Dark drama at Theatre Royal Windsor

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Trial by media examined in Accolade starring Ayden Callaghan and Honeysuckle Weeks

Theatre Royal Windsor is delighted to be staging two plays directed by award-winning director Sean Mathias this year starting with Accolade this month.

Ayden Callaghan and Honeysuckle Weeks are to lead the cast in Emlyn Williams’ gripping drama Accolade, the first play in this year’s Sean Mathias season.

Ayden Callaghan is best known for his roles as Joe Roscoe (Hollyoaks), Miles De Souza (Emmerdale) and as Frank Farmer in last year’s UK tour of The Bodyguard The Musical.

Honeysuckle Weeks became a popular face on television playing Sam Stewart (Foyle’s War). She has just finished touring the UK in the role of Cora in Calendar Girls the Musical.

In Accolade, Ayden will play the protagonist Will Trenting, with Honeysuckle, his socially ambitious wife, Rona. Whilst William’s dark and sinister play originally stems back to 1950, the underlying tensions, couped with the fragility of one’s personal reputation, make this play as relevant today as when it was first written.

Completing the cast are Jamie Hogarth (Albert), David Phelan (Thane Lampeter), Sarah Crowe (Marian Tillyard), Louis Holand (Ian), Gavin Fowler (Harold), Sarah Twomey (Phyllis), Nardiner Samra (Daker) and Kayleigh Cooper (Parlour Maid).

Accolade opens at the Theatre Royal Windsor on Friday, 31st May and will run until Saturday, 15th June before embarking on a tour within the UK over the summer.

Accolade will be followed this autumn with Felicity Kendal in the title role of Eduardo de Filippo’s Filumena, the second play to be directed by Sean Mathias this season.

Director Sean Mathias said of staging the two plays: “These two plays are not what they first appear to be. Accolade is atypical of Emlyn Williams, examining success as approved by the establishment, it quickly deconstructs that success and then looks to smash it. The central character, Will Trenting, was written by the author for himself to play in the world premiere – a character lionized by an order he despised, Will contains shades and shadows of the Welshman himself, who refused to fit into any boxes. Williams had a deep fascination with the psychology of the criminal or alternative mind, and Accolade is a riveting theatrical reflection of his interests.”

To book visit: Home – Theatre Royal Windsor

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Kiri Pritchard-McLean: Peacock

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Kiri Pritchard-McLean is delighted to announce the UK Tour of her brand new show, Peacock.

Kiri has had a busy few years. As well as hosting Live at the Apollo, fronting the Radio 4 panel show Best Medicine and starting a comedy school, she’s become a foster parent. Didn’t know that about her? Well, until now she hasn’t been able to talk about it on stage, she hasn’t even told the kids in her care that she’s a comedian oh and she uses a different name – she’s the Bruce Wayne of comedy but without the mansions.

However, this year something changed and after a couple of the eggiest gigs of her career in boardrooms to social workers a show about becoming a foster carer has been signed off! So, come and join “Louise” as she lifts the lid on social workers, first aid training and what not to do when a vicar searches for you on YouTube.

“It’s fantastic to see our foster carer, Kiri, positively promoting fostering during her UK tour. It will really help increase awareness of foster care, and challenge false perceptions around what it takes to be a foster carer.

We hope that through Kiri candidly sharing her fostering journey, people will recognise skills and qualities in themselves and consider putting in an enquiry to foster.”

Alastair Cope, Head of Foster Wales.

Welsh comedian Kiri Pritchard-McLean is a multi-award winning comedian, satirist and writer. Her recent credits include hosting Live at the Apollo and appearances on Have I Got News For You, 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, QI and Frankie Boyle’s New World Order. She has a weekly show on BBC Radio Wales, and has hosted Newsjack, Loose Ends and The News Quiz and her Radio 4 panel show, Best Medicine, has recently been commissioned for a second series.

Find out more and purchase tickets: https://www.kiripritchardmclean.co.uk/

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Mezcalito Chelsea

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Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of West London

Located in the heart of Chelsea, Mezcalito is a vibrant Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar specialising in tapas-style Mexican fare and classic cocktails. The extensive collection of over 600 tequilas and mezcals is truly impressive and promises an authentic experience for aficionados of agave spirits.

The menu is diverse and tantalizing, featuring Mexican tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. From classic favourites like guacamole and street corn salad to inventive twists like Mexican sushi, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The Platos Fuertes sound especially delicious, with options like Enchiladas and Camarones al Tequila showcasing bold flavours.

And of course, no Mexican experience is complete without cocktails. The cocktail menu seems extensive and well-crafted, offering both traditional favourites and innovative creations inspired by different regions of Mexico. The weekly events program adds another layer of excitement, with Taco Tuesdays, live Mariachi bands, and DJ nights ensuring there’s always something fun happening at Mezcalito.

The Tulum Bottomless Brunch sounds like a fantastic way to spend a weekend afternoon, indulging in delicious food and drinks in a lively setting. And for those who enjoy cigars, the cigar menu offers a sophisticated addition to the experience, curated with the finest selections imported from Cuba.

Overall, Mezcalito Chelsea appears to offer an immersive and unforgettable Mexican dining and drinking experience, thanks in part to the vision and expertise of co-founder Oliver Castilla-Tristan. It’s a place where guests can savour the flavours of Mexico while enjoying the vibrant energy of Chelsea.

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Lawn Green Bowling Open Day

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Come and try bowling at West End Bowls Club open day Sunday, 5th May  –  10 am to 2 pm – no need to book, just come along wearing flat soled shoes…

If you enjoy it and want to do more they can offer free instruction and discounted membership for new bowlers.

They are a very friendly club in a superb setting and bowl at every level – from informal rollups to participation in national competitions. Short Mat Bowls and a range of social activities for our members is a bonus!

For further information visit Westendbowlsclub or email [email protected].

Alternatively you are welcome to call Sue or Dave on 01483 473733

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The FA’s ‘The Greater Game’

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Following last year’s successful pilot programme, The FA’s ‘The Greater Game’ is being rolled out nationwide.

The FA’s announcement of ‘The Greater Game’ campaign is a commendable initiative aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of 12-16 year-olds across the UK. By partnering with organizations like Nuffield Health and M&S Food, they’re addressing crucial aspects of physical and mental health.

The focus on grassroots programs is especially promising, as it allows for widespread participation and engagement. The positive impact observed during the pilot phase underscores the potential for significant change on a national scale.

Addressing the concerning statistics regarding young people’s attitudes toward exercise, diet, and sleep is vital. The introduction of initiatives like ‘DROPS’ and featuring well-known football stars adds excitement and relatability, making it more likely for young people to get involved.

Given the staggering number of youth experiencing mental health issues, promoting physical activity as a means of improving mental wellbeing is crucial. Providing practical tips and techniques across various health elements is a comprehensive approach to supporting healthier choices.

The statistics concerning sleep and diet habits among young people highlight the urgency of such campaigns. Encouraging adequate sleep and nutritious eating habits is essential for their overall development and wellbeing.

Overall, ‘The Greater Game’ campaign has the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering positive habits that can last a lifetime.

The Greater Game ambassador and former England international, Jill Scott, said: “I’m a huge believer in the importance of being active, not just through football, but throughout your everyday life. What’s important about The FA’s Greater Game campaign is that it educates young people on the benefits of a healthier lifestyle, whilst providing them with the tips and tools to go out and put that into practice. I’m looking forward to seeing grassroots clubs across the country start to introduce The Greater Game programme, allowing us to make a real difference. I also can’t wait to have a go at playing DROPS myself!”

View The Greater Game content on the newly launched YouTube channel here.

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Old Library Campaign Fundraising Raffle

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The Corn Exchange Newbury launches fundraising raffle to win sold out Al Murray tickets

The Corn Exchange Newbury has launched their latest fundraising raffle to give one lucky winner the chance to get two, central, stalls tickets for their sold out Pubtastic Fundraising Event with Al Murray.

Raffle tickets are priced at £5 each and all funds raised will go towards the Old Library Campaign, to redevelop the historic building on Cheap Street in Newbury and make it into the new permanent home for their creative participation work.

The raffle will close at 12 noon on Thursday 23rd May, with the winner being drawn and contacted the same day.

Raffle tickets can be purchased from Raffle for Al Murray tickets or by calling the Box Office on 01635 522733.

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National Gardening Week

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Haskins Garden Centre’s in-house plant expert, Alasdair Urquhart, gives his top tips for beginner gardeners

Alasdair Urquhart’s advice perfectly captures the essence of starting a green-fingered journey. Gardening indeed offers numerous benefits beyond just beautifying outdoor spaces. It’s about connecting with nature, engaging physically, and experiencing the joy of nurturing living things.

His emphasis on starting with simple yet impactful projects is excellent advice for new gardeners. These projects serve as learning opportunities while also yielding satisfying results. Alasdair’s encouragement to embrace experimentation speaks to the heart of gardening as a continuous learning process. Even when things don’t go as planned, there’s always something to be gained and improved upon for the next season.

1. Create a Colourful Summer Pot: Choose vibrant flowers like Bacopa, Marigolds, Lobelia, and more in complementary colour schemes. Pre-made packs simplify the process, just fill your pot with compost, add the plants, and enjoy. Regular liquid feedings will support healthy growth.

2. Grow a Tomato and some Lettuce: Start with cherry tomatoes like Sweet Million or Sungold for delicious salad additions, Pair them with loose-leaf lettuces such as Lollo Rossa or Red Salad Bowl for continuous fresh leaves. This project introduces mixed cropping and yields tasty results for summer barbecues.

3. Create a space for local wildlife: Enhance biodiversity by sowing wildflower seed mixes designed for birds, bees, and butterflies. Prepare the soil, sow the seeds evenly, and water gently. Allow some flowers to go to seed for self-sowing next year. Integrate bee and butterfly-friendly herbs like Rosemary and Thyme for additional wildlife support.

These projects cater to a range of interests and skill levels, making them perfect for National Gardening Week celebrations. And for more guidance and tips, Haskins Garden Centre is a valuable resource for both new and experienced gardeners alike.

For more information on Haskins Garden Centres and the huge variety of plants and gardening advice available, please visit Haskins Garden Centres. Alternatively, you can follow @HaskinsGarden on Twitter and @HaskinsGardenCentres on Facebook to share any garden-related queries and keep up to date with all the latest news.

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Make a date for Twelfth Night

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Thames Players’ fast-paced Shakespearean romp is a joy from the first chord to the last kiss!

Thame Players’ next production, opening on Tuesday 7th May, is an exciting new interpretation of the Shakespearean classic, Twelfth Night.

The plot hinges on the twins, Viola and Sebastian, fleeing their homeland, getting shipwrecked, and each believing the other has drowned. From this tragic scenario Shakespeare weaves a magical farce of mistaken identity and love at first sight.

Viola disguises herself as a man named Cesario, serving Duke Orsino. Orsino sends Cesario to woo Olivia on his behalf, but Olivia falls in love with Cesario (Viola) instead. Meanwhile, Viola falls in love with Orsino, leading to a tangled web of mistaken identities, love triangles, and comedic misunderstandings, eventually resolved in an exuberant reunion.

The cross-dressing androgyny of Boy George and Adam Ant make the perfect disguise for Viola, and the music of the 1980s fills the emotional backdrop. Amongst other characters, Saatobia, a hard-living ‘it’ girl of the 1960s, twenty years past her prime, is the perfect ring leader of ‘creatures of the night’ that haunt this Blitz world of excess, madness and laughter. Amongst these dangerous and damaged people, we find love, fun and joyous redemption.

Director Alan Paterson has set this production in New Romantic Soho. He has cast several of the youngest members of Thame Players to reflect the impetuosity and bravery of the youthful lovers. Alan uses modern costumes and settings to illuminate the wonders of this brilliant Shakespeare comedy about despair, hope and love at first sight. The text shines through this fast-paced romp, giving us some of the greatest poetry and most hilarious comic moments ever seen on the English stage. It is a joy from the first chord to the last kiss.

Twelfth Night will be performed at the Players Theatre, Nelson Street, Thame, Oxfordshire, from Tuesday 7th-Saturday 11th May inclusive at 7.45pm. Tickets are £10-£12. Book online at https://www.thameplayers.co.uk/ or the Information Centre at Thame Town Hall or phone 01844 212833.

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Visit West Berks open studios

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Some favourite returning artists are joined by new faces for this year’s event

City Arts, Newbury are opening their doors once again for West Berkshire Open Studios as studio number 77.

Returning to the art hub with Open Studios 2024 is Hawksbury Print with her artwork inspired by British birds, Petra Geide-Barnes exhibiting her found object sculptures, Pots of Hope Susie brings her thrown pots, vases and bowls and ceramicist Rebecca Maynard with her hand built figures.

This year they are joined by five new artists to the scheme: black and white photographer Nick Collins, The Berkshire Printmaker shows her playful silkscreen prints, Georgina Bouzyk presents her large landscapes and finally with her jewellery in the City Arts cabinet in Kinsella Colwell Design.

During the Open Studios you will have a chance to meet the artists as they work in the City Arts workshop space and talk about their individual creative process. Pots of Hope Susie will be demonstrating how to throw a pot and you will have the chance to try your hand at silk screen printing with Sarah Martinez, the Berkshire Printmaker.

This free group exhibition is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in May from 10 to 5pm. There is a cafe on site serving amazing coffee and home made cakes and dogs are more than welcome.

Check out the Open Studios website for more details about the artists and other Open Studios nearby. Artists at City Arts | Open Studios (open-studios.org.uk)

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Springing into life

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Artist & tutor Helen Grimbleby takes much of her inspiration from nature for her artwork from her studio in West Berkshire

Like buses, you wait for ages and then Easter and May bring bank holidays a plenty!

Whilst many bank holidays are centuries old workers’ holidays, May Day Bank Holiday was a late comer in the 1970s. Even so, May celebrations have a long history and are entwined with changes we can witness in nature.

Our distant ancestors lived necessarily in close rhythm with the seasons. The month of May for the Romans brought a festival for Flora, the goddess of flowers, fertility and spring. For the Celts this was the time for summer pastures to open. For Pagans, celebrations were about fertility and new life.

Birds carry this heritage too and sing of new life. The musical dawn chorus peaks around now.

In spring, birds’ hormones change to enlarge the parts of their brains responsible for song. Bird song functions as a declaration of territory and to attract a mate. When the air is cooler in the morning, birdsong carries much further allowing males to broadcast to more females.

Only around 50% of our birds are resident here all year with spring and autumn migration bringing variety which changes according to the time of year. When some birds leave our shores, others return.

Spring migrators have been in decline but if we’re lucky we may still hear the sound of a tuneful cuckoo or the false cuckoo, the unassuming looking blackcap who visited my bird feeder recently.

Swallows and swifts fly elegantly, weaving intricate patterns in the air as they search for insects on the wing. Despite a long migration from Africa, their streamlined bodies are perfectly shaped to execute their aerial manoeuvres which continue until they leave us again in the autumn.

At the this of avian courtship and union, nature braids fine veils for spring brides and white blankets for newborns, dressing her hedgerows in Queen Anne’s Lace, hawthorn blossom and oxeye daisies.

Helen Grimbleby is a West Berks/North Hants based artist who is inspired by the natural world’s changing seasons. After exploring outside, she enjoys writing, illustrating and painting larger landscapes at her home studio (@helengrimblebyart).

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