Artseast Nov 2015 by Falcon Publications

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ARTSeast November 2015

Alby Crafts & Gardens: A Haven of Creativity

Interview: Maggi Hambling

WIN

Local Arts Scene: The Pulhams

Tickets and a meal Visual Arts

eatre & Film

Music

What’s On

The Diss Auction Rooms

“Art every Friday” Viewing: Every Thursday 2-8pm 4 separate auctions every Friday from 9.30am

twgaze.co.uk

Diss Auction Rooms, Roydon Road, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4LN 01379 650 306 auctions@twgaze.co.uk

12 September 2015 – 24 January 2016

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts University of East Anglia Norwich NR4 7TJ Exhibition curated and organised by Barbican Centre, London

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www.artseast.co.uk

01603 593199 www.scva.ac.uk

Faraj Daham, 1956 Doha – Street Language #22/23, 2011, Mixed media on canvas, 180 x 400 cm. Courtesy of the artist.

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An exhibition featuring five Arab a ists from Mathaf’s Permanent Collection.

13TH OCTOBER - 14TH FEBRUARY 2016 4H[OHM! (YHI 4\ZL\T VM 4VKLYU (Y[ ,K\JH[PVU *P[`

November 2015 | 3

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Contents

30-31

Welcome

Beccles Hall Pantomime

Local Arts Scene

Kid’s Corner – Panto Round up

36 The Pulhams Photos

Editor’s Letter

Cover Story 7

22-23

Norwich Arts Centre

37 The Pulhams Introduction

24-25

Coffee & a Chat – Maggi Hambling

38 Pennoyer Centre/Pulham Orchestra

Alby Crafts

39 Pulham Players 40 Norfolk Pamments

Visual Arts

41 Millennium Tapestry

8-9 Visual Arts News

42 Spotlight on Derrek Ibbott

Artists On View

43 Win a meal at The Crown

Artist Profile – Susan Gunn

GoGoDragons Auction

Cambridge Open Art

24-25

Anglian Potters /Gerald Adams Woodcarving

Music 26 Music News 27

Norwich Cathedral

Carols From Cambridge Competition

Julie Hewitt

36 Directory

Arts Council

44 Directory

30-31

45 Subscriptions/Competition Winners

Cultural Education

46 The Last Photo

Theatre & Film

What’s On

Theatre & Film News

32 Blackthorpe Barn

Jack the Ripper the Panto Competition

North Pole Competition

Norwich Theatre Royal

Lavenham Literary Festival

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange

35 What’s On Listings

47 Back Issues

November 2015 | 5

Welcome

ARTSeast ARTSeast Magazine DBH 21 Diss Business Park Hopper Way, Diss Norfolk IP22 4GT

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

Editorial: Sarah Veness sarah@artseast.co.uk 01379 773348 Sales: Gary Enderby gary@artseast.co.uk 01379 773347

Welcome to the November edition of

Suffolk artist Maggi Hambling at her studio

Accounts:

ARTSeast Magazine.

for our coffee and chat interview. Her

accounts@artseast.co.uk

appearance at the Southwold Literary Festival Design: Copy Concept

There's no denying it now - Autumn is most

this month promises to be a brilliant evening.

definitely here.

Our local arts scene this month focuses on The

ian@copy-concept.co.uk

But thankfully we live in an area packed to

Pulhams in South Norfolk - two neighbouring

01379 608358

the brim with excellent theatres, art galleries,

villages with a real creative drive.

craft fairs and arts centres to keep us busy on

As ever, we are lucky enough to be able to

cold, wet days.

offer our readers some great prizes including

This month our cover focuses on the

tickets to Jack the Ripper the Panto at

excellent Alby Crafts & Gardens, near Cromer.

Norwich Playhouse, ice skating tickets at the

Town & Country Printers

With its myriad of artist studios, independent

North Pole Christmas Festival, tickets to

info@tcprinters.co.uk

shops and makers and lovely tea room, it

Carols from Cambridge at St Mary's Church,

really is a haven for arts lovers. If you've never

Bury St Edmunds and a lovely meal for two at

Distribution:

been, its Winter Barn Christmas Market on

The Crown Inn, Pulham Market.

Tim Walken

December 6th is the perfect opportunity to

But for now stoke your fires and settle in for a

visit the centre.

cosy coffee and a read of your favourite

We were thrilled to catch up with iconic

magâ&#x20AC;Ś

Sarah Veness

Contributors: Isobel Demangeat-Ransome Printed by:

Melvyn Veness

@artseastmag www.artseast.co.uk

Editor

ARTSeast Magazine is published by

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Cover Story

Keveme Dewick

Michael Sanders @ Studio House

Jane Kenning

Helen Dixon

Claire Knight

Perfectly Pencil

Purple Parrot Gift Shop

Far from the madding crowds... We love the bright frosty days of winter at Alby Crafts &

New at Alby Jane Kenning and Hannah Ghoorahoo have taken

Gardens and we've been busy making and gathering together

over the gallery above the cafĂŠ offering bespoke wedding

beautiful new stock in anticipation of eager festive shoppers,

dresses, corsetry and home furnishings from mid-November.

looking for that indefinable 'I'll know it when I see it' gift.

Meanwhile downstairs the Alby Tea Room has a whole new

Meet the makers Many of us are working hard to keep up with

menu from new owner Simon Chipperfield who has also

commissions while you are browsing our galleries but we are

opened a Norfolk Farm Shop in the courtyard.

always happy to chat about our work.

Winter Barn Christmas Market Meet over 30 guest stallholders

Learn a skill There is always a selection of courses &

and browse an even wider selection of locally made food, art

workshops on offer at Alby Crafts & Gardens including pottery,

and craft products, gifts and decorations on Sunday 6th

fine art sculpture, paper cutting and wood turning. Come along,

December, 10am to 4pm all in our big barn.

check online or give us a call to find out more.

Mark your diary now!

Buy local art and craft Unknown Norfolk, The Hare & Moon

www.albycrafts.co.uk

Gallery and Studio House all stock artwork by a growing

Open Tuesday to Sunday

number of artists and makers in addition to our own pieces.

10am - 5pm

You will find original paintings, limited edition prints, sculpture,

All enquiries 01263 768820

jewellery, ceramics, photography and creative textiles. Variety is the spice of life! Featured artist Michael Sanders Studio House currently has a large range of prints by Norfolk-based artist Michael Sanders, including limited edition and open edition prints on canvas and

Cover image: Sunday Afternoon Cromer by Michael Sanders

paper plus a wide range of Michael's art cards. November 2015 | 7

Visual Arts

Visual Arts News Solo Exhibition: John Midgley For his second one-man show this year, John shows works of new subjects he was commissioned to make of villages in the Yorkshire Dales. They show the gritty buildings and walls of the Dales but are juxtaposed with paintings full of fragmented colours in his very recent studies of a North Norfolk churchyard. The exhibition, Made of Paint, runs from December 1st to 12th

Perfect Presents

at Anteros Foundation, Norwich. John made many small

This year’s Assembly House Christmas Fair, taking place on

sketches and line drawings during this period and these will be

November 28th-29th, is a great place to find that gift with a

available at Anteros for sale at really reasonable prices.

difference! This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever,

www.anterosfoundation.com

with over 60 stands selling an array of fabulous festive goods, most of them hand-made. Visit this elegant Georgian building on Theatre Street, Norwich, for everything from jewellery, woodcraft, pottery, glassware and knitwear to beads and baubles as well as a host of attractive textiles. Enjoy Christmas carols from The Pavilion Quintet in the courtyard, admire The Assembly House’s wonderful Christmas trees, and treat yourselves to the range of festive food on sale from mulled wine, local cider and mince pies to all sorts of chilli sauces and home-made preserves.

www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk

Alphonse Mucha: In Quest of Beauty The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts at the University of East Anglia, Norwich is delighted to announce a new exhibition Alphonse Mucha: In Quest of Beauty opening on November 7th 2015. Czech-born Alphonse Mucha (1860 – 1939) is one of the most celebrated artists of the fin-de-siècle, and a founding figure in the development of Art Nouveau. He rose to international fame incredibly quickly, mainly with his elegant designs for decorative panels, and stunning advertising posters, including those designed for actress Sarah Bernhardt, the greatest stage personality of her era and an influential figure in Mucha’s life. Alphonse Mucha: In Quest of Beauty explores the work of the artist, through the theme of beauty, which was the core principle underlying his artistic philosophy, whilst also highlighting his contribution to the Art Nouveau style. The show includes over 65 works drawn primarily from the collection of the Mucha Trust, focusing on drawings, paintings, photographs and iconic posters.

www.scva.ac.uk 8 |

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Visual Arts

Exhibition: Art Bridges the Gap Local Suffolk artist Theronda Hoffman is organising the third ‘ART BRIDGES THE GAP’ exhibition at Kesgrave Arts from December 5th24th (Weds-Sat) 2015 to raise funds for Age UK Suffolk. This year’s exhibition will feature a variety of work by Theronda, some of her students and other artists from Suffolk. A Warehouse Sale of Theronda's work will also take place with half the proceeds going to Age UK Suffolk. Theronda says: 'I am always very keen to promote art in Suffolk and to encourage people of all ages to become creative, particularly older people who often find art classes beneficial both socially and creatively. I live to paint and paint to live and art bridges all the gaps and no age limits!'

www.kesgravearts.co.uk

Samuel Thomas at Burnham Deepdale Cromer artist Samuel Thomas will be exhibiting a diverse range of framed and unframed limited edition prints at Burnham Deepdale Christmas Market from December 4th-6th. Prints range from £95 and include iconic Norfolk scenes captured

British Jewellery at its Finest

in a unique pop-art style, plus his large range of greeting cards. Many of Samuel's signed prints make excellent wedding, anniversary or birthday gifts. Samuel's pop up will be amongst over 100 other Norfolk-based stallholders showcasing a wide range of hand-made crafts and unique gift ideas, including clothing, real ale, jewellery, home furnishings, stained glass and much more.

Fans of British jewellery designer Heather Stowell will be able to see

There will be entertainment throughout the

her work at two new events this year. Heather will be exhibiting in

weekend, however on Friday evening you can

the fabulous setting of Ely Cathedral at the Ely Christmas Gift and

enjoy the first Deepdale Street Food Festival with a

Food Fair from November 13th-14th with an added preview evening

mix of tasty food, market stalls and live

on Thursday 12th from 6-9pm. She will also be at the Cambridge

entertainment.

Showcase on Monday November 23rd at the Unitarian Church Hall

www.deepdalechristmasmarket.co.uk

in Victoria Street, Cambridge. Doors open at 12 noon and will close at 8.30pm.

www.heatherstowell.com

November 2015 | 9

artists

ON VIEW Curwen Print Study Centre

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Art Courses

01986 788853

Courses for artists of all abilities and ages

Brochure available 2015 Brochure out now

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Gallery 1SJOUT t 0JMT t 8BUFS $PMPVST t .PVMEJOH t 0SOBUF 'SBNFT t .PVOUCPBSE t (MBTT t %SZ .PVOUJOH

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Artfellows Picture Framers & Art Gallery

MADE OF PAINT by John Midgley

Bespoke Framing, Hand Finishing, Good Selection of Original Paintings, Antique Restoration Exclusive Greetings Cards

from December 1 to 12 2015 at Anteros Foundation 3-15 Fye Bridge Road Norwich. www.johnmidgley.co.uk 10 |

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Visual Arts

Artist Profile: Susan Gunn Award-winning artist Susan Gunn has just left her mark permanently on a new, ground-breaking building at the University of East Anglia campus in Norwich. The Enterprise Centre, which opened in October, is now home to one of Susan's prodigious art installations, the stunning 20metre painting entitled Terra Memoria. Susan, who is married to former Norwich City goalkeeper Bryan Gunn, has spent the last 16 months creating and perfecting the painting. 'I was particularly drawn to the atrium space and the natural light emanating from the Memorial Gardens, a conservation area situated beyond The Enterprise Centre,' says Susan. 'I chose to record the idea of offset vertical divisions in the canvas to reflect the rhythm and sway of the tree lined gardens opposite.' Susan graduated from Norwich University of the Arts in 2004 with a firstclass BA Hons Degree in Fine Art. Just a year later, she was selected for the Escalator Project after being nominated by Amanda Geitner, chief curator at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. 'This was a fantastic opportunity for me as it gave me access to invaluable guidance and professional support at the start of my career,' says Susan. 'Amanda Geitner was able to introduce me to the artist Callum Innes, who I was incredibly inspired by.'

Norfolk &Norwich Festival. The curator of that exhibition, Cherry Smyth was so impressed, she nominated Susan for the prestigious Sovereign European Art Prize for her piece Specto Specus. 'I was surprised and thrilled to be short-listed,' says Susan. 'The whole process culminated in an exhibition at Bonhams in London. There were artists from 33 European countries selected and I was in awe that I'd got that far. So when I was announced as the winner, I could scarcely believe it.' The prize of 25,000 euros enabled Susan to set herself up as a professional artist.

Spec to Specus

Since then, Susan hasn't looked back. Her latest work Terra Memoria, made from natural earth pigments and an authentic glue binder to explore and develop the material of traditionally made gesso, spans the length of the Enterprise Centre's lecture theatre entrance. The Enterprise Centre is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9-5pm if anyone would like to view the installation. 'After the excitement of Terra Memoria, I'm now concentrating on my solo show which is taking place at Mandell's Gallery, Norwich in February,' says Susan. 'Despite moving to Cheshire four years ago, the city of Norwich is still very dear to me.'

www.susangunn.co.uk Terra Memoria

As part of the project, Susan's work was shown at an exhibition at The Great Eastern Hotel in London, as part of the

November 2015 | 11

Visual Arts

10 HIGH STREET... CROMER... www.arthouse-cafe.co.uk info@arthouse-cafe.co.uk 01263 649856

NR27

9HG

Great art...Great coffee...

Showcasing contemporary art inspired by a love of the British countryside

The Jessica Muir Gallery Hall Street, Long Melford Suffolk CO10 9JR Tel: 01787 310400 Email: thejmgallery@hotmail.com

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Visual Arts

Artist:

Caroly

n Ash

GoGoDragons! Auction is a Roaring Success The GoGoDragons! have raised a staggering £369,500 for Break Charity at a thrilling auction held at The Forum last month. The Auction, hosted by Break patron Jake Humphrey, was attended by over 500 people keen to place bids on their favourite dragon. On the night, the dragon GoGoMosaic, by artist Carolyn Ash, went for a staggering £25,000, closely followed by 'Duff' by Alex Egan at £20,500 and 'Luda' by Norfolk's 'mini Monet' Kieron Williamson which went for £20,000. The other dragons ranged in total from £2000 to £7200. The money raised will be used to fund Break's projects for children, young people and families across East Anglia. GoGoDragons! 2015 was an interactive arts sculpture trail that brought 84 large dragon sculptures and 120 school dragons to Norwich. Each of the 84 dragons was individually painted and sponsored by local business. The GoGoDragons! have graced the streets of Norwich throughout the summer allowing thousands of people to discover both their beautiful artwork

WANT YOUR OWN DRAGON? Dragon merchandise is available online at www.gogodragons.co.uk and also at merchandise partner Jarrold of Norwich. Mini figurines of the dragons are available at a price of £34.99

and to find new areas of the city to explore. November 2015 | 13

Visual Arts

Prestigious Exhibition The Cambridge Open Art exhibition will again be running the weekend of November 27th-29th at Swavesey Village College. Entries reached capacity within just a few weeks of opening, demonstrating just how popular this exhibition is with local professional and amateur artists. One of the draws of the exhibition for artists is the Top Twenty Awards. From the 300 traditional and abstract works being exhibited, 20 are chosen to feature in a week-long exhibition at the Over Art Gallery from December 1st-6th. A ‘Best in Show’ will be chosen for a £500 prize and four runners up will win £100 vouchers sponsored by HMC Framing. Visitors to the exhibition will have the chance of winning the picture they like best (under £150) via a free prize draw at the close of the exhibition. The Opening Ceremony is on Friday 27th November 27th (6.30 – 8.30pm). Tickets £5 on the door. Free entry on Saturday and Sunday – a great opportunity to choose reasonably priced Christmas gifts from the eclectic range of art for sale including paintings, sculpture, prints and cards.

CAMBRIDGE – ILLUSTRATORS.CO.UK ILLUSTRATION: SEAN HOGAN • LIDGATE • SUFFOLK 14 |

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Visual Arts

Learn to Carve

Find a Unique Gift

Gerald started his woodcarving business in 1986, carving parts

For almost twenty years Anglian Potters has held its annual

for local furniture makers, and quickly established a reputation

Christmas exhibition at All Saints Church, Cambridge. The

for fine wood carving of the highest order. His customer base

lovely Gothic Revival interior, with its hand stencilled wall

expanded, completing commissions from around the world,

coverings, provides the perfect setting for work created by

with patrons from Royalty to the film industry. He has designed

talented members of the ‘AP’.

and carved some prestigious Church work, including Screens at Felmingham and East Raynham. Being accepted as member of the Master Carvers Association in 2001 was a highlight of a rewarding career. Gerald taught in adult education in the late 90’s and now

Anglian Potters is a lively and thriving organisation that aims to provide the opportunity for members to meet and share their experience and enthusiasm. Since its creation over 30 years ago, it has grown to include over 400 active members and welcomes anyone with an interest in clay.

teaches weekly sessions at his workshop in Long

During this year’s Christmas exhibition, visitors will be able to

Stratton,enjoying passing on some of the skills he has gained

choose from a wide selection of ceramics from around 60

in 30 years of professional carving. The sessions are informal

potters. There will be pieces available to purchase from just a

and fun. As well as these short 21⁄2 hour classes, Gerald

few pounds to several hundred pounds, making it the perfect

teaches two day beginners classes, which encourage people to

place to find special gifts for friends and family that you

attempt to master the basic techniques and finish a simple

definitely won’t find in high street stores. On Saturday

project. These courses are ideal for Christmas / birthday

December 14th, the event is launched with mulled wine and

presents for someone to start or expand a new hobby or career.

mince pies from 10.30am-2pm.

November 2015 | 15

eatre & Film

Theatre & Film News Birdhouse by Jammy Voo Meet the ladies of the Birdhouse. Caught in a delirium of post traumatic shock, they can’t stop re-playing their tragic stories, like an absurd Hitchcock horror on loop. Will they survive their own personal apocalypses and find a way out? Their work blends physical theatre, sublime puppetry and visual creations, live music and singing. Since 2010, they have collaborated with musician and composer Greg Hall. Catch the show on Wednesday November 18th at Norwich Arts Centre.

www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

Antony Horowitz classic in Sudbury On November 11th, The Falcon's Malteser comes to the Sudbury Quay Theatre. This hilarious family adventure, based on an Antony Horowitz bestseller, features slapstick, songs and four cast members playing 20 characters! The Diamond Brothers Detective agency (the inept Tim and his quick witted younger brother Nick) have to discover what's so important about a box of Maltesers, or else! On the night, a full book set of the Diamond Brothers series will be drawn as a prize for a child in the audience.

www.quaytheatre.org.uk

A Midsummer Night's Dream Beautifully British and bonkers - for the last two years, the Handlebards, a four-strong, all-male troupe of cycling players, have pedalled the length and breadth of the UK performing fast-paced, bicycle-powered Shakespearean productions. This summer they roll into Diss as part of a 1500 mile long tour of A Midsummer Night's Dream. They will complete the entire escapade off-grid by using dynamos to store cyclepower making them the first energy-positive touring theatre company on the planet. Described by Sir Ian McKellen as 'outrageous' and 'uproariously funny' this is Shakespeare performed with eight very sore legs!

www.disscornhall.co.uk 16 |

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eatre & Film

Jack the Ripper The Panto! Norwich Playhouse - December 10th-12th, 7.30pm It’s time to lock up your daughters (especially if they happen to

C O M P E T I T I O N

be prostitutes) – Jack’s back! By popular demand, Norwich-based Arts Company Spooky Kid Productions are bringing their hit dark pantomime back to the stage. Based on police files, witness testimony and a whole load of stuff that we just made up, this is not only a new theory of the identity of the killer known as Jack The Ripper but also a love story with murders, prostitutes, drugs and a good oldfashioned sing song. Cheer on our hero, Jack, as he slaughters his way across 19th century London. Boo the bumbling bobbies as they completely fail to bring him to justice. And please make sure you leave the kids at home. Not suitable for under 18s or for anyone who thinks the idea of a pantomime about Jack the Ripper is neither big nor clever.

WIN TICKETS ARTSeast has teamed up with Norwich Playhouse to offer one lucky reader four tickets to the opening night of Jack the Ripper The Panto on December 10th. To be in with a chance of winning please email your name, address and phone number to info@artseast.co.uk Closing date: November 23rd, usual terms and conditions apply. November 2015 | 17

eatre & Film

Glyndebourne on Tour Norwich Theatre Royal, November 17th-21st Glyndebourne’s 2015 visit to Norwich Theatre Royal sees three exciting and imaginative opera productions presented, Photo: Bill Cooper

all with stunning costumes, breath-taking music and performances from the next generation of opera stars.

Selim, a Turkish despot. Entführung is considered Mozart’s first

First to be performed will be Don Pasquale, directed by

fully mature opera and boasts some of his most spectacular

Mariame Clément. This opulent period staging catches the

vocal music.

sparkling essence of Donizetti’s tuneful tale of an old

Handel’s Saul is on stage on November 20th, at 7.15pm. The

bachelor’s romantic delusions and the young lovers who

opera features a musical score of heart-breaking beauty and

outwit him and is on stage on November 17th at 7.15pm, and on November 19th, at 2pm.

intensity taking the audience into a nightmare world of madness and despair. The first of Handel’s great English

Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serail will be performed on

oratorios, Saul is an evening of dramatic choruses, bravura

November 18th, and November 21st, at 7.15pm. It tells the

solo singing and the famous ‘Dead March’, telling the well-

tale of the young Spanish nobleman Belmonte as he attempts

known Biblical tale of the first King of Israel’s love and

to rescue his fiancé Konstanze from the harem of Pasha

loathing for his eventual successor, David.

16:25 Page 1

NOVEMBER BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00 Mon 2 - Sat 7 Nov THE LAST TANGO Strictly superstars Vincent and Flavia in their ultimate farewell stage show £8 - £37.50

Sun 8 Nov STEWART LEE Thought-provoking, satirical stand-up £8 - £21

Tues 10 - Sat 14 Nov HANDBAGGED Olivier award-winning comedy starring Susie Blake £7 - £24

Tues 24 - Sat 28 Nov THE NUTCRACKER Northern Ballet's production of magical Christmas ballet £8 - £37.50

The Last Tango

Sun 15 Nov BRIT FLOYD Sonically perfect and visually awesome Pink Floyd show £8 - £32.50

Tues 17 - Sat 21 Nov GLYNDEBOURNE OPERA World class opera: Donizetti, Mozart and Handel £8 - £53

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk T H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L 18 |

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eatre & Film

Panto Time at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange The Adventures of Robin Hood, December 10th- January 3rd King’s Lynn Corn Exchange’s magical pantomime extravaganza this year is The Adventures of Robin Hood. Journey with them into the enchanted world of Sherwood Forest as Robin Hood and his motley band of Merry Men clean up at the annual archery contest, wind up the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham, and battle to rescue Maid Marian from his evil clutches…all without laddering their tights. This brand new adventure has all the ingredients for a classic pantomime, with stunning costumes, live music and the usual comedy mayhem. Robin Hood stars Shaun Williamson (EastEnders, Extras) who will play the Sheriff of Nottingham.Will Scarlett will be played by Steven Kynman (CBeebies’ Robert The Robot) and returning by popular demand is King’s Lynn’s favourite Dame, the hilarious Ian Marr who this year will be playing Dame Double Top!

Viscera/Afternoon of a Faun/Tchaikovsky pas de deux/Carmen (encore) Sunday 15th November 2pm Starring: Marianella Nunez, Federico Bonelli, Laura Morera, Ryoichi Hirano, Sarah Lamb, Natalia Osipova, Steven McRae Enjoy a quadruple programme from The Royal Ballet. Carlos Acosta`s choreography focuses on love, jealousy and revenge in his new production of Carmen Tickets £15.00 Code ROHCarmen £12.50

Goya Tuesday 1st December 7.00pm The National Gallery London. Francisco Goya is Spain’s most celebrated artist and considered the father of modern art. Tickets £12.50 Code NGLgoya £10

The Mikado Thursday 3rd December 7.30pm English National Opera Set in an ever-so English 1930s seaside hotel, The combination of Gilbert’s virtuosic wit, Sullivan’s memorable melodies and Miller’s hilarious antics is irresistible.Tickets £15.00 Sung in English Recorded live from The Royal Opera House Tickets £15.00 Code ENOMik £12.50

Of Mice and Men Thursday 19th November 7.00pm (encore) Starring: Leighton Meester & Jim Norton. Directed by Anna D Shapiro The hit Broadway production Of Mice and Men. National Theatre Live Tickets £15.00 Code NTLMice £12.50

Tickets bookable at the Riverside Theatre Box Office on 01394 382174 or online at www.theriverside.co.uk

November 2015 | 19

eatre & Film

A GIANT Panto comes to Beccles this Christmas The cast of Beccles' first professional pantomime Jack & the Beanstalk, are counting down the days until the production opens at the town's newly refurbished Public Hall & Theatre. The pantomime follows the tale of Dame Trott, her son Jack and loud-mouthed cow Daisy, who are in need of money. The evil Mr Fleshcreep threatens that if they don’t pay the rent they will all be eaten by the nasty giant. And when Jack is sent to the market to sell their beloved cow, he comes home with a handful of beans instead. The show will be packed with upbeat songs, dazzling costumes, stunning scenery and special effects. The show features well-known London actor Michael Heywood, who takes on the role of Dame Trott and West-end performer Emma Riches in the leading role of Jack. They are joined by one of the UK’s top children’s entertainers Johnny Jaffacake playing Simple Simon. Actor Dave Higgins takes the role of Fleshcreep, the giant’s sidekick, and bringing magic to pantoland is Helen Harper, who will wave her wand as Fairy Bio. The production also includes students from local dance and performing arts school ‘Totally Wicked.' Ryan Holt, one of the producers, said; ‘We’re thrilled to be bringing a professional pantomime to Beccles this Christmas and have been overwhelmed with the support from local people and businesses within the town, not to mention the large amount of early bookings.'

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eatre eatre& &Film Film

Kid’s Corner Dare we say it but Christmas is fast approaching! Amidst the shopping, decorating and present wrapping, why not relax and take the kids to see one of the amazing Christmas shows on across the region…. Beccles Public Hall - Jack & The Beanstalk (Dec 26th-Jan 2nd)

St George's Theatre, Great Yarmouth Cinderella (Dec 18th-Jan 10th)

Marina Theatre, Lowestoft - Sleeping Beauty (Dec 15th - Jan 2nd)

Beccles' first professional panto promised to be a GIANT adventure as you follow the exploits of Jack and his magic beans

Join Cinderella and the Ugly Sisters as they fight to win the hand of Prince Charming.

Having been cursed by a naughty fairy, Princess Aurora is doomed to slumber forever until awoken by true love's kiss. Suitable for all ages

www.stgeorgestheatre.com

www.marinatheatre.co.uk

www.becclespublichall.org.uk Fisher Theatre, Bungay - The Wizard of Oz (Dec 19th - January 3rd) Click your heels, journey over the rainbow and ease on down the yellow brick road with Dorothy and friends. www.fishertheatre.org

Bury Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds Jack & The Beanstalk (Nov 27th-Jan 10th) The story of Jack, a handful of beans, a cow and a giant will be full of magic, music and fun. Suitable for all ages.

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich - The Sword in the Stone (Nov 26th-Jan 30th) This brand new rock and roll panto is a new take on the legendary tale of King Arthur.

Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich - The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (Dec 18th-Jan 2nd)

www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Join Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy as they embark on a magical mystery tour to the Land of Narnia through the wardrobe. Suitable for all ages.

Ipswich Regent - Aladdin (Dec 19th-30th)

www.maddermarket.co.uk

Take a magical carpet ride to the Far East as you follow the adventures of Aladdin. Suitable for all ages www.ipswichregent.com

www.theatreroyal.org

Norwich Theatre Royal - Snow White (Dec 15th-Jan 17th) Cambridge Corn Exchange - Horrible Christmas (Dec 14th-Jan 9th)

King's Lynn Corn Exchange - Robin Hood (Dec 10th-Jan 3rd)

The Horrible Histories team present the terrible tale of Christmas as it's never been told before!

Head to the enchanted world of Sherwood Forest to join Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men as they attempt to rescue Maid Marian.

www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/cornex

Who's the fairest of them all? Join Show White and the Seven Dwarfs in one of the UK's best-loved pantomimes. Suitable for all ages. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk November 2015 | 21

A Passion for the Arts With an impressive haul of awards under their belt in recent

NAC takes a real pride in its artist development activity, it forms

months, Norwich Arts Centre is flying high. Here we catch up

part of our year round work and we have had a few notable

with their Director, Pasco-Q Kevlin...

successes. Last year we produced a show (Klanghaus) with

'Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been at Norwich Arts Centre for almost three years and love being part of a venue with such a celebrated history. NAC is an important contributor to the culture of the city and county, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been bringing contemporary art, music and performance to Norwich for over 35 years.

one of our associate artists, The Neutrinos. The show was hugely successful at the Edinburgh Festival, receiving 5 star reviews and credited by The Guardian as one of the five best shows at the Edinburgh Fringe that year. In 2015 NAC supported performance poet Luke Wright to develop his first play. What I learned from Johnny Bevan, which went on to win

In the last few years NAC has been honoured by various

a prestigious Fringe First Award at Edinburgh.

awards, including NME Best Small Venue and two Eastern Daily Press Peoples Choice Awards. The democratic nature, of these awards, are what have meant the most to us. People went out of their way and made an effort to say they thought we deserved to be acknowledged and celebrated.

22 |

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It is thrilling to be able to support our artists to go into the largest arts festival in Europe (arguably the world) and for their talent to be able to shine through and really make a mark on the international cultural scene.

eatre eatre& &Film Film

Our Performance (theatre, live art, dance and literature)

great feedback, we just want more people to come out and

programme has come on a long way, regularly bringing hit

take a chance on seeing the big names of tomorrow here in

shows from the Edinburgh Festival and the best shows being

our little venue.

created by artists right here in the East of England.

I feel really lucky to go to work in a beautiful building, with a

We do not want finance to be any sort of an obstacle to

great team and play a part in bringing fantastic art and music

people being ready and willing to see brand new work and so

to our audiences across the East of England.'

in 2014 we introduced a Pay What You Can scheme. This is

www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

proving to be quite successful and our audiences give us

T uesday 3 No vember Tuesday November

Novus Theatre : The Reverse Is Al so True Also

Latest from from award award winning playwright playwright Stephen Stephen M ay Latest May

PERFORMANCE OR C

8pm : P ay W hat Y ou C an Pay What You Can

norwichartscentre.co.uk 01603 660352 Image from Jammy Voo : BIRDHOUSE at NAC Wednesday 18 November

Wednesday 4 - Friday Friday 6 November November Wednesday

Paul Foot : A 3 Day Retrospective “A comedy comedy whirlwind” whirlwind” Three Three Weeks Weeks EEdinburgh dinburgh “A

8pm : £14 or Buy A Three for for £36 Allll Three T uesday 10 No vember Tuesday November

Badac Theatre : The Flood

“Brave, dark, dark, all consuming consuming and stunning” stunning”BroadwayWorld BroadwayWorld “Brave,

an 8pm : P ay W hat Y ou C Pay What You Can Wednesday 18 November November Wednesday

Jammy Voo : BIRDHOUSE

“Entertaining, smartly smartly staged absurdist absurdist tragedy” tragedy ”Guardian Guardian “Entertaining,

8pm : P ay W hat Y ou C an Pay What You Can Tuesday 1 D ecember Tuesday December

The People’s Republic of Poetry: A Firm of Poets “Properr, visceral visceral stuff Luke Wright Wright “Proper, stuff””Luke

an 8pm : P ay W hat Y ou C Pay What You Can Wednesday 2 December December Wednesday

Sh!t Theatre : Guinea Pigs on Tri al Trial “A heap of gawky, gawky, balshy balshy char m”Independent Independent “A charm”

8pm : P ay W hat Y ou C an Pay What You Can November 2015 | 23

With Ways with Words Literary Festival rolling into Southwold this month, we caught up with one of its guest speakers, the renowned local artist Maggi Hambling...

Coffee & aChat 24 |

www.artseast.co.uk

Victim 1

CoďŹ&#x20AC;ee & a Chat

Tucked away in a beautiful Suffolk village, Maggi Hambling's

various manifestations of war imagery in Maggi's art. One such

studio is a busy yet tranquil place.

work is a study in charcoal of a lone soldier taken from Manet's

'I work every day,' says Maggi. 'It's all I want to do.' And she means it. Even holidays are shunned in favour of staying put.

The Execution of Maximilian. This was drawn during Maggi's time as the National Gallery's first Artist in Residence back in 1980. From that moment on, war began to feature in her work. The final part of the

But this month, Maggi will be heading to the Ways with Words

book focuses on

Literary Festival in Southwold to speak about her new book War

Maggi's series of

Requiem & Aftermath alongside the book's author James Cahill.

sculptures known as

The book came out earlier this year to coincide with Maggi's

Aftermath. These

exhibition of the same name at King's College London.

sculptures are made

'I always get nervous

in wood clad in

before a talk,' says Maggi.

plaster and then cast

'When I paint or sculpt, I

in bronze and speak

work alone without even

of the time after death and of what remains.

the radio on so

'For years before beginning Aftermath, I'd collected interestingly

discussing my work in

shaped dead wood whenever and wherever I was out and

front of people is very

about,' says Maggi.

different. It's terrifying but hopefully a lot of fun too.' War Requiem & Aftermath focuses in the first instance on Maggi's famous installation War Requiem at Snape Maltings. 'The publisher approached James and I after I completed the installation at Snape back in 2013,' says Maggi. 'The installation came about as I was asked to respond to the life and legacy of

Aftermath (Victim 11)

It's fair to say Suffolk - and in particular it's coastline - has played a huge part both in Maggi's life and in her art. Her famous sculpture Scallop graces the beach at Aldeburgh, encouraging people to sit and contemplate the power of the sea. 'I've always been fascinated by the sea,' says Maggi. 'As a child I used to wade into the water and talk to the waves.' This fascination provided the now famous North Sea paintings and the Walls of Water.

Benjamin Britten as part of the centenary celebrations of his

'It all started when I was in Southwold one morning and the sea

birth. For me, his War Requiem Mass was an easy choice of

was fiercer than I've ever seen it,' says Maggi. 'These gigantic

inspiration.'

waves were crashing against the sea wall. Back in the studio, I

This response became a stunning installation of fifty paintings of

was consumed by what I'd seen.'

war victims and battlefields which is installed for one month of

In a modern age of computer screens and mobile phones, Maggi

each year at Snape.

is passionate about experiencing art in the flesh.

The book then moves on to take a retrospective look at the

'Only by standing in front of a painting can you experience the work properly,' says Maggi. 'As if it's right in front of you, before your very eyes.' You can hear Maggi and James discuss their book on November 6th at St Edmund's Hall, Southwold.

www.wayswithwords.co.uk

November 2015 | 25

Music

Music News Fisher Theatre: Beverley Craven After a massive forty-night tour of the UK in 2014, BRIT-Award winner Beverley Craven will be back on the road performing a handful of select venues in 2015 as she continues to promote her acclaimed latest album Change of Heart. Her tour rolls into the Fisher Theatre, Bungay on November 27th and promises to be a fantastic night. Beverley is looking forward to performing her new songs live alongside timeless classics Promise Me, Holding On, Woman To Woman, Love Scenes and many more.

100 years of Jazz in 99 Minutes On November 14th Norwich Playhouse is playing host to the only history of jazz from its birth to the present day - in 99 hilarious, musically brilliant, historically fascinating minutes. 100 Years of Jazz in 99 Minutes features six multi-instrumental jazz virtuosi who create a highly entertaining journey through the decades taking in everything from New Orleans to Be Bop, Swing to Latin, Hot to Cool, and from Chicago to New York to around the world. An A to Z of jazz’s biggest names from Louis Armstrong to Joe

With a witty narrative and unforgettable melodies, her poignant

Zawinul interspersed with fascinating facts and stories from the

sentiments will leave you with a warm glow of nostalgia, or

music’s amazing history.

maybe even the odd tear. www.fishertheatre.org

www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

Cambridge Music Festival From November 9th-19th the Cambridge Music Festival brings an explosion of sound to the city, with some of the world’s most virtuoso classical musicians, a groundbreaking percussionist, new works from the Young Composers’ Network and the ‘Little Britten’ project for local schools. CMF opens and closes with two of the most acclaimed pianists in the world. Sir András Schiff directs the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment with a beautiful programme of Schumann’s Piano Concerto, and Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture and Symphony No.3 ‘Scottish’, at West Road Concert Hall on Monday November 9th. Both Schiff and Federico Colli, who closes the festival, are former winners of the prestigious Leeds Piano Competition. Colli (pictured), who has dazzled the classical music world recently, plays a programme of Bach, Chopin, Beethoven and Scriabin at Jesus College Chapel on Thursday November 19th,

www.cambridgemusicfestival.co.uk

26 || www.artseast.co.uk www.artseast.co.uk

Norwich Cathedral: At the Heart of Norfolk Christmas is always a special time at Norwich Cathedral and

Scholar, Jonathan Stamp,'who performs Messiaen's La Nativité

this year's packed programme of services and music is no

du Seigneur.

exception. Join Norwich Cathedral Choir on December 11th for a festive celebration with carols for both choir and audience. The following night, enjoy a cosy evening of Christmas jazz classics with Laura White, also featuring Gary Winter, the Simon Brown Trio and special guests. On December 19th, Norwich Cathedral Chamber Choir and Norwich Baroque perform

Alongside the music, there are also many other arts and cultural events held at the Cathedral. The Cathedral website (www.cathedral.org.uk), relaunched in October, contains a fantastic What's On calendar to showcase these events including art and sculpture exhibitions, theatre performances, opera, talks and literary events.

Handel's Messiah by Candlelight - a beautiful piece in a stunning setting. On New Year's Day, Kris Thomsett, Assistant

To find out more about Norwich Cathedral go to the website or

Organist at Newcastle Cathedral, will give an organ recital at

search #mycathedral on YouTube or Facebook. Arts lovers will

11am, followed on January 10th by The Cathedral's Organ

find a myriad of reasons to make a trip to this stunning building.

New CD released ‘Christmas at Norwich’ Norwich Cathedral Choir’s latest recording, including the best-loved Christmas carols and a selection of beautiful festive choral music. Available from the Cathedral Gift Shop, priced £10.00. Featuring a number of items by composers with a special connection to the city of Norwich and Norwich Cathedral. For mail order details please contact us on giftshop@cathedral.org.uk or 01603 218323. Open Monday to Saturday 9.15am - 5.00pm and on Sunday 11.45am - 3.30pm.

www.cathedral.org.uk

November 2015 | 27

Music

Festive Treats from the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Carols from Cambridge, St Mary's Church, Bury St Edmunds December 8th, 1.10pm Christmas is always a special time for the Theatre Royal, Bury St

COMPETITION

Edmunds and this year is no exception! The Theatre has been a hive of activity getting ready for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s panto, Jack & The Beanstalk. This December also sees the return of another annual festive favourite to the town. The Chapel Choir of Selwyn College Cambridge present a seasonal line up of traditional carols and arrangements by John Rutter, David Willcocks and Philip Moore. Led by Conductor Sarah Macdonald, this ever popular concert set in the beautiful surroundings of St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church promises to get your Christmas spirit flowing! Tickets can be booked by contacting the Box Office on 01284 769505 or online at www.theatreroyal.org

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WIN TICKETS ARTSeast has teamed up with the Theatre Royal to offer one lucky reader two tickets to Carols from Cambridge on December 8th. To be in with a chance of winning, just email your name, address and telephone number to info@artseast.co.uk. Closing date: November 23rd, terms and conditions apply.

A Passion for Performance

Our region is awash with local talent across all areas of the

Singing Edith is the

arts. Here we chat to singer and performer Julie Hewitt about

most compelling and

her career so farâ&#x20AC;Ś

amazing experience, and never pales.'

Local Norfolk performer Julie Hewitt has been singing and acting across the region for some time now. 'As someone who

Proud to be able to

was painfully shy in my school days finding my feet, and voice,

'do her bit' raising

on the stage is something which I'll be eternally grateful for,'

funds for charitable

says Julie. She didn't find the courage to step onstage until her

causes through

twenties but, after being encouraged by a friend to join a drama society, the world of scripts, rehearsals and costumes became a

performance, Julie's next fund raising show is a 1930's soiree of song for

way of life. Since then, Julie has embraced roles from panto

the Norfolk and Norwich Liver Group on November 28th at The

princesses to tragic heroines and sultry sirens to ditzy dames!

Benjamin Gooch Theatre at the NNUH. Next year also sees an

'My particular favourites have included Cabaret, an open air

evening of Valentine's Day Love Songs, 1930's classics, Songs

production of The Railway Children,Calendar Girls and a recent

Inspired by Shakespeare, and of course, 'Piaf' at Maddermarket

production of Murder on the Nile,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; says Julie.

Theatre, Norwich.

With cabaret group 'Showbitz' Julie has the pleasure of

By day Julie is the Office Supervisor at arts and community

performing the West End hits that she loves, whilst helping to

charity Creative Arts East. 'I'm exceptionally fortunate to work for

raise funds for good causes. 'Recently I've been developing my

an arts organisation supporting local communities, and to be

love of writing with musical revues and two shows so far, says

able to balance that with performing in my own time,' says

Julie. 'Together with my partner David Rees I've also been able

Julie. 'It's all go but I wouldn't have it any other way.'

to fulfil a long held ambition to perform the songs of my musical idol, the French singer Edith Piaf in an original tribute show. November 2015 | 29

Arts Council

Cultural Education Essential to the Success of Future Generations

Photo: E Houlton

School is an important time in our children’s lives for many reasons; it is a time when they develop intellectually, and learn skills that will support them in their future careers. It is also a time when they begin to really carve out who they are, who they want to be. It is when they really start to understand the world around them and how they want to be part of that

Artsmark Award Children and young people are an essential part of the Arts Council’s mission of Great art and culture for everyone. One of the ways in which we are working to improve provision of cultural education is through the refreshed Artsmark Award.

world. Arts and culture are an essential part of this,

Artsmark Award is now in its fifteenth year and has helped the

supporting children and young people to develop their

Arts Council and schools around the country to ensure more

creativity, both individually and collectively. We all have a responsibility to ensure that all children and young people can benefit from an inspiring cultural education, no matter where they start in life. We have a remarkable record of producing individual talent – in science, in industry and in the arts. This talent is driving our economy, particularly the creative sector, which is growing rapidly and now provides one in 20 jobs and is worth around £77billion each year. 30 |

www.artseast.co.uk

children and young people have access to high quality arts and culture. Building on previous success, the Arts Council has now refreshed Artsmark Award. It opened this autumn and offers schools greater opportunity to build arts and culture into the school curriculum and their wider strategic ambitions. Perhaps the most important aspect is the fact that it is forward looking. It allows schools to set ambitious objectives for their arts and cultural provision in school – encouraging schools to

Arts Council

Photo: C Brooks

Photo: Calum Barloe

Most importantly, the Cultural Education Challenge asks leaders across the arts, education, local authorities, schools, higher education institutions and others to create new ways of working – sharing their resources to create joined-up arts and cultural provision locally, at a time when public funding continually evolve and improve their offer, and therefore

remains under pressure.

creating more opportunities. The Cultural Education Challenge will encourage the creation Over the 2015 summer term, 100 schools from across

of local ‘cultural education partnerships’. Drawing on three

England took part in an Artsmark Award pilot – including 10

successful pilots – one of which was established in Great

from our region. Many more schools from across England are

Yarmouth – these will see a range of organisations come

now registering to become an Artsmark Award school and set

together to ensure children and young people have the

out their commitment to offering a comprehensive cultural

opportunity to access and participate in arts and culture –

provision – in and out of the school curriculum – for all their

from a theatre performance or musical performance, through

pupils.

to a poetry slam or hip hop dance.

For more information about Artsmark Award, please visit:

The Arts Council has already identified 50 cultural partnerships

http://www.artsmark.org.uk/

across the country where there is both most need and greatest

Cultural Education Challenge

opportunity for success. These will be up to full strength by

In a recognition that cultural education can vary from place to place and school to school, the Arts Council has launched the Cultural Education Challenge. It urges all those working in the

2018 – with an emphasis on developing them in areas of most need. For more information about the Arts Council’s Cultural

arts and education industries to work together in offering a

Education Challenge, please visit:

consistent education for all children and young people.

www.artscouncil.org.uk/culturaleducationchallenge November 2015 | 31

What’s On

Stunning British Crafts at Blackthorpe Barn

This November and December the very best of British Crafts

Each weekend from November 14th through to December

descend on the beautiful Blackthorpe Barn in Rougham, just

13th, the Barn adds a further dimension to the already

outside Bury St Edmunds, to create one of the best craft

wonderful Christmas event as over 130 of the country’s best

events the country sees – and being a 25th anniversary this

crafts people display the results of their amazing talents with

year will be one to remember.

over 60 showing each weekend. As visitors wonder through the oak beamed barn they are treated to an awe-inspiring experience with a fabulous mix of beautiful ceramics and glassware, stunning wooden creations, rousing paintings and sculpture, elegant jewellery, striking textiles, knitwear and fabric prints, natural beauty products, yummy edible treats and so

It’s our

2ye5th ar

much more. You can also chat with the makers or perhaps see them at work and, as many exhibitors change each weekend, there is something different to see each time you visit, perfect for providing inspiration for gifts or to simply take the plunge and treat yourself. Alongside the crafts there is also much more to see during your

Blackthorpe Barn Shop

Crafts

30 Oct-27 Nov, 10am-5pm 14-15, 21-22, 28-29 Nov, 28 Nov-22 Dec, 5-6, 12-13 Dec 9am-5.30pm 10am-5pm

Grotto

19-20 Dec, 10am5pm includes magic show, storytelling and workshops

jammed full of tree and home decorations, advents and angels,

Trees plus natural decorations 28 Nov-22 Dec 9am-5.30pm

Kids’ Festival Workshops

21 Nov-22 Dec, 11am-4pm Tickets available online only

visit including the hugely popular Country Christmas Shop

Book your place on our wreath/garland/ mobile workshops

Cafe 30 Oct-22 Dec 10am-4pm, 10am-5pm at Crafts weekends

www.blackthorpebarn.com J45 A14. Rougham, 3 miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9HZ

32 |

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candles and candy, lanterns and a huge lighting selection. Rougham Estate's Christmas Trees, renowned for their quality and longevity, are also ready to choose from November 28th. There's also a delicious range of snacks, treats, freshly-baked cakes and refreshments available at the popular cafe.

WIN TICKETS November 20th 2015 – January 4th 2016 The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival is back and back in style, giving you the opportunity to get into the spirit of Christmas throughout the festive season. Featuring an icy extravaganza in the heart of the city centre, this annual festival is centred around a stunning 600m open-air ice rink, great for a fun filled day out with family & friends. Experience interactive side stalls and let us bring out the big kid in you with our traditional fair. Equipped with gifts, children will get their chance to meet Santa and one of his Elves in Santa’s Throne Room. The festival is made for all to enjoy so no matter what, there is something for everyone. Ice Skating - adults peak time price £10.95 children £7.95, PLUS concessions & season tickets available. Fairground rides: from £2.00, Santa’s Throne Room from £6.50. Tickets on sale now. ARTSeast has teamed up with The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival to offer five pairs of tickets to skate on the stunning ice rink. To be in with a chance of winning, email your name, address, and telephone number to info@artseast.co.uk. Closing date: November 23rd, terms and conditions apply.

CHRISTMAS FROST FAIR EXQUISITE PRESENTS FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT HATFIELD GIFT SHOP STABLE YARD RETAILERS GIFTS, CRAFTS & FINE FOODS DROP IN XMAS WORKSHOPS FATHER CHRISTMAS

OVER 200 EXHIBITORS 10AM - 5PM Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 26th - 29th November 2015 Held in The Old Palace, Riding School, Stable Yard & Heated Marquees on Palace Green Adults £6, Accompanied children (under 16) Free

www.frostfair.co.uk ORGANISED BY: Battenburg Events Ltd, www.battenburgevents.co.uk www.hatfield-house.co.uk

Supporting

November 2015 | 33

Rachel Joyce

What’s On

The Lavenham Literary Festival History, thrills and seasonal tales are celebrated with the world of spies, both fictional and the very real, at the Lavenham Literary Festival, from November 15th-17th. Programme highlights include John Higgs presenting his ‘Stranger Than We Can Imagine: Making Sense of the Twentieth Century’ on Friday evening at Lavenham Guildhall. On Saturday morning at Lavenham Village Hall literary enthusiasts will hear the inside story of ‘The 39 Steps’. John Buchan’s much filmed novel is regarded as the template of the modern Toby Buchan

thriller and his grandson Toby

Buchan will talk about the literary firecrackers his famous grandfather set off with the creation of his hero, Major-General

GAY HUTCHINGS GLASS ARTIST I make colourful and original pieces of glass, mostly freestanding in the form of glass sculptures rather than functional pieces. My inspiration comes mainly from nature in its many shapes and forms, based on my travels and the Suffolk countryside. I also work with the human figure. Please phone or email to make an appointment in my Lavenham studio.

W: www.gayhutchings.com E: gayhc@me.com T: 07770 881960 34 |

www.artseast.co.uk

Photo: Gaby Gerster Laif Camerapress

Sir Richard Hannay, KCB, OBE, DSO, Legion of Honour, one hundred years ago this autumn. Toby Buchan, as Lord Tweedsmuir he is the Honorary President of the John Buchan Society, will be talking to the thriller writer Peter Guttridge (Saturday, November 16, 10am). Rachel Joyce, the award winning writer of more than 30 Radio 4 afternoon plays and novels including,’The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry’, speaks in the afternoon about ‘A Snow Garden’ her Christmas connected collection of stories. Distinguished historian Tom Holland is guest speaker at the first night dinner in the Swan Hotel’s Gallery restaurant. With Tom’s ‘Dynasty’ on the bestseller list, it’s not surprising the evening is a sell out with a waiting list. But Tom Holland will also make a book signing appearance at the Lavenham Village Hall at 11am on Saturday morning following the John Buchan celebration. Tickets for the Literary Festival, starting at £8 per session, can be booked by calling 01284 769505 or online at www.theatreroyal.org; for details about the programme visit www.lavenhamliteraryfestival.co.uk.

What’s On

What’s On – Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in our region. If you’d

November 21st - 22nd – Christmas Craft Fair weekend at

like an event, show, exhibition, performing arts class, festival,

Oddfellows Hall, Lifeboat Plain, Sheringham. Varied selection of

talk or anything else arts-related included in our listings section,

stalls, refreshments available. Open 10-4, free entry.

please get in touch. Each listing costs just £15 (no VAT) and you can pay by cheque to Falcon Publications or by PayPal to

THEATRE & FILM

info@artseast.co.uk. If you’d prefer to pay by BACS online, call 01379 773347 for account details. To submit a listing, email

November 11th – Following on from their great success in

details to info@artseast.co.uk. We need details 8 weeks before

London and at the Edinburgh Fringe, performance troupe Figs

the date of the event to guarantee inclusion.

in Wigs perform their latest show 'Show Off' which looks at social media and the concept of 'self.' Colchester Arts Centre. Tickets - 01206 500900, www.colchesterartscentre.com

MUSIC

November 13th – So Comedy, So Television presents Hardeep

November 20th – Talented musician and singer songwriter

Singh-Kohli: Big Mouth Strikes Again. Immensely funny show

Newton Faulkner is on tour this month with his fifth album

from this comedian, broadcaster, journalist and chef. Sudbury

Human Love. Open Norwich. Tickets - 01603 763111,

Quay. Tickets - 01787 374745, www.quaytheatre.org.uk

www.opennorwich.org.uk November 18th and 28th – John Knowles brings the music November 22nd – The Norfolk Symphony Orchestra perform

and magic of Sir Noel Coward to the Maddermarket Theatre's

Dvorak's New World of Symphony, Stravinsky's Jeu de Cartes

Redwell Bar. Tickets - 01603 620917,

and Elgar's Allegro for Strings. King's Lynn Corn Exchange.

www.maddermarket.co.uk

Tickets - 01553 764864, www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

LITERARY FESTIVALS November 26th – Mashing folk music with rock and roll, The Waterboys are back with their 11th album Modern Blues released this year. Expect the unexpected! Cambridge Corn Exchange. Tickets - www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

November 5th - 9th – Ways with Words Literature Festival in Southwold. Engage in books and ideas in the most comfortable of settings. Authors include Maggi Hambling, Shirley Williams, Terry Waite and Douglas Hurd. Tickets - 01803 867373,

ARTS & CRAFTS

www.wayswithwords.co.uk

November 21st - 23rd – Walsham-le-Willows Arts & Crafts

November 13th -15th – Lavenham Literary Festival. A first-

Group Exhibition: 10 local artists exhibit their work: Metalwork,

class line up of authors are taking to the stage at the fourth

Ceramics, Jewellery, Cast-glass, Spinning & Knitting, Batik, Oils,

biennial literary festival including Kate Mosse, Shelia Hancock

Oil Pastels, Watercolours & Printmaking. The Priory Room, The

and Rachel Joyce. Ticket through the box office of The Theatre

Causeway, Walsham-le-Willows. 10-6 daily, free admission.

Royal Bury St Edmunds on 01284 769505, www.theatreroyal.org

November 20th - 22nd – Sandringham Craft, Food & Gift Fair. Artists, designers, potters, wood turners, textile artists, florists

November 28th - 29th – Cambridge Literary Festival. Engage

and jewellers display their wares and demonstrate their work.

with the newest fiction, cutting edge commentary and science,

There's a Fine Food Hall for the perfect gift or a bite of lunch.

children's events and much more. Featuring Jenny Eclair, Jon

www.sandringhamestate.co.uk

McGregor, Jonathan Dimbleby, Simon Schama among others. Tickets - www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com

November 2015 | 35

Local Arts Scene: î&#x20AC;&#x201A;e Pulhams

Photography: Ian Foster, Copy Concept

Picture Perfect Villages Comprising two villages - Pulham Market and Pulham St

of the counties most beautiful buildings, furniture maker Derrick

Mary - the Pulhams are a picturesque little creative hub, just

Ibbott whose bespoke creations truly are a work of art and

15 miles south of Norwich.

Kidzfancypantz, designing and handmaking children's clothes

Steeped in history, both villages thrived in the 14th century and became sufficiently wealthy to build their own churches. It is believed that Pulham Market's stunning thatched public house The Crown was built to house the workers building the church

and fancy dress costumes To celebrate the Millennium a group of volunteers from the village began a stunning tapestry in 2000 which became a 6ft 6in by 4ft 6in masterpiece currently housed in Pulham Market's Memorial Hall.

behind. In Tudor times, Pulham Market became famous for its

Pulham St Mary is home to the award-winning Pennoyer Centre

cottage industries manufacturing hats, dornicks and coverlets

which holds art classes, craft fairs and exhibitions as well as

and even had its own Guildhall.

showing films and hosting live music nights. The village is also

The arts have always been strong in The Pulhams with a very popular amateur dramatics group, Pulham Players and its very own Pulham Village Orchestra. It also plays host to a popular yearly music days where local artists perform on the village green. Artists and craftsmen have long been drawn to the area and many have set up home or a studio here. Pulham Market is also home to a number of creative businesses including Norfolk Pamments, whose tiles have graced the floors of many

famed for being the base for the operation of airships, known locally as 'Pulham Pigs' because of their shape. By 1918 more than 3000 men were stationed at RNAS Pulham, a Royal Navy base. The R34 airship, based at Pulham, made the first historic two-way crossing of the Atlantic in 1919. A photographic display on the Pulham Pigs can be viewed at the Pennoyer Centre. For a small place, the Pulhams has a lot to offer.

November 2015 | 37

Local Arts Scene: î&#x20AC;&#x201A;e Pulhams

The Creative Heart of Pulham St Mary In the centre of Pulham St Mary is a very special business, heritage, education and community venue. Based in a restored 15th Century Guild Chapel and Victorian School, The Pennoyer Centre is open to the public six days a week. It offers a mix of classes, exhibitions, events, films and quizzes

programme a team of local people were successful in securing grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other organisations to fund the ÂŁ1.6 million restoration. The Centre, which is a registered charity, opened in summer 2010.

and has a popular licensed cafe. The Centre also houses a

The Pennoyer Centre is also a stylish wedding venue with its

Heritage Gallery where you can find out more about the

tranquil, elegant Guild Chapel licensed for civil ceremonies.

building's history as both a chapel and a school, as well as airship memorabilia relating to the manufacture of airships locally. The Pennoyer Centre first captured the public's imagination

On November 7th, The Pennoyer Centre is holding its Christmas Craft Fair showcasing a range of handmade products including bags, jewellery, greeting cards, felt crafts, cushions, wreaths, ceramics, stained glass and much more. It also holds regular

when it was featured on the BBC's Restoration Village TV series.

dance classes, mixed media art workshops and has its own

At the time it was a derelict building at risk. After the

book club. www.pennoyers.org.uk

A Community Orchestra The Pulham Orchestra is a vibrant amateur community orchestra with an established history of performance, workshop delivery, mentoring and assisting young aspiring players and working in collaboration with schools, voluntary organisations and professional musicians. The Orchestra meets at Pulham Market Memorial Hall on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday afternoon in the month. There's a regular adult membership of over 30 players who perform three to four times a year. Programmes cover a wide range of music and are

well as standard orchestral works. The music is available to hire to other local groups. For a small deposit and modest termly hire fees, people can also hire out orchestral instruments.

tailored to the venue and the occasion. The Pulham Orchestra

New members are always welcome. No audition is required but

also supports a more intensive biennial weekend of study and

members do need some sight-reading ability. To see the

rehearsal with guest conductors and tutors held by the Waveney

orchestra in action, head to Pulham Market Parish Church for

Valley Orchestral Workshop.

Come & Sing Carols with The Pulham Orchestra on Wed Dec

Over the years, the Orchestra has built up its own library which contains music for strings, wind and chamber ensembles as 38 |

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16th at 7pm, all welcome. For more information go to www.pvo.org.uk.

Putting on a Show Despite its tiny size, Pulham Market is home to the award-

A past childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workshop

helping out in one of the many behind the scenes roles

winning Pulham Players amateur dramatics society. The

including scenery, prop-making, costumes, backstage or helping

village has a long history of amateur productions dating right

front of house.

back to the 1890s. The current Pulham Players re-formed in 1981, initially to raise funds for a village hall extension. Since then the group has gone from strength to strength.

Well-loved by locals who support their shows, Pulham Players have also gained much acclaim from further afield for the quality of their productions. Last year, their play No Sex Please

Pulham Players is

We're British won the award

a friendly society

for Best Play in the Eastern

whose members

Region from the National

range in age from

Operatic and Dramatic

8 to 81. They

Association.

stage at least two

Currently Pulham Players

productions a

are working on their

year including

panto for January 2016.

their ever-popular

Their production of Jack

panto in January

and the Beanstalk marks

and a play or

a directorial debut for

musical in May /

Jodie Goldsmith who

June. New

has been a member of

members are

the group since she was a child. It promises to be just as

always very

professional, funny and entertaining as usual with a fantastic

welcome whether

cast. Tickets for the pantomime go on sale on November 28th.

on stage or Current director Jodie Goldsmith

To find out more go to www.pulhamplayers.com November 2015 | 39

Local Arts Scene: e Pulhams

Norfolk Pamments: As Good as Old Tucked away behind a large farmhouse in Pulham Market is a very small family business where just four people work together to handmake

traditional way from local clays and local sand. As they are

and market traditional

individually made, their lack of uniformity gives a timeless

terracotta floor tiles. The

quality. Perfect for conservation work, they have been chosen

business was started 20

by the National Trust, English Heritage and County Council

years ago when the all but

conservation officers for churches and historic buildings

forgotten local

including Bury St Edmunds and Norwich Cathedrals. They are

manufacture of pamment

a popular choice for renovating cottages and houses, as well

tiles, which had been

as for barn conversions. Used in newbuilds, they add

common for hundreds of

character and style. Outdoors, they blend effortlessly in

years, was revived.

gardens as paths ,patios and features.

Pamments are skilfully handmade in the

Norfolk pamments is run by Annie Leigh, who continues to make personalised biodegradable eco-urns for cremation ashes. Her background as an artist with a particular interest in sculpture, combined with the expertise of the others, brings a creative approach to the simple manufacturing process. The clay itself is a fascinating material, thousands of years old, sometimes dotted with fossil remains. Together the team are exploring the possibilities of adding new colours to the existing range by searching out different East Anglian clays. Customers are encouraged to personalise

traditional hand-made terracotta floor tiles

their pamments by having their child's foot or handprint impressed into an unfired tile (a dog paw print works well too). Annie engraves pamments to

info@pamments.co.uk www.pamments.co.uk

order with house or family

01379 674595 07940 852651

images, to make their mark

names, dates as well as which will last as long as the floor.

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Local Arts Scene: î&#x20AC;&#x201A;e Pulhams

Pulham Market Millennium Tapestry In 2000, a group of volunteers decided to stitch a tapestry

608,000 stitches. The basic design is enhanced with details top-

depicting village buildings and activities through the years

stitched on the wool with silk. The left hand side of the tapestry

from the mediaeval market to the modern Music Day. It was a

generally represents modern Pulham Market with the right hand

chance to show Pulham Market in all its glory.

side mostly showing the village in the past. At each corner of

It was an ambitious project taking a staggering fifteen months of planning from the idea's inception to the insertion of the first stitch. In total the project took five years to design and stitch,

the tapestry is a series of small squares which symbolise village organisations past and present. The central panel is of the village green and the activities that have taken place there.

with working hours estimated at 10,000 and total cost of

The tapestry is mounted inside Pulham Market Memorial Hall,

ÂŁ8000. There were just 14 stitchers but many more helpers on

housed in a magnificent arts and crafts style English oak

the sidelines offering donations, fund-raising support and any

cabinet, designed and made by local craftsman Derrick Ibbott. It

other help needed.

is displayed in three panels to form a triptych and is open to

The stunning Tapestry is made up of nine picture panels and four pieces of border and measures 6ft 6ins by 4ft 6ins. It is stitched using over 500 mixes of wool and includes over

view on public occasions. Private viewings for groups and parties can be arranged by contacting Jean Croft on 01379 853965. www.pulham-market.co.uk

November 2015 | 41

Local Arts Scene: e Pulhams

Spotlight on.... Furniture Designer and Cabinet Maker Derrick Ibbott Q. Please explain your background and the type of work that you do? I started to work with wood as a young boy and I was hooked. I started working for a cabinet maker as a teenager and just

Q. What inspires you? It can be the simplest thing. A form, geometric shapes, a pattern, nature, timber itself.

Q What is your most memorable commission to date?

loved being in a workshop environment. It was like home. I went to Norwich city college and did the time old city and

Probably ‘Form’ which is a coffee table in English walnut. This

guilds furniture making course and then worked for various

was a special one for me as it was for local clients using

furniture makers over several years. In 2000 I started up

timber from their felled Pulham Market walnut tree. It was also

Derrick Ibbott Furniture making bespoke furniture to

the start of a new direction for me and was a very pleasurable

commission. We make such a huge variety of work from small

piece to make.

boxes, side tables, cabinets, dining tables and chairs, fitted

Q. What is it about Pulham Market that you love?

furniture and beautiful hand made kitchens. We also undertake restoration and provide a repolishing service.

Pulham Market is a lovely village. I have worked and lived here for several years, it has a great community, beautiful

Q. What does your typical day involve?

scenery, lots going on through the year and a great pub with

My days vary depending on what's needed. It may be

fantastic food. I started off at ‘Gables Yard’ a heavenly spot

designing for a commission, or a new exhibition piece,

right in the centre of Pulham. Then I moved down the road to

ordering materials, visiting clients, as well as lots of actual

Pulham Market Hall to larger premises. I love being on a farm

furniture making.

and we have lots of thriving businesses here which is a great thing to be amongst.

www.derrickibbott.co.uk

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minute survey Take a few minutes to complete our ARTSeast reader survey to be in with a chance of winning a meal for two at the sumptuous Crown Inn in Pulham Market.

The Crown Inn Country Pub and Kitchen serves up perfect ale and a delicious menu made from fresh local ingredients, all in an idyllic country setting. With its thatched roof, roaring fire and beautiful views overlooking the village green it's the perfect for a relaxing meal. ARTSeast has teamed up with The Crown Inn to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a meal for two. To be in with a chance of winning, just complete this page and post to ARTSeast, DBH 21, Diss Business Park, Hopper Way, Diss, IP22 4GT

Name

Address Tel no

Winners will be notified by letter. The prize must be booked in advance via email and will be subject to availability. It excludes the Christmas menu and promotional menus and is valid until the end of January 2016. Closing date for entries: November 23rd

ARTSeast www.artseast.co.uk

DBH 21, Diss Business Park, Hopper Way Diss, Norfolk IP22 4GT

Tel: 01379 773347 Email: info@artseast.co.uk