excitement over blackened dahlias and first frosts (page 98), while Book Club recommends some fabulous new reads, including Elizabeth Day’s engrossing new thriller Magpie , on page 23. We’ve got a bumper Sip & Savour, too, featuring everything from secret supper clubs, street food and a new cocktail bar, to news on the local Great Taste Award winners flying the flag for the Cambridge food scene on a world stage. Also promising to inspire magnificent autumn feasts are Levante Kitchen’s beautiful recipes for pumpkin pie, pansotti and picagge – head to page 65 to find out more. It’s an important month for culture here in Cambridge, too, with two big hitters – Cambridge Film Festival and Cambridge Literary Festival – making a return, along with a host of great theatre and art exhibitions to
Ad production Man-Wai Wong MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden &Matt Pluck
explore. Get the lowdown from page 7. Enjoy the issue and see you next month!
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.
EDITOR IN CHIEF
F IND US @CAMBSEDITION | CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Contents
04 Starters This month’s wish list from local indies, plus our top social media pics of the month 07 Culture Club Art exhibitions, gigs, festivals, concerts,
65 Recipes Levante founder Alessandra tells us about her cooking philosophy and shares some recipes 73 Elisha Eats Don’t overlook the humble apple, says Elisha Young – it’s a fruit full of delicious opportunities 75 Education Edition A sixth form special, looking at what’s on offer and making the transition to post-16 education 82 Beauty We’re falling for fall this month, rounding up the best autumnal beauty products 91 Interiors It’s officially hibernation time: here’s how to cosy up your home for ultimate comfort 98 Gardens Anna takes advantage of the November lull, using the time out to plan next year’s garden
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interviews and more to explore 32 Tried &Tested
Frances visits Kiln to find out more about the popular ceramics courses on offer 37 Step Into Christmas The festivities are just around the corner, so we’ve got some top picks to help you out 53 Food News A new look for an old fave, secret supper clubs and the local Great Taste Award winners 63 Chef ’s Table Alex Rushmer looks to history for his culinary inspiration this month
Cover illustration by Lucy Woolcomb, inspired by a photo from @camdiary on Instagram.
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LOCAL L I FE Starters
@PRETTY_LITTLE_CAMBRIDGE
@CAMBRIDGE_ANOTHER_ANGLE
#instacamb OUR FAVOURITE CAMBRIDGE INSTAGRAM PICS OF THE MONTH! @BILLLAWTONPHOTO
NEW IN TOWN! Small & Green
All those whose ‘plant babies’ are their pride and joy, make a beeline for Mill Road to visit 82. A cafe and plant shop hybrid, it brings together two Cambridge favourites: Small & Green and Garden Kitchen. The latter (and existing tenant at the site) will be serving delicious coffee, homemade cakes and veggie and vegan dishes, while the former sells a variety of easy-care houseplants, pots, homewares and accessories. Pop in, grab a bite and a drink, then get busy browsing – or you can still order Small & Green’s wares via Click It Local, if you’re in Cambridge, Saffron Walden, Huntingdon, Newmarket or St Ives. Follow @smallandgreencambridge on social media for updates.
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THIS MONTH’S MUST-HAVES FROM LOCAL INDIES
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1. The Very Less Small Planter, £20, Kettle’s Yard Made by the Very Less pottery studio here in Cambridge, these mini ceramic planters would make a perfect receptacle for succulents or cacti 2. Taking Leave of Cambridge Again tote, £15, Curating Cambridge Bearing the words of renowned Chinese poet Xu Zhimo, who studied at King's College Cambridge in the 1920s, this tote offers a misty-eyed tribute to our fair city 3. Sidney Crossbody Bike Bag, £195, Pedal & Brass Made in Cambridge, Pedal & Brass’s handcrafted leather bike bags offer fashion and function rolled into one. We especially love the compact, classic Sidney 4. Sugarhill Rita Jumper in Teal Fractured Spectrum, £54, Lilac Rose This slim-fit crew jumper with a retro wraparound rainbow design will see you through the cold months in style 5. David Soy Candle, £9, Lil’ Something via Click It Local Add a little Renaissance chic to your decor with this hand-poured candle, depicting Michelangelo’s David 6. Nabaha Vase, £48, Iris & Violet This sculptural vase has a touch of the 70s about it – and doesn’t even need flowers to make a style statement 7. Crystal Drop Hoop Earrings, £16.50, Ark Perfect for adding some vintage-style glamour to your autumn outfits, these delicate earrings from Ark are available in three colours
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Culture Club
STEPPING UP into the blue EXPEDITIONS, EXHIBITIONS AND A HOST OF THRILLING EVENTS ARE COMING OUR WAY, AS THE CAMBRIDGE ARTS SCENE REACHES NEW HEIGHTS
TOP OF THEWORLD Trail runner Jeanelle Hazlett braves the knife-edge ridge of Mount Brunswick in Banff Mountain Film Festival’s FKT
© BRICE FERRE
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CULTURE CLUB Arts & Culture THE MUST-SEE EVENTS AROUND CAMBRIDGE THIS MONTH
LONG RUN After the initial festival, a supporting online event will run from 21 November to 5 December
SILVER SCREEN
Cambridge FilmFestival
vistas, in what proves to be a stellar production from director Alex Camilleri. The Electrical Life of Louis Wain seems an apt closing night for the festival, delivering a cast peppered with household names (Benedict Cumberbatch, Claire Foy, Richard Ayoade and Toby Jones, to name a few). An eccentric true story, it benefits greatly from Footlights alumni Will Sharpe’s nuanced direction. All in all, it’s a triumphant return for one of the city’s favourite events – and we can’t wait to see you there. Details of Cambridge Film Festival’s full programme will be available from 23 October, with bookings opening on the same day. For more information, head to camfilmfest.com
Set to go ahead as an in-person event at the Cambridge Arts Picturehouse between 18 and 25 November, the Cambridge Film Festival (CFF) will bring nearly 100 films to the city from across the globe – including 21 UK feature premieres, and a further five from Europe. Now in its 40th year (making it the country’s third-longest running film festival), CFF’s diverse programme has made it a hugely popular event, as it showcases cinematic snapshots from an array of genres. “We are thrilled to be welcoming audiences back to the Cambridge Film Festival,” says MatthewWebb, CFF executive director. “Céline Sciamma, Andrea Arnold and Joanna Hogg all
return to a programme that is 50% female- directed, and new voices Laura Wandel and Laura Samani deliver striking debuts,” Matthew continues. “Films and filmmakers from over 44 countries contribute to a feast of world cinema, including the 26 features premiering during the festival – which cannot be missed.” This year’s standout films include Titane , a brutal and startling effort from director Julia Ducournau – and one that has made her only the second woman ever to win the coveted Palme d’Or. There’s also the daring and authentic Luzzu , an international highlight, whose unusual subject matter of illicit swordfish trading is backgrounded by stunning, bucolic Maltese
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Final flourish The stage is set CAMBRIDGE ARTS THEATRE IS KEEPING YOUR CALENDAR COVERED. HERE’S THE LATEST First up, it’s the world premiere of Julian Barnes’ The Lemon Table from 2 to 6 November, starring the Olivier and Tony Award-winning Ian McDiarmid, with artistic direction from long-term creative collaborator Michael Grandage. The play tackles the complicated subject of ageing with emotional sensitivity and comic flair, McDiarmid’s one-man performance carrying the show. Clare Teal, singer and Jazz FM presenter, is joined by her sextet on 7 November. Their ‘momentous collaboration of swing’ celebrates a century of pop music, with plenty of gems from the jazz age thrown in for an uplifting evening. Then, from 9 until 13 November, catch The Good Life . This theatrical reimagining of the legendary sitcom sees the Goods and the Leadbetters navigate their uproarious adventures as suburban neighbours, and features standout performances from stars of stage and screen, Rufus Hound and Preeya Kalidas. On 14 November, acclaimed artist and activist Ai Weiwei will make an appearance to discuss his ambitious memoir, 1000 Years of Joys and Sorrows. It’s an epic tale charting the story of his own extraordinary life, along with the legacy of his poet father, Ai Qing – and champions freedom of expression. An Evening with Brian Blessed follows on 16 November, featuring anecdotes from the actor, writer and presenter’s illustrious career. For the past five decades, Blessed has lent his talents to a dizzying array of productions, including Doctor Who and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – so you’re in for a real treat with his larger-than-life stories. From 18 to 20 November, you’ll find a magical world of myths and legends in the shape of Dragons and Mythical Beasts – a fantastic family show filled with spellbinding adventure and spectacular puppetry. Noël Coward’s Private Lives rounds off the month from 22 to 27 November, starring the Olivier Award- winning Patricia Hodge alongside Nigel Havers. Based on the original 1930 production, the story follows the once-married Amanda and Elyot, who find themselves in the same hotel on the French Riviera while on honeymoon with their new partners. The year ends on a high with Cambridge Arts Theatre’s much-anticipated panto, which this year is Aladdin . Starring audience favourite Matt Crosby as Widow Twankey, this enchanting tale is a singalong sensation for the whole family to enjoy, packed with dazzling costumes, infectious musical numbers and jokes galore. The panto will be running from 2 December right through until 9 January 2022 – Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without it! Ticket details for all shows mentioned can be found on the Cambridge Arts Theatre website. cambridgeartstheatre.com
16 Nov
SHOWSTOPPERS There’s something for everyone this month, from the amazing puppetry of Dragons and Mythical Beasts (top left), to the dulcet tones of Clare Teal and her sextet (right)
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CULTURE CLUB
2-6 Nov
LIVE MUSIC THE NEWCLASSIC MUSIC ENSEMBLE EBORACUM BAROQUE ARE BACK, BRINGING THEIR DISTINCTIVE STYLE AND HISTORIC REPERTOIRE TO A CURRENT AUDIENCE
“We try to make our performances more of an experience,” says Chris Parsons, director of Eboracum Baroque. This is a group that’s determined to keep audiences involved, making the most of every chance to ensure an appearance is memorable. “In the summer, we did a few concerts out in Grantchester at The Orchard, and we played some 17th-century drinking songs, with the audience singing along,” Chris adds. “It was amazing.” Even when starved of opportunities to offer in-person concerts, the ensemble kept themselves busy. Over lockdown, the group filmed plenty of performances in empty church venues, and livestreamed virtual concerts over on the Eboracum Baroque YouTube channel. This allowed Cambridge locals, as well as audiences from as far afield as Germany and Peru, to stay tuned. And in December of last year, the group went a step further, and recorded its very own CD. “We ran a crowdfunding campaign for the CD, and it was a great success,” explains Chris. “Our audiences have
been fantastic supporting the ensemble and our work, especially over the past year. The project is something we’d always wanted to do, and we finally got a chance to do it.” Containing Eboracum Baroque’s iteration of Handel’s Messiah , the CD was recorded locally in Swaffham Prior, and is set to launch on Saturday 18 December. A souvenir of sorts, it’s a perfect example of the ensemble’s historically informed style. The group has also been involved with plenty of education projects, and will be resuming much of this in the spring of next year – offering a unique insight into Baroque opera music, along with art and literature, to children. By introducing the younger generations to its repertoire, Eboracum Baroque is inspiring a renewed appreciation of classical music – one that stretches beyond the genre’s traditional appeal, attracting an audience who may never have stumbled across it before. “We’ve always tried to be accessible,” Chris concludes. “We want people to really get involved.”
DON’T MISS OUT! Catch Eboracum Baroque in concert at Great St Mary’s Church on Saturday 18 December, and at St Andrew’s Church, Wimpole, on Sunday 19 December, performing Handel’s Messiah . The ensemble’s CD recording of Messiah will be available to purchase on the day at the venues – visit the Eboracum Baroque website for more information and ticket details. eboracumbaroque.co.uk
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SENSORYOVERLOAD
The Shape of Sound RUNNING IN TANDEM, TWO NEW EXHIBITIONS AT WYSING ARTS CENTRE EXPLORE THE LINKS BETWEEN SONICS AND SURROUNDINGS
Wysing Arts Centre has got not one, but two, intriguing exhibitions showing this month. Both champion auditory artworks and situate the pieces across Wysing’s grounds and gallery space. The first, An echo imprinted , is a solo display from artist Robert Foster-Jones. Blending ceramics and sound works, it comprises varied results from photogrammetry software experiments, which are utilised to reflect on the cave as a cultural and spiritual point of origin. It draws upon the artist’s experiences of fatherhood and loss, commenting on the fixed versus fragmented nature of certain memories. The second exhibition, And then, a harrowing , will be open at the same time, from 18 October to 5 December, bringing together work by three of Wysing’s 2020 resident artists. Linda Stupart, Carl Gent and Kelechi Anucha highlight the symbiotic relationship between narrative and landscape, including recent film, sculpture and video work by Stupart and Gent – plus sound work by Anucha and Gent. The main space is filled with a sonic collage, built from local field recordings, live performances and folk songs. They’re each incorporated into the wider tapestry, weaving a pattern of stories from the local landscape.
ADULT ART COURSES
You’ll be set for the winter with Wysing Arts Centre’s adult art courses, offering a unique opportunity to refine your creative skills. Coming up on the weekend of 20 and 21 November, Soheila Sokhanvari teaches egg tempera painting and drawing, exploring traditional methods in a contemporary context. Then, on 2 and 3 December, Bettina Furnée and Caroline Wendling offer an experimental take on textiles, utilising appliqué and embroidery techniques to transform an item of fabric. Later, in January, Shawn Stipling offers a six-week course: An Introduction to Understanding and Making Minimal Art, in which he will dissect the deceptive simplicity of minimalist pieces, and aim to heighten your awareness of visual art in general. Find out more on the website, wysingartscentre.org More information and ticket details on both And then, a harrowing and An echo imprinted can be found on the Wysing Arts Centre website. wysingartscentre.org
THE NIGHT CAFE
15 FEBRUARY 2022, 7PM, CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION, £14 ADV This youthful indie quartet inject their signature mellowmelodies with Liverpudlian charm, for an intricate show that’s bound to get you dancing.
IAIN STIRLING: FAILING UPWARDS 11 MARCH 2022, 8PM, CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION, £20.50 ADV The comedian recounts his inane, and often insane, encounters with the mundane, throwing caution to the wind – and status quo.
PATTI SMITH AND HER BAND 29 MAY 2022, 7.30PM, CORN EXCHANGE, FROM £40.50
Chronicling over half a century of poetry and music, legendary
performer and wordsmith Patti Smith brings her band – and a commanding legacy – to the Corn Exchange.
DEEPER MEANING Robert Foster-Jones explores memory, loss and spirituality, using computer software (above) to create images
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ALL AROUND CambridgePPF has many sites across the city, including Wandlebury Country Park. It’s also looking to expand, to shore up the city’s green spaces
GET INVOLVED CambridgePPF has an eclectic mix of events and activities including live music performances at the Leper Chapel, plus children’s bushcraft, weekly health walks, and guided walks to identify trees in winter at Wandlebury. If you’d like to find out more about any upcoming events, or become a CambridgePPF charity member, visit the website. cambridgeppf.org
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Local heritage The Lay of the Land CAMBRIDGE PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE HAS BEEN KEEPING AN EYE ON THE CITY AND ITS SURROUNDINGS FOR ALMOST A CENTURY. WE FOUND OUT MORE ABOUT THE LOCAL HEROES THAT MAKE UP THE CHARITY
Newmarket Road,” says James Littlewood, chief executive at CambridgePPF. Cambridge Leper Chapel is one of the oldest buildings in Cambridgeshire, dating back to the 11th century, and it would have fallen into disrepair if it wasn’t for the maintenance work of the charity since the 1950s. “As a more recent example, we managed to get an application for a block of student flats by St Matthew’s Piece denied, which would have loomed over the park, as well as damaging trees in the area,” James adds. Along with protecting Cambridge’s historic
For those of you who have spent your lives in Cambridge, you’ll have no doubt seen the city transform before your eyes. Ancient architecture is frequently framed by distinctly modern façades, and town and gown seemmore entwined than ever before. There’s a reason for this. Since 1928, Cambridge Past, Present & Future (PPF) has been working behind the scenes to ensure the historic city of Cambridge evades damage by inappropriate development, liaising
possible, recognising the value of the city’s overall appearance and visibility – for residents and visitors alike. “It’s important to make sure we don’t destroy the unique character of the region,” says James. As the charity approaches its 100th birthday, its small team – supported by volunteers representing their local communities – is homing in on more of a long-term vision for the area, with nature and biodiversity taking centre stage. “We’re aiming to increase the amount of green space in the area, as well as adding to, and consolidating, the Cambridge Green Belt,” James comments. The charity has played a major part in retaining much of the city’s structure, preventing developments on Grantchester Meadows, as well as saving the Gog Magog Hills from further development to create Wandlebury Country Park – where the team is still based today. Working alongside the Wildlife Trust BCN, CambridgePPF has also established the Cambridge Nature Network in the past few years, promoting the prioritisation of green spaces among local councils – to secure the future of the county’s biodiversity. Cambridgeshire has made a commitment to double the amount of nature- rich habitats by 2050. It looks likely that this goal will be achieved, given the charity recently acquired a large section of the Wandlebury estate, increasing the size of the Country Park by 20%. It has also purchased land surrounding the village of Coton, in order to cultivate wildflower meadows in the region. All in all, 2021 has been a year of reflection for CambridgePPF, who have plenty of past achievements to look back on – along with lots of new projects for the future. Our local landscape would likely look completely different without the charity’s conscientious measures in place, and it’s thanks to the continued efforts of the team – along with an army of dedicated local volunteers – that Cambridge is as picturesque today as it was almost 100 years ago. “At the end of the day, we can only do the great work that we do with the support of local people,” concludes James. Here’s hoping the next 100 years will be just as kind. MISSION STATEMENT CambridgePPF has three main aims: to get people out enjoying nature, protect the landscapes of the area and preserve historic buildings
THE COUNTY WILL DOUBLE NATURE-RICH HABITATS BY 2050
with local authorities to counteract significant planning decisions, and influencing the council to reject applications that will negatively impact the city’s quintessential character.
centre, another focus for the charity is to prevent the city from sprawling out too much and engulfing surrounding villages. “As the population continues to grow, pressure is increasing with regards
Until 2009, the charity was known as the Cambridge Preservation Society, and was made up of town governors, local business owners and representatives from the university. Back in the inter-war period, there wasn’t a planning system in place as there is today. Many historic buildings dotted in and around the city were at risk of dereliction, and the charity worked hard to protect these sites. “We have saved a number of specialist buildings, including the Bourn Windmill, Hinxton Watermill and Cambridge Leper Chapel off
to plans for new developments emerging,” explains James. “Although historic buildings are not at an immediate risk any more, we feel that our work is needed now more than ever, as tall buildings or large developments can dominate the environment.” In addition to this, CambridgePPF also encourages new developments to adopt design choices that are less impactful on views wherever
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NO LIMITS
NO LIMITS New heights Following the exhilarating screenings from the Green Film Programme, Banff Mountain Film Festival is bringing a second round of excitement to the Corn Exchange. On Monday 22 November, enjoy a thrilling night of adrenaline-fuelled short films from some of the world’s best adventure filmmakers. They’ll take you along on their epic, action-packed journeys, traversing the globe’s most remote corners – and encountering plenty of life-affirming challenges along the way. Get tickets on the Corn Exchange website. cambridgelive.org.uk
On the road RICHER THAN BATMAN In case you missed its brief run at the artist’s personal gallery in Saffron Walden, Heath Kane’s Richer Than Batman exhibition will be showing at The Electric Gallery in London right up until 18 November. Encapsulating a wider narrative concerning wealth, the exhibition is a visual representation of public responses to the question: if you were 400 times richer, what would you do and how would it make you feel? The answers come from people of all walks of life, opening up a conversation about the disparity of wealth, specifically in relation to the fact that Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is now 400 times richer than the Queen – a feat that would take someone on an average salary over 2000 years. Every piece in the exhibition incorporates a different quotation and is an original piece of art, each depicting the queen’s face masked in some way. All of the original pieces and new limited-edition prints are available for purchase, and a percentage of each sale will be donated to the Single Homeless Project, which aids in preventing homelessness, providing support and accommodation, promoting wellbeing and being a voice for change. heathkane.co.uk
Gold of the Great Steppe Showcasing hundreds of recently discovered gold artefacts from ancient burial mounds in East Kazakhstan, Gold of the Great Steppe is the latest major display at the Fitzwilliam Museum. The exhibition both celebrates the Saka culture of central Asia (which flourished from at least the eighth to the third century BCE) and offers UK audiences a unique opportunity to see, and understand, the rich history of a country the size of western Europe. “It is hugely exciting to be announcing the loan of these incredibly important, recently discovered gold artefacts this autumn,” says Luke Syson, director of the FitzwilliamMuseum. “We look forward to bringing the extraordinary culture of the Saka people to life for our audiences, and are grateful to our partnership with East Kazakhstan – without it, enlightening exhibitions such as these would simply not be possible.” For more information, and to book your timed tickets, visit the FitzwilliamMuseum website. fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk TOP CULTURE PICK
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EXHIBITION SPOTLIGHT Shahzia Sikander: Unbound THE EMINENT ARTIST BRINGS HER PROBING, THEMATICALLY LAYERED WORKS TO CAMBRIDGE, CALLING A COHORT OF INTERLINKED ISSUES INTO QUESTION
One of the most striking pieces from Unbound – a patinated bronze sculpture entitled Promiscuous Intimacies, depicting contrasting feminine ideals – occupies a central outdoor position at Jesus College, making it obvious to all who pass through. Showcasing the sculpture in this manner brings the issue of visibility to the forefront, and situates the sculpture in a stylistically appropriate setting: exposed to the environment, just as a traditional temple sculpture would be. “It’s stunning – you just want to reach out and touch it,” Vivek comments. “We’re proud to have it
history of British sculpture artists at Cambridge, it’s an impressive feat,” Vivek adds. The artist and curator worked closely with the faculty, in a truly collaborative effort. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the unfailing support from everyone involved – including the master of the college – along with a generous grant from the Centre of Islamic Studies. The planning all went ahead despite the circumstances, and we’re so grateful to see it come to light.” Many of Shahzia’s paintings present
Exclusively at Jesus College, Unbound is an exhibition by Pakistani-American artist Shahzia Sikander which speaks to issues of post-colonialism, decolonisation, feminism and feminine ideals. It has been curated by postdoctoral associate in Islamic art, Dr Vivek Gupta, who knows the artist, having first met with her in 2019 – and subsequently published a book chapter analysing the significance of her works. This is a particularly special display of Shahzia’s work, as it’s not only the first time the exhibition has been shown outside – it’s the first time it has been displayed in the UK. “The location was chosen specifically due to the nature of British archives,” Vivek explains. “There’s an extremely large, rich collection of south Asian and Islamic materials that have ended up in the UK, although the majority of art historians here focus on the Mediterranean.” Placing the exhibition at the heart of this contrast highlights the disparity between the resources available and the extent to which they are being utilised; the materials are there, but what are we doing with them? It is split into three segments. The first explores manuscripts as products, delving into the significance of the medium. The second extrapolates and abstracts their feminist aspects, particularly in relation to Muslim women and the idea of theorising the veil. And the third segment explores decolonisation, specifically in relation to the history of sculptural displays at Jesus College – and the assertion that the theme doesn’t need to be violent to be resonant.
themselves as detached from the colonial baggage of the archival manuscripts
EXTREMELY RELEVANT TO THE UK RIGHT NOW
among which they are situated, allowing the
displayed in the UK, and to have it showing outside is even better.” Jesus College is a fitting location for the
viewer to access its politics through the iconography the artist has chosen to work with. These intercultural interactions
political undercurrents of Shahzia’s work, as there is still a marked disparity in the racial diversity of the college’s faculty. Although there is now a broader makeup of Muslim students and students of African descent, there are still no art historians of colour in the department. The need to confront ‘the other’ in order to better understand ourselves is a theme that underpins the works, along with a distinctly feminist perspective and unique spin on decolonisation. “The exhibition is extremely relevant to the UK right now, as it offers a new take on decolonisation that embraces tradition. Given the
ensure audiences are always involved in the
exhibition, asserting the need for the UK – and perhaps specifically Cambridge – to probe more deeply into its archives, looking beyond Europe and America to a more inclusive world view. As Unbound implies, the exploration of cultural issues within art history needs to be more global – because the issues always have been. Shahzia Sikander: Unbound will be showing at West Court Gallery in Jesus College until 18 February 2022. Find out more on the website. jesus.cam.ac.uk
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FOOTL IGHTS INTERV I EW
Names in lights FOLLOWING AN 18-MONTH STAGE HIATUS, CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS HAVE ONCE AGAIN FLUNG THEMSELVES BACK INTO A JAM-PACKED SEASON OF SHOWS. WE CAUGHT UP WITH A FEW MEMBERS TO GET THE LOWDOWN LIVE LAUGHS
WORDS BY FRANCES MCNAUGHTON
s one of the country’s most renowned comedy troupes, Cambridge Footlights are a busy
THE SHOWMUST GO ON The Footlights have a packed schedule, from smokers to panto
bunch. Along with international tours and a much-anticipated Christmas show, the Footlights’ classic Smokers are back in town this season, so you can get a taste of new material – much of which was concocted during lockdowns. “It’s been so long since we’ve been able to do proper comedy in front of real-life audiences that we’re all just itching to get back to regular stage time,” says performer Isaac Kean. “Smokers are a staple in the Footlights calendar, and it’s so exciting to have them back in person again,” adds member Maria Pointer. “The Corpus Playroom in particular is a really fun venue – it’s such a unique space, which works especially well for sketch and stand-up material.” “I’m currently sitting on a big backlog of untested jokes and routines, so one of those might see the light of day!” Andy Bucks affirms. “I’ll run them past my long- suffering housemates first, to see if they’re worth unleashing on the public...” Despite not having access to stage space, the troupe kept up appearances through online shows – a move which proved more appealing to some members than others. Ultimately, though, it led to an unexpected period of growth. “The pandemic forced me to try my hand at different things,” Andy continues. “After a period of resistance, I actually grew to like online gigs! One of my favourites regularly attracted who would log in from Malaysia at 7am local time, and perform while eating breakfast. It was a great opportunity to try and write jokes for a much more diverse audience than usual.” “I really enjoyed the process,” says Robbie Boyd. “For me, the opportunity acts from the US, UK, Canada, Italy, Israel... there was even a guy
to create filmed comedy allowed for an entirely new and more broad approach. While I love big stage performances with a live audience, you aren’t able to introduce nuance and subtle moments in the same manner. Having had to learn by trial and error online, I now feel more comfortable
Salmonella , which I wrote and am directing this term,” Maria enthuses. “It’s so fantastic transferred from page to stage, and I can’t wait for audiences to see it.” Robbie adds, “I’m trying my hand at directing for the first time, for the upcoming sketch show A Comprehensive Understanding , from 10 to 13 November. It is aiming to widen participation in Cambridge theatre; all the cast, production team and backstage crew are from disadvantaged backgrounds. I would urge people to come and watch the show, as a hilarious, but important step forward for the Cambridge world of comedy.” “Creativity comes when you love what you do. So, when that gets taken away, you have to find new outlets,” Isaac concludes. “For me, that has been writing with friends. And we can’t wait to finally show what we’ve come up with.” Catch the next Footlights Smoker at the ADC Theatre on 9 November, and look out for this year’s panto, Rapunzel , opening on 24 November at the same venue. adctheatre.com
trying new acting and production techniques in my performances, rather than sticking to what I know.” “I gave stand-up a go for the first time during the pandemic, on a Zoom open-mic of all places!” adds Maria. “But I found something new I loved,
CREATIVITY COMES WHEN YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO
and came back with things I wouldn’t have learned if the comedy scene had carried on as normal.” As for highlights from the upcoming season, there’s quite frankly not enough space on this page to list them. “For me, it’s the Footlights Harry Porter Prize-winner,
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2021 21
ARTS & CULTURE
Book Club CAMBRIDGE EDITION A CLASSIC REIMAGINED, A SWEEPING FAMILY HISTORY AND A THOUGHT-PROVOKING THRILLER ARE THIS MONTH’S MUST-READS
WORDS BY CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS
Learwife BY J.R. THORP This fascinating concept shines the
spotlight on a character traditionally in the background: the wife of King Lear, Shakespeare’s tragic anti-hero and mother of his three infamous daughters. She only appears in two vague references (one to her being dead) in the original play, yet is given her own voice in this genre-defying debut from J.R. Thorp. We meet the 55-year-old queen in the convent she was banished to 15 years prior – just after the birth of her youngest, Cordelia – and told to ‘pray for the soul of the king’. Accompanied by her maid Ruth, she learns, like someone waiting outside the theatre doors of the tragic play, about the multiple deaths which have unfolded. Her husband and daughters are dead, her family disgraced – and she reels under the waves of grief, thrust into the knowledge of this harsh new world, while still physically locked within the convent’s walls. She reminisces about old conversations with her husband, her life in court, and – assuming she’s now free to go – makes plans to leave to find her family’s graves, and perhaps seek out her old friend, Kent. “I have been so quiet,” she says. “I have done my penance fivefold. Nobody could tell me for what, and I took the punishment in any case, because the king my love required it.” Her requests to leave are blocked by the abbess, who asks the nameless queen to stay, pointing out the hazardous and futile nature of the journey. The royal mother unwillingly agrees, stalking the walls, turning events over and over in her mind, in beautifully transporting prose that almost read like modernist poetry in places. The shards of meaning in her sentences only become clear when you let the words wash across you, slipping effortlessly between narrative and memory, sense and nonsense. The
subjectivity of madness and how to recognise it in others is one of the brightest themes woven into this beautiful book. The queen makes further attempts to leave, but sickness comes to the convent and the nuns are locked in quarantine together until Lent, faced with the all-too- real possibility of death at any moment. The abbess sickens and dies, lying in a “cave of her madness” for days, before leaving the convent rudderless. The remaining women jostle for power, while Thorp’s queen – outside the system, yet still within the walls – reigns supreme, sharing stories from her past, slipping into the present and back again. “And women last,” the queen observes. “Men rise and fall in sheaves, every season shaving down a new crop – war, honour. Women are weaker but we last: we sink into age, grow long bones, tell stories, hoard four score and ten. We get old and hairy and forget naught.” This immersive, wonderfully constructed book spans grief, love, duty and power, and is a must for anyone who enjoys feminist-focused reimaginings.
WAYS OF SEEING As a sort of retelling, Learwife is an outstanding example of a novel reimagining classic tales, a genre which has experienced a wave of popularity in recent years
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2021 23
ARTS & CULTURE PEACH BLOSSOM SPRING
BY MELISSA FU
see 30,000 people lose their lives. It’s that tragedy which forces Meilin to flee with Renshu and begin her huge journey to safety, wherever that might be. The family takes comfort from a small, illustrated hand scroll containing ancient fables and stories, given by Xiaowen to Meilin. Huddled on boat decks or in the back of wagons, they read it for guidance – Meilin deliberately altering the ending of the harder stories to give her young son hope – while waiting to see what fate might deal them next. The book follows their escape to Taiwan and the terrifying choices they have to make en route – then Renshu’s eventual journey through education to America, and a new life (and new name) studying engineering even further from home. But even in this new, safer land, unforeseen challenges arise. Although fiction, this makes a fascinating overview of China’s recent history and – on a smaller scale – is a beautiful tale of love, loss and just how far a parent will go for their child. Perfect winter reading on darker evenings.
This huge, sweeping debut novel by Cambridge-based author Melissa Fu started life as nothing more than a short piece of writing about her father’s fruit trees, and ended up a multigenerational tale spanning 70 years, unpicking China’s tumultuous 20th century. The story opens quietly in Changsha, in 1938, in the home of Dao Hongtse and his three wives (whose ‘names are not important’) plus his sons, Dao Longwei and Dao Xiaowen, who are both far from home ‘protecting the future of the Republic’. Shui Meilin, the wife of Dao Xiaowen, is diligently at work in her husband’s family antiques business. Her three-year-old son Renshu and his young cousin Liling charge around her feet, screaming with laughter, before Dao Longwei’s fearsome wife Wenling crossly retrieves her daughter from the room, and the youngest generation are begrudgingly put to bed. The gentle domesticity of the scene is offset by the knowledge that the Japanese are advancing and, later in 1938, the Changsha fire would
THE STORY OPENS QUIETLY IN CHANGSHA
RELATIONS All of this month’s books consider the importance of family. Peach Blossom Spring spans generations and continents, focusing on a parent’s love for their child
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ARTS & CULTURE
DON’T MISS! Tall tales You can look forward to a slew of exciting author appearances this month, courtesy of Topping & Company in Ely. Simon Armitage kicks off the month at The Hayward Theatre on 4 November, discussing his translation of the medieval debate poem The Owl and the Nightingale. He’s followed by bestselling author Mary Beard, who will offering a fascinating evening of political and historical insight – extrapolated from her latest book Twelve Caesars – at Ely Cathedral on 9 November. Then, on 11 November, comedian Robin Ince presents his latest book, The Importance of Being Interested , at St Peter’s Church, bringing his characteristic optimism. The same venue welcomes Jenny Uglow on 17 November, whose novel Cyril & Sybil charts a dynamic, artistic partnership between the wars. And finally, Sebastian Faulks steps through the church’s doors on 23 November – his latest landmark novel Snow Country blends distinctively flawed, human narratives with the ever- enduring sanctity of hope. Ticket details for all the events mentioned can be found on the Topping
Magpie BY ELIZABETH DAY
There’s currently a real (and very welcome) trend for reassessing past perspectives from our new, slightly more aware and understanding, 2021 viewpoint. In podcast-land, Alissa Bennett and Lena Dunham’s The C-Word (it’s ‘Crazy’, in case you’re wondering) revisits women from the past who were maligned in their day. You’re Wrong About , by journalists Michael Hobbes and Sarah Marshall, involves similar discussions for all sorts of subjects. At first glance, Magpie , the latest novel from writer Elizabeth Day (creator of her own hit podcast How To Fail ), is a classic, pacy domestic thriller about the relationship between pregnant Marisa, her partner Jake and their new lodger Kate – who seems to be attempting to drive a wedge between the soon-to-be-parents. But, just as you’ve settled in for the ride, the world turns upside down and nothing is as you thought. The book also sensitively depicts the heartbreak of infertility, and the all- consuming, fervent passion with which some people pursue parenthood. In the past, Elizabeth Day has written openly about her own journey with IVF and Magpie offers up the topics with a clean, heartfelt and eye-opening honesty that’s rare to encounter, especially within fiction. But it’s not all trauma. Like all great reads, the book is also laugh-out-loud funny in parts, particularly the early scenes with Jake’s overbearing parents. Yet, even these comedic moments carry darker undertones that, all too soon, bubble up to the surface. Expertly handled to the last, Magpie keeps you guessing until the immensely satisfying conclusion, which will leave you cheering on Day’s cast of characters, and questioning the stereotypical stances taken by other books of this genre. If I say any more, I’ll give it all away: pick up a copy or download the audiobook as soon as you’re able to do so.
& Company website. toppingbooks.co.uk
PACKED SCHEDULE Topping & Company offers a wide variety of literary events for local book lovers, with talks from authors like Jenny Uglow (top) and Sebastian Faulks (above)
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2021 25
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A RANGE OF INSIGHTS (Clockwise from far left) Fatima Manji; Natasha Brown; Dame Gillian Beer;
and Merlin Sheldrake
17-21 Nov
© SOPHIE DAVIDSON
Literary Festival CAMBRIDGE IS WELCOMING THE CREAM OF LITERATURE’S CROP ONCE MORE, WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE – AND IT’S ALL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS PAGE-TURNERS
out more. Literary heavyweight Rebecca Solnit joins the bill for Saturday, shining a spotlight on her latest book, Orwell’s Roses . Inspired by an encounter with the flowers that Orwell planted at his cottage in Hertfordshire, Solnit explores how his passion for gardening illuminates his writing on politics, nature and power. Rounding off proceedings on Sunday are authors such as Joan Bakewell, whose recent book The Tick of Two Clocks considers how we perceive old age and what we do with it, now that we’re living longer than ever. There’s also an unmissable conversation between debut novelist Natasha Brown and poet and playwright Claudia Rankine, plus a talk from Leïla Slimani, author of celebrated novel The Country of Others . Also, hear about the ‘insect apocalypse’ from Dave Goulson, the UK’s woefully inadequate response to the Covid-19 pandemic from Hilary Cooper and Simon Szreter, and the art and life of Barbara Hepworth, from curator Eleanor Clayton and gallery director Fiona Bradley. For the full line-up, visit the website at cambridgeliteraryfestival.com
is changing our understanding of how life itself works. The same day, Carmen Maria Machado stops by to discuss her work In The Dream House , a memoir shedding light on abuse in queer relationships. Saturday offers a packed programme of talks, including one from former home secretary-turned-thriller-writer Alan Johnson; a wide-reaching exploration of the nature of the universe by Dr Hilary Cliff; and a chat with Geoff Dyer, author of a new book which chronicles the voyage of the Belgica in 1897. Things went horribly, horribly wrong for this voyage - which was set to become the first ever scientific expedition to reach the South Pole, but instead became the first to endure a brutal winter in Antarctic waters. If you’re a music lover who feels inspired by your favourite songs, Tom Gatti’s new book, Long Players: Writers on the Albums That Shaped Them , is a must read. From Deborah Levy on David Bowie to David Mitchell on Joni Mitchell, it considers the transformational power of music through the eyes and ears of 50 of our best writers. Join Gatti in conversation with fellow music lover Alex Clarke to find
ringing together leading lights of the literary scene, prominent journalists, scientists, activists and more, the winter edition of the
Cambridge Literary Festival promises an unmissable blend of talks for book lovers. Running from 17 to 21 November, it will once again take place online rather than in- person, meaning you can enjoy the eclectic deep-dive discussions from the comfort of your own sofa – feet up, with a cup of tea! Kicking things off is Dame Gillian Beer: professor, Cambridge resident and honorary patron of the festival. She will be discussing Stations Without Signs , a moving memoir recounting her experiences as an evacuee during the Second World War. Also on opening day, Fatima Manji introduces her absorbing book Hidden Heritage , which delves into stories and treasures of the ‘Orient’ and unearths lost narratives connecting Britain with South and West Asia. On the 19th, Merlin Sheldrake offers a fascinating insight into the mysterious world of fungi, from yeast to psychedelics, demonstrating how knowledge of this staggeringly diverse kingdom of organisms
26 NOVEMBER 2021 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
NIGHTL I FE
After Hours EXPLORE THE BEST OF OUR CITY’S MUSIC SCENE!
THE CITY
ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK 9 NOVEMBER, 7.30PM, KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE ECLECTIC SHOWS COMING UP IN CAMBRIDGE CORN EXCHANGE, £33-£78 After almost 50 years in the spotlight, and with an eye-watering 140million record sales under his belt, Engelbert Humperdinck lights up the city with his unique voice and incredibly varied, undeniably crowd-pleasing set list. CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION, £13.50 With her unique spin on Americana, the smoky tones of talented Elles Bailey will draw you in, and have you hankering for more. Make sure to catch this captivating performance of her sophomore album Road I Call Home . THE CHARLATANS 3 DECEMBER, 7.30PM, CORN EXCHANGE, £35.50 Three decades of genre-bursting music culminate in The Charlatans’ 30th Anniversary Best of Tour, with a smattering of hits from the band's remarkable 13 Top 40 studio albums – including their most recent, and impressively poignant release, Different Days . ELLES BAILEY 23 NOVEMBER, 8PM,
15 Nov
BLACK TO BLACK ROCK OUT
Among the selection of musical performances promised by Cambridge Junction this month, two bands in particular stand out as striking a sonorous chord. The first is Black Midi, whose aversion to capitalisation epitomises their decidedly alternative approach. They’ll arrive on the scene on 15 November, offering a set that’s as dynamic as it is demonic. The band’s second studio album, Cavalcade , follows in the footsteps of its predecessor Schlagenheim with its similarly jagged edges, possessing a meticulously collaged quality that The Guardian described as a “freakish parade of prog- jazz extremity.” The second comes in the shape of Black Country, New Road. Hailing from Cambridge, this seven-strong band crafts ominous soundscapes, twisting songs in and out of shape to create taut, knotted layers that intersect to form rich sonic narratives. The band has been garnering a buzz since first emerging back in 2018, and considering the 2021 release of their debut album For the First Time brought them a coveted Mercury Prize award nomination, it seems it’s only the beginning. Catch them on 30 November. junction.co.uk
LITTLE SIMZ 13 DECEMBER, 7.30PM, CORN EXCHANGE, £20.50
In her biggest national tour to date, Little Simz presents her mammoth 19-track debut album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert , proving she’s
a musical force that's seizing the spotlight for the long haul.
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2021 29
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?
Smile and the world smiles with you! This human wore a great combination of blues and matching faux-crocodile trench coat. Dare to be wild!
Humans of Cambridge is an Instagram photoblog by local photographer Mark Box. It began as a lockdown project and has turned into a local sensation, featuring an ever-growing number of Cambridge’s colourful characters on the @humanofcambridge grid. Mark is out snapping most days, 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 and wear something eye-catching! About the project
I love meeting snazzy people like Allison here! Speaking of which, their Insta handle is @snazzyshorts... check them out!
When I saw Demelza, I was in awe of the William Morris jumpsuit she was wearing! Such a unique outfit with a beautiful pattern – and the footwear complements the whole look perfectly.
30 NOVEMBER 2021 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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