We all go to concerts with varying expectations. We seek to be entertained, of course, but more than that, we want to be transported to places in our imaginations and what better medium that music to take us there?
One thousand seats were sold for the Rufus Wainwright concert on Sunday night at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea. He is a man with an army of fans who all soaked up the very soul of the performer that they had come to hear. Talking to his fans, it was obvious that he was a super-hero in their eyes. Many had travelled far and many were attending their fourth or fifth Wainwright concert. One fan said that she felt that Wainwright was singing just for her. He creates a wonderful intimacy and engages through songs and the spoken word. Although he performs solo he owns the stage and the rapturous applause at the end of each song was testament to his popularity.
Ian Bowden, director of the Rye International Jazz Festival said: “Last night, the concert at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill was an absolute triumph.
“It was headlined by the incredible Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright, who mesmerised us all with his unparalleled vocal talent on both piano and guitar. And let’s not forget the amazing Scott Matthews who kicked off the evening as our support act, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening.
“Huge thanks to everyone who came out to support live music and to these phenomenal artists for such an outstanding performance. Thanks to John Bryant and the team from On Stage Ltd, the team at the De La Warr Pavilion, to our festival team and to the evening’s sponsor Spectrum IFA Ltd.”
Once again the charity buckets were out for the amazing Music Well charity which does such important work with music therapy. This chance of therapy can be life changing.
Concert attendee Simon McGurk commented on social media:
“Absolutely fantastic night, both Scott and Rufus. Just amazing that Rye International Jazz Festival continues to attract artists of such stature.”
Image Credits: Kt bruce .