The Rye Arts Festival has an interesting mixture of talks, walks, events, interviews, music, street entertainment, workshops, poetry readings and drama on offer. The first week has been a kaleidoscope of fun, frolics and thought-provoking events.
The Marsh Choir sang to a full church of avid fans on,Thursday evening which was a great starting point. On Friday, there was amazing talk about seabird photography by Rachel Bigsby, followed by the irrepressible Andy McConnell talking about his fundraising exploits and the works of René Lalique. The Community Centre rocked the amazing vibrant sounds of Jali Bakary Konteh and Minyanta which had the audience dancing in the aisles
On Saturday, the heavens opened and drenched the whole of Rye but this did not deter the town crier or Ryebellion Drummers as they decanted into St Mary’s, Rye and entertained those who had come to hear them. The sound was awesome and the audience loved it. Paul Goring gave an entertaining alliterative twist to his inimitable cry opening the Festival.
There followed entertainment from Sonia Sabri Company which the children loved. Bubbles and Barnacles were everywhere in Rye as the Aquanauts paraded the street.
In the afternoon Emily Maitlis was interviewed by Martin Bruce about her life in journalism: what she had to say was riveting.
Lawrence Wilson entertained the Rye Youth Zone with Word Wizards in the afternoon and the children really responded well.
What can one say about Gabriele Sutkute other than each time she returns she is even more talented and professional? The church was full and Mike Boyd, who introduced her, commented aptly: “Just sublime.” Gabriele is so special not only for her playing but also her interaction with, and fondness for, her audience which is palpable.
On Sunday, there was a visit to Tony Pierce’s working sheep farm and guided walks, poetry and yet another wonderful concert in St Mary’s given by pianist Cordelia Williams and violinist Tamsin Waley-Cohen. You could have heard the proverbial pin drop at some moments as the audience almost held its breath.
Paul Goring led the Marsh Churches Tour on Tuesday. September 16 which one group of ladies summed up as, “Magical, just magical!” Paul had certainly done his research and he entertained his audience with facts and fun anecdotes.
On Tuesday evening at St Mary’s, Mike Boyd, one of the leading lights in the world of pianolas and reproducing pianos, gave probably the first public performance of Elgar’s Enigma Variations by means of Duo-Art piano rolls. The audience was transfixed as this clever example of early twentieth-century technology brought the skill and delicacy of two accomplished pianists to life once more.
This is just a snapshot of some of the talks and events so far and there is still more to come. There is something for everyone so pick up a brochure and get booking.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Kt Kt brucebruce , Kt bruce , Jeff Grice .