Back from my travels in Munich my attention was once more taken up with the final Rye Arts Festival (RAF) offerings.
Friday evening, September 25, I was a “Sash Girl”, collecting tickets from attendees and was treated to a delightful evening of folk music by the leading folk duo Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman. I am so glad I had this chance to listen to Kathryn’s voice which rang out clear and at times haunting in the beautiful Winchelsea church of St Thomas with its wonderful acoustics. Her lyrics, often poignant, sad and funny were mostly written by Kathryn. Sean’s guitar playing was like a second voice accompanying her, enchanting.
PAINTING ALZHEIMERS
Saturday September 26 included a visual cultural feast at St Mary’s as artist Charles Brooking exhibited his paintings in part-aid of The Alzheimer’s Society and St Michael’s Hospice charities. His life’s work was varied and diverse including landscape, portraits and still life in different mediums. My favourite was a portrait of his mother and one could somehow see the woman behind the face. It was she who inspired him to do the exhibition because she suffered from Alzheimers. Sadly I didn’t have a camera with me, but he can be found at www.charlesbrookingpaintings.com
CABARET TIME
In the early evening Saturday, before the Queen’s Head, some of us were privy to a wonderful cabaret in the Arts Festival’s Marquee in Lamb House. It was a fringe event put on by host Tim who, with his friends, entertained us. It went from the sublime to the ridiculous with resounding applause from the audience. I loved it!
SWINGING QUEENS
By the time I got to the Queens Head, the band, Richmond Stockwell, was in full swing with many enjoying themselves on the dance floor, which la
ter included myself and friends. As usual it was crowded and the band were giving it their all. They are in Hastings this week. www.richmondstockwell.com
FAREWELL RAF
Sunday, a relaxing bike ride to Rye Harbour (shown here), basking in the sun and watching the sea do its magic. I think Rye and beyond should thank RAF for the variety of its choices during these two weeks. I have no doubt that there was something for most to enjoy, however diverse the taste of different people.