18th November – Performer’s Night
Performer’s Night featuring songs of Dougie MacLean
Another successful night was enjoyed on Friday with a performer’s night
and a feature spot. Pete MC’d the evening in fine style. We haven’t heard him
perform for a while now so it was great to hear some of his excellent songs
again. We welcomed Dave Fry for the first time to the club. Dave is a seasoned
performer and a regular at Warwick folk club. He gave a fine, entertaining
performance. We also enjoyed music from Andy, Ric and Simeon as well as another
dramatic performance from Marten.
The raffle was soon upon us and the big news is that The Strawbs has
gone! I was so carried away in the excitement of the moment that I’ve
completely forgotten who won it! The Christmas decoration series then hit new
heights when Julian joyfully claimed the inflatable snowman complete with
large, pointy, red nose! Whatever next.
The highlight of the evening was, without a doubt, the long anticipated
debut performance of Ray. He teamed up with Pete to perform a very moving song
and poem in memory of his friend. It was absolutely stunning and seemed to me
to be a fitting and heart felt tribute to a great friendship.
After a few weeks of not playing much it was them my turn to step up and
sing some of my favourite Dougie MacLean songs. Great support was provided by
Pete, Ric, Simeon and Andy and particularly by everyone who sang furiously in
the choruses and thumped the tables rhythmically in Turning Away!
Next up is a performer’s night on 4th December – an excellent way to
ward off the dark nights and winter cold!
Looking a bit further ahead, the Radio 2 Folk Award nominations were
announced last week and two of our new year guests were in there. Pilgrim’s Way
will be at the club on January 6th and Lucy Ward on 30th March. Both have been
nominated for the Horizon Award. Lucy was also nominated for the Best
Traditional Song award for her version of Maids When You’re Young. Isn’t it
great to be able to look forward to seeing such top quality acts at our very
own club in Shirley?!