21st April 2012
Saturday night and we were
in deepest darkest Gloucestershire.
The village of Awre - pronounced Are and not,
as we thought, Ore. We were met by Mark
Awre from Awre. Yes, that's right - effectively Mr Village Himself.
This was a very special place
with a great deal of history. It lies on the banks of Severn, is very remote and beautiful
and is literally at the end of the road, a real step back in time. We were
performing in the church, which can be difficult, but luckily this one had all
mod cons, including toilet, kettle and heating.
This was a village full of
characters and we met them all. There were even one or two from the Forest, but
they seemed harmless enough!
Tea was lasagne which was
served up in front of the altar - holy delicious! Once the show was under way
the audience were very responsive.
Neil serenaded several ladies - including one
regular Opera Dude groupie who blushed deeply as well as a very glamorous lady
from Newnham. Neil approached her saying 'I'll be gentle with you' to which she
replied ‘That's a shame!!' They breed ‘em hardy down there!
Anyway, the audience pronounced themselves well pleased and so they should be; we taught them a new singing technique and I am sure they will be squeezing for weeks!!
After the show, we went back
to Nick and May’s, where we were staying; lovely people and while there we
learned the story of their emergent business, Severn Cider which grew out of an old family tradition.
It’s a
fascinating story, great people and wonderful cider - thoroughly recommend you
try it.
Support Rural touring in your area............ Air in G
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