1

Issue 07 March/April 2015

GIRLBOSSFEATURING: International Women’s Day, Tank Girl, The Mist in the Mirror& A View From The Pit

FREE TO A GOOD HOME

2

3

Contributors

Writers:

Rachel Horne

Frances Bibby

Louise Harrison

Fiona Cahill

Tobias Oliver

Artwork:

Christiane Pedros

Melodie Perrault

Photography:

Duane Rocco Ashurst

Warren Draper

John Fuller

Tom Tranter

Dee Ashurst

Richard Evea

Rod Waddington

David Stanley

Jamie Cowlishaw

Joel C. Fildes

Wendy Collins

Steve Bates

Steve Ely

Contents

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

04

06

12

14

18

20

22

24

26

28

36

38

DisclaimerThe opinions expressed in each feature and article in the Doncopolitan are the opinions of their respective

authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Doncopolitan. The editors and production team

of the Doncopolitan accept no responsibility for the opinions expressed.

Cover Art: “Domina Berchta Fertility Archetype” Christiane Pedros ©2008 Centre Page Art: “Domina Berchta” Christiane Pedros ©2008 Back Page Art: “Transition & Transformation” Christiane Pedros ©2005Inside Cover Photography: “Dale & Donna“ Duane Rocco Ashurst ©2014

Printed by Expert Print, Unit 1a Churchill Business Park, Churchill Road, Doncaster, DN1 2TF. Conceived and created by Horne & Draper art - design - publishing

EditorialRachel Horne

#GirlBossFrances Bibby

The Matchgirl & the SuffragetteLouise Harrison

What Katie DidAn Interview with Katie Newsam

Junk FoodFiona Cahill

Pull-Out Christiane Pedros PosterChristiane Pedros

Enter The PitRachel Horne

The Mist in the MirrorTobias Oliver

The Art of MotherhoodA look at Artfuel

The Guide

Tanked UpKosy’s latest mural

Katy CarrThe Polish Björk

Reviewers:

Karl Scott

Tom Weatherall

Fran Bibby

Rachel Horne

Ryan Madin

Steve Bates

Steve Ely

Mike Jenkinson

Design:

Warren Draper

Rachel Horne

Editorial Team:

Rachel Horne

Sam Walby

Warren Draper

Eva Wuestum

Rachel Ryan

Linda Jones

With Special Thanks to:

Right Up Our Street

Arts Council England

Andrew Loretto

NOW THEN Magazine

Proud to be IndependentThe Doncopolitan aims to provide a truly

independent voice for Doncaster. To ensure maximum

freedom the magazine is produced and distributed by

a small team of dedicated individuals and production

costs are met through advertising sales. If you want to

fight for Donny independence then why not write for

us or donate much needed time, money or equipment?

Interested? Then call us on +44 (0) 7846 439982 or

email: doncopolitan@gmail.com

Articles and images marked with a are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

4

EDITORIALRachel HorneOnce upon a time in 5th century Pagan Britain, when the winter was spent huddled together to avoid freezing to death, the arrival of spring was a pretty big deal.

So when spring finally arrived the people celebrated the renewal of life on Earth through a festival dedicated to the goddess Eostre. The people danced through the streets in her honour. They painted eggs in dedication to her, and in her name they praised the arrival of spring. Eostre is the long forgotten deity of our more contemporary chocolate munching Easter.

Goddesses have existed in all cultures throughout history, even if they’ve lost their meaning in today’s society. For this spring issue of Doncopolitan we’re celebrating our favourite heavenly sisters, who tirelessly work their magic to bring new life and creativity into the world.

We’ve even discovered that Twitter has found a new contemporary name for these divine creatures, the #GirlBoss.

Maybe they don’t parade through the streets with flowers and white gowns like extras in The Wicker Man, but they’re all around you, working their magic. International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day have given us a good opportunity to celebrate these ladies, but we suspect they might shy away from their goddess-like status, unlike Domina Berchta, the Bavarian goddess of life, who is featured on the cover of this magazine. It was far easier to detect a goddess back in Berchta’s day. Carrying a spindle that represented birth, life and regeneration, and with a large deer’s horn adorning her head, you couldn’t really miss her. The trouble is these days you might not even know the true achievements of the #DonnyGirlBoss, so we knew we had to create this issue to celebrate them and their less imposing, more everyday magic.

Take Doris Noble, a 90-year-old lady who struggled to make ends meet ‘between the wars’ - that other ‘austerity era’ which we would do well to take lessons from, not least the lesson to stand up for what you believe in. In order to help feed her family she reared pigs on an allotment in

Denaby Main and ended up feeding half of the village when food was short due to rationing during WW2. There’s even a remnant of Doris left on the allotment - her old pig sty, which she built with her own hands, is still standing.

Like Doris before them, our Donny #GirlBosses are striving to make a difference in their own communities. So in this edition of the Doncopolitan we celebrate the work of a bunch of amazing women, women like Louise Harrison, Fiona Cahill, Mandy Keating, Katy Carr and the super-talented Katie Newsam.

Our cover artist is Christiane Pedros, a UK-based photographer, artist and entrepreneur from Bavaria. Her highly staged photographic pieces depict the aforementioned Germanic goddess Domina Bertchta, a descendent sister of our own Eostur. Her identity has been distorted, defiled and corrupted with the passing of time. As you will see in the pages of this magazine, Bertcha is depicted in two distinctly opposite ways, transformed from the goddess of light to the witch queen, her spindle replaced by a whip. The story of Berchta runs parallel to women’s demonisation throughout history.

Artist and Montreal resident Mélodie Perrault kindly offers us some of her poetic drawings. Surreal and otherworldly her work fits our theme perfectly. Find her online here: melodieperrault .ca

This issue is dedicated to all those who struggle for the rights of women, past, present and future, to the mothers who are always there for every fearful cry or want or need. It’s for the women out there caring for elderly parents and working hard to earn a crust. Divine goddesses, earthly mothers, soul sisters and #GirlBosses, this issue is for you.

ABOUT This magazine aims to provide an independent voice for Doncaster. We will big up anything which has the potential to add to Doncaster’s metropolitan appeal and strengthen the local economy - or as we call it, the Donconomy. We’ll celebrate Doncaster’s culture, arts, style, music, people, fashion, lifestyle, architecture and even, its coal-black underbelly.

To remain as independent as possible this magazine is completely self-funded, relying on advertising and generous donations to stay afloat. If you would like to advertise with us, or if you’d like to support our endeavours through subscriptions or donations please call us on:

+44 (0) 7846 439982

If you’re a local artist, musician, writer, photographer, fashionista, socialite or social commentator, and have something to contribute to this magazine, please get in touch.

Online:

www.doncopolitan.comdoncopolitan@gmail.com

Write to us:

Doncopolitan Magazinec/o Church View Centre Church ViewDoncasterDN1 1AF

Social Media:

Twitter: @doncopolitanMag #DoncopolitanMagInstagram: @Doncopolitan#DoncogramFacebook: facebook.com/doncopolitanYouTube: youtube.com/user/Doncopolitan

2.

#Doncograms - 1. “Donna & Dale” by Dee Ashurst©2014 2. “Women at Work” Richard Evea ©2012 3. “Dassanech Woman, Omerate, Ethiopia“ Rod Waddington ©2015 4. Joyce Sheppard WAPC activist with family. 5. Artwork by Charlotte Tasker ©2014 6. “Mursi Woman” by David Stanley ©2014 7. Sam Cooper - Donny #GirlBoss

5

1.

3.

5. 7.6.

4.

Portrait of a Donny

#Girlboss.

How do you define a #GirlBoss? Sophia Amoruso, founder of Nasty Gal and author of #GirlBoss, defines it as a woman “who is in charge of her own life”.

I agree. But, just like success, I think defining a #GirlBoss is subjective. To me, a #GirlBoss is someone who is living her best life, whatever that is. She is expressing her talent in order to reach her full potential and give out positive vibes.

Doncaster is the home of a lot of women who fit this definition: Sarah Smizz, an artist who ‘live draws’ events; Kully Thiarai, theatre director at Cast; Lindsey Kelk, a woman from Harworth who fell in love with New York and wrote about it (she lives there now); and Susan Forbes, the woman behind textile studio ArtFelt. These are women who have used their passion and talents to give something positive to their community.

I asked some other #GirlBosses about success, passion and inspiration.

They were:

Charlotte Tasker – Artist, volunteer and vintage style advocate.Rebecca Martin – Travel writer and collaborator with fashion blogging giant Susie Bubble.Julie Buckley – The beating heart of Cask Corner Dive Bar.Claire Lyon – Creator of the Creation Station, Doncaster.Josie Bowerman – Donny girl studying in Cambridge and shouting about the joy of learning.Sam Cooper – Compassionate punk lover, graphic design wizard, aspiring teacher. Rachel Horne – Creative wild child and co-editor/creator of the Doncopolitan.

[1] How do you define success?

Charlotte – “I don’t like to define success […] It should always be a challenge […] accumulating with inspiration and experience.”

Rebecca – “Success and contentment go hand in hand. If you’re going to bed at night feeling contentment in your work, I class that as success!”

6

Josie – “Having the freedom to work out what truly makes you happy. It can be about the process and ongoing work. And of course, ‘success’ can mean something absolutely different.”

Sam – “For me, it’s all about putting a smile on someone’s face.”

Rachel – “I feel really privileged to wake up every day doing what I love.”

Julie – “The satisfaction of knowing that you have tried your best, that you’ve touched at least one person’s life in a positive way.”

[2] What is your favourite quote?

Claire – “You learn more by listening.”

Josie – “I have no special talent, I am only passionately curious,” Albert Einstein.

Sam – “Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.”

Julie – “There is only one thing in life worse than being talked about, and that is

Frances Bibby

Photography: “Lichtspinnerin” Christiane Pedros ©2010

7

[4] What does the term #GirlBoss mean to you?Charlotte – “Action being made. Women who are taking confidence in themselves and keeping it with style and professionalism.”

Josie – “Challenging ideas of who can be a ‘boss’. I was diagnosed with lupus in 2013, and since have met so many incredible #ChronicIllnessBosses.”

Claire – “Women taking the lead in inspiring others.”

Rebecca – “#GirlBoss to me means getting shit done.”

[5] What are you trying to give to the world by pursuing your passion?

Josie – “A clear message that academia and the pursuit of knowledge are valid and accessible ambitions. By pursuing my passion, I hope to give the message that everyone can pursue their passion.”

Charlotte – “I want to give people freedom.”

Claire – “Time to share experiences.”

Julie – “A positive outlook on life, a love of their home town and a love of each other.”

Sam – “I really just like helping people - using my design expertise, positive enthusiasm and empathy to help others.”

Rebecca – “I would just like to prove to other kids growing up in a council house in a pit village that you don’t need to be born into a ton of money to chase your dreams.”

Rachel – “When I see an injustice in the world, I feel I have to do something about it. I hope Doncopolitan inspires people to see Doncaster in a different way.”

International Women’s Day is a great reason to celebrate some of the amazing people milling about in Doncaster. If the ladies mentioned and interviewed here didn’t bother pursuing their passion, Doncaster would be lacking in so many ways. In the name of inspiration, here’s one last quote:

“When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.”

End

8

not being talked about,” Oscar Wilde.

Rachel – “Creativity is contagious, pass it on!” Albert Einstein.

[3] Who is your biggest inspiration?

Sam – “I am inspired by creative talent - unique skills, whether artist, designer, singer or musician. Also, my dad. He was paralysed by Guillain-Barré syndrome in 2010. Four years on, with my mum’s support, he is still fighting to regain full muscular functionality.”

Rachel – “Nanny Buff. She is 103 and lives in a council bungalow in Denaby. As a kid I asked her how many years she thought she had left. She replied, “Well, everyday’s a bonus for me love!” Also, the nurses at St John’s Hospice. I am always in awe of them.”

Claire – “My sister - someone who has shown strength in times of madness, then passion and determination to do what is required to develop a new career.”

Clockwise from top left: Josephine Bowerman, Julie Buckley (and Lorna), Rebecca Martin, Sam Cooper, Rachel Horne, Clare Lyons and Charlotte Tasker.

#Girlboss

9

10

The next DNweekeND will be animating the town centre of Doncaster 19-21 June 2015, from the historic Mansion House to the bustling Market Place, surprises and curiosities will be waiting around every corner. The DNweekeND will feature the Doncaster Big Sing and we are looking for choirs, singers and groups to get involved. Visit rightupourstreet.org.uk/doncaster-big-sing-call-out for more information and to apply, the deadline is 30th March. Visit the website at rightupourstreet.org.uk/dnweekend for more information about the excitingthings we have planned for the town.

MUSIC

ART

Technology

Words

Dance

Wonder

THEATRE

Magic Smiles

Right Up Our Street is led by a consortium of Doncaster arts organisations and supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England until 2016

SINGING

TheFor

Weekend

11

A woman is like a tea bag - you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.Eleanor Roosevelt

Suffragette Mabel Capper Outside Bow Street Court - Public Domain Image

Photography: “Domina Berchta Mother Archetype” Christiane Pedros ©2009 

International Women’s Day provides us with an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women, but it is also an opportunity to highlight that women still have a long way to go to achieve equality. Staggeringly, in the 1990s, the United Nations calculated that women owned 1% of the world’s wealth. In the UK, the latest figures from the Trade Union Congress reveal that women are at least 15% behind men’s wages. More worrying still, Child Poverty Action Group estimate that of £26 billion of cuts made to benefits, £22 billion have come from women. This helps us to understand why one in every four children live in poverty, and explains why it’s so difficult for women to engage equally within society at every level.

Women’s inequality is a huge issue of our time, but on International Women’s Day there is an equally pressing issue facing women and children that I believe does not receive the necessary media coverage - domestic abuse.

Formally known as domestic violence (DV), it is still the case that for many survivors, workers and campaigners, we are only seeing the tip of the iceberg in

12

THE MATCHGIRL &THE SUFFRAGETTE

Louise Harrison

terms of disclosures, prosecutions and convictions. Instead, we have a trickle of private disclosures that poorly-funded specialist and statutory services nationwide struggle to manage, whilst news items repeatedly tell us of the murder of wives and girlfriends, often at the same time as other family members, as if each domestic homicide is a one-off, unconnected and inexplicable event. This is so obviously not the case and for many decades UK statistics have proved this, as every week two women die at the hands of an intimate partner and three women commit suicide as a result of living with domestic abuse. One child a week also dies at the hands of someone they know.

For any adult who experiences DV, it may take them up to seven years to leave an abusive relationship and it can take many more for them to overcome the impact of it. For young people, for young women who are disproportionately affected by this crime, the physical and mental effects can be devastating.

The national trend is borne out in Doncaster. Over the last few years, the

number of calls to the police in Doncaster disclosing incidents of domestic violence has risen from 12 to 18 a day, and this may be even higher going into 2015. Even though this figure is alarming, it hides the frightening fact that it takes at least 35 incidents of abuse before a woman will call the police or disclose to an outside agency that abuse is taking place.Like elsewhere, in our own town it appears that young women are now at most risk of being in an abusive relationship which at its most stark can encompass violent, emotional, pshychological, sexual and financial abuse.

In this era of austerity, two things are certain. Women’s life chances will be worsened and this in turn will have a detrimental impact for decades to come. It will impact on women’s health, welfare, educational and other social areas of their lives. Make no mistake about it - women and children will find it much harder to live with, leave and survive domestic abuse.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Doncaster should take inspiration

13

from the the past struggles of our sisters - from the Matchgirls’ Strike for a living wage, the Suffragettes’ struggle for the vote and from the women’s liberation movement which told us that true equality has yet to be achieved. Bearing in mind austerity falls disproportionately on women, we should use International Women’s Day as a rallying point to oppose job losses, benefit cuts and attacks on children’s centres. But more than this, we should use it to fight against domestic abuse, the objectification of women and the current attack on ‘a woman’s right to choose’.

Louise Harrison is a campaigner in Doncaster who works tirelessly for women’s rights. If you would like to find out more about local women’s issues or if you need help yourself with any of the issues mentioned in this article then please visit:

doncaster-womens-aid.co.uk

changing-lives.org.uk

End

14

Katie Newsam has been on our radar for a while for her unique couture garments. Last year she appeared at Doncaster Races Ladies Day, competing in the Best Dressed Lady competition. She looked stunning. Her outfit, incredibly well made with its own petticoat, was timeless. Judges - we think Katie should have won. We love the fact that when the host asked each lady what they did and where they were from, Katie replied, “I’m a fashion designer based in Barnsley”. From this point on, we knew we needed to get to know this incredibly talented #GirlBoss bespoke designer a little better.

Katie, we love what you do. What inspired you to become a designer?

I was interested in art at school. I remember my final project being based around fashion illustration. I’ve always been a creative person so I’d happily spend hours sketching. John Galliano was my main influence when I was at college. I started off being more interested in the theatrics behind fashion. The avant-garde side to fashion is what I always wanted to get into, so I did quite a lot of fashion shows to promote myself, a couple of my favourites being Brighton Fashion Week and the Urban Music Awards.

When I graduated I started working in a boutique, where I started selling some one-off designs, and the more I did that, I realised there was a market for bespoke clothing.

How does it make you feel when you see someone wearing one of your designs?

It’s the best part of what I do. I love seeing people look at themselves in the mirror, smile to themselves and say how great they feel. I think a lot of people like the idea that they’re wearing a one-off design, made to measure for themselves. I’ve had clients say to me in the past that strangers have asked if they’re wearing Alexander McQueen or Vivienne Westwood and they reply with, ‘No, it’s a Katie Newsam’. Makes me giggle that people could put me in the same category, but it’s very flattering.

What’s the future for your designs and studio?

I currently have my own studio, but I would one day like to have a shop where I can showcase my designs, yet still have the creative space to work in. I like the idea of having an open space so clients can see how I work. I’m always busy doing a tour of my work space to clients, explaining what each sewing machine does and what goes into creating a pattern. I think that’s part of the excitement for some people - seeing the design, start to finish, from the ideas and sketching, sourcing the fabrics, creating the patterns, stitching the final garment together, and then seeing the final product. I’d like to get back into showcasing my work at fashion shows and maybe get more into bridal too.

What are your thoughts on Doncaster’s infamous Ladies Day glamour?

I have a few customers from Doncaster but I haven’t noticed a particular style as such. I think the people that come to me to have something created usually have their own sense of style. The ladies from Doncaster have an idea in mind of the style they want. Although on the other hand I do get a lot of ladies come to me and say something along the lines of, ‘This is what I wore to the races last year. Design me a brand new outfit for this year. I trust you!’

Katie’s studio is in Barnsley but you can find more info on her work here:

katienewsam.com

WHAT KATIE DID.

14 Images are taken from Katie’s Couture Collection Trophy Hunt (Photographer: Jamie Cowlishaw).Top Left Image: Katie and friend at Ladies Day Doncaster 2014

1515Photography: Jamie Cowlishaw ©2014

16

JUNK FOOD.

16

“Let’s REALLY feed the world.”Adam Smith, founder of The Real Junk Food Project.

On Friday 13th February 2015, The Real Junk Food Project Doncaster held Don-caster’s first ever Pay As You Feel Café at Little Mo’s Snap Shack in Scawsby. They saved almost 100kg of food from going to landfill (generously donated by Food Aware in Mexborough), made over £90 and boxed up the remaining meals for the M25 homeless shelter. Fiona Cahill talks about the motivations behind the project:

Food is fundamental to life, health and happiness. In modern life food pro-duction is industrialised and some of the players from the food industry have become incredibly powerful. A third of

Fiona Cahill

the food we waste goes into landfill and those at the top of the industrialised food chain are largely exempt from responsi-bility.Food is a basic need and a shared human experience. We need to come together to create and enjoy meals. It is the most fundamental part of our human nature. Sharing food is spiritual within all reli-gions and cultures. Yet we are becoming so disconnected from it and from each other. The effects of that, along with those consequences briefly mentioned above (and many more), in our towns and cities are felt all around us.

For me this change began with growing food in my garden and thinking deeply about how to use food to bring people together, to connect us, to share and pool

our efforts, and to counteract some of this damage and waste. I attended com-munity events and projects and out of that we now have a little group of ‘doers’ sharing the same philosophy - helping each other to feel good by helping others feel good. It works.

I started a little dinner club event, where we cooked meals for each other and attempted to source waste in the com-munity. We used what we’d grown and any excess. We came together to share our ideas and thoughts. We all had the ambition of creating a ‘pay as you feel’ café and felt this would counter many of the consequences of modern life and fill a need for our community in Doncaster. For me this meant starting where I was, with what I already had access to.

Photography: Warren Draper ©2015

1717

1818

19

Renting a van or a premises was out of the question. I had also learned from watching others that this is a trap. It would be no good falling into a situation of spending and needing to recoup, or of starting out with costs to cover before being able to meet any of our aims. It’s not sustainable.

It seemed that an existing business allowing us to use their premises or acting as a host was going to be the best way forward. I became aware of the Real Junk Food project through Twitter and a friend who hosted one of our dinner club meetings. Around December they put something out to help start a network and I became aware of their progress through the publicity. I don’t watch TV but noticed a lot of media interest in the Food Revolution, as I call it.

I applied for more information and began to think more about the cafés and the different ways they had started. I was particularly keen to keep it as grassroots as possible so we would have a real foun-dation of support.

I asked in my local café, Little Mo’s of Scawsby, if they would be interested in hosting such an event and their reaction took me by surprise: “Yes - this week or next?” Well, strike while the iron’s hot and make the most of it, I thought.

I made a Facebook event for the evening and, as confidence grew, our fan page for The Real Junk Food Project Doncaster was launched.

I came across Food Aware CIC whilst searching for numbers for shelters that would take excess food should we have any, and gave them a ring. It seemed an ideal connection and they were very helpful, offering immediately to sponsor our first event. Food Aware intercept food that would be waste and take it to the people who need it in local areas. They run some of our local food banks.

On the day of our first PAYF Café we cre-ated our first Real Junk Food menu from our Food Aware donations. It was a fun experience and it felt good that we were all in it together, none of us having done

this before. We saved 93kgs of food from landfill, turning waste into energy in the most efficient way - by serving people hot, nutritious meals. We fed 25 bellies rather than bins, met some amazing peo-ple and had a brilliant time. We are plan-ning a monthly event, but I have sneaking feeling it will grow to more than that.

Unserved meals were packaged and taken to M25 Housing and Support Services. We have our community PAYF café - no costs, no budget, just people doing it and inspiring others. I keep pinching myself. The food revolution is happening and it’s happening at Little Mo’s in Scawsby.

The next PAYF Café will take place at Little Mo’s on 27th March.

Facebook : The Real Junk Food Project Doncasteremail: tcup@ymail.comtweet: @fee0nainstagram: elysian daisies

End

20

© C

hrist

iane

Ped

ros 2

015

21

22

ENTER

The Pit.On the Friday 27th of February Diamond Live Lounge opened it’s doors for a new weekly alternative club night. Hosted by BBC Radio Sheffield’s ‘Introducing’s’ Christian Carlise and Kyle Tranter of ‘This Party Sucks’, our former sweaty Goth kid Rachel Horne went down on the night to check it out.

Like some people reading this, I was a little cynical about the idea of a new alternative night starting up in Donny, but being an eternal optimist and wanting to see more nightlife on offer, I knew I had to be down there on the night to check things out.

I haven’t been a club kid for quite a while. Fun tends to get lost somewhere as you move through your twenties, buried under the responsibilities of ‘grown up’ life. Still, this is Donny and so I’m getting my Karisma Tuesday Night circa 2003 vibe on. I wonder if, like me, you were a little apprehensive as to how this would go down? Is Doncaster really ready for an alternative Friday night with a DJ playing everything from Pantera to Taylor Swift?

I’m a sucker for nostalgia, but taking a trip back in time always runs the risk of stirring up ghosts and I’m suddenly haunted by my 18-year-old self. 12 years on, I remember the day I got pelted with stones by a group of 12-year-old ‘sweaty bashers’. I’m sorry if my PVC flares and black lipstick offended you.

In the spirit of my former self, I fashioned my outfit from charity shop items and things given to me. The great words of

Vivienne Westwood are ringing in my ears – “Don’t buy my clothes, make them”.

The night began in Anarchy Hair around 5.30pm. Unlike my 17-year-old self, who glued plastic hair to make something that can only be described as Sonic the Hedgehog stuck to my head, I was channelling grown-up alternative realism. 

I wasn’t the only person getting my wig done for a night in Donny. Behind sat a boyo with amazing curls and an undercut. I salute you. Like me, you were putting in the effort for this night in the Donx.

Alas, the only thing alternative about my look these days are the scars left by all my facial piercing. Yes, if you look close enough I’ve got a face like a pin cushion, courtesy of the Blue Banana piercings and tattoo parlour circa 2012.

Ready at last, I made my way to the Hallcross to see Kosy’s newest mural, an image of Tank Girl. I was surprised to see the pub full of new generation skinhead kids who looked like extras from This Is England.

From the Hallcross we made our way over to Diamond Live Lounge. The night is young but the venue is packed. People are shocked. No-one, not the venue or the promoters, really expected it. And yes, by 1.00am Doncaster you drank the bar dry.

Most people had been on it before they arrived, so people were hitting the dancefloor hard like we were back upstairs at Karisma drinking snakebite and black. 

I made a new friend, Michelle. Wherever you are, I hope you are reading this as I don’t know why but I was sure that we’ve met in a past life, perhaps on a Saturday night above the Visage, when shots were 50p and VKs were buy one get five free. Michelle and I were certainly miffed that there was no vodka, so when I said, “I don’t think anyone expected this many people”, she replied, “Well, I booked this night off six weeks ago”. What can I say? #GirlBoss.

I have to confess, I haven’t listened to a lot of the tracks played since I left Donny to discover new shizzle. But Christian Carlise and Kyle Tranter, I salute you. You

curated this night with a lot of heart, so that the old sweaties like me could crawl out of our wormholes to reminisce that once upon a time nu metal was really nu and not old skool. 

My favourite bit of the night had to be when Christian declared over the mic, “Doncaster, you asked for it, so now you’ve got it.” While She Sleeps kicked in as a massive mosh pit broke out and people were having it like they were at Download.

Outside the main entrance for a breather we discussed that universal forces were at play. Maybe the divine goddess was out in all her pagan debauchery. We watched a black cat cross our paths outside Diamond Live Lounge. It was witching hour. I needed to see if there was anything left behind the bar.

There’s not much, but a bottle of Corona sufficed. The people kept piling in and I kept bumping into all my favourite creatures of the sweaty demographic. Maybe we don’t have the dreadlocks we once adorned, maybe we wear Vans instead of New Rocks, maybe we like tech house and Philip Glass instead of Blink 182, and maybe we’re drinking mojitos instead of snakebite and black, but we’re still sweaty club kids at heart. Christian, Kyle and all the others who made this event happen, you gave the freaks, artists, musos and tattooed beardies a home for the night. Long may it reign. #seeyouinthepit

Diamond Live Lounge on Wood Street is Doncaster’s newest and largest live music venue with 700 standing capacity. The Pit is a regular alternative club night which takes place every Friday.diamondlive.co.uk@diamondliveDn1@thepitdoncaster

End

Photography: Tom Tranter ©2015

For other alternative nights in Doncaster why not check out:

The Leopard - Historic music venue and cosy pub.Tut ‘n’ Shive - Notoriously good juke box. Cask Corner - Free entry live music venue, from blues, punk, ska, reggae, indie, folk. Social Bar - Free entry live music venue with DJs playing everything from indie to rock and metal. Wool Pack Live - Free entry live music venue, expect an eclectic mix of punk, ska, blues, indie, rock and metal.Hallcross - live music venue with a mix including classic rock, punk and goth.

23

24

This month I’m looking forward to being terrified out of my wits. A ghostly tale by one of my favourite authors is being brought to the stage in a brand new adaptation that features the latest in high-tech visual wizardry to add extra chills to this already chilling story. In truth, I may never be able to go to Cast in Doncaster again without feeling that tight knot of fear in the pit of my stomach.

Susan Hill is the author in question, a remarkable woman whose writing career includes more than 60 titles, from acclaimed literary novels, ghost stories, children’s books, detective novels and memoirs to a sequel of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca. She has won countless awards, was made a CBE and has been shortlisted for the Booker Prize. 25 years after its premiere, the theatre adaptation of her terrifying ghost story,

THE MIST IN THE MIRROR.

The Woman in Black, is constantly on tour and claims the title of the second longest running drama in the West End (The crown goes to Agatha Christie’s classic whodunit The Mousetrap). What’s more, Daniel Radcliffe’s first post-Harry Potter movie was the 2012 Hammer Horror film version. Amazingly it is only now, she tells us, that someone is “brave enough to think of adapting my second ghost story The Mist in the Mirror for the stage, although it was first published in 1992, ten years after The Woman in Black.”

Given that The Woman in Black is one of the most successful plays in UK theatre history, why have so few ghost stories been produced on stage?

“Yes, you might have thought that the idea of adapting The Mist in the Mirror

Tobias Oliver

for the stage would have come up over the years, wouldn’t you? But it never has. I think people have been afraid to follow The Woman in Black,” she muses.

It’s a riveting read, equally as chilling as its better known predecessor and very much in the mould of the classic British ghost story. Susan is very clear that she’s interested in eerie tales that have you on the edge of your seat, rather than shocking you with blood and gore, saying, “I very much steer away from calling it ‘horror’. It’s a ghost play, but it’s a genre some people don’t like. But the skill is to make sure it’s fundamentally theatrical and has its frightening moments.”

I, for one, can’t wait to see it performed on stage on the first Yorkshire date of the

Photography: Joel C Fildes ©2015 24

Prepare to be scared by the Mistress of Suspense.

25

UK tour at Cast at the end of the month. I’ll be the jabbering wreck at the back, too scared to leave my seat at the interval.

Surprisingly, the one thing that Hill says she will not do is “to have anything ‘hands-on’ to do with any adaptations of my books. My job is simply to write the book, then let the adaptors, like Ian Kershaw [who has adapted The Mist in the Mirror for the stage], take that material and run with it, to recreate it in another form. I think that writers who want to have control of everything in a medium which isn’t theirs are quite wrong. Your only prerogative really is to say, ‘No, I don’t want it done’.

“However, I’m very pleased they have chosen this particular book. It was a joy

to write because I used so many of my favourite settings, including Edwardian London, the river Thames, the old docks, an English country house and the North Yorkshire moors. It also has some of my favourite eccentric characters.”

She’s in her seventies now but shows no signs of slowing down. Her enthusiasm, creativity and passion for what she does are inspirational. “I go on writing and reading. The one feeds the other every day”. But she confesses to having no writing routine at all. “I just can’t understand this notion some writers talk about of sitting down at nine o’clock and not getting back up until five even if there’s only two words on the sheet. Why sit down in front of a blank sheet of paper until you get something? That’s not fun or exciting.

“Usually ideas just pop into my head and I don’t even write them down, although I always make sure I’ve got a pen and notebook nearby just as I’m dropping off to sleep. I’m a very instinctive writer and, mostly, get it right about which ideas will run. Then I start working and I’ll just carry on until there’s a natural break”.

The Mist in the Mirror is a co-production between Oldham Coliseum Theatre and Imitating The Dog, whose brilliant filmic visuals add real atmosphere to the piece. It’s scaring audiences at Cast from Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th March. Tickets are available on 01302 303 959 or at castindoncaster.com .

End

25

26

In a way Mandy was already a mother to quite a few - artists, designers and makers. I had a studio at Artfuel for six months, and it was the perfect place to develop new work and meet new creative people. So, mother of Artfuel and mother of two, congratulations on your new arrivals. Enjoy your maternity leave and the new babies. You’ve done plenty for the local creative scene and for that we are eternally grateful.

If you’re keen to find out more Artfuel is open Thursday - Friday 10.00am - 4.00pm.

St James Court, St James Street, Doncaster, DN1 3QH01302 360571 info@artfuel .org.uk

Mandy Keaton, designer, bookbinder and all-round top creative lady, recently gave birth to twins, Rosey and Max. Only a couple of days later, she contacted me from the hospital, asking if I needed any extra details for this article. If that’s not dedication to the arts, I don’t know what is.

To say Mandy is a powerhouse of skill and energy is an understatement. To quote Gareth Watling, Artfuel director, “Once Mandy gets her teeth into something she doesn’t let go until she’s got what she wants. She’s like a bulldog”. And she’s managed to pull off something we thought we’d never see in Doncaster - artist studios.

Here’s what you need to know. Artfuel is a not-for-profit social enterprise offering

studio space for artists at a very low rate, from as little as £60 per month. They brought street art to Waterdale. You may have seen the horse racing mural, ‘Doncaster: Discover the Spirit’. They have also been instrumental in reclaiming the Lovers Sculptures which will be unveiled in the summer. They host a weekly drop-in arts class and have been working as part of the Innovations project, giving people who’ve had limited access to the arts the chance to be creative. 

The organisation has just moved to St James Court, a stone’s throw from Cast and the Cultural Quarter. The new building will have space for even more artist studios and their phase two plans including a cafe area and sculpture garden. 

End

The Art of Motherhood

27

JamOnSunday

Musicians & Music Lovers to add to our growing followers

of Free Acoustic/Live Music.

Sprotbrough Country Club Every Other Sunday

Keep it Live in DN5 01302 853454

WANTED

@JamOnSundayJamOnSunday

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE?.....THEN WHY NOT USE THE

DONCOPOLITAN TEAM FOR YOUR Company’s DESIGN, Photography,

MARKETING, Publicity & PRomotional Needs?

As well as producing Doncaster’s best looking arts and culture magazine, we also offer a

full range of graphic design, web design, photography, videography, copy writing, event

management and publicity services. We network with range of talented designers, artists,

photographers and witers to ensure that our productions are of the highest quality and we

never, ever produce anything which we ourselves do not believe to be beautiful.

Email doncopolitan@gmail.com or call us for further details...

+44 (0) 7846 439 982

Building Bohemia in the Best Little City in England

Issue 01 May 2014

PLUS: Street Art, Guerilla Gardening, Urban Exploration, Right Up Our Street, The White Gallery & Bang Bang Romeo

MakE Your own future

July 2014Issue 02

PLUS: Old School Tattoos, Art Takeover, 1984, Lines of Desire & MapFest

Issue 03 August 2014

The UNRULYCHILD OF AReBELLIOUSTown

FEATURING: The Meaning of Pride, The Remaking of Kes, The EDL,Fine Food & Rita Payne

FREE TO A GOOD HOME

Issue 04 Septemper 2014

TAKEANOTHERLOOK ATDONCASTER

FEATURING: The Meaning of Pride, The Remaking of Kes, The EDL,Fine Food & Rita Payne

FREE TO A GOOD HOME

1

Issue 05 November 2014

Being a BoyoFEATURING: Robin Hood,Frank Turner, Jade Clark, Kosy Street Art, Kaspar& Phantom Cinema

FREE TO A GOOD HOME

1

Issue 06 December 2014

Random acts ofKindnessFEATURING: Greg T. Brown,Wheel of Hope, Greenjacker, Gifting & Northern Soul

FREE TO A GOOD HOME

28

Music Guide

4th April, 7.30pmMasons Arms, 22 Market Place DN1 1ND

As a travelling ‘DIY’ singer songwriter, I have been inspired by some amazing, creative, alternative ventures that have often grown out of virtually nothing. Many times I think, ‘Donny could do this!’ Too often I found myself moaning about the lack of events showcasing local talent. This magazine highlights the vast array of talent simmering away. I wanted an event that made full use of some great local venues, supported local talent, and blended various artistic disciplines, so I approached Doncopolitan and ‘The Doncopolitan Takeover’ was born.

The first of what we hope to be many events will take place on 4th April at Masons Arms. It seems perfect that this pub is located right in the heart of the town. We are hoping we can be outside in the courtyard. If not, we will happily nestle in the cosiness of the oldest pub in Doncaster. This will be a multimedia event incorporating live music and the visual arts. All artists are local and all work is original.

The evening will begin with the immensely talented and well-loved Bam Morgan. Then I will be playing a full set of original songs - songs I have been perfecting in living rooms and bars all over Europe. The third artist will be a painter (to be confirmed), who will be creating a piece live while I sing my songs. Filling the environment will be various other local visual artists displaying their work. Not wanting to leave you, the audience, in a completely passive role, this will be a ‘by donation’ event. The artists will give their art and if you are grateful you may give something back. This will help the creation of more of these exciting events in the future.

So come, be inspired, be moved, let’s make it happen in Donny.

Karl Scottfacebook.com/KarlScottMusickarlscott.bandcamp.com/

Doncopolitan takeover 25th March @ The PrioryLazarus Court, Bradford Row, DN1 3NF Doncaster

After their sudden rise in 2013 with great reviews of their album Austerity Dogs, Sleaford Mods are a band who are hitting the music industry hard.

Theirs is the angry voice of a nation that is getting angrier. Never shy of an interview, they have not stayed out of the public view. Originally formed as a way for Jason Williamson to express his pent-up frustration with ‘Broken Britain’ and chaotic domestic situations, it was not until 2009, when he met Andrew Fearn, that the Sleaford Mods became a duo.

For this tour they specifically chose towns and cities that bands don’t normally go to. They draw a range of comparisons, including The Streets, but only because their music has an electronic beat with spoken word over the top. I don’t think Mike Skinner has ever been this angry in his life. In spite of how the music industry tries to box them, they are the voice of a generation and a force to reckoned with.

Doncaster’s finest, Bang Bang Romeo, will also be on the bill, a band whose style contrasts with the Mods but a great addition to any line-up. BBR are currently in the studio laying down some new tracks. Make sure you’re down at The Priory for this gig. It’s going to be a night to remember.

Tom WeatherallFor more on the Modssleafordmods.com

Keep up to date with gigs at the Priory facebook.com/thepriory

sleAford mods

doncaster based singer songwritersperforming ORIGINAL music

+ live art work created DURINGthe performance

take over

the

KARL SCOTT

BAM MORGAN

/karlscottmusic

/bammorgan

aprilsaturday

4th20:30

supporting ORIGINAL live musicwww.doncopolitan.com

(suggested £5)free/by donation

Want to write for The Guide? Email your reviews to doncopolitan@gmail.com

29

canary & the CatLewis of Canary & The Cat is a determined and talented young man from Glasgow. He and his band member Fauve perform regularly in Doncaster and other parts of Yorkshire. Most Saturdays they play at No.7 at The Rum Rooms, performing a range of jazz, blues and folk covers with a guitar and a mic.

What’s so intriguing about Lewis is his passion and determination in chasing his dream. A string of risks, chances and adventures has led him to Doncaster and left him with a great story to tell, and I can sense that his journey isn’t over just yet. When I ask him what he likes about Doncaster, his simple answer is, “I like the friendliness of it!”

Similarly, when I ask what the benefit of pursuing a dream far from home is, he eloquently states that leaving his comfort zone has stripped him of his barriers. His journey has taken him from Glasgow to New Orleans to Donny, and he’s pursuing his passion for music with fierce determination and a friendly smile on his face.

Inspiring journeys aside, Canary & The Cat bring soft melodies and elegant covers to Doncaster. The social scene in Donny is going through an exciting change, with new venues and event organisers creating more opportunities for musicians. Lewis is one of many people breathing new life into our live music circuit. It’s great to see our collaborative home attracting more movers and shakers.

To keep up with Canary & The Cat’s music and movements you can find them on Facebook and Youtube. We’re excited to see what the year ahead holds for them.

Fran Bibbyfacebook.com/canaryandthecatyoutube.com/user/Canarycatduo

(Photo Credit: Doncaster Wendy Collins ©2014)

Music Guide

Thirteen Women If you know your Donny music scene patter you may well have heard of The 13 Women. For those who haven’t, this isn’t a troupe of musical femme fatales – it’s the creative brainchild of Bob Morgan and Walter Boyd, aka Danny Got.

My first encounter with their alternative folk garage happened somewhere back in 2012 at the second ever Consibrough Open Mic Night. ‘Economy’ is so catchy I could still hear the lyrics floating in the candy floss of my brain a week later. I’m the proud owner of Jaw Bone, their first EP, and their T-shirt, recently purchased from the Notorious Aardvark Record Store in Waterdale.

It feels good to be a hardcore T-shirt adorned fan of a local band. There’s something in their sound which takes me back to my roots as the daughter of a jiving, rock ‘n’ roll 60s couple. The name ‘13 Women’ is in fact taken from a Bill Haley song.

‘Rock Around The Clock’ was their first live performance whilst studying music at High Melton College, and it’s this toe-tapping vibe which gives them their multi-generational appeal. The band has grown in number over the last few years. They’re now a five-piece consisting of harmonica from Mick ‘Gob Iron’ Holmes, stand-up bass Andrew Forder, violin Pete Howe, guitar, drums and, on occasion, a skittle board.

I marvel at the fact they’re a bit like Mary Poppins, appearing in a variety of places, such as The Rum Rooms, Cask Corner, Social, birthday parties and most recently their own self-promoted gig in a village hall in Wroot, on the outskirts of the Donx. They’re currently working hard on their new EP, which will be out on their own label, Gin Sun Records, in April, available to buy exclusively at their gigs and at Notorious Aardvark.

Rachel HorneKeep up with the 13 Women here: facebook.com/13women

Check Out the New Food MenuThe Masons’ Armsat

Get yourself down to The Masons’ and enjoy some good, fresh food. From jerk chicken to Yorkshire Pudding there’s something to suit every taste.

There’s always something new and interesting to try every Tuesday, Friday & Saturday (and every Sunday lunch), so why not do your mouth a favour and enjoymealtime at The Masons’ Arms!

22 Market Place, Doncaster, DN1 1NDOPEN: 10am until 11pm Mon - Thurs , 10am until 12pm Fri - SunSalsa and live music events every week, meals served on market days.

Find us on Facebook

Good Food GUIDE

The Old Weighing Room, Leger Way, Doncaster, DN2 6BB.

Why did I wait so long?

The Old Weighing Rooms opened almost a year ago at Doncaster Racecourse and, until last month, I’d not paid a visit - despite it being within walking distance of my front door. So when I was looking for somewhere that wasn’t a pub or one of the usual suspects in the town centre (but close enough to home to do a runner if the date didn’t go well), this looked ideal.

The restaurant is situated in a beautiful old 1920’s building at the racecourse where the jockeys were weighed before and after their races. It has been renovated to a high standard, although the slightly glitzy monochrome décor, mirrors sponsored by an e-cigarette company and ‘colour-popped’ photos may not be to everyone’s taste.

But the food is what we came for, and the menu promises modern British cuisine featuring local ingredients - and it didn’t disappoint. I’m always wary of restaurants with a never-ending menu, so a choice of just half a dozen starters and eight mains (both with a vegetarian option) gave me confidence that everything would be freshly cooked.

Our starters of Mackenzies smoked trout served with a potato & horseradish salad and wild mushroom & chestnut arrancini (fried risotto balls) were both beautifully presented and very tasty. Main courses of Wharfedale rump of lamb with lamb crackling & bean cassoulet and pan-fried sea bass with purple sprouting broccoli were equally good, although the side dish of mashed potato ordered to go with the lamb was probably too much as the portion sizes were generous enough.

The service was spot on too – nice touch from the waiter as he was clearing away the starters asking if we wanted our main courses straight away or if we wanted to wait a few minutes to have a chat.

When we dined they were serving the winter menu and I believe they have just launched the new spring menu, so that sounds like as good a reason as any to pay another visit.

PS The date went well and I didn’t have to climb out of the gents toilet window after all!

Steve Bates@DrMuttley

(Photo Credit: Courtsey Doncaster Race Course)

Weighing Things Up papacass's kitchenPapacass’s Kitchen, 10 Wood Street, DN1 3LH.

It’s one of those odd Thursday afternoons when the office is eerily quiet, a constant downpour is blown horizontally against the windows, and up and down the country the wind is causing mayhem. In need of a pick-me-up and with errands to run, I greet the cold and head into town with only one place in mind.

Slinking into Papacass’s Kitchen with my collar pulled up above my chin, I don’t even have to look at the menu. I order the soup, not knowing what flavour is on offer. Butternut squash and roasted red pepper, freshly made that day. I settle into a seat by the window and gaze out at the world, at people leaning into the wind and smokers braving the storm to get their fix. My soup arrives and it’s everything I need, piping hot and full of flavour. I eat a lot of soup through the winter and I can tell you, Papacass’s Kitchen serve up some of the best - each day a different batch, freshly made and served hot with a roll, from old favourites like mushroom or tomato to new concoctions like celeriac and Bramley apple (which is amazing, by the way).

But don’t let me get hung up on the soup. All the food I’ve tried here is good, wholesome and fresh. From sandwiches and the salad bar to the daily specials, like stews and pies, this little cafe always cooks up a treat. They even do a massive breakfast. Why pay through the nose at one of the many chain coffee shops or bakeries when you can support local business, eat much healthier, nicer food and probably save a few quid while you’re at it? It’s small and friendly, with just a few tables, but the staff are lovely and genuinely care about what they do. Each day’s menu is designed around what produce they can get that morning and they even offer a takeaway service. What more could you ask for?

As the wind howls I settle into the corner by the window. Elvis is on in the background and the rain taps along on the glass. I dip a buttery chunk of bread into my soup and take a bite - delicious, food for the soul as well as the belly. A must try.

Ryan Madin@madin1991

Papacassis is open: Mon-Fri, 8am-3pmfacebook.com/papacassskitchen@PapacassKitchen

(Photo Credit: Warren Draper ©2014)

31Want to write for The Guide? Email your reviews to doncopolitan@gmail.com

33

PO ETRY G U I D E

Want to write for The Guide? Email your reviews to doncopolitan@gmail.com

THE TED HUGHES PROJECT

Ted Hughes (1930-1998) is one of the greatest poets of the English Language and, almost 20 years after his death, is still a towering presence over the poetry world. But how many people are aware that Hughes lived in Mexborough for the most formative period of his life and that the town played a key role in forming him into the poet of his subsequent fame? Hughes developed his literary interests in Mexborough and wrote his first poems there. It was as a 16-year-old boy at Mexborough Grammar School that Hughes resolved to become a poet and two years later, as a sixth former, he had already become the darkly charismatic presence the literary world would become familiar with. As man and poet, Mexborough made Ted Hughes, although you would be forgiven for not being aware of this fact. As Ian Parks, another Mexborough poet, has said, it is as though Hughes’s Mexborough period has been “airbrushed from his biography”.

Well, a group of local writers, poets and enthusiasts are writing Hughes’s Mexborough period back into Hughes’s biography. Led by Steve Ely, whose forthcoming book, Ted Hughes’s South Yorkshire: Made in Mexborough, tells the story of the importance of Hughes’s Mexborough in full detail, the Ted Hughes Project (South Yorkshire) is planning and developing a number of events to commemorate, celebrate and develop Hughes’s legacy in Mexborough. Supported by Dominic Somers and Ryan Madin of Right Up Our Street, the Ted Hughes Project aims to develop a Ted Hughes Trail in and around Mexborough, based on key locations related to Hughes’s life and works, and will run the inaugural Ted Hughes Poetry Festival in Mexborough over the weekend of 3rd-5th July. The Ted Hughes Project group meets monthly at the Mexborough Resource Centre (next meeting - Wednesday 15th April, 7pm). New members will be made very welcome. No special knowledge or literary expertise is required – just an enthusiasm for Ted Hughes, Mexborough and the arts.

Steve Ely

The next Ted Hughes Poetry Festival Planning meeting will be held on Wednesday 15th April at the Mexbrough Resource Centre Dolcliffe RoadS64 9AZ

(Photo credit: Courtesy of Steve Ely. The photo shows Hughes (with hat and suitcase) in his starring role as Lighthouse Keeper David Charleston in the Mexborough Grammar School production of Robert Ardrey’s Thunder Rock, 4th April, 1947.)

November saw the first event in a new venture to bring spoken word performance to Doncaster on a regular basis. Judging by both the turn out and the audience reaction, it looks as if it’s here to stay.Doncaster Brewery Tap has only been established in the town centre for a year, but has quickly become established on the performance circuit due to the enthusiasm of proprietors Ian and Alison Blaylock.This event attracted a refreshingly diverse collection of performers, including several members of Church View Writers, an informal group hosted once a month by acclaimed songwriter and radio presenter Ray Hearne.

For the uninitiated, the format is typically similar to a singaround, with performers taking it in turns to deliver a short set of poetry, prose or other lyrical composition, usually self-penned. From Linda Jones’ pin-sharp reflections on the seasons to Henry Cryer’s semi-autobiographical recollections of family relationships from his youth, from Ray Hearne’s songs of wit and wisdom detailing the landscape of his home town to Phil Sheppard’s genuinely hilarious children’s verse (which nevertheless had the grown-up audience eating out of his hand), the result was an evening that was constantly entertaining and thought-provoking.

Spoken word nights have gained a foothold on the performance circuit in many towns and cities across the country in recent times, and Doncaster certainly deserves its own to showcase the rich diversity of literary talent in the vicinity. It looks as if it has found a home. The next Spoken Word event at the Brewery is scheduled for the 2nd of April. If you fancy performing, contact Mick Jenkinson at: mjenkinson@sjenkinson.co.uk

If you are interested in joining a writing group, or would like a little more info about it, contact Ray at:ray@nomasters.co.uk

Mike Jenkinson

(Photo Credit: John Fuller ©2015)

New monthly spoken word poetry event at Doncaster’s Brewery Tap.South Yorkshires own Ted Hughes Festival 3rd -5th July.

WeLL Spoken

34

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: 11:00AM ~ 11:30PM

78 COPLEY ROAD, DONCASTER, DN1 2QW01302 760760

27th March - FOSS Brothers + Paul Pearsonwww.fossbrothers.com £8/£10

3rd April - Harp & Monkey + Skinner & Twitchwww.harpandmonkey.com£8/£10

10th April - Jacquelyn Hynes Trio + Karl Scottwww.jacquelynhynes.com £8/£10

17th April - The JIGANTICS + Darren Eastellwww.thejigantics.com £8/£10

24th April - Edwina Hayes + Paul McClure www.edwinahayes.com£8/£10

1st May - Jon Strong Band + Absent AverageBest electro-acoustic trio in the business.£8/£10

8th May - Tannahill Weavers + Sima Singer/ Steve Cunningham wwwtannahillweavers.com£10/£12

22nd May - Paul Lamb & Chad Strentz + Dan Websterwww.paullamb.com £8/£10

29th May - Johnny Dickinson + Support Best Slide Guitar in the UK!£8/£10

5th June - Charlie Dore & Julian Littman + Quirky Birdswww.charliedore.com£8/£10

12th June - Damien O’Kane & Dave Kosky + Americarnage www.damienokane.co.uk£8/£10

Fridays - Come Down - Bring Friends...

Doors Open 7.30pm Advanced Tickets from: www.wegottickets.com/rootsmusicclubdoncaster

Live Music Fans 16 yrs & under FREE IN with ticketholderPlease suppor Live Music. Tel: 07939148603

Email: Donnijonti@aol.com for details

Ukrainian Centre, 48 Beckett Road, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN2 4AD

w w w. r o o t s m u s i c c l u b . c o . u k

Free entrydoors open at 7pm

woodFIeld club, woodFIeld road,doncaster, dn4 8hl

contact: 01302 558062

18th april13th june

8th august10th october

12th december

35

36

Tanked Up.

The stage area of the Hallcross pub, situated at 33-34 Hall Gate, has recently been treated to a makeover by one of Doncaster’s best loved street artists, the one and only Kosy. With Rebecca Buck (aka Tank Girl) being the star of the show we felt we had to include her in this #GirlBoss issue of the Doncopolitan.

Photography: John Fuller & Warren Draper ©2015

37

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Leopard Advetr full page.pdf 17/03/2015 15:54:40

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Leopard Advetr full page.pdf 17/03/2015 15:54:40

3838

Katy CARR.

38

Katy Carr is a multi-talented London-based performer and songwriter. She is an accomplished musician of piano, ukulele and banjolele, to name a few. She has four albums under her belt, each receiving outstanding reviews and critical acclaim.

I once met Katy in London and quickly felt in love with her passion and empathy for war veterans, from which she draws inspiration for her music. In 2009 she invited me to her flat on Baker Street. It was full of instruments and exquisite vintage dresses. Her company is enchanting, the kind of person you could talk to for hours and never want to leave.

Fast forwards half a decade and that’s exactly what happened on Friday 13th March 2015, when I decided to approach Katy for this issue of Doncopolitan. In particular I wanted to ask her about her experiences in the music industry. It has been five years since we last spoke. Katy is now an international star. She’s done the Royal Opera House and Glastonbury, and her music video for ‘Mała Little Flower’ has almost 200,000 views on YouTube.

As I prepare for this catch-up, I wonder if Katy is interested in a magazine “up north”, nestled between the better known Leeds and Sheffield. As our conversation

unfolds, it’s like chatting with an old friend, and Katy is interested in the magazine and Doncaster.

Katie, do you think it is harder as a woman to make it in the music industry?

I think that it is harder for women to ‘make it,’ not only in the music industry but in any employment field across the entire globe. Motherhood, which is the most important job in the world, is not given the financial, physical or mental respect that it deserves. When a woman considers that the music industry is her chosen business field, she has to be very careful about accepting the terms and

Photography: Ben Wright Photography ©2015

39

“I think I need to bring my music to Doncaster,” Katy says.

Katy sees herself as an advocate bringing Polish and British cultures together through art and music. We discuss how great it would be to see the Polish and British communities come together through music inspired by the stories of the war era and the Polish veterans who fought alongside the British.

The ideas are flowing but our time is running out. Katy is up early because she’s visiting the survivors of Siberian war camps, and that Sunday she’s involved in a fundraiser for Armia Krajowa which will go directly towards helping World War Two veterans in Poland with their electricity bills. We say our goodbyes.

On my way home I pass the Polish shop, advertising polski chleb (Polish bread). I’m starting to learn more about my Polish neighbors’ struggles, and my conversation with Katy Karr has made me hungry to learn more.

katycarr.com

End

39

conditions that will be placed upon her by the industry. There are many dark secrets and hidden experiences, often extremely violent in nature connected with regards the music business. So girls, take this warning, be careful and protect yourselves! I leave you with a quote from the American journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson which I think says it all, “The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There’s also a negative side.”

What have been the biggest challenges and what advice do you have for up-and-coming musicians and artists?

The biggest challenge with regards starting out on a musical path is connected with believing in yourself and having the confidence to do what you dream of creating. I always share this quote that I love by the American philosopher, poet and journalist Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862) — “Live your beliefs and you can turn the world around.”

It is vital that you believe in yourself and share the love of your music and the music that you love. It doesn’t matter how many people you are playing to or how big your audiences are. If you truly love what you are doing you will find a way to share your music. Don’t think about the end product or result - just really enjoy the process of creating your music. It is such a beautiful gift and treasure to be a musician and I wish that everybody could have music in their lives. The world would be a better place.

Katie quotes Plato: “Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.”

Our conversation digresses, and to my joy Katy is extremely interested in Doncaster. “Doesn’t Doncaster have a large Polish community?” Katy asks. “Yes,” I reply. In fact, it dawned on me that I buy Polish bread, quite a few of my local shops are Polish, and after a stint at the warehouse my boyfriend’s taught himself to speak a little Polish.

Katy’s fourth and most recent album, Paszport, is written in both English and Polish. It is derived from a variety

of stories from the Polish home front, known as Armia Krajowa, the Polish Partisans and the Polish resistance movement of World War Two. Through music which re-invents those old stories, she collaborates with musicians of different genres, including klezmer, gypsy jazz and folk, to create a unique contemporary sound. ‘Mała Little Flower’ is a single from the album, released in 2012:

The song is “inspired by Irena Gut Opdyke, who was a Polish Catholic girl (b. 1922), who not only saved the lives of twelve Jews by hiding them in the basement of an SS officer’s house, but also became an effective resistance fighter with the Polish Partisans, with code name ‘Mała’, meaning ‘little’ in Polish. This song is dedicated to the memory of her fiancé Janek Ridel (pseudonym ‘Mercedes Benz’), who was killed in action the day before their wedding in May 1944.”

Katy describes how research for this work has opened her eyes to the centuries of oppression faced by the Polish community. She even released the album on the anniversary of the day Poland gained its independence from the Soviet Union. She is a national treasure there, often referred to by the media as ‘The Polish Björk’.

40©2015