Das Spiel: Are You Part of the Game?

Posted on February 15, 2016 by Paloma Kubiak

Mind-reader, illusionist or trickster – no matter what you think of Philipp Oberlohr, he’ll certainly leave you mystified with his ability to master fate and delve into the depths of your soul.

Das Spiel: Are You Part of the Game? At The Vaults, Waterloo, doesn’t use the conventional theatrical props and it certainly appears as if there’s no script or set-direction.

It seems to flow naturally around the all-important members of the audience.

But then we question whether we’re all just pawns in Oberlohr’s game as the seemingly random participants are actually written into the stage-show as he reads a letter written earlier to name and thank those who played along.

We forget this is actually a theatrical experience as unassuming Austrian Oberlohr carries us, and we in turn carry him on this journey which blurs reality, the past and the present.

The players are different each night so the game you’ll be involved in will vary from mine, but I wanted to share some of the awe-inspiring and mind-boggling events that took place.

To kick off the show, Oberlohr drew a circle attached to the two sides of a triangle, followed by the words red, black, black.

He then took out a pack of cards with the numbers 1-100 and an audience member chose one. At that point we felt it would be a very long night as Oberlohr went round the room asking the audience to guess the number.

After the third attempt, Natalie shocked us all by guessing it was 32. And incidentally, she was wearing a necklace with a round pendant, a red dress and black shoes and tights – perfectly describing the pattern Oberlohr had penned earlier.

Then three blank pieces of paper were handed out and the holders had to draw one of the first things that came into their minds. As this was happening, Oberlohr’s eyes were taped and blindfolded before his hand hovered over the drawings. Incredibly he correctly guessed that two hearts with cupid’s arrow had been drawn, in addition to the rear view of an elephant. Magda was the next player.

He guessed the birth date of one player, the favourite city of another and even guessed the name of the person one audience member had shared her very first kiss with.

Oberlohr said he was inspired to create Das Spiel after reading The Magus by John Fowles. “I related to the protagonist as the reality that was created around him kept changing and transforming. This theme inspired me to create an experience like this for an audience in a live setting”.

In the same way, we’re changed and transformed from that point onwards – this is certainly unlike anything I’ve seen or been involved in before.

And just a note about The Vaults venue – it’s a myriad of darkened rooms and tunnels under the arches supporting the train network above – a funky hideout for the urban classes.

My Next Six Nations Supper – Italy

Posted on February 14, 2016 by Christian Gott

So last time I posted was my recipe for my French Six Nations Supper a classic Coq Au Vin. Today it is the turn of the valiant Italians and I wanted a full flavoured, heart-warming and filling dish to match the French recipe. I know the night before a big race or event athletes and sportsmen often eat pasta for a big hit of slow release energy from the carbohydrates so this being an Italian Supper it would seem suitable I create a pasta recipe.

Now in Italy, there are centuries of tradition and some very complex rules about pasta. Each shape is clearly defined and registered and suits a type of sauce or dish, your Bolognese sauce coats and lubricates Rigatoni or Penne pasta, Spaghetti is best suited to lighter coatings may be a recipe like Con Vongole with clams, a little garlic, oil and parsley. For my hearty rugby meal, I am going to use Fettuccini and make a delicious slow cooked ( ideal in fact for a slow cooker ) shin of beef ragout.

Fettuccini with Slow-cooked Shin of Beef Ragu serves 4 hungry rugby fans

1.2 kg Beef Shin brisket, cut into six to eight pieces,

( ask you butcher to cut up the Shin, it will be easier for him and to give you the bone )

2 large White Onions, peeled and very finely chopped

2 large Carrots, peeled and very finely diced

4 sticks of Celery, washed and very finely diced

4 Cloves of Garlic, peeled and crushed

1 bottle of good Italian Red Wine

500 ml good quality Beef Stock

100 ml quality Olive Oil

2 tablespoons of Tomato Puree

1 tablespoon of dried Oregano

3 Bay Leaves

½ teaspoon dried Thyme

½ teaspoon ground Nutmeg

Sea Salt and freshly ground Black pepper

500 gr Tagliatelli or other pasta of choice ( pappardelle is ideal)

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, washed and finely chopped

In a large heavy-bottomed pan heat half of the olive oil over medium to high heat, season the beef and sear each piece on all sides until well browned, then set aside on a plate. Turn the heat down and add the remaining olive oil, add the onion, celery and carrots and sauté until soft. Add the garlic and cook for a couple more minutes*, then repeat with the tomato puree, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Return to beef to the pan and any juices and add all the remaining ingredients then bring up to a simmer, then turn it down to the lowest possible setting.

Cover the pan and let it cook for three to four hours until the beef is tender enough to pull apart with a fork. Remove the lid and let it cook for a further thirty minutes until the liquid has reduced to a thick sauce.

Remove the sauce from the heat and transfer the beef from the sauce into a large bowl. Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper and keep warm.

*Celery and carrots sautéed with the onions and garlic is called “soffritto” in Italian cooking. It is a very traditional base for many Italian dishes.

To Serve

Cook the pasta as per the instructions on the packet. You can reserve a little cooking liquid and toss the strained pasta, ragu and pasta water together or simply spoon the ragu on top of the cooked pasta. Serve with lots of freshly grated Parmesan and garnish with chopped parsley.

Not Working by Lisa Owens Reviewed by Frances Colville

Posted on February 12, 2016 by Frostie

Which of us hasn’t dreamed of quitting an unsatisfactory job to find out what we really want to do with our lives and careers? This is just what Claire Flannery decides to do, but despite excellent intentions to get fit, improve her general knowledge, read Moby Dick, get to grips with modern art and the world economy, she soon finds that having too much time on her hands is not entirely a good thing and that without a job to define her and map out her daily routine she is floundering.

The opening pages – a bizarre conversation with a passing stranger about the buddleia growing on the roof of her house – set the tone well for this first novel from author Lisa Owens. It’s a funny, observant and very perceptive view of the mundane ordinariness of daily life. And at the same time a poignant and intelligent discussion of some of the bigger issues we face.

Written almost like a diary and broken up into chunks of various lengths often with amusing headings, it’s easy to read and very easy to enjoy. But there is more to it than that and as you read it you’ll be left pondering questions and answers, and relating the narrative to your own life.

My first impression was that the ending didn’t work as well as it might have done. I’d expected something more definite to happen; for there to be a bit more resolution. But on second thoughts not knowing all the answers is just what real life is like – isn’t it?

Either way, it would be hard not to appreciate this novel. And I’ll look forward to the next from Lisa Owens.

Not Working is published by Picador and will be available in hardback on 21 April 2016.

Not Working by Lisa Owens is available here.

Over the Sea to Skerries By Wendy Breckon

Posted on February 11, 2016 by Margaret Graham

Over the Irish Sea, but not too far away is the delightful coastal town of Skerries (Na Sceiri), 30 km north of Dublin Port. Today on my journey over, fellow travellers cling tightly to each other on the boat, as the choppy waves make it difficult to stand up or move. People naturally, are determined to avoid the perils of the upside down position… myself included. A brave few with money to burn, are trying to meander a safe passage to the bright, enticing lights of the duty free shop.

On disembarking … the car chugs along gently, through the Dublin Tunnel, on its now familiar journey to one of my favourite places. The long street with vibrant shops either side, including a charming little bookshop, is bustling with friendly people of all ages, scurrying here and there, clutching flowers or fresh bread.

Skerries is a captivating spot to rest a while and enjoy. Like a good book though, you will never want to reach the last page.

A visit to Olive the bakery and deli is irresistible. This popular hotspot in the middle of the town is buzzing with animated people, couples and young families laughing and sharing stories… blending together perfectly. Outside in the covered section, at the front, I enjoy their excellent coffee and homemade scones. Sssh… please don’t tell anyone I’ve just had my third cup.

Afterwards, we stroll along The Strand to the brightly coloured, bobbing boats in the harbour. The January waves scatter and shake their spray on our path to the beach. Aah… the sea, skip down by the edge to the curling waves, place your feet on the sand, and take a deep breath or two. Enjoy the calm… practise mindfulness… it’s free.

Just beyond the little town, lies the picturesque Skerries Mill with the duck pond, wet lands, and the old mill, its sails rising above the earth. Inside the door to the exhibition centre and cafe is a large, heavy old bell, which mischievous children love to ring.

Upstairs, if you haven’t eaten too many scones at Olive, a light lunch can be savoured over your latest novel. Mine is The South by Colm Toibin, the well known Irish novelist. Afterwards, sneak out to the award winning gift shop for a piece of Celtic treasure or a book of my favourite Irish poetry, W B Yates the perfect choice.

Outside, the site commands a wonderful view of the coast and the offshore Islands of St. Patricks; Shenick and Colt. In the early sixteenth century, where the seagulls and ducks roam now, the land once belonged to an Augustinian Monastic Foundation.

Today might be cold and wintry, but the simple beauty of Skerries is, that whatever the weather, it’s a magical… take in slowly… kind of place. Maybe when you are over in Ireland next you might want to visit and explore.

THAT Coldplay, Bruno Mars & Beyoncé Super Bowl 2016 Video in Full

Posted on February 10, 2016 by Catherine Balavage

Just in case you didn’t catch it, here is that amazing Beyonce, Bruno Mars and Chris Martin Superbowl half time performance 2016 video in full. It’s a great performance so sit back and enjoy!

My Bangkok Life – The Elephant Parade Words and images by Alex Bannard

Posted on February 10, 2016 by Margaret Graham

My Bangkok Life – The Elephant Parade

Words and images by Alex Bannard

Alex Bannard,Frost Magazines’ Bangkok correspondent, explored Lumpini Park to see the Elephant Parade. She found that this uplifting and colourful morning provided an insight into a worth cause.

We moved to Bangkok at the beginning of August 2015, following in the footsteps of the hubby, Mr P who had arrived at the beginning of March to start his new job. We loved it immediately: the food, the culture, the people, the weather. We’ve made some really wonderful friends, settled in & it feels like home already. Now it’s time to start exploring.

The Elephant Parade has been visiting Bangkok during December & January so we headed off to Lumpini Park keen to see it. I had suggested we take the water taxi, quicker, more fun for the kids but Mr P said the traffic would be fine on a Sunday. An hour later & much whining & pressing of each other’s & my buttons from the back seat & we finally arrived.

We put the lead on the puppy & headed off to find the parade. Only to be stopped by security, no dogs allowed in the park. Seriously? For a moment my love affair with this amazing city faltered. But being a selfless character, I handed the lead to Mr P & said, ‘Well I’m going, you can stay here with the dog.’ He went for a snooze in the a/c’d car, win win all round.

Aside from passing lots of Soi (street) dogs as we walked through the park & the sweltering heat, the parade was delightful. My daughter bumped into one of her ballet-class-cohorts & posed mercilessly by almost every elephant, having recently been taught the art my one of her friend’s mothers whilst my son was chief photographer.

The Elephant Parade is the brain-child of Marc Spits who visited The Friends of Asian Elephant Hospital in Thailand with his son, Mike & meet Mosha a baby elephant who had lost a foot at 7 months old thanks to a landmine accident. She has a new prosthetic leg fitted every year & every year has to learn to re-walk again. The Parade was set up to raise awareness & money for the plight of Asian elephants, many of which no longer have work & are forced to beg for food with their mahouts thorough the busy Thai streets.

The Parade, which started in 2006 has visited many European & Asian cities including Milan, Copenhagen, London, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Singapore & California. It is the largest exhibition of decorated life-sized elephant statues painted by celebrities & artists including Katy Perry, Sir Richard Branson, Paul Smith, Goldie Hawn, & here in Bangkok people like Nancy Chandler who makes wonderful maps & cards of Bangkok & local actors & artists.

The elephants are auctioned afterwards to raise money – I went on line desperate to obtain my favourite Elephant but rather staggered at the average bid being around 250,000bht, more then £4,500. It is an auction only for the hi-so of Bangkok, not your average expat. But miniature replicas are available on line & you can buy packs to paint your own if you are a budding artist.

The charity pledges to provide at least £50,000 in donations each year to support 25 elephants rescued from domestication or the streets, supporting the mahouts & their families with English lessons, education & even a livelihood for the wives in building their own silk worm farms. A great cause, some fabulous designs, definitely worth checking out.

Valentines Ideas: Perrier-Jouët Small Discoveries Blason Rosé Coffret

Posted on February 9, 2016 by Catherine Balavage

Since Perrier-Jouët was founded on the love story of Pierre-Nicolas Perrier and his wife Adele Jouët, the Perrier-Jouët Small Discoveries Blason Rosé coffret is a Valentine’s collection with romance and surprise at its very core.

It includes:

· Two champagne flutes which reveal a dazzling secret: When filled, their beautiful butterfly engravings cause bubbles to cluster and spiral upwards through the length of the wine

· A bottle of Blason Rosé – the first rosé champagne created by Perrier-Jouët

· A presentation box decorated with a flutter of butterflies and wrapped in green ribbon – Perrier-Jouët’s emblematic colour

Perrier- Jouët Small Discoveries Blason Rosé coffret is the third release from the ‘Small Discoveries’ collection – a longstanding collaboration between Perrier-Jouët and award-winning Viennese design duo mischer’traxler. Small Discoveries celebrates Perrier-Jouët’s philosophy of fine craftsmanship and use of nature.

Mischer’traxler has taken inspiration for ‘Small Discoveries’ from the core principles and rich variety of expression associated with the Art Nouveau movement: combining art with craftsmanship, and infusing nature and beauty into everyday objects; the proponents of which remain at the heart of Perrier-Jouët’s House philosophy. References to nature and the use of handcraft processes, two characteristics so vital to the artistic movement, have been utilised by the laser engraving of two butterflies on the inside of the flutes which, when the glass is filled bubbles flutter to the top.

Blason Rosé is the first rosé champagne created by Perrier-Jouët. It’s name derives from the ‘Blason de France’ range, created by the House in 1956. Blason Rosé is a subtle blend of 50 different ‘vins clairs’ from the best parcels of the House’s vineyards. Built upon the great love of Pierre-Nicolas Perrier and his wife Adele Jouët who together established the Champagne House Perrier-Jouët in 1811, Perrier-Jouët’s Blason Rosé carries their legacy of love in every bottle.

Described as the house’s most gourmet wine, it is a fresh salmon pink in colour with an intense and lively palate which has great length and character. The finish is complex and persistent.

Available in store and online for £70 at one of Frost’s favourite shops www.fortnumandmason.com

One in Five Brits Have no idea How to Make Pancakes

Posted on February 9, 2016 by Frostie

Happy Pancake Day! Will you be making your own? If so you are ahead of one in five other Brits. Pancakes are Britain’s most ‘faked’ dish, according to new research.

One in five Brits has no idea how to make them and admits to passing off store-bought and ready-made pancakes as their own.

And the humble pancake is the nation’s number one faked food – ahead of gravy, sauces, cakes and soup, according to a survey of 2,000 adults by Lyle’s Golden Syrup.

The main reasons cited for food fraud were lack of skill (20 per cent) and lack of time (12 per cent).

Lyle’s Golden Syrup spokeswoman Sara Harrison said: “We understand people are time-poor and are therefore turning to pre-made pancakes, so let’s celebrate panfakery. Whether you’re faking it or making it, we want to spread Lyle’s smiles this Pancake Day.”

Top of the pancake toppings this Shrove Tuesday are sugar (68 per cent), golden syrup (48 per cent), maple syrup (43 per cent) and ice cream (34 per cent).

The ten most-faked dishes in the UK:

1. Pancakes

2. Gravy

3. Sauces

4. Cakes

5. Soup

6. Mashed Potato

7. Pasta

8. Bread

9. Pie (sweet or savoury)

10. Chocolate Mousse

In a bid to help busy Brits spread smiles this Pancake Day, Lyle’s Golden Syrup has launched the UK’s first ‘PanMail’ delivery service, offering time poor Brits emergency supplies of pancakes and delicious Lyle’s Golden Syrup delivered straight to their door.

Visit @WeLoveBaking on Twitter to find out how you can receive your own PanMail delivery this Pancake Day.