Issue 18

Christmas Variety Show

Taking into consideration that many planned acts were unable to take part, the show was a resounding success! Slappin′ Skins, our African Drumming group, opened the show. Colourfully dressed, with African tribal painted faces. 2 new rhythms were performed Yankadi and Macaru, under the leadership of Aaron, the tutor, who has shown great skill and patience over the months coordinating the group.

The next act on stage was Will, who demonstrated his talent with music technology, recording his own drums and bass backing tracks the previous evening in order to perform his song live with guitar and vocal.

Laura was next with her version of "Take Your Pick " the "Yes/No " game. Many contestants took part, most going out after the first question! With 2 succeeding to last the 60 second time limit.

Angela and Huw on vocals accompanied by Dale on guitar did their amusing version of Johnny Cash′s "Chicken in Black ".

Our very own Mississippi Mud Slingers, celebrating their 10th anniversary of performances were next doing their own live version of yet another Johnny Cash song "Ring of Fire ". Huw substituting his trumpet for a kazoo. Dale singing it in a West Country accent as there were lots of R's in the song. Band member, Huw, thanked their sponsors "Preparation H "!

Mags, our compere, announced the interval which consisted of a beautifully prepared buffet by Lisa, Tracey and house keepers. Also Mags encouraged people to take a look at the ward stalls, where both patients and staff had worked very hard in organising. The Craft Group′s pebble village was on display receiving favourable comments from visitors to the clinic. Before announcing the second half of the variety show, Mags arranged for the raffle to be drawn with the lucky winner receiving a prize

Slappin′ Skins returned to the stage to do their final act, the West African rhythm "Moribyassa " for which they received a standing ovation which was very much appreciated by the group.

Next, Angela and Huw once more on stage did their version of "Fairy Tale in New York " with amazing harmonies

An impromptu vocal performance by Tommy accompanied by a few African drummers did North American Indian chants. The apache tribe sang these chants to express sorrow at the loss of Indian braves in battle.

Performing next was Andy′s piano accompaniment, Heather with her flute, along with percussionists, for a medley of Christmas carols. Having had only one rehearsal the day before saw a very impressive performance.

Fittingly, "The Mississippi Mud Slingers ", who were formed during the very first show, ended the show with a blues boogie with Adrian showing everybody what he has learnt in the Drum Kit Group. With Howard and Craig filling the recently vacated posts of Tea Chest Bass and Washboard players.

Mags wound up the show in her usual true professional manner compering the whole show without any script adding her own jokes and anecdotes.

Miss L.Toe